Busting AAC Myths: What Parents Should Know

If your child’s SLP has mentioned AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), you may have questions - or even a few worries. That’s completely normal!

Many parents wonder if AAC might keep their child from talking, or if it’s something only older kids need. But here’s the good news: AAC is simply a tool that helps children communicate, connect, and learn language more easily - and it’s backed by decades of research and real-world success.

Let’s bust some of the most common AAC myths together!

Myth 1: Kids can be too young for AAC

Truth: There’s no such thing as “too young.”

Babies and toddlers communicate from the start - through gestures, eye gaze, and sounds. AAC simply adds another way for them to express what they already understand. Even very young children benefit from seeing AAC modeled during everyday routines like playtime, storytime, or meals.

Myth 2: Using AAC will stop my child from talking

Truth: Research shows the opposite - AAC often encourages more speech, not less.

When children can communicate successfully using AAC, frustration decreases and motivation increases. As their confidence grows, so do their attempts to speak. AAC gives kids a voice now while still supporting future speech development.

Myth 3: AAC is only for kids who can’t talk at all

Truth: AAC supports any child who needs help being understood.

Some children use a few words or short phrases, others use sounds or gestures - AAC simply builds on what’s already there. It’s not an “either/or” situation; it’s a “yes, and.” We add tools to support communication in every form.

Myth 4: My child needs to reach a certain level before using AAC

Truth: There are no prerequisites for communication.

Children don’t have to prove they’re “ready.” AAC is how they learn to communicate - it’s not something we wait to use until after they can. The earlier we model AAC, the faster children begin to understand that their words have power.

Myth 5: AAC is only for therapy sessions

Truth: The best progress happens when AAC is part of everyday life.

AAC isn’t just for therapy - it’s for breakfast tables, playgrounds, car rides, and bedtime stories. The more kids see it used naturally, the more it becomes a meaningful part of how they connect and share with others.

Myth 6: AAC is just an iPad or device

Truth: AAC includes all types of communication - high-tech and low-tech alike.

That might mean using a speech-generating device, but it could also include picture cards, signs, or gestures. AAC is about giving your child tools that work for them—not about the technology itself.

Myth 7: My child won’t need AAC if we just focus on speech

Truth: AAC doesn’t replace speech - it supports it!!

Giving children a reliable way to express themselves actually helps them learn how to use spoken language. AAC bridges the gap between what a child wants to say and what they can currently say with words.

Final Thoughts

AAC isn’t a last resort - it’s a pathway to connection.

When we give children tools to communicate in whatever way works best for them, we’re telling them, “Your voice matters.”

Whether they use signs, pictures, or a device, AAC helps every child feel heard, valued, and empowered to share their world.

Want to learn more?

Contact us here or ask your SLP today! Check out our next post: “Using AAC at Home: 5 Easy Ways to Get Started.”