What are AAC and ALS?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to supports for individuals that have difficulty communicating solely by speaking. AAC systems supplement (i.e., augmentative) or replace (i.e., alternative) verbal speech.
This may include using an electronic device (including, but NOT limited to software on a tablet) and/or non-electronic tools like a communication board. These can be combined with strategies that help make communication more successful.
New AAC users need time and instruction to learn how to use AAC effectively. Babies are typically exposed to spoken language for a year (or more) before they say their first words. It would be unfair to expect someone new to AAC to know how to use their system well without support.
The average 18-month-old has been exposed to 4,380 hours of oral language at a rate of 8 hours/day from birth. A child who has a communication system (AAC) and receives speech/language therapy 2 times/week for 20-30 minutes will reach the same amount of language exposure (in their AAC language) in 84 years.
Jane Korsten, SLP QIAT Listserve 2011
Aided Language Stimulation
Aided language stimulation (ALS) is a strategy used by communication partners, including speech-language pathologists, parents and teachers. They model how to use the AAC system allowing the AAC user the opportunity to observe the system in action. Importantly, ALS does not require the new AAC user to imitate or respond.
Make sure the child’s AAC system is easily accessible and use it when communicating with them. If using a light-tech AAC (such as a board with static pictures), touch or point to the symbols as you talk. For high-tech AAC (such as a speech-generating device), push the buttons that correspond to the words you are saying. You do not have to select every single word…
For example, you may say “We’re finished!” and select “finished”. You may say “turn the water on” and select “turn” and “on”.
Core Vocabulary
Core vocabulary refers to a small number of words that make up the vast majority of what we say. You can prioritize teaching these words to give the AAC user the ability to communicate a variety of messages in a variety of situations.
Click here to learn more about core vocabulary and follow along for core vocabulary activities to help you with your therapy planning.
More information about AAC and ALS:
www.assistiveware.com/learn-aac/what-is-aac
www.communicationcommunity.com/what-is-aided-language-stimulation