Communication Charts
Example Communication Charts
Please also see some example scenarios which may assist in the use of these charts.
Augmentative And Alternate Communication
Successful communication is crucial in every day interactions with others. Children with physical, developmental and cognitive disabilities can experience difficulties in communicating with those around them. If children are having significant difficulty understanding or communicating verbally, there are other methods of communication that do not depend on speech. These are known as augmentative and alternate communication (AAC) systems. AAC systems can include:
- object choice boards
- picture communication boards (examples provided)
- chat books
- request cards
- social stories
- timetables/daily schedules
- computerised and voice output AAC systems
- gestures and signing
Augmentative and alternate communication systems can have positive benefits in communication, including:
- increasing the child's understanding of their environment, eg, what is happening and what your expectations are
- increasing the child's ability to express themselves eg, answer questions, make requests
- increasing social interaction and inclusion in activities with peers
- helping the child and others to communicate change
- encouraging both speech and language development
- decreasing behaviour problems/challenging behaviours
Various professionals such as Speech Pathologists, Occupational Therapists and Teachers have knowledge about developing AAC systems. Speech Pathologists can assist in selecting, developing and maintaining an AAC system. If you would like information about AAC systems or would like to have a child's AAC needs assessed, please contact the Speech Pathology department on 98452076. External agencies that specialise in AAC systems for children and adults are:
- CATS Team (The Northcott Society)
- TASC Team (The Spastic Centre)
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