Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Assistive Technology (AT)

This is a curated collection of information and resources related to supporting augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in children ages birth to three years.

This is a curated collection of information and resources related to supporting augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) in children ages three to five years.

Children with disabilities have the right to participate in everyday activities with their typically developing peers. The appropriate use of assistive technology (AT) in the classroom or playgroup, at home, and in the community supports natural learning opportunities and the successful inclusion of infants, toddlers and young children with disabilities in the full array of services and settings that are available to all young children. This webpage gives educators and families information and resources about AT and young children.

This resource provides information on adaptations in the home to help increase a child’s independent participation and learning in everyday childhood routines and activities.

This webpage explains how children and adults with severe speech or language problems may need to find other ways to communicate besides talking. There are many types of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) they can use. Speech-language pathologists, or SLPs, can help.

While most people think of communication as talking, it’s much more than that. Some children don’t begin to talk—or communicate—as expected. Some children may be helped with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This article provides parents and educators information on AAC use for children as well as myths and misconceptions about AAC.

IATP’s mission is to provide Illinoisans of all ages, including early learners, with disabilities and health conditions greater access to assistive technology (AT) devices and services so that they may enhance their independence and participation in all aspects of life. To achieve this, IATP offers numerous assistive technology programs and services to learn about and try AT devices. IATP also provides training, technical assistance, and a variety of contracted services including professional AT evaluations.

As part of its Assistive Technology Services, IATP has been providing comprehensive Assistive Technology (AT) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) evaluations to children and young adults (ages 3 to 21). The purpose of IATP’s AT/AAC Evaluation Program is to coordinate, plan, and perform evaluations for school districts throughout the state of Illinois, free of charge. IATP also provides free AT/AAC training to students, school personnel, and families. and coordinates AAC trainings with the consultants of the various AAC companies.

This article explains what assistive technology is, lists grant projects within Illinois, and provides more information about school-based assistive technology assessments.

This module expands on the ECPC curriculum modules for the EI/ECSE Standards. The learning resources provided are designed to be used in both teacher education and teacher professional development to facilitate the integration of the knowledge and skills addressed by this topic. The learning resources specifically address the augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) needs of young children, criteria used to evaluate for AAC, and effective evidence-based strategies used for supporting young children with high-intensity communication needs and their families.