Acronyms
Sometimes called speech therapists, our true title is SLP which stands for....
Speech-language pathologist
True or False? Use of high-tech AAC hinders speech development.
Absolutely false.
Use of AAC often increases verbal speech!
Oh no! My client left their AAC device at home! What should I do?
-See their SLP for a replacement device. We have all of our users backed up to our SLP iPads. We are more than happy to assist with this (communication is kind of important to us...)
It's a short acronym but full of so many words-- AAC stands for...
Augmentative/Alternative Communication
True or False? PECS is a form of AAC.
TRUE. PECS is a low tech form of AAC
My client won't stop hitting the same button/asking for the same thing over and over but it's not available. What should you do?
You could model "all done" or the word, "not" and say "not right now" or "not available". You could offer alternatives. You should approach this situation the same as a child verbally asking for an item over and over again. Never hide buttons in this situation. This is equivalent to putting tape over a child's mouth.
PECS is a low tech option that many clients use to make requests. PECS stands for...
Picture Exchange Communication System
True or False? I should only model requesting when working with a client- especially if they only know a few words.
FALSE. We should be modeling as many functions of language as possible throughout a client's day.
My client won't allow me to model on their AAC Device? What should I do?
Ask their SLP for a trial device to borrow with a copy of their vocabulary. If this not available, we can make a low tech version of their words to use
Another name for an AAC device is a SGD. SGD stands for....
Speech Generating Device
True or False? A user needs to be able to read in order to successfully use an AAC device.
FALSE! The use of pictures and symbols is useful for users that are not yet able to read.
My client uses AAC but they just asked for something verbally. What should I do?
Honor their request! If a client has made a clear request, we should honor that communication.
A lesser known but other name for an AAC device or an SGD is a VOCA. VOCA stands for...
Voice Output Communication Aids
True or False? I should use hand over hand prompting to help my client access their AAC device better.
FALSE. Physical prompting is used as a last resort ALWAYS. If absolutely necessary, you can use hand under hand -which promotes bodily autonomy.
My client seems to want an item but there doesn't appear to be a button for it. What should I do to help?
If you happen to be unsure, what core words could you use to talk about the item in the mean time?