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AAC

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. AAC helps people to communicate beyond or in addition to speaking.


Children and adults can use AAC if they have trouble with communication. Augmentative means adding to someone's speech. Alternative means using another way of communicating than speech. Speech language pathologists help people find AAC that works for them.


AAC includes different ways a person can communicate. This can include spoken language, sign language, gestures, and other aided communication. People who use AAC may use picture cards or a device that supports their communication. How people use AAC can change over time.

© 2025 by PEAAK Advisory Board with support by the Organization for Autism Research and Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 

A Note On Language: We use "autistic child" in line with autistic self-advocates. Some prefer "child with autism." We respect everyone's choice.

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