What Is AAC?
October is AAC Awareness Month and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a powerful tool utilized at HMS School to support the large population of students who need alternative forms to verbal communication. AAC helps students communicate and engage with the world using methods like communication boards, assistive technology devices, and sign language. These methods ensure that HMS’s students are fully equipped to express themselves and thrive in an inclusive environment. No two students use the same method of communication and one of the best ways to engage with students is by offering individualized AAC for children with complex communication needs. Overcoming Communication Barriers
At HMS, we celebrate diverse methods of communication and the unique perspectives each student brings! Many of our students use assistive devices for nonverbal communication. The way in which our students communicate directly correlates with their sense of self, independence, and their ability to express themselves freely. One of the best things about our school is that our students are surrounded by their peers and can learn from each other’s strengths and differences utilizing adaptive communication tools.
Communicating with someone who uses AAC might feel intimidating at first, but don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!
We’ve put together a mini guide on how you can create meaningful connections and enhance your communication when engaging with individuals who are nonverbal or use alternative communication methods:
- Show You’re Listening: Position yourself so your communication partner knows they’ve got your attention. This might include looking toward them when they’re communicating, instead of toward a caregiver or parent.
- Use an Engaging Tone: Speak in a clear tone that’s easy to hear, whether through traditional sound or augmentative devices. To enhance our students’ communication capabilities, HMS offers in-house Speech Therapy for all students to continue working on their AAC skills.
- Utilize Visual Supports: Visual support for communication in education is in every HMS classroom. We use picture books and communication boards to help our students engage while also assisting our nonverbal students to communicate utilizing the method that works best for them. Whether it’s a 2D or 3D visual aid, ensure that the images are large and clear so students can easily understand and interact with them.
- Incorporate Signs and Gestures: Signs and gestures in special education is another method used at HMS to communicate effectively. Our staff, therapists, and teachers use sign language to convey simple commands, songs, and speech in a way that our students can easily mimic and understand.
(If you’re interested in learning sign language, consider courses offered by the Community College of Philadelphia as a great way to get involved and learn more about AAC communication!)
- Provide Options: At HMS, we advocate for freedom of choice. Our students are always encouraged to express their interests and disinterests. When we see signs of discomfort or disengagement, we offer alternatives until they find something that sparks their interest. Usually offering two options, it is best to not overwhelm the individual with too many choices at once.
- Have Patience: Many AAC users may need extra time to process information and respond. Be patient and understanding as they communicate at their own pace. We encourage communicators of all levels to express themselves without fear or judgment.
All in all, AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is simply another way for individuals with additional needs to communicate. We hope this information helps you engage in meaningful conversations and provides nonverbal student communication support techniques that can be utilized to communicate differently than you’re used to.
At HMS School, our top priority is to create an environment that fully supports the individualized needs of our students through necessary adaptations and modifications, ensuring they always have positive experiences.
We encourage you to stay connected with HMS to learn more about how you can support nonverbal learners with assistive technology and advocate for AAC communication and inclusivity.
You can do this through our social media platforms, joining our email list, or stopping by during one of our upcoming Community Partners Tours to learn more about how we educate and nurture our student population.
