As a speech-language pathologists, we have the pleasure of working with individuals who communicate through all different means including speech, alternative and augmentative communication, gestures, sign language, and more. Alternative and augmentative communication can include both low tech and high tech options. Low tech options can include a core board or flip book while high tech options can include speech generating devices like an iPad with TouchChat. When communicating with an individual who uses AAC, pay attention to the communication partner as opposed to the device, be patient, ask questions, respect screen privacy, and do not completely dominate the conversation. Communication is different for everyone, all modalities of communication are valid and everyone has the right to communicate.
