As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA), I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and other professionals to advocate for better communication resources for my clients. Communication is the foundation of independence, self-advocacy, and emotional well-being.
However, I’ve encountered a recurring and heartbreaking situation—families coming to me with a 9-year-old child who is non-verbal but has never been introduced to a structured communication system, whether vocal or through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
By this stage, the child often has a well-established learning history of navigating their world through behaviors, routines, or assumptions made by caregivers. This can look like:
✔️ Engaging in challenging behaviors to gain access to what they need (e.g., tantrums to get a preferred toy).
✔️ Using gestures, pulling, or pointing to direct caregivers toward desired items.
✔️ Receiving items automatically based on routines without needing to request (e.g., getting juice every morning without having to ask).
While caregivers often act out of love and efficiency, this approach does not promote independent communication or self-advocacy skills. The longer a child functions without a reliable communication system, the harder it becomes to introduce one later. But it is never too late! With the right support, consistency, and modeling, we can help a child find their voice—whether through speech, signs, or an AAC device.
Understanding AAC: More Than Just a Device
AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) refers to any form of communication other than verbal speech. This includes:
✅ Low-tech options like PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), core boards, or sign language.
✅ High-tech options like speech-generating AAC apps (e.g., Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, LAMP Words for Life) on tablets or dedicated devices.
Introducing AAC at an early age is ideal, but even at age 9 or older, it is possible to build communication skills. The key is consistent modeling, patience, and caregiver involvement.
The Challenge of Introducing AAC to Older Learners
For a child who has spent years navigating the world without an explicit communication system, introducing an AAC device can be difficult. Some challenges include:
📌 A history of getting needs met without communication → The child may not immediately see the need for AAC.
📌 Learned reliance on behaviors → Tantrums or self-injury might have worked in the past, making AAC seem unnecessary.
📌 Caregiver resistance → Parents may worry that AAC will replace verbal speech (it won’t!) or feel overwhelmed by the learning process.
📌 Limited patience with technology → Older children may become frustrated with the device at first, preferring quicker methods like grabbing or pointing.
Despite these challenges, with the right approach, AAC can open the door to meaningful communication and independence.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using AAC at Home
Step 1: Consult with a Professional to Choose the Right AAC Setup
Before introducing an AAC device, work with a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) or AAC specialist to determine:
- The best device for your child (tablet with an AAC app vs. dedicated device).
- The grid size and vocabulary (starting with a small, functional set of words).
- Core vocabulary words that will be used across multiple settings (want, more, stop, help, go).
💡 Tip: Your BCBA can collaborate with your SLP to ensure the AAC is integrated into learning and behavior plans.
Step 2: Begin with Aided Language Stimulation (Modeling AAC in Daily Life)
Children learn AAC just like they learn spoken language—by seeing and hearing it used in everyday situations. This process is called Aided Language Stimulation, where you use speech and AAC together.
🔹 Example (Snack Time)
✔️ Parent: “Do you want more?” (while pressing “more” on the AAC device).
✔️ Child: (reaches for snack).
✔️ Parent: “I hear you! You want more!” (presses “more” again and gives snack).
💡 Key Strategy: Do not force the child to use the AAC right away—just model it naturally while speaking.
Step 3: Embed AAC Into Daily Routines
AAC use should not be a separate “activity” but rather part of daily routines. Use it in:
🔹 Morning Routines:
✔️ “Brush teeth” (press “brush” + “teeth” while doing the task).
✔️ “Shirt on!” (press “shirt” + “on” while dressing).
🔹 Playtime:
✔️ “Push car!” (press “push” + “car” while playing).
✔️ “Fast!” (press “fast” when making a toy move quickly).
🔹 Meal Time:
✔️ “Want drink?” (press “want” + “drink” before giving water).
✔️ “All done.” (press “all done” when the meal is over).
💡 Tip: The more you use AAC in natural settings, the faster your child will pick it up.
Step 4: Teach Core Words Before Expanding Vocabulary
Instead of focusing only on naming objects, emphasize action and functional words like:
- Want, stop, go, more, help, different, all done.
🔹 Example: Instead of just teaching “cookie”, encourage:
✔️ “Want cookie” (requesting).
✔️ “More cookie” (expanding).
✔️ “No cookie” (declining).
💡 Why? These core words allow for more flexible communication in different situations.
Step 5: Reinforce and Encourage All Communication Attempts
When your child uses AAC—even if it’s not perfect—reinforce it immediately by responding positively.
🔹 Example:
✔️ If your child presses “go” instead of “go outside,” say:
“You said ‘go’! Let’s go outside!” (while modeling the full phrase).
💡 Tip: Avoid over-correcting! The goal is communication, not perfection.
Step 6: Be Patient and Stay Consistent
AAC takes time to learn—especially for older children who are new to it. Consistency is key!
✔️ Keep AAC within reach at all times.
✔️ Use it throughout the day, not just during “therapy time.”
✔️ Get everyone involved—siblings, teachers, and extended family.
💡 Remember: The more you model AAC, the more your child will use it!
If your child is non-verbal at 9 years old and has never had a structured communication system, the transition will take time. However, by introducing AAC through modeling, daily routines, and reinforcement, you are giving your child the power to communicate their needs, wants, and emotions independently.
AAC does not hinder verbal speech—it enhances communication and reduces frustration. No matter your child’s age, it is never too late to give them a voice. 💙