When a child starts using Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), whether it’s a high-tech speech-generating device, a light-tech board, some key word signs or a book of symbols, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Parents often ask us, “When am I supposed to find the time to practise this?”
The secret to success with AAC isn’t setting aside extra hours for drills or flashcards. Instead, it’s about weaving AAC into the everyday routines you are already doing. At My Therapy Space, we believe that communication should feel like a natural part of life, not homework!
Why Daily Routines Work Best for AAC
Children learn language best when it is meaningful, repetitive, and connected to what they are doing in the real world. Daily routines, like mealtimes, bath time, and getting ready for bed, happen every single day.
By using AAC during these familiar moments, your child learns that their system isn’t just a “therapy tool”, it’s their voice for expressing what they want, how they feel, and what they are experiencing right now.
Simple Ways to Weave AAC Into Your Day
You don’t need to model every single word on the board right away. Start small by picking one routine a day and focusing on just a few core words like MORE, ALL DONE, GO, STOP, LIKE, or HELP.
Here are a few ways to introduce AAC into daily activities:
- Mealtime Chatter: Mealtimes are full of opportunities to model choices and preferences. Try modelling words like MORE, EAT, DRINK, LIKE, or ALL DONE. Instead of asking “Do you want an apple?” you can touch the symbol for MORE or LIKE and say, “I LIKE apples!”
- Bath Time Play: Bath time is a fantastic sensory experience with clear actions. Focus on action words like SPLASH, GO, STOP, IN, OUT, or HOT/COLD. You can model GO before pouring water or STOP when turning off the tap.
- Getting Dressed: Turn dressing into a game of choices or describing. Model words like ON, OFF, THIS, THAT, or colour words. Touch ON as you put on their shoes, or OFF when taking off a jacket.
- Car Rides & Outings: If there are 2 parents in the car and one is not driving, point out what you see out the window using simple words like SEE, GO, BIG, or LOOK. You can model GO at green lights and STOP at red lights!
- Book & Play Time: Follow your child’s lead during play. If they are pushing a car, model GO or FAST. If you’re reading a book, comment on the pictures using words like LOOK, FUNNY, or MORE.
4 Golden Rules for AAC Success at Home
- Model Without Expecting a Response: Think of AAC like learning a new spoken language. A child needs to see and hear it used hundreds of times before they start using it themselves. Point to symbols while you speak to them, without demanding that they touch the picture or press the button back.
- Focus on Connection, Not Testing: Avoid asking quiz questions like “Where is the
- apple?” or “Can you press ‘MORE’ for mummy?”. Instead, use AAC to comment, share ideas, and make observations (e.g., “Mummy loves EATing pizza!”).
- Keep the Device Accessible: Treat the AAC system like you would treat a child’s vocal cords. Keep it nearby, charged, and within reach throughout the day so your child knows their voice is always available.
- Acknowledge All Communication: Remember that AAC is just one part of your child’s communication system. Honour their facial expressions, gestures, vocalisations, and pointing alongside their AAC device.
You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Integrating AAC into family life is a gradual process, and every small step counts. Celebrating the small wins, like your child glancing at a symbol or pressing a single word during play, builds a strong foundation for lifelong communication.
At My Therapy Space, our team is passionate about helping families find creative, stress-free ways to make AAC work in their everyday lives.
If you’d like guidance on getting started with AAC or want to learn how to support your child’s communication system at home, reach out to our team at My Therapy Space today!