Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
At All Things Therapy, we know that every child communicates in their own way—and every way is valid. Our paediatric Speech Pathologists support children who use, or may benefit from, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) to express themselves, connect with others, and be heard.
AAC can be introduced at any age—even with very young children. It does not stop a child from developing speech. In fact, AAC often supports spoken language and helps reduce frustration.
We work in partnership with you and your child to make AAC fun, meaningful, and part of everyday routines.
AAC includes all the ways a child might communicate besides speaking, like:
Gestures and Sign
Many children naturally use hand movements, body language, or key word signs to communicate their needs and ideas.
Pointing to Pictures or Symbols
Using visual supports like picture cards or symbol boards helps children express themselves when words are hard to find.
Communication Books
Books with pages of symbols or words let children build and share messages in a structured, portable way.
Speech-Generating Devices
High-tech tools like iPads with communication apps (e.g., LAMP, Proloquo2Go) give children a voice they can use anywhere.
Your child might benefit from AAC if they:
Non-Speaking or Limited Speech
Some children don’t use spoken words or only say a few. AAC can give them a reliable way to express themselves.
Speech That’s Hard to Understand
When a child’s speech isn’t clear, AAC can help others understand what they’re trying to say—reducing frustration for everyone.
Trouble Finding or Using Words
Children who struggle to find the right words or put them together can use AAC to support and build their communication.
Diagnosed Developmental or Neurological Conditions
AAC can benefit children with Autism, Developmental Delay, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, or other genetic conditions to support communication across settings.
Our team of experienced Speech Pathologists can help with:
AAC Assessments
We take the time to understand your child’s strengths, needs, and communication goals to recommend the right AAC support.
AAC Trials
We trial a range of low- and high-tech AAC options—like picture boards, PODD books, and iPad apps—to find what works best for your child.
Picture Boards & PODD Books
We explore low-tech systems that use symbols and visuals to support communication in everyday moments.
Communication Apps on iPads
We support trials of high-tech AAC apps like LAMP Words for Life and Proloquo2Go, offering a voice your child can take anywhere.
NDIS Assistive Technology Reports
Our therapists write detailed reports to support NDIS funding requests for AAC devices and tools.
Customising AAC for Daily Life
We personalise your child’s AAC system so it’s easy to use at home, school, and everywhere in between.
Training for Families and Teams
We help parents, carers, educators, and support workers learn how to use AAC confidently with your child.
Ongoing AAC Therapy
We provide regular support to help your child grow their communication skills and feel confident using AAC.
Support Across All Environments
We work with you to introduce and use AAC at home, in school, and in the community—making sure it’s practical and meaningful.
Our approach:
We Presume Competence
We believe every child has something to say—and with the right support, they will find their voice.
We Honour All Communication
From gestures to behaviours to AAC systems, we recognise and respect every way a child communicates.
We Create Safe and Joyful Spaces
Our therapy is child-led, respectful, and built on connection—because learning happens best when children feel safe and valued.
We Empower Families and Teams
We work alongside parents, carers, educators, and support staff to build confidence in supporting AAC every day.
Take the first leap towards progress
If you are considering an AAC device for your child, our team of professionals are here to guide you through the process with care, respect, and understanding. The first step is completing our intake form, which helps us understand your child’s needs and how an AAC device can support them.
Submitting the form is obligation-free and doesn’t commit you to any further steps—it’s simply a way to begin the conversation and explore the best options for your child. Once we receive your form, our team will reach out to discuss the next steps, answer any questions you may have, and provide the support you need. Together, we can work towards helping your child thrive.
"Empowering individuals to build skills, gain confidence, and thrive in everyday life."
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