Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an umbrella term used by professionals to describe any ways in which we communicate alongside spoken words, or instead of spoken words.  We all use these different supplements or alternatives when we communicate, but we don’t usually refer to them as AAC unless they are used by an individual who is experiencing limitations in spoken language.  If you are a parent considering how AAC may be able to help your child communicate, it is helpful to know the different types of AAC available,  as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each type.  Children who struggle to communicate with spoken words should have access to several different types of AAC, all coming together to form the child’s AAC System. This post outlines the most  common types of AAC used to support children with spoken language difficulties.