AAC Devices

AAC Devices Fact Sheet 

1. Low-Tech Device: Single Message Communicators

What it is:
A simple device that plays a single recorded message when a button is pressed. It’s very basic and great for quick, one-phrase communication like "help" or "bathroom."Single message communication devices

    How to use it in school:
    During recess, the student can press the button to say, "I want to swing," letting them tell the teacher what they want to do without speaking.

  • Who it's for:
    It’s perfect for students with limited speech, such as those with severe physical or cognitive disabilities. They can press the button to communicate their most important needs.

2. Mid-Tech Devices: Tablets with Communication Apps

  • What it is:
    This tablet (like an iPad) has special apps that let students press pictures or type words to talk. The app will speak for them. It's more flexible than a single message device but still easy to use.AAC Apps | Best AAC Apps for Children

  • Who it's for:
    It’s great for students with autism, Down syndrome, or speech problems who can handle tapping on a screen. They can use it to say more complex things than with low-tech devices.

  • How to use it in school:
    During lunch, a student can use the tablet app to order food, like selecting “apple” or “pizza,” or to ask for help with opening something, like "Can you open my milk?"

3. High-Tech Device: Eye Gaze Devices

  • What it is:
    An eye gaze device allows students to communicate by looking at words or pictures on a screen. The device tracks their eye movement and "clicks" on what they see. This is for students who can’t use their hands to tap or press buttons.

  • Who it's for:
    It’s ideal for students with severe physical disabilities, such as cerebral palsy, or those with ALS who can’t use their hands but can move their eyes.

  • How to use it in school:
    During music class, the student can use the eye gaze device to choose songs or musical instruments to participate in the activity, like selecting “drums” or “guitar” just by looking at the options.Eye gaze technology by Smartbox

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