Myth #1: AAC will hinder or stop a child’s speech development.
Fact #1: Research has shown that AAC may improve and enhance a child’s spoken language development. Speech-generating devices can provide a child with consistent models of verbal approximations. AAC can encourage children to use spoken language.
Myth #2: A child has to have several prerequisite skills to use an AAC device.
Fact #2: There are no prerequisite skills for AAC devices. AAC can be used by anyone, no matter their diagnosis or impairment level. In addition to not requiring a specific set of skills. AAC can help enhance a child’s development. For example, AAC can help develop functional communication skills, promote cognitive development, provide a foundation for literacy development, and improve social communication.
Myth #3: Young children are not appropriate for AAC.
Fact #3: AAC can be appropriate for people of all ages and abilities. An early introduction of AAC can assist in the development of natural spoken language and increase expressive and receptive language.
Myth #4: AAC is only for people who are nonverbal.
Fact #4: AAC can be appropriate for anyone who is nonverbal, verbal, or minimally verbal who might benefit from a device to assist with expanding their language skills to communicate functionally. AAC can help anyone unable to communicate effectively.
