Introduction to Neurodiversity-Affirming AAC Tools

Communication is a fundamental human right. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) encompasses all forms of communication other than oral speech that are used to express thoughts, needs, desires, and ideas.

Core Principles of Affirming AAC Support

• Multimodal Communication: Every modality—speech, vocalizations, signs, gestures, high-tech devices, and low-tech communication boards—is equally valued and respected.
• Presume Competence: We approach every communicator with the firm belief that they have meaningful thoughts to share and the capacity to learn robust language.
• No Prerequisites: A child does not need to master cause-and-effect or picture matching before gaining access to a comprehensive AAC system.