Getting started with AAC: A guide for beginners
Exploring AAC tools can feel exciting at first, but once the dust settles, the reality of implementing them may become overwhelming. At Smartbox, we understand that this can happen, and we want to reassure you that we are here to support you throughout your AAC journey – not just when you receive your device. Our Clinical AAC Specialist and SLT at Smartbox, Becky, has shared some of her key tips to help you get started, recognising that everyone’s learning journey and confidence levels are different. While this is not an exhaustive list, these tips provide a great starting point. There’s no rush! It takes time to familiarise yourself with existing content and consider what might need personalisation. Explore our free Smartbox Academy courses, such as Introduction to AAC and the Grid for iPad Learning Pathway, to build confidence in using AAC. Stay focused on what’s important for the AAC user. What connections are missing? What vocabulary could support more meaningful interactions? Think about the real-life impact of AAC and personalise the experience accordingly. Learning where words and phrases are located takes time. Exploring and making mistakes is part of the process! Think about how often we pause in conversation to recall a word; AAC users need the same opportunities to explore language naturally. If you’re struggling to find a word, try using the Find Word tool in Grid for iPad and Grid 3. For pre-made grid sets like Super Core and Voco Chat, the Find Word feature is built into the vocabulary, guiding you step-by-step to the word you’re looking for. Personalisation is key to motivation. If an AAC user sees value in their device, whether it’s requesting a favourite snack or sharing a joke, they’re more likely to engage with it. Start by adding words and phrases that truly matter to them. AAC vocabulary growth isn’t just about adding more words, it’s about adding the right words. Think about what’s relevant to the person’s everyday life now while also allowing room for future growth and new conversations. Sometimes, phrases can be more useful than single words. To better understand language development stages and how to support them, check out our webinar on Gestalt Language Processing. This session provides an introduction to language acquisition and explores a person’s potential language lens in more depth. If an AAC user is frequently selecting the same word or phrase, they might really enjoy it – or they could be stuck and need more modelling. Model new words and phrases across daily activities without pressure to use them. AAC should allow users to participate in all aspects of their day, not just make requests. Consider whether they have the vocabulary to: Encouraging a mix of core vocabulary and pragmatically organised phrases to help create a more well-rounded communication experience. Model not only words and phrases but also operational commands like “back” or “clear.” This helps AAC users navigate their device with confidence. For further support, check out our SIMPLE AAC Framework. Wherever you are in your AAC journey, Smartbox is here to help: We want you to know we are here on this journey with you, every step of the way.
Take your time
Focus on what matters
It’s okay to not know everything
Prioritise personalisation
More words aren’t always better
Repetition will have meaning and doesn’t need to be a problem
Ensure AAC covers key communication needs
Model everything – not just words!
We’re here to support you