We Just Got an AAC Device… Now What? (Part 1 of 3) - What to Ask Your SLP
Your child just got an AAC device. It's sitting on the kitchen counter, and you're staring at it thinking, "Okay... now what?"
First, take a breath. This is something to celebrate. Your child now has access to another way to communicate. That is huge.
But it's also completely normal to feel overwhelmed. These devices aren't intuitive if you've never used one before, and no one hands you a manual called "How to Use AAC at Home Without Panicking."
So let's simplify this. If you're wondering how to use an AAC device at home, this is your starting point.
Where to Start: Learn the Basics of Your Child's AAC Device
You don't have to be an expert. You just need to know enough to not feel frozen.
If your child received an AAC device, they're likely working with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) through school or private practice. That therapist absolutely wants your child to succeed.
But here's the reality: schedules are full, caseloads are heavy, and meetings can be hard to coordinate. That doesn't mean anyone is doing anything wrong. It just means life is busy.
If possible, schedule a short meeting (even virtual) with your SLP to go over the basics.
Questions to Ask Your SLP About Your Child's AAC Device
These are the most helpful operational basics to learn when you're starting to support someone with AAC.
Ask your SLP:
What app is being used?
How is vocabulary organized?
How do you search for words?
How do you get back to the home page?
You do not need to know everything. You just need to know enough to not feel frozen.
Why These Four Questions Matter
You might be wondering why these specific questions, and not others. Each one helps you build a foundation so that when you start using the device with your child, you're not starting from zero.
What app is being used?
There are lots of AAC apps out there, and they all work a little differently. Knowing the name of your child's app (are Proloquo2Go, Touch Chat, TD Snap, LAMP, Grid, and more) lets you:
Search the app developer's website for parent tutorials
Find YouTube videos specific to your child's setup
Connect with other parents whose kids use the same app
Understand what's possible (and what's not) with this particular system
How is vocabulary organized?
All AAC apps organize vocabulary in slightly different ways. Some are based on core words, some are based on motor planning, and some are very category driven. The way these are grouped depends on some of the baseline features of the app and also how its been customized for your child.
Knowing the basic structure helps you predict where to find words when you need them, instead of frantically tapping around while your child waits.
How do you search for words?
Most AAC apps have a search function, often shown as a magnifying glass or keyboard icon. This is your shortcut when you can't find a word fast enough.
Many apps will walk you through the steps to activate a word once you have searched for it. This is incredibly helpful for you to get more familiar with the layout.
How do you get back to the home page?
This sounds basic, but it's so important. If you accidentally tap into a folder or screen and can't find your way back, knowing the home button lets you reset without panic.
Knowing the answers to these four questions can help you feel more confident to support your child in their AAC journey.
Need help getting comfortable with your child's AAC device?
If getting time on the calendar with your child's SLP feels difficult, this is exactly why I offer virtual AAC parent coaching sessions.
These are short, focused calls where we:
Walk through your child's device together
Practice finding words
Problem-solve real-life routines in your home (kitchen, bedtime, sibling chaos and all)
Make it feel manageable
Your child does not need to be my therapy client to access my coaching services. While their school or private SLP continues to support them, I can support you. You deserve support too.
And if you're in the Seattle area and looking for in-home AAC speech therapy, I work directly with you and your child to support AAC access and communication growth.
What's Next in This Series
Next week, we're going to talk about what I think is the single most important thing you can do with AAC at home.
Check back for Part 2: The First Thing Parents Should Learn About AAC.
Disclaimer: This blog provides general educational information related to speech and language development and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Content reflects a combination of cited resources, clinical experience, and professional expertise. It is not intended as medical or therapeutic advice and does not replace a comprehensive evaluation by a licensed speech-language pathologist or other qualified professional. Reading this content does not establish a provider-client relationship.