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Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Systems

 
6 Nov
AAC - is a term used to describe various methods of communication that can help people who are unable to use verbal speech to communicate. AAC methods vary and may be personalized to meet individual's needs.
AAC systems have been in use at FHO since 2017 and have been the most resourceful communication tool during the Speech therapy sessions. Any child having difficulty communicating or being understood benefits in some way from AAC strategies. AAC is used by those with a wide range of speech and language impairments, including congenital impairments such as cerebral palsy, intellectual impairment, autism and other speech related conditions.
The Speech Pathology Unit here at FHO combines and uses both the aided and unaided AAC systems to achieve goals of the Speech therapy sessions and to promote effective and efficient communication to children that have speech difficulties.
• Unaided AAC Systems – is where we communicate with children using gestures, body language, facial expression and sign language.
• Aided AAC Systems – is where we communicate using different types of communication tools or devices such as Core Boards, Communication Folders, Symbols, PODD, TouchChat & WordPower (Ipad Apps) and BIGmack devices. There are 2 types of Aided AAC systems.
• Low Tech Devices – where communication takes place using Core Boards, Communication Folders, PODD book and Symbols.
• High Tech Devices - where communication takes place using TouchChat & WordPower (Ipad Apps) and BIGmack devices.
The AAC Systems have shown to improve children’s self-esteem and reduce their level of frustration (especially due to their inability to communicate effectively). It also allows children with speech difficulties to increase their participation in daily life activities and make their learning more interactive rather than passive.