Navigating Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

Navigating AAC: A Parent's Guide to Empowering Communication for Autistic Children and Complex Communicators is a practical, family-centered ebook written by Melba Acey, M.S.P., CCC-SLP - an AAC specialist and speech-language pathologist with 20+ years of experience supporting communication development.

This digital guide helps parents understand Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and learn how to use communication systems at home, school, and in the community. Inside, families will find simple strategies for modeling AAC, supporting core vocabulary, reducing frustration and behavior challenges, and building confidence with communication devices and speech-generating devices (SGDs).

Topics covered in this guide include:

• When to consider AAC for your child

• AAC myths and facts

• Using core words for daily communication

• Tips for implementing AAC in play, mealtime, and routines

• Overcoming device resistance and communication breakdowns

• Expanding language beyond requesting

• Carryover into real-life communication in school and community settings

• Maintaining and updating your child's AAC system over time

Includes links to communication boards, visual supports, and caregiver-friendly examples designed for autistic children, gestalt language processors, and other complex communicators.

Created for parents, caregivers, and anyone supporting a child who is minimally speaking, non-speaking, or has speech and language delays.

Give your child the tools they need to communicate with confidence - and feel understood every day.