Meaningful Exchanges for People with Autism : An Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication

When children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) have difficulty communicating, the world can be a painful and frustrating place.

Fortunately, there are now tools and strategies that can help make interactive communication possible for individuals with ASDs who can't use speech effectively.

This guide to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) provides an overview of the AAC techniques and devices available today.

AAC refers to any tool, device, picture, word, symbol or gesture that compensates for expressive and receptive communication deficits.

An AAC tool is as simple as a picture schedule made at home or as sophisticated as a voice output communication aid (VOCA); MEANINGFUL EXCHANGES covers both low and high-tech varieties.

The author also explains how AAC appeals to the particular learning style and communication strengths and weaknesses of people with ASDs.

An extensive section on ACC and Special Education Law covers eligibility and entitlement issues; how to make sure a communication system is included in an Individual Education Program (IEP) and stays with a student from school to school; and who pays for a device. Real-life vignettes help to illustrate how various AAC tools increase communication with others and, consequently, improve quality of life.

Appendices provide additional sources of information about specific devices and software, as well as listings of manufacturers and training opportunities.