Helping children with autism speak: Let's learn about the AAC method (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

Have you ever found it difficult to express your child's needs and feelings in words? Perhaps your child has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). At times like these, you may find it challenging to deal with your child because they don't talk or talk very much. But don't worry. There are many other ways to communicate besides talking. That's what we're talking about today.

Simply put, what is AAC?

The English words AAC stand for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. In Sinhala, it means "Augmentative and Alternative Communication" . Although the name is a bit complicated, the idea behind it is very simple.

These methods are beneficial not only for children with autism, but also for many people, such as those with cerebral palsy , those who have difficulty speaking due to a stroke or head injury, and those with intellectual disabilities.

What are the main methods of AAC?

We can divide these AAC methods into two main categories, depending on whether or not an external device is used.

While some children use only one of these two methods, others may use both depending on the situation. The important thing is to choose the method that is most suitable and easiest for the child .

Techniques used for AAC

There are various techniques to help a child learn these AAC methods. These are very simple and can be incorporated into everyday life.

Visible Language

This method is very important for a child who has difficulty speaking, as well as for learning new things about the daily routine. Imagine, if you had a visual schedule made up of pictures on the wall that shows the child's routine from the time he wakes up in the morning until he goes to bed at night (brushing teeth, drinking milk, playing), the child would easily understand what he has to do next.

Language Stimulation

This is like "seeing makes learning." We show the child how to use AAC methods. For example, when you want to drink water, take a picture of a glass of water, show it to the child, and say "water." Then the child learns by seeing it and showing the picture when he wants water.

Using Temptations

Using a favorite toy or food item to encourage communication. Imagine your child holding a favorite biscuit in your hand and waiting for you to show them a picture card with the word "biscuit." The child wants the biscuit, so they are eager to show you the card.

Repetition

To make anything a habit, you have to repeat it. It's the same with AAC. When you practice the same method, the same way, day after day, with your child, it becomes a part of their life.

Structure and Order

For children with ASD, it's especially important to have a set routine and structure . It reduces their uncertainty and fear. When they know what's coming next, they feel calmer. Visual Schedules are a great example of this.

What are the benefits of AAC?

There are many benefits to the child from using AAC methods.

• Improved communication skills: This is the main benefit. Even though the child cannot express it in words, it gives the child a way to express their feelings and needs, such as being hungry, tired, happy, or sad. This greatly reduces frustration.
• Helps develop good habits: Things like visual schedules help children learn to organize their daily routines. Over time, these things become automatic habits.
• Skill development: When you show children step-by-step with pictures how to brush their teeth or tie their shoes, it's easier for them to develop those skills.
• Decision-making ability: These children's ideas are often suppressed because they cannot speak. But when asked through an AAC device, "Do you want to play with a car or a ball?", the child can choose what he wants from a picture. This increases the child's self-confidence.
• Motivation to learn: Some apps and devices are like games. Therefore, children are very excited to use them. It is a good motivation to learn.

Parents' concerns and fears about AAC

It's normal for parents to have questions and fears when discussing a new system like this. Let's look at the answers to those questions.

1. "Is my child too young for this?"

Some parents think that a child has to be at a certain age or ability to use AAC. There is no such thing. Research has found that even children as young as three years old can benefit from AAC. The sooner you start, the better.

2. "Will using these delay the child's ability to speak?"

This is the biggest fear for many. But in reality, it's the other way around. AAC is like a bridge to speech. When a child has a way to communicate, their frustration is reduced and their interest in learning words increases. AAC improves their ability to speak, but never hinders it.

3. "My child can't use his hands properly. So how do I do these things?"

Some children may have problems with their limbs. But that's not a problem. There are special devices today that don't require hands, but can be operated by eye-gaze technology or other switch methods.

The important thing is that you don't have to make these decisions alone. Talk to your doctor, and especially a Speech and Language Therapist, about this. They can help you decide which AAC method is best for your child.

AAC, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, Autism, communication, speech difficulties, children, speech therapy, visual schedule, ASD, child development