AAC Myths Every Parent Should Know | Speech Therapy in St. Petersburg, FL

Sunday, August 10th, 2025

 

 

If your child’s speech therapist has recommended Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), you might have a lot of questions — and maybe even some worries. Will it stop my child from talking? Is it too early to start? Does this mean my child will never speak?

As a speech-language pathologist (and a Mom), I know how overwhelming these thoughts can feel. The truth is, AAC is not a “last resort” — it’s a powerful way to give children access to communication right now, while supporting their long-term language growth.

Let’s bust some of the most common AAC myths and I will replace them with the real truths, so you can feel better and confident in supporting your child’s communication. 

 Myth #1: “AAC will stop my child from talking.” 

Truth: Research shows AAC can actually help children develop more spoken language.

Using AAC doesn’t “replace” speech — it supports it. When a child has a way to express themselves without the frustration of being misunderstood, they’re more likely to engage, communicate, and attempt verbal speech. AAC removes pressure and gives children multiple ways to communicate, which can reduce anxiety and open the door for more language to develop naturally.

 Myth #2: “AAC is only for non-speaking children.”

Truth: AAC can benefit children at any level of verbal ability.

AAC isn’t just for children who don’t use spoken words. It can support kids with speech delays, motor speech disorders, or those whose verbal language may come and go depending on fatigue, stress, or sensory needs. Even if a child talks sometimes, AAC gives them a backup system so communication is always accessible.

 

Myth #3: “AAC is a last resort.”

Truth: Early introduction leads to better outcomes.

There’s no reason to wait until a child is “old enough” or until other therapies have been exhausted. Research consistently shows that introducing AAC early — even in toddler years — can help children learn communication skills sooner and prevent long periods of frustration. AAC doesn’t mean giving up on speech; it means giving your child a voice now.

Myth #4: “AAC is too complicated for young children.”Truth: Even toddlers can successfully use AAC with the right support.

Children are capable of much more than we sometimes give them credit for. With consistent modeling (also called “aided language stimulation”), even very young children can learn to use meaningful words/ phrases on their AAC device  — and build from there over time. It’s just like learning to talk: it starts small and grows with practice and support.

 

Myth #5: “AAC is only for requesting.”

Truth: AAC is for connection, conversation, and joy.

 Yes, AAC can help a child ask for something they want. But, that’s just the beginning. Children can use AAC to comment on what they see, share a joke, say “I love you,” ask a question, or tell a story. True communication is about connection, not just getting needs met, and AAC supports the whole spectrum of communication.

 

Tips for Parents Starting Their AAC Journey

• Model AAC yourself. Use your child’s device when you talk so they see how it works in  everyday routines.
• Focus on connection. Every AAC attempt is communication. Celebrate it!
• Start with meaningful words. Choose vocabulary your child truly cares about — favorite foods, activities, or people  to make AAC engaging from the start.

 

Speech Therapy in St. Petersburg, FL That Supports Every Child’s Communication

Finally, it's important to remember that AAC is not a barrier to speech. In fact, it’s a bridge to connection, confidence, and language growth. Whether your child is learning to request their favorite snack, tell you about their day, or share a silly comment, AAC gives them a voice that’s always accessible.

At Little Sunshine Pediatric Therapy, we provide AAC support for children at all stages of their communication journey. If you’re curious about how AAC might help your child, we’re here to help!