AAC Does Not Stop Speech Development
Why communication boards and speech-generating devices can support communication at any age.
Published by Langley Speech Therapy Inc. • Updated September 12, 2026
AAC adds communication options
Augmentative and alternative communication includes gestures, signs, pictures, boards and speech-generating devices. It can supplement speech or provide a primary communication method.
Children do not need to earn AAC
A child does not need to demonstrate specific cognitive, motor or language skills before receiving access to communication. The system and teaching approach should be adapted to the communicator.
Adults model the system
Children learn language through meaningful models. Communication partners can point to symbols while speaking, respond to all communication forms and keep the system available across routines.
The goal is successful communication
AAC supports autonomy, connection and participation. Spoken language may grow alongside AAC for some people, but speech is not the only valid outcome.
Sources & further reading
Communication Health Support Association / ASHA: AAC. This independent patient-education resource provides background on the topics in this guide; it does not endorse this practice.
Published by Langley Speech Therapy Inc. • Updated September 12, 2026. This general guide is not a documented clinician-reviewed assessment or a diagnosis. Ask your treating speech-language pathologist how this information applies to your child.
Important note
This article is general education and does not replace an individualized assessment, diagnosis or medical advice.