How to Have a Conversation with Someone Using AAC: Embracing Their Voice
Hello all! ✨
I am Renee, and I am one of the speech therapists at Way to Grow Pediatric therapy. The reason I love being a speech therapist is that I get to help kids find their voice every day. At Way to Grow Pediatric Therapy, we know that communication is such an important component of connecting with others. For some individuals, communication might mean using words, phrases, and sentences. Others may sing songs, offer hugs, use meaningful facial expressions or eye gaze, or rely on gestures like pointing, waving, or taking others by hand. Some friends, on the other hand, will point to pictures, write, draw, utilize an app on a tablet, or use a high-tech device which may generate speech for a listener to hear.
This low-tech AAC board might be helpful when feeling sick or visiting the doctor.
A child utilizes a high-tech AAC device to communicate their wants and needs!
Communication other than talking is referred to as Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Some friends use low-tech or high-tech AAC devices to express their thoughts, needs, + feelings. Whether someone is using a simple picture board or a more sophisticated device, it’s important to understand that AAC is that person’s voice. Clearly, AAC can provide an incredible way for some individuals to share their voices with the world. But many of us might wonder how to best communicate with someone who primarily uses AAC to communicate.
Here are some simple tips for fostering meaningful conversations, embracing AAC as a powerful tool for connection, and showing respect for everyone’s unique way of communicating:
Give Them Time
Conversations with someone using AAC may take a bit more time, and that’s okay! It’s important to be patient + give the person plenty of space to respond. They may need extra moments to find the right words or pictures on their AAC device. Avoid finishing their sentences or hurrying them—this can feel frustrating or dismissive.
Try this: Pause after you talk, and don’t be afraid of silence. Giving space for them to respond shows that you value what they have to say.
Speak Directly to the Person
When interacting with someone who uses AAC, it’s important to speak directly to them, not their device or caregiver. Whether they’re using a high-tech device, a communication board, or any other tool, they are still the one communicating. Acknowledge them by maintaining eye contact, listening attentively, + responding as you would in any other conversation. Fun fact, many AAC devices come with a communication window on the back of an AAC device, which allows for more natural face to face conversation. This makes it easier to interact without needing to stand directly over the person as they communicate with you.
Try this: Use the same body language and tone of voice that you would with any other person, and make an effort to include them in group conversations, ensuring that they feel part of the discussion.
Treat AAC as a Natural Part of Communication
AAC is simply another way to communicate—just like using facial expressions, gestures, or words. Remember to treat AAC as a natural part of the conversation. Avoid reacting to the device or method itself and instead focus on the message the person is conveying. This helps normalize AAC and reduces any discomfort or awkwardness for both the user and the people they’re communicating with.
Try this: If your child is interacting with someone using AAC, encourage them to ask questions about the conversation, not the device. You can explain, “This is how they talk!”
Ask Open-Ended Questions
Just as with verbal communication, asking open-ended questions encourages more full and meaningful responses. Asking yes/no questions can be limiting, so make a point to engage in a way that allows for more thoughtful dialogue. This not only promotes more interaction but also shows that you are genuinely interested in what the person has to say.
Try this: Instead of asking, “Did you have a good day?” try something like, “What did you enjoy about today?” This will give the person an opportunity to share openly, rather than simply answering “yes” or “no”.
Follow Their Lead
Each AAC user has their own communication style, and it’s important to respect how they prefer to interact. Some people might point to symbols, others might use voice output devices, and some may rely on facial expressions or sounds to provide important meaning to their message. You may find that others use a combination of tools to communicate! Make an effort to follow their lead in the conversation and adjust to their communication preferences.
Try this: If they seem more comfortable using gestures or facial expressions alongside an AAC device, make sure to acknowledge and respond to those cues, as well.
Why It Matters: AAC Is Their Voice
Understanding and respecting AAC as someone’s voice is key for promoting inclusive and empowering conversations. For many individuals who use AAC, it’s not simply a tool; it’s their primary way of expressing who they are. When we take the time to engage thoughtfully, interact with patience, and respect their communication style, will foster connection and build trust.
At Way to Grow Pediatric Therapy, we embrace all forms of communication, because every voice deserves to be heard. By learning how to interact with AAC users with kindness and respect, we create a world where everyone can be heard.
Let's make communication accessible for all - one conversation at a time,
Renee Dooms, MA, CCC-SLP
The Way to Grow Pediatric Therapy Team 🌟
About our featured writer:
Meet Renee - she joined the Way to Grow team this past summer as one of our amazing speech language pathologists! Renee’s interest in communication began while watching her younger brother receive speech therapy as a child! She caught the speech therapy bug, and went on to receive her Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from University of Northern Colorado. Renee is passionate about working with kids and families to help them set goals and reach for the stars! Plus, she has a gift for empowering individuals through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). At Way to Grow Pediatric Therapy, she works closely with children and their families to unlock new pathways of communication, helping them find their voice and express themselves confidently. Renee is committed to ensuring that every child has the tools they need to communicate and thrive, whether through speech or assistive technology. She believes that communication is a right, and she loves being part of her clients' journeys toward more meaningful interactions.
