Every Voice Matters: Understanding AAC and Supporting Communication

October is AAC Awareness Month — a time to celebrate all the beautiful ways we share our voices with the world. For some children, spoken words may not come easily. But that doesn’t mean they don’t have something to say. Their words might look different, sound different, or appear in a tap, a picture, or a glance. And that, too, is communication.

Every smile, gesture, or button press is a bridge — a connection between hearts. And that bridge is built through AAC.

What Is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes any tool, symbol, or method that helps someone express themselves when spoken language is limited or developing.

AAC doesn’t replace speech — it enhances it. It opens doors to understanding, belonging, and identity. For many children, AAC becomes the key that unlocks connection, confidence, and self-expression.

Types of AAC

1. Unaided AAC - does not require any external equipment or tools.

Includes gestures, signs, facial expressions, body language, vocalizations, etc.

2. Aided AAC - required the use of equipment or tools in addition to the person's body

   Low-Tech AAC: Includes visuals, photos, objects, drawings, core boards, etc.

   High-Tech AAC: Includes iPads/tablet apps, computers, speech-generating devices, etc.

   
   

5 Ways To Nurture your Child's Communication Journey

For caregivers guiding children with developing voices, the path is both tender and courageous. It’s filled with moments of wonder — the first time your child points to a picture to say “more,” or presses a button that says “I love you.” Those moments are proof that their voice was there all along, waiting for a way to be heard.

1. Model, Model, Model

Use your child’s AAC system with them throughout the day. Point to symbols as you talk, narrate routines, or label emotions. Children learn to use AAC by seeing it in action.

2. Go at Their Pace

Some days, your child may be eager to explore buttons or symbols; other days, they may prefer to watch. That’s okay. Consistency and patience build comfort and confidence.

3. Celebrate Every Communication Attempt

Every sound, gesture, or glance has meaning. When your child points, looks, or taps, respond with enthusiasm. This teaches them that their voice matters — no matter how it’s expressed.

4. Make It Joyful

Communication flourishes in connection. Sing songs, read favorite stories, or play games using their AAC tools. Let laughter and curiosity lead the way.

5. Partner with Professionals

Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can guide you through choosing the right AAC system, personalizing it, and helping your child build expressive language.

The Power of Being Heard

AAC gives children the courage to say “I want,” “I feel,” “I need,” and eventually, “I am.” It empowers them to connect with others, to share their dreams, and to take their rightful place in conversations that shape their world.

So this AAC Awareness Month — and every month — let’s celebrate every voice, every sound, every gesture. Because communication isn’t measured by volume or vocabulary; it’s measured by connection, belonging, and love.

Every child has a voice. AAC simply helps the world hear it. 💛

A Moment of Devotion

“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”

— Exodus 14:14

Parenting in the world of AAC can feel like walking through uncharted waters. You want so deeply to hear your child’s voice, to know their heart. And yet, God reminds you — be still. Even when progress feels slow, He is working. Even when words seem far away, He is speaking through the love between you and your child.

Every symbol touched, every glance shared, every moment of connection — these are sacred. They are whispers of grace, proof that communication is not limited to sound but fueled by love. Your child’s voice may come through pictures or devices, but their heart speaks directly to yours — and to God’s.

"Dear Lord,

Thank You for reminding me that communication is a gift that takes many forms. Help me see the beauty in every gesture, sound, and sign my child offers. Give me patience to model, joy to celebrate small victories, and peace to rest in Your timing.

May my child always feel heard, valued, and deeply loved — by me and by You.

Amen."