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AAC & communication tools for a non-verbal child
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) gives a non-verbal child a voice through tools ranging from gestures and signs to picture cards, PECS and speech-generating apps. AAC supports — never blocks — spoken language, and the right mix is matched to the child by a speech therapist. A clinical AbilityScore is formed only at a Pinnacle centre.
In this answer 4 sections
When words haven't arrived yet, the right tools give your child a voice today — not someday.
In short
AAC means Augmentative and Alternative Communication — a whole family of tools that let a non-verbal child get their message across without relying only on spoken words. These range from simple, no-cost options like gestures, signs and picture cards, to picture-exchange systems and speech-generating apps on a tablet. Crucially, AAC does not stop speech from developing — research consistently shows it can actually encourage it. The right mix is matched to your child by a speech therapist, then built into daily life.
The tools that help, from simple to high-tech
No-tech (no device needed)
- Natural gestures, pointing and body language
- Key-word sign or simple manual signs paired with speech
- Facial expression and eye-pointing
Low-tech (paper-based, always available)
- Picture cards and choice boards ("juice" or "milk?")
- PECS — the Picture Exchange Communication System, where your child hands you a picture to make a request
- Communication books and visual schedules
High-tech (devices and apps)
- Speech-generating apps on a tablet (your child taps a picture and the device "speaks")
- Dedicated AAC devices with symbol grids
- These give a clear, repeatable voice and grow with your child's vocabulary
The best starting point is rarely the fanciest device — it is the tool your child can use successfully today, that everyone around them understands and responds to. A speech therapist trials options and teaches the whole family to model the system, so communication becomes natural at home, not just in sessions.
The Pinnacle way
A clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care — never from an app or an online form. Our therapists assess how your child currently communicates, trial the right AAC and communication tools for them, and weave the chosen system into everyday routines through speech therapy. To understand your child's communication starting point, see how the AbilityScore is established.
Trusted sources
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) guidance on augmentative and alternative communication; American Academy of Pediatrics family resources on supporting children with communication differences.
Next step — Book a communication assessment so a Pinnacle speech therapist can match the right AAC tools to your child.
This is general information, not a diagnosis — individual assessment and diagnosis require an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
CONNECT THE ANSWER TO YOUR CHILD’S DAY
Something to notice. Something to discuss.
What to notice
Watch how your child already tries to communicate — pointing, leading you by the hand, eye-pointing, sounds or gestures. These existing attempts are the foundation a therapist builds the right AAC system on.
In everyday life
Model the tool yourself: point to the picture or use the sign as you say the word, several times a day, without pressure. Children learn AAC by seeing the people they love use it first.
Bring your observations and questions to your child’s professional. Choose activities that suit your child’s comfort, abilities and agreed plan.
Bring your questions to a first visitQuestions families ask
Will using AAC stop my child from learning to talk?
No. Research consistently shows AAC does not hold back speech — by reducing frustration and building communication, it often encourages spoken words to emerge alongside the tools.
What is PECS?
PECS is the Picture Exchange Communication System, where your child hands you a picture to make a request. It is a structured, low-tech way to start functional communication and is taught step by step by a therapist.
Does my child need an expensive device to start?
Not at all. Many children begin with free or low-cost tools like gestures, signs and picture cards. A speech therapist trials options and recommends a higher-tech device only when it genuinely fits your child.
How do I choose the right AAC tool?
A speech therapist assesses how your child currently communicates and trials different tools to find what your child can use successfully, that the whole family can understand and support at home.
FOLLOW THE SOURCE
References behind this answer.
- Source referenceASHA — Augmentative and Alternative Communication
- Organisation website · further readingAAP HealthyChildren — supporting communication development
References are supplied with this answer. An organisation homepage offers further reading; it does not establish an independent review of this page.
Content attribution: SETU Consortium · Pinnacle Blooms Network.
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General information supports a conversation with an appropriately qualified professional. Advice, goals and support depend on the individual child.