Every child deserves a reliable voice.
We provide AAC-informed therapy, implementation and communication support for children who already use AAC or are being considered for AAC. We are not currently offering formal AAC assessment.
What AAC actually is
AAC , augmentative and alternative communication , covers tools and systems that support or replace spoken communication. It can range from low tech picture boards and communication books to signs, communication apps and speech generating devices.
Who may benefit from AAC support
- Children who are non speaking or minimally speaking
- Children whose speech is difficult for unfamiliar listeners to understand
- Children with complex communication needs
- Children whose communication changes under stress or in different environments
- Children who are already using an AAC system and need support implementing it consistently
Our role
Our therapists are AAC trained and can support implementation during therapy, model communication, coach families and help adults around the child use the child's existing system consistently. Where a formal AAC assessment is needed, we can help families understand the next appropriate pathway rather than presenting our service as an AAC assessment.
What we offer
AAC implementation
Practical support to use an existing AAC system consistently during therapy and everyday communication.
Communication support
Building communication opportunities around the child's strengths, needs and preferred ways of communicating.
Family coaching
Helping parents and carers model and respond to AAC during everyday routines.
School liaison
Supporting consistent communication approaches across therapy, home and school where appropriate.
Ongoing therapy
Integrating AAC into speech, language and communication goals as part of therapy.
Questions parents ask
What does AAC stand for?+
Augmentative and Alternative Communication — tools and systems that support or replace spoken communication. This can include picture boards, communication books, signs, speech-generating apps and dedicated devices.
Does using AAC stop a child from talking?+
No. AAC can provide an additional way to communicate while spoken language develops and can reduce pressure on a child to communicate through speech alone.
Is AAC only for non-speaking children?+
No. AAC may support children who speak but are difficult to understand, children whose communication changes in different situations, and children whose spoken output does not reflect what they understand or want to communicate.
Can Spark Speech provide AAC assessment?+
Formal AAC assessment is not currently one of our services. Our team is AAC-trained and can provide AAC-informed therapy, implementation support and communication coaching for children who already use AAC or are being considered for AAC, while families can be guided towards an appropriate formal assessment pathway when required.