Using AAC in the Community: How to Increase Your Child’s Communication Opportunities

magicspeechbus
6 days ago
3 min read

If your child uses an AAC device (Augmentative and Alternative Communication), you already know how powerful it can be for giving them a voice. But sometimes, using it outside of home or therapy can feel intimidating... for both you and your child. The truth is, your community is full of opportunities to help your child build confidence, independence, and real-world communication skills.

Here’s how you can make AAC a natural part of your child’s everyday life, no matter where you are.

Download a free pdf checklist with tips for using AAC in the community here!

1. Start Small and Build Up

Begin with familiar places your child already enjoys, like your favorite park, library, or grocery store. These settings feel safe, and you probably already know what words or phrases will be most useful there.

💡 Example: At the park, program in “Slide,” “Swing,”, "Help", and “Let’s go!” so your child can easily request or comment.

2. Prepare Ahead of Time

Think about where you’re going and what your child might want to say there. Pre-load relevant vocabulary or create a quick-access page on the device. This helps your child feel ready and reduces frustration in the moment.

💡 Example: Heading to the ice cream shop? Add words like “Chocolate,” “Vanilla,” “Cone,” “Cup,” “More,” and “All done.”

3. Model, Model, Model

Your child learns AAC the same way other kids learn spoken language: by hearing and seeing it used often. When you’re out and about, model using the device yourself. You don’t have to say every word, just show key ones.

💡 Example: At the library, point to and say “Book” or “Let’s read” while you touch the corresponding icons on the device.

4. Let Your Child Take the Lead

Sometimes, we adults want to “direct” every interaction. But communication is more motivating when your child has choices. Encourage them to use their device to start conversations, ask questions, or comment on what they see.

💡 Example: If you’re at the pet store, wait for your child to notice the fish and use their device to say “Look!” or “Fish.” If you want, you can give small prompts such as "Wow, I see a lot of animals here!" to encourage them to comment as well. The key is to reduce the number of questions you ask - too many questions can become overwhelming!

5. Include Real Interactions with Others

When possible, encourage your child to use their device to speak to other people, not just you. This builds confidence and helps them see the power of communication. It's important for them to see that others acknowledge their communication attempts, too.

💡 Example: At the coffee shop, have your child order their own muffin by using their AAC device to say, “Muffin, please.” They'll be so happy when the barista interacts with them directly!

6. Celebrate Every Success (Even the Small Ones)

Every time your child uses their AAC in the community (whether it’s a full sentence or a single word), it’s a win. You can celebrate with a smile, a high-five, or a “Nice job telling me!”. However, try to balance celebrations with realistic responses, too. When your child uses their AAC to ask "Where's the zebra?" at the zoo, it's perfectly acceptable to just answer their question. This validates their attempt to communicate and models natural conversation.

7. Be Patient and Flexible

Some days your child may be eager to use their device in public, and other days they may be tired or shy. That’s okay. The goal is to give them opportunities, not force every interaction.

Final Thoughts

The more your child uses their AAC device in everyday places, the more confident and independent they’ll become. And the more your community sees AAC in action, the more normal and accepted it becomes for everyone. Every trip to the park, store, or library can be a step toward a world where your child’s voice is heard loud and clear... no matter how they communicate.

If you’re ready to start your child’s speech therapy journey with The Magic Speech Bus, feel free to reach out. You can contact us through our website, call, or email, and we’ll be happy to discuss which treatment package would work best for your child and family.