Augmentative & Alternative Communication AAC Device
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) helps children who have difficulty communicating using spoken language. AAC may include picture communication systems, speech-generating devices, communication apps, or other tools that help children express their wants, needs, thoughts, and ideas. At BK Kids Pediatric Therapy, our speech-language pathologists provide comprehensive AAC evaluations and individualized intervention to help children develop functional communication skills and increase independence. We proudly serve families throughout Joliet, Plainfield, Shorewood, New Lenox, Romeoville, Bolingbrook, Lockport, Channahon, Minooka, Morris, and surrounding communities.
Signs Your Child May Benefit from AAC
- Limited or no verbal communication
- Difficulty expressing wants and needs
- Frequent frustration due to communication challenges
- Difficulty participating in conversations
- Speech that is difficult for others to understand
- Autism or other developmental diagnoses affecting communication
- Neurological or genetic conditions impacting speech
- Difficulty communicating across different environments
How AAC Can Help Your Child
AAC provides children with reliable ways to communicate while supporting overall language development. Our speech-language pathologists help families identify the most appropriate communication system based on each child’s strengths, abilities, and daily communication needs. Therapy focuses on teaching children, caregivers, and educators how to successfully use AAC throughout everyday routines to increase participation, independence, and confidence.
Why Choose BK Kids for AAC Services?
Our speech-language pathologists understand that communication is much more than spoken words. We work closely with families to identify AAC solutions that fit each child’s individual needs while providing ongoing support, education, and training. Our goal is to help every child develop meaningful communication and participate more fully at home, school, and in the community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes communication methods that support or replace spoken language for individuals who have difficulty communicating verbally.
Will AAC prevent my child from talking?
No. Research consistently shows that AAC does not prevent speech development. In many cases, AAC actually supports the development of spoken language while providing children with a reliable way to communicate.
Who can benefit from AAC?
Children with autism, childhood apraxia of speech, cerebral palsy, genetic conditions, developmental delays, or other communication disorders may benefit from an AAC evaluation.
Does my child need a communication device?
Not every child requires a high-tech device. Some children benefit from picture communication systems, communication books, or low-tech AAC options. An evaluation helps determine the best fit.
Do you provide AAC evaluations in Joliet?
Yes. BK Kids Pediatric Therapy provides comprehensive AAC evaluations and individualized intervention for children with complex communication needs.
Schedule an AAC Evaluation
If your child has difficulty communicating verbally or would benefit from additional communication supports, our team is here to help. Contact BK Kids Pediatric Therapy today to schedule a comprehensive AAC evaluation and learn how alternative communication can help your child connect, participate, and thrive.
Explore Related Speech Services
- Speech Delay
- Articulation Disorders
- Expressive Language Disorder
- Receptive Language Disorder
- Toddler Speech Delay
- Late Talkers
- Childhood Apraxia of Speech
- Stuttering (Fluency Disorders)
- Social Communication Disorder
- Speech Therapy for Children with Autism
- Pediatric Feeding Therapy
- Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)