08/08/2026
💬 “You’re an OT… why are you using AAC?”
I’ve been asked this a few times recently, and my answer is pretty simple…
Because the child or individual in front of me deserves to be heard, understood and given a genuine opportunity to participate.
As an OT, we focus on supporting individuals to participate in the things that matter to them. For example things like playing, learning, making choices, building relationships, becoming more independent.
Communication is big part of all of that.
No, communication is not just about giving a person a way to tell us what they want or need. It’s also about the people around them learning how to communicate with them.
If a child uses AAC, we can’t expect them to use it independently while everyone else continues speaking only with words.
We need to model it, respond to it and use it with the individual.
We need to show that:
“I see what you’re saying.”
“I heard you.”
“Your message matters.”
“I’m going to respond.”
Have a look at this Mr Potato Head activity set-up. It was created for me and my client to play together. It gave me the opportunity to use intentional communication that made sense to my client throughout the activity, while also allowing for both of us to be heard, understood and responded to. Increasing their meaningful participation in an activity they really wanted to be part of.
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If you have any questions regarding AAC's and/or communication needs please reach out or get a referral to your local Speech pathologist.
Also for anyone that doesn't know what AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is. It is any form of communication that supports or replaces spoken language. This can include gestures, signs, pictures, communication boards, symbols or communication devices.
