How AAC Helps HOH Children Develop Speech & Language

• Understanding AAC: How Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) supports speech and language development in hard-of-hearing (HOH) children.
• Types of AAC: Exploring no-tech, low-tech, and high-tech AAC solutions tailored for different needs.
• Benefits of AAC: How AAC enhances HOH children’s communication, social skills, and literacy development.
• Best Practices for Parents & Educators: Key strategies for successfully integrating AAC into daily life.
• Top AAC Tools & Resources: A guide to the best apps, devices, and support networks available for AAC users.

Understanding the Role of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) in Supporting Communication and Learning for Hard of Hearing Kids

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a powerful tool for helping hard-of-hearing (HOH) children develop speech and language skills. Unlike traditional speech therapy, which primarily focuses on improving articulation and auditory comprehension, AAC provides alternative methods to enhance communication through visual, tactile, and technological means.

For many HOH children, traditional speech therapy alone may not be enough to bridge the language gap. Challenges such as difficulty distinguishing sounds, delays in auditory processing, and struggles with verbal expression can make speech therapy less effective without additional support like AAC. AAC supports language development, academic success, and social interactions, from sign language and picture boards to advanced speech-generating devices.

This article explores how AAC supports speech and language development in HOH children, the different types of AAC available, and best practices for parents and educators.

Understanding AAC and Its Role for Hard-of-Hearing Children

AAC encompasses any form of communication that supplements or replaces spoken language. For children with hearing loss, AAC provides an alternative means of expressing themselves, understanding others, and participating fully in social and educational settings.

Why AAC Is Important for HOH Children

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) enhances the communication abilities of hard-of-hearing (HOH) children. Since many HOH children experience challenges in traditional speech development, AAC offers tailored solutions that address specific barriers. By integrating AAC tools early in life, children can improve their speech clarity, boost confidence, and enhance social and academic engagement. Below are key aspects that highlight the importance of AAC for HOH children.

Supports Early Language Acquisition

Many HOH children face delays in language development due to limited auditory input, which can hinder their ability to acquire vocabulary and sentence structure at the same rate as their hearing peers. AAC provides an essential communication bridge that allows children to express their needs, interact with caregivers, and understand language patterns. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), early exposure to AAC significantly improves a child’s ability to develop expressive and receptive language skills. By introducing AAC at a young age, children can build foundational language abilities that will benefit them throughout their lives. (Early Hearing Screenings Explained)

Enhances Speech Clarity and Comprehension

Pairing AAC with spoken language reinforces understanding and pronunciation in HOH children. Many AAC systems utilize visual representations, such as symbols and text-based communication, which help children recognize and associate words with their meanings. The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) highlights that multimodal communication, which includes AAC, improves phonological awareness and assists in speech sound articulation. By engaging with AAC, children can better understand how words are formed, improving speech clarity over time.

Reduces Frustration and Increases Confidence

HOH children often struggle to express themselves, leading to frustration and emotional distress. AAC offers an immediate and reliable way to communicate their thoughts and needs, reducing stress and fostering self-confidence. Research from the Center for AAC & Autism indicates that children who use AAC demonstrate lower anxiety levels and are more likely to engage in meaningful interactions. By providing a structured means of communication, AAC empowers children to participate more actively in their daily lives, reducing feelings of isolation and dependency.

Encourages Social Interaction

One of the significant challenges HOH children face is engaging in conversations with peers and adults. AAC fosters social connections by enabling children to express themselves more effectively through sign language, communication boards, or speech-generating devices. A study published in the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research found that AAC users exhibited higher levels of social engagement and improved peer relationships. Schools and caregivers can promote inclusivity by teaching classmates how to interact with AAC users, fostering a more supportive environment for HOH children.

Supports Literacy Development

Many AAC systems incorporate symbols, text, and pictures, strengthening reading and writing skills. The International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC) reports that AAC users develop better literacy outcomes when exposed to text-rich AAC tools. Visual supports help children understand sentence structure, improve word recognition, and enhance reading comprehension. By integrating AAC into literacy instruction, educators and parents can support HOH children in developing strong reading and writing abilities, ensuring long-term academic success.

Types of AAC & How They Help HOH Kids

AAC has three main categories: no-tech, low-tech, and high-tech solutions. Each type serves a unique purpose based on the child’s needs, abilities, and preferences.

1. No-Tech AAC (Natural Communication Systems)

No-tech AAC facilitates communication using physical gestures, facial expressions, and sign language.

• Sign language – A widely used form of AAC, sign language helps HOH children develop expressive and receptive communication skills.
• Lip reading – While not an AAC tool, combining lip reading with other AAC strategies improves understanding.
• Visual schedules and picture boards – Help children structure their day and improve comprehension.

2. Low-Tech AAC (Basic Communication Aids)

Low-tech AAC options require minimal technology but provide structured communication tools.

• Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) – Uses picture cards to help children express needs and ideas.
• Communication books and boards – Displays words or images that children can point to when communicating.
• Writing and drawing – A simple but effective method to enhance interaction and language development.

3. High-Tech AAC (Advanced Speech & Language Tools)

High-tech AAC solutions leverage technology to provide dynamic and interactive communication.

• Speech-generating devices (SGDs) – Convert text or symbols into spoken words, allowing children to communicate more efficiently.
• AAC apps for kids – Mobile apps like Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, and CoughDrop assist children in building vocabulary and engaging in conversation.
• Text-to-speech software – Converts written text into spoken language, making communication more accessible for HOH students.

Best Practices for Parents & Educators Using AAC

Effectively integrating AAC into a child’s daily life requires consistent use, encouragement, and collaboration between caregivers, educators, and speech therapists. Research from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC) suggests that early and structured AAC intervention significantly improves communication outcomes for children with hearing loss. Below are essential best practices that parents and educators can adopt to maximize the benefits of AAC.

1. Start Early and Be Consistent

Introducing AAC at a young age ensures better speech and language outcomes. Studies from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) indicate that early exposure to AAC can prevent language delays and promote stronger communication skills. Parents should incorporate AAC tools into daily activities such as mealtime, playtime, and reading sessions. Educators can reinforce AAC use in classroom settings through structured activities that encourage consistent engagement. The key is to make AAC a natural part of the child’s communication routine, ensuring they feel comfortable using it in different environments.

2. Pair AAC with Spoken Language

Using AAC alongside verbal speech helps children connect words with meaning, reinforcing language development. Experts from the Center for AAC & Autism emphasize that multimodal communication enhances linguistic understanding, including a combination of speech, gestures, and AAC devices. When parents and teachers pair AAC with verbal cues, they help children recognize spoken words visually and contextually. For example, saying a word while simultaneously displaying its symbol on a communication board can strengthen the child’s vocabulary retention and comprehension.

3. Encourage Social Interaction

HOH children should use AAC not just for learning but also for engaging with peers. Social communication is essential for building confidence and relationships, and AAC plays a critical role in facilitating this process. Research published in the Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research highlights that children who actively use AAC in social settings develop stronger interpersonal skills and exhibit reduced anxiety. Schools can promote inclusion by educating classmates on how to interact with AAC users and fostering a supportive and understanding peer environment. Encouraging group activities that involve AAC, such as interactive storytelling or cooperative games, can further enhance social confidence.

4. Choose the Right AAC Tool for Your Child

Each child has unique communication needs, and selecting the appropriate AAC tool is crucial for maximizing effectiveness. Collaborating with speech therapists and AAC specialists can help parents determine whether their child would benefit more from no-tech, low-tech, or high-tech AAC solutions. Resources such as the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) provide directories and guidelines for finding AAC professionals and tools. Parents should also consider trialing different AAC options to assess which system best supports their child’s comfort and communication goals.

5. Debunk Myths About AAC

Some parents worry that AAC use will prevent their child from developing speech. However, extensive research from the International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology debunks this misconception, showing that AAC supports and enhances spoken language rather than replacing it. AAC provides children with an alternative means of communication while their speech skills develop, reducing frustration and increasing opportunities for verbal engagement. Parents and educators need to view AAC as a bridge to language acquisition rather than a replacement for speech. Promoting a positive mindset around AAC helps children gain confidence in using communication tools effectively.

Top AAC Tools for Hard-of-Hearing Kids

Choosing the right AAC tool depends on the child’s age, hearing level, and personal preferences. Below is a comparison of different AAC tools and their best use cases:

The appropriate AAC method should be selected in consultation with specialists to ensure it meets the child’s unique needs. Here are some top-rated options:

Best AAC Apps for Speech Therapy:

• Proloquo2Go – Customizable communication app for non-verbal and HOH children.
• CoughDrop – Cloud-based AAC app designed for young learners.
• TouchChat HD – Offers word prediction and symbol-based communication for children developing language skills.

Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs):

• Tobii Dynavox – A highly advanced device that translates typed text into speech.
• GoTalk 9+ – A simple communication board with recorded messages that is easy to use.
• LAMP Words for Life – A device designed to help children build sentence structure and communication.

Final Thoughts

AAC is essential for HOH children, providing practical ways to develop speech, enhance language skills, and improve social connections. By incorporating AAC into daily routines, parents and educators can empower children with hearing loss to communicate confidently and succeed academically.

Investing in AAC tools, practicing consistency, and fostering an inclusive environment are key steps in supporting the growth of HOH children. As awareness and technology advance, AAC will remain a vital communication component for children with hearing challenges.