augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
How to find a good AAC provider for your child
A good AAC provider is led by an AAC-trained speech-language therapist who assesses your child first, trials a range of tools from low-tech boards to speech-generating devices, and coaches your family and school so communication continues everywhere. AAC supports speech rather than replacing it. A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre under qualified clinician care.
Finding the right AAC partner means finding people who see your child's voice waiting to be heard — and know how to unlock it.
In short
A good AAC provider starts with a proper assessment of your child rather than handing out one device for everyone, involves a speech and language therapist trained in AAC, trials different tools (from picture boards to speech-generating apps and devices), and — most importantly — coaches your whole family and your child's school so communication continues everywhere, not just in the therapy room. Look for an ongoing partnership, not a one-off purchase. AAC supports speech; it does not replace or delay it.What to look for in an AAC provider
- A trained speech-language therapist leads it. AAC is a clinical decision, not a shop purchase. The therapist should match the child to the system — not the system to whatever is in stock.
- They assess before they recommend. A good provider observes how your child currently communicates, what motivates them, their motor and visual abilities, and trials more than one option before settling.
- A range of tools, low-tech to high-tech. From picture exchange and communication boards to apps and dedicated speech-generating devices. The "best" tool is the one your child will actually use across the day.
- They coach the family and school. AAC only works when the people around your child model it constantly. Ask: "How will you train us?"
- They review and grow the system. Vocabulary and goals should expand as your child does — expect regular reviews, not abandonment after handover.
- No pressure that AAC "gives up" on speech. The evidence is clear that AAC supports — and often encourages — spoken language.
Questions to ask on your first visit
- How will you decide which system suits my child?
- Will I see a trial period before committing?
- How do you train me, our family and the school?
- What happens when my child outgrows this system?
The Pinnacle way
This is general guidance, not a diagnosis — a clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care. Our speech-language therapists build a personalised communication profile through the AbilityScore® assessment, trial the right AAC tools within speech therapy, and coach your family so your child's voice grows everywhere. Start by exploring [how Pinnacle supports your child](/).Trusted sources
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) describes AAC as any communication method that supplements or replaces speech, and confirms it does not hinder spoken-language development. WHO and AAP developmental communication guidance support early, individualised assessment by a qualified therapist.Next step — Want to find your child's clearest path to communication? Book a speech and AAC assessment with a Pinnacle clinician.
What to watch
Watch for a provider who recommends a single device for everyone without assessing your child, skips a trial period, or hands over a tool without training your family and school — these are signs to look elsewhere.
Try this at home
Whichever AAC tool your child uses, model it yourself every day — point to pictures or press the device as you speak, so your child sees communication is for everyone, not just for them.
Trusted sources
Developed by SETU Consortium · Pinnacle Blooms Network · Last reviewed 2026-06-10 · reviewed every 365 days
This is general information, not a diagnosis. A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care.
Frequently asked
Will AAC stop my child from learning to talk?
No. Research consistently shows AAC supports spoken-language development and does not hold it back. For many children, having a reliable way to communicate reduces frustration and actually encourages speech to emerge.
Do we have to buy an expensive device straight away?
Not at all. A good provider trials options first, often starting with low-tech picture boards or apps. The right system is the one your child uses naturally across the day — that may or may not be a high-tech device.
Who should choose the AAC system for my child?
An AAC-trained speech-language therapist, working with you, after assessing how your child communicates, what motivates them, and their motor and visual abilities. AAC is a clinical decision, never an off-the-shelf purchase.