Overview

This course introduces the foundations of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for infants and toddlers with complex communication needs. Participants will explore how AAC can be used from the earliest stages of development, learn to recognize when AAC may be needed, and discover strategies for introducing AAC within everyday routines and play. The course also addresses common myths and highlights the role of caregivers and teams in building strong early communication foundations.

Estimated Time to Complete: 1 hour

  • Define Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and identify its relevance in early childhood.
  • Recognize early communication milestones and signs that AAC may be appropriate for infants and toddlers.
  • Differentiate between types of AAC, including unaided and aided systems, and their potential applications.
  • Dispel common myths about AAC and explain the evidence supporting early AAC use.
  • Identify factors that influence AAC selection and implementation in young children, including cognitive, sensory, motor, and social considerations.
  • Apply strategies to introduce AAC during everyday routines, play, and social interactions.
  • Describe the three early communication phases—pre-intentional/pre-symbolic, intentional/pre-symbolic, and intentional/symbolic—and explain how AAC can support development at each stage.
  • Collaborate with families and interdisciplinary teams to support successful AAC use in home and early learning environments.

Amanda Kuehn, Speech-Language Pathologist
Laura Maddox, CYC Program Director

Katherine Clark, MOT,OTR/L, ATP
Natalie Hagee MOT, OTR/L
Amanda Beck, MA CCC-SLP
Paige Hignite, M.ED, CCC-SLP
Mitzi Hinton, MA, CCC-SLP
Kristen McManus, MA, CCC-SLP
Jenny Tincher MS, CCC/SLP
Lindsay Stutz, MA CCC-SLP

Additional Documents

AAC Goals Participation in Routines

AAC Goals Requesting and Choice-Making

AAC Strategies by Communication Phase 1

AAC Strategies by Communication Phase 2

AAC Strategies by Communication Phase 3

This module has received the Ohio Approved (OA) designation.

This module is eligible for one (1) unit hours in the areas of EI developmental specialist/supervisor and EI service coordinator/supervisor as approved by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD).

Glossary