October is AAC Awareness Month. AAC stands for “Augmentative and Alternative Communication,” and its central to our Akron speech therapy team’s approach to treating nonverbal children.

At our multidisciplinary pediatric therapy clinic, we understand that communication is a critical part of a child’s development, especially for children who are nonverbal. Children who have difficulty using spoken language can feel frustrated or isolated, but with the right interventions and tools, they can learn to communicate effectively. Speech therapy, combined with other supportive therapies like occupational therapy and ABA therapy, can play a significant role in helping nonverbal children express themselves, connect with others, and achieve long-term communication goals.

In this article, we’ll explore some key speech therapy techniques for nonverbal children, focusing on alternative communication methods like AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) and outlining the long-term goals of therapy for nonverbal children.

Introducing AAC: Augmentative and Alternative Communication

AAC refers to a range of communication tools and techniques designed to support individuals who struggle to communicate verbally. For nonverbal children, AAC can open up new opportunities for interaction, learning, and independence. There are two main types of AAC: unaided communication (which relies on gestures, facial expressions, or sign language) and aided communication (which uses tools or devices to help the child communicate).

Aided AAC:

• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS): PECS is one of the most widely used AAC systems for nonverbal children. It involves using pictures or symbols to represent words and concepts. Children learn to exchange pictures with others to communicate their needs, wants, or thoughts. PECS is often a starting point for many nonverbal children because it is simple, visual, and accessible.
• Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs): These devices allow children to select symbols, pictures, or text that generate spoken words. SGDs can range from basic devices with a few programmed phrases to more advanced tablets or apps that allow for more complex communication. For children who are nonverbal but cognitively capable of forming sentences, SGDs can become their voice, enabling them to engage in conversations and express themselves.
• Communication Boards or Apps: Some children use low-tech communication boards with pictures or words that they point to in order to communicate. Others use apps on tablets or smartphones that function similarly to SGDs, but in a more portable format.

Unaided AAC:

• Sign Language: For some children, sign language can be an effective form of communication, especially when paired with verbal cues from therapists or caregivers. Learning sign language can help nonverbal children express basic needs, make requests, and participate in interactions without relying on devices.

Each child’s AAC system is individualized to meet their unique needs. At our clinic, we assess the child’s strengths, preferences, and cognitive abilities to determine the most effective AAC method for them.

Building Communication Skills Beyond Words

For nonverbal children, the goal of speech therapy isn’t limited to learning to speak verbally. The primary goal is to help children communicate, no matter the method. Speech therapy focuses on developing functional communication, which means giving the child tools to express themselves in meaningful ways, whether through gestures, signs, or AAC devices.

Therapists also work on joint attention, which is the ability to share focus on an object or activity with another person. Joint attention is a foundational skill for social communication, and it helps nonverbal children learn how to interact, take turns, and understand others’ communication cues.

In addition, therapy often targets social communication skills, such as initiating conversations, asking for help, and making choices. For many nonverbal children, these interactions can be supported by AAC devices or gestures but still represent important progress toward more independent communication.

Long-Term Goals for Nonverbal Children in Akron Speech Therapy

The long-term goals of speech therapy for nonverbal children are focused on enhancing their ability to communicate effectively, regardless of whether they ultimately develop verbal speech. However, the path to these goals varies depending on each child’s abilities and needs. Some children may eventually gain verbal language skills, while others may rely on AAC throughout their lives.

Key Long-Term Goals Include:

• Developing Independence in Communication: The ultimate goal is for nonverbal children to communicate independently, whether through an AAC device, sign language, or a combination of methods. This allows them to express their needs, share their thoughts, and build relationships with those around them.
• Improving Social Interaction: As nonverbal children become more comfortable with their chosen communication method, they can participate more actively in social situations. Our Akron speech therapy services help children build confidence in social settings, initiate interactions, and develop friendships.
• Transitioning to School and Community Life: As children grow, their communication needs change. The tools and strategies they learn in speech therapy help them navigate school, social environments, and even future work or community settings. For some, the long-term goal may include transitioning from aided AAC methods to verbal speech or developing more complex communication skills through advanced technology.

4. The Role of a Multidisciplinary Approach

At Therapy and Wellness Connection in Brecksville, OH, we take a multidisciplinary approach to therapy, combining the expertise of speech therapists, occupational therapists, and ABA therapists to address the holistic needs of the child. While speech therapy focuses on communication, occupational therapy can address motor skills, such as using a communication device, and ABA therapy helps reinforce positive communication behaviors and social skills.

By working collaboratively, we ensure that each child receives comprehensive care that addresses both their communication needs and their broader developmental goals.

For nonverbal children, speech therapy offers a path to meaningful communication, connection, and growth. Whether through AAC devices, sign language, or other strategies, our goal is to empower your child to express themselves confidently and independently.

At our clinic, we’re committed to providing the personalized support your child needs to thrive, both in therapy and beyond. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support your child’s communication journey!

Therapy & Wellness Connection – your connection to a life without limitations – provides speech therapy to children in Akron, Cleveland, Brecksville-Broadview Heights and surrounding communities. We also offer summer camp, day programs, education services, vocational counseling and more. Call us at (330) 748-4807 or send us an email.

Additional Resources:

AAC Awareness Month: AAC in a Recovering World, October 2021, ASHA Journals Academy

More Blog Entries:

How Akron Speech Therapists Approach Primary Speech Disorders vs. Secondary Speech Disorders in Kids, Sept. 30, 2024, Akron Speech Therapy Blog