How AAC Devices Help Autistic Children Better Communicate

Updated on March 30, 2025

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) has existed for centuries, evolving into a diverse set of technologies designed to support individuals with autism. Like autism itself, communication barriers for autistic people differ widely in nature, and so there is a large variety of AAC tools that support communication and its development. In fact, there are so many AAC devices out there that some people turn to professional advisors to help them pick the best one for their needs. 

What Is AAC?

You’ve probably used Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) without even knowing it. Anytime you use gestures, facial expressions, or body language, you’re communicating without words. Non-verbal communication includes these forms of expression and more, such as sign language and even laughing. 

Another sort of AAC involves using a device. “Aided AAC” was once limited to pen and paper, but now covers dozens of device types and manufacturers. Within aided electronic AAC, you can find everything from tools that help people with speech impediments to express themselves more clearly, to devices that form rudimentary sentences and which are operated simply by looking at areas of a screen. Electronic AAC devices come in the form of a specific piece of hardware, usually something similar to a tablet. Others are applications that can be used on mobile phones, laptops, and desktop computers.  

AAC Devices for Autism

When it comes to autism, there is a wide range of communication behaviors. Some people on the spectrum are highly able to express themselves verbally; others can form whole or partial sentences, but have difficulty engaging in a full conversation; and still others are not able (or refrain from) using words at all. When discussing abilities, it’s also important in many cases to factor in the person’s age. 

Let’s look at some of the most popular types of AAC devices that autistic people use, and which are best at accommodating specific types of challenges.

Low Tech

A common tool for autistic kids both at home and in the classroom is a simple “analog” (i.e. not digital) display in the form of letter boards and communication books. Letter boards allow people to point at letters to describe what they want. In comparison, communication books (AKA PODD, or Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Displays), show pages of images with common words and phrases. Such books can be used both by the autistic person and someone who wants to communicate with them, as both can point to the symbols that show what they wish to express. 

Push Button

A sort of crossover between analog and digital devices is the push button AAC concept. These look like tablets but show a fixed number of word pictures or expressions, which are often just simply printed on cardboard and inserted into the device. When the user pushes on the picture, the device enunciates the related word.

Apps

Mobile phones support applications designed both to develop linguistic abilities for autistic people and as speaking devices. Search in Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store and you’ll see dozens of applications for this use, many of them free. Some tablet-form device makers also offer mobile phone software as a more cost-conscious option. For individuals with motor difficulties, a durable tablet may be a more suitable option.  

Tablets

These are durable, dedicated, fully digital devices that use changeable software for both learning and communication. You can select tablets with dozens of options on each screen, or just a few (and some let you set exactly the number you want). Many providers have a range of templates that serve different levels of ability and word types. 

The 2 Basic AAC Functions

In view of the above, it’s clear that AAC devices can be used in two ways:

Communication

For enabling real-time communication between two people, AAC devices translate word and phrase choice from the user into audio. “Word choice” refers to the user’s ability to select words on the device through typing, touching icons, or other input methods.  This can be by typing on a keyboard and/or touching an icon or picture on the screen. Once the user has chosen the number of desired words, they can command the device to speak the words for them. 

Learning

Developers, therapists, and scientists have created learning concepts that depend on AAC devices to help people with autism build their language skills. Models such as PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System) and LAMP (Language Acquisition through Motor Planning) are therapeutic methods for helping autistic people to understand how language works and how to translate their thoughts and wants into words and sentences. 

And some devices combine both aspects. For instance, NovaChat will “speak” for the user, but also provides suggestions that help the user complete their sentences. A user can choose “want”, and the device will highlight related terms like “to eat” or “to sleep”. 

The dual aspect of AAC technology debunks a common conception, namely, that using it will delay or prevent speech development. On the contrary, AAC devices boost the person’s ability to communicate, and can accommodate everybody from toddlers to adults. To this end, some devices can support programs that are designed for different ages and levels of skill.  

Confused by AAC?

The variety of AAC devices offers valuable options for autistic individuals and their caregivers, though selecting the right one can be challenging. Many of them cost thousands of dollars. The good news is that your insurance company might cover some or all of the expense. In addition, some countries enable grant programs to support the rental and/or purchase of AAC devices. 

For example, in the US, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) can help you find out what options you have for accessing such devices. Finally, you can contact an independent consultant who can help you make the best choice, while many of the device manufacturers also provide advice about which of their tools are the best fit for your needs. 

Devices Can Make Life with Autism Easier

Communication is just one of many concerns that often arise for caretakers of people with autism. Luckily, for most autism challenges, you’ll probably find a device that helps out. For instance, the AngelSense wearable device provides tracking, emergency communication, and other support features for autistic individuals. If you’re interested in gaining more freedom and peace of mind for you and your loved ones with autism, try out AngelSense today.

Get peace of mind from AngelSense, the groundbreaking AI-based assistive technology designed to enhance safety and peace of mind for individuals with special needs and their families. Our solution ensures you stay connected with your loved ones, empowering a higher level of independence while maintaining safety. Learn more about how AngelSense can make a difference for your family.