Speech & Language · 3 min read
What Is AAC? Will It Stop My Child Talking? (No)
AAC - signs, symbols and devices - supports communication and speech, it doesn't replace it. A therapist clears up the biggest myth.
If a therapist has mentioned AAC, or suggested signs, symbols, picture boards or a communication device, a very common worry follows:
“If we give my child AAC, will they stop trying to talk?”
The reassuring answer is no.
In fact, research shows that AAC often supports communication development and can help children become more confident communicators.
What Is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication.
It includes any tool or strategy that supports communication, such as:
- Signing (including Makaton)
- Picture symbols and communication boards
- Speech-generating apps and devices
- Gestures, pointing and everyday actions
The important word is augmentative. AAC is designed to add to communication, not replace it.
Will AAC Stop My Child Talking?
This is one of the biggest myths about AAC.
Many parents worry that if a child can communicate using signs, symbols or a device, they won’t feel motivated to develop speech.
The evidence tells us the opposite.
AAC does not prevent speech development. In many cases, it helps children develop communication skills by reducing frustration, increasing opportunities to interact, and giving them a reliable way to express themselves.
Think about a baby pointing at a snack they want. We don’t worry that pointing will stop them learning to talk. AAC works in a similar way: it supports communication while other skills continue to develop.
Why AAC Matters
When a child struggles to communicate, everyday life can be frustrating.
AAC gives children a way to:
- Express their wants and needs
- Make choices
- Share ideas and experiences
- Join conversations
- Build relationships
- Participate at home, school and in the community
Most importantly, it allows children to communicate now rather than waiting for speech to develop.
A Total Communication Approach
At Speech Stuff, we take a total communication approach.
That means we welcome every way a child communicates, including:
- Speech
- Gestures
- Signs
- Symbols
- Communication devices
- Facial expressions
- Play and actions
Communication is the goal, not speech alone.
Could AAC Help My Child?
AAC can be helpful for many children, including those with autism, language difficulties, learning disabilities, or other communication needs.
Every child is different, which is why support should always be tailored to the individual child rather than a diagnosis.
At Speech Stuff, we focus on understanding each child’s strengths, interests and communication profile to identify the tools and strategies that will help them communicate most effectively.
The Bottom Line
AAC doesn’t stop children talking.
What it does is give children a way to communicate, reduce frustration, and participate more fully in everyday life while their communication skills continue to develop.
At Speech Stuff, we take a total communication approach and support children to communicate in whatever way works best for them. Our senior Speech and Language Therapists, Julie Cota and Louise Allport, have extensive experience supporting children who use AAC, including signs, symbols and communication devices.
If you’re wondering whether AAC could help your child, book a free 20-minute call. We’re happy to answer your questions and talk through your options.
Related: Helping a Late Talker at Home · Speech and Language Milestones · Terms explained