AAC Devices for Homeschooling: Getting Started Guide

AAC devices can transform homeschooling for kids with special needs. Here's what you need to know:

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools help people who struggle with speaking
They range from simple picture boards to high-tech speech-generating devices
AAC devices boost communication, learning, and independence in homeschooling

Key points for getting started:

Choose the right device for your child's needs
Set up an AAC-friendly study area at home
Integrate AAC into daily lessons across all subjects
Model AAC use consistently
Track progress and adjust your approach as needed

Quick comparison of popular AAC devices:

Device	Type	Best For	Price Range
Pocket Go-Talk	Simple, portable	Beginners	~$190
Proloquo2Go	iOS app, versatile	Various needs	$189
GoTalk Express 32	More vocabulary options	Advancing users	~$570

Remember: Patience and consistent use are key. Your dedication will make a huge difference in your child's communication journey.

Types of AAC Devices

AAC devices come in all shapes and sizes. Let's break them down and see how they can supercharge your homeschooling.

AAC Device Types

There are two main flavors of AAC:

1. Unaided AAC

No extra tools needed. Think body language, gestures, sign language, and facial expressions.

2. Aided AAC

These need some help:

Low-tech: Simple stuff like communication books, picture boards, and good old pen and paper.
High-tech: Fancy gadgets like speech-generating devices (SGDs), AAC apps, and dedicated communication devices.

Here's a quick look at some popular AAC devices:

Device	Type	What's Cool About It
Goally's Talker	SGD	Easy to use, image/word-based
Lightwriter SL50	Text-to-speech	Customizable, two screens
LoganTech ProxTalker	Symbol-based	Uses RFID chips for words
GoTalk 20+	Pre-recorded messages	Holds up to 100 messages
Proloquo2Go	AAC app	Customizable, symbol-supported

AAC in Homeschooling: Game Changer

AAC can totally transform your homeschooling game. Here's how:

1. Communication boost: Kids can share thoughts and ask questions easier.

2. Learning turbo: AAC helps kids jump into lessons across all subjects.

3. Language skills leveled up: Using AAC often leads to better speech.

4. Frustration buster: When kids can communicate, stress goes down.

5. Independence unlocked: AAC lets kids share ideas without constant help.

To squeeze the most out of AAC in homeschooling:

Use it ALL day, not just during lessons
Start simple, then level up to complex tools
Team up with speech pros to find the perfect device
Make sure core words are easy to grab

"For most people, about 85% of communication is accomplished using just a few hundred words." - AAC Institute

Focus on these core words, and watch your child's communication skills soar during homeschool activities.

Checking Your Child's Needs

To pick the right AAC device for your homeschooler, you need to understand their communication skills. Here's how:

Measuring Communication Skills

Get a clear picture of your child's abilities:

1. Use assessment tools

AAC Genie app ($12.99): Checks vocabulary and symbol use
Communication Matrix (free): Tracks skills over time
Dynamic AAC Goals Grid - 2 (DAAG-2): Sets goals and monitors progress

2. Observe and interact

Watch your child during two engaging activities. Note how they understand and express language.

3. Talk to others

Ask teachers and caregivers about your child's communication habits.

4. Check different areas

Look at cognition, language, motor, and sensory skills.

Picking the Best AAC Device

When choosing an AAC device:

Test at least three different AAC levels or devices.
Work with therapists to ensure the device is easy for your child to use.
Prioritize devices that highlight frequently used words.
For kids with visual issues, look for high-contrast symbols on dark backgrounds.
If your child can spell, consider a device with a keyboard.

The goal? Find a tool your child will use every day. As Lisa A Young, M.A. CCC-SLP, says:

"A careful AAC evaluation saves time and gives better outcomes."

Selecting an AAC Device

Picking an AAC device for homeschooling isn't easy. But don't worry, I've got you covered.

Here's what you need to know:

First, think about your child's communication needs. The device should match their skills and goals. Simple, right?

Next, ease of use is key. If it's too complicated, neither you nor your child will want to use it.

Customization is a big deal. You want a device that lets you add personal words and phrases. Trust me, this makes a huge difference.

Don't forget about portability. Where will your child use the device? At home? On the go? Think about it.

Lastly, consider your budget. AAC devices can cost anywhere from $50 to thousands of dollars. Yep, that's a wide range.

Now, let's look at some popular AAC devices for homeschooling:

1. Pocket Go-Talk 5-Level Communication Device

Price: About $190 Features: It's portable, tough, and has 6 buttons with 5 message options each. Who it's for: Great for younger kids just starting with AAC.

2. Proloquo2Go

Price: $189 Features: It's an iOS app with text-to-speech and over 7,000 vocabulary items. Who it's for: Kids with various speech difficulties.

3. GoTalk Express 32

Price: About $570 Features: 32 message keys, 5 recording levels, and a built-in handle. Who it's for: Kids who need more vocabulary options.

Here's a quick comparison:

Device	Ease of Use	Price	Customization	Portability
Pocket Go-Talk	High	Low	Limited	High
Proloquo2Go	Medium	Medium	High	High (with iPad)
GoTalk Express 32	Medium	Medium	Medium	Medium

My advice? Try out different devices with your child. See how they react. Which features do they like?

Remember, the goal is to find a tool your child will actually use every day. It needs to help them communicate effectively during homeschooling.

Choose wisely, and you'll set your child up for success.

Setting Up Your Home for AAC

Your home is about to become AAC central. Don't sweat it - it's not as tough as you might think.

Making an AAC-Friendly Study Area

Your child needs their AAC device within reach. Always.

Here's the game plan:

Pick a spot: Find a quiet, well-lit area. Could be a living room corner or a study nook.
Keep it close: Put the AAC device where your kid can grab it easily. No high shelves!
Add visuals: Stick up pictures matching the device's vocabulary. It helps cement the learning.
Backup plan: Slap some laminated communication boards on walls. Perfect for quick chats.

Making AAC Devices Easy to Use

Let's make sure your child can use that AAC device without breaking a sweat:

Same spot, every time: Consistency is your friend. Your child will always know where to find it.
Boards everywhere: Spread low-tech boards around the house. Kitchen, bedroom, bathroom - the works.
Room-specific vocab: Customize boards for different spaces:

Room Vocabulary Examples

Kitchen Rice, veggies, spoon

Bathroom Toothbrush, soap, towel

Bedroom Pillow, blanket, pajamas
Stick 'em up: Use magnetic tape to slap boards on the fridge or other metal surfaces.
Everyone's in: Get the whole family using AAC. It's not just for your kid!

Room	Vocabulary Examples
Kitchen	Rice, veggies, spoon
Bathroom	Toothbrush, soap, towel
Bedroom	Pillow, blanket, pajamas

"Fill your house with visuals and photos because AAC is our motto." - Sonakshi Rawal, Consultant Speech Language Pathologist

Your home is now a communication playground. Every room's a chance for your child to flex those communication muscles.

So, set up that AAC-friendly space, scatter those boards, and watch your kid's skills grow. You've got this!

Starting AAC in Homeschooling

Let's get your AAC journey rolling in your homeschool!

First-Time Setup

1. Explain the purpose

Tell your kid why you're using AAC. Try this: "This tool will help you share your thoughts. It'll show everyone how smart you are!"

2. Get comfy

Make sure your child can reach the device easily. If you're stuck, an occupational therapist can help.

3. Watch and learn

See which hand and finger your child uses naturally. Adjust the device to fit.

4. Start simple

For newbies, add favorite items to the AAC app. Pick one core word your child loves.

5. Instant feedback

Set up the device to make a sound when a word is picked.

Tailoring the Device

1. Personalize vocabulary

Add words your child uses most. Here's a quick guide:

Category	Examples
About Me	Name, age
People	Family, friends
Places	Home, school
Foods	Favorite snacks
Activities	Games, TV shows

2. Team effort

Get your child involved. It's their device, after all!

3. Keep it fresh

Update the words as your child's interests change.

4. Backup plan

Save your work. Don't lose those customizations!

5. Model, don't force

Show how to use the device. Don't make your child copy you.

Starting with AAC can be a lot. But you've got this!

"AAC is your child's voice. Never take it away from them." - Vidya Banerjee, Autism Parent and Blogger

Keep the device charged and nearby. Your home is now an AAC playground - use it everywhere!

Using AAC in Your Lessons

AAC in Daily Learning

Want to boost your child's talking skills? Here's how to mix AAC into your homeschool:

1. Make it fun

Use your kid's favorite stuff in lessons. Toys, snacks, music - whatever gets them excited about AAC.

2. Use AAC for everything

Don't just stick to asking for things. Help your child use AAC to:

Share thoughts
Ask questions
Tell jokes
Say no

3. Create AAC moments

Set up activities that need AAC. For example:

Hold back the paint in art class. Let your child ask for it.
Show a picture of their favorite character. Wait for them to comment.

4. Be patient

Ask a question? Wait. Give your child time to think and use their device.

5. Lend a hand

Point to words or guide their hand if they're stuck.

6. Lead by example

Use AAC yourself. Match your child's level - if they use two words, you use two words.

7. Celebrate all attempts

Wrong word? Just pointing? It's all good. Respond to every try.

AAC Across Subjects

Here's how to mix AAC into different school subjects:

Subject	AAC Activity
Math	Count, name shapes, answer problems
Reading	Finish sentences in a story
Science	Name plant parts, describe weather
Art	Pick colors or tools
Music	Request songs, describe sounds
History	Talk about people or events in pictures

Try these AAC activities:

All About Me Book: Create a book about your child using AAC symbols.
School Supply Hunt: Hide items, use AAC to find and name them.
Storytelling Circle: Take turns adding to a story with AAC.

Teaching AAC Use

Showing How to Use AAC

Model AAC use for your child. Point to or press words on the device as you speak. For instance:

Hold up a ball, say "Look at this ball!" and tap the 'ball' icon.
Repeat this process to encourage imitation.

The more you model, the better your child will grasp device use.

Making AAC a Daily Habit

To integrate AAC into your routine:

1. Keep the device accessible

Always have the AAC device within reach.

2. Use it for everything

Don't limit AAC to requests. Use it to share thoughts, ask questions, tell jokes, and say no.

3. Involve everyone

Encourage family members to use the device too.

4. Be patient

Allow your child time to respond using their device.

5. Praise all attempts

Respond positively, even if your child uses the wrong word.

Finding Times to Use AAC

Spot everyday opportunities for AAC use:

Activity	AAC Use
Snack time	Offer small portions, prompt 'more' requests
Playtime	Have child say 'my turn' for the ball
Music	Use 'on' and 'off' for music control
Outdoors	Prompt 'go' before sliding

Focus on core words like 'stop', 'go', 'up', 'down', 'more', 'all done', 'mine', 'on', and 'off'. These make up about 80% of our speech and are crucial for flexible communication.

Solving Common Problems

Fixing Device Problems

AAC devices can act up. Here's how to fix common issues:

Battery problems
- Charge overnight
- Pack a portable charger
- Replace old batteries
Software glitches
- Restart the device
- Update regularly
- Call support if needed
Physical damage
- Use a case
- Keep it dry
- Have a backup board

Helping with Communication Struggles

Even with a working device, your kid might struggle:

1. Can't find words?

Sort words into groups. Use pictures for context. Practice together.

2. Slow talker?

Start with basic words. Use word prediction. Practice often.

3. Not interested?

Try This	Like This
Use favorite things	Dinosaur words for dino fans
Create talking chances	Make them ask for stuff they want
Cheer small wins	High-five for any device use

4. Not using it everywhere?

Share tips with family and teachers. Make a how-to guide. Show them how it's done.

"When Plan A fails, we've got 25 more letters in the alphabet. Supporting families with AAC at home is a game-changer." - Carole Zangari, AAC Expert

Checking Progress and Changing Plans

Ways to Check Your Child's Progress

Want to know if your AAC homeschooling is working? Here's how to keep tabs:

Use assessment tools

The Communication Matrix breaks down communication into seven levels. It's like a roadmap for your child's communication journey.

The AAC Evaluation Genie app? It's like a matchmaker for AAC features and your child's needs.

Keep a portfolio

Think of it as a time capsule of your child's work. Toss in writing samples, artwork, and project photos. It's a visual story of their growth.

Record spontaneous communication

For a week, jot down every time your child communicates without prompting. It's like catching communication in the wild.

Observe in different settings

Watch your child use AAC at home, during outings, and in social situations. It's like seeing their skills in action across different stages.

Changing Your Approach

As your child's AAC skills grow, your teaching should too:

Expand vocabulary

Add new words and phrases. It's like giving your child more tools in their communication toolbox.

Increase complexity

Start with single words, then move to phrases and sentences. It's like leveling up in a game.

Incorporate AAC across subjects

Use the device in all lessons. It's like making AAC the Swiss Army knife of learning.

Collaborate with professionals

Team up with speech therapists or AAC specialists. They're like your coaching staff, offering fresh plays for your game plan.

Adjust based on feedback

Listen to your child. If something's not clicking, try a different approach. It's like fine-tuning an instrument to get the best sound.

Where to Find More Help

Need support for AAC in homeschooling? Here's where to look:

Online Groups and Forums

Connect with others through:

AAC Homeschoolers Facebook Group: A private, respectful space for parents and AAC users who homeschool.
NATHHAN: Connects Christian families homeschooling kids with special needs.

Learning Resources for Parents

Boost your AAC knowledge:

AAC Academy: Affordable, accessible AAC learning for everyone.
AAC Resource Round-Up: One-stop shop for AAC educational resources.
AT4Kids Blog: Janice Reese's blog on assistive tech for special education kids.

Practical Tools

Free tools for making AAC materials:

Tool	What It Does
Picto4Me	Creates communication boards with voice output (Google Chrome)
ARASAAC	Symbol search and AAC support creation
QuickPics	Makes communication boards and visual aids

Conclusion

AAC devices open up a world of communication for kids who struggle to express themselves. But using them in homeschooling? That's a whole new ballgame.

Here's what you need to know:

Pick an AAC device that fits your child like a glove
Use it EVERYWHERE (yep, even during bathroom breaks)
Be your child's AAC role model (monkey see, monkey do)
Throw a party for every tiny win (seriously, go wild)

Feeling overwhelmed? Don't sweat it. You've got this.

Join the AAC Homeschoolers Facebook Group. It's like having a squad of AAC-savvy parents in your pocket.

Remember: Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is AAC mastery. Take it slow.

When your kid mashes random buttons on their AAC device, don't freak out. Respond like they just recited Shakespeare. It'll encourage them to keep at it.

Want to level up your AAC game? Check out AAC Academy. It's like AAC University, minus the student loans.

Lynsey Phillips, the AAC guru at Children's Therapy TEAM, puts it perfectly:

After helping Kylee, it is clear that the determination of the children and their families are the ones making the difference in my life as they inspire me to continue finding ways to help every child learn to communicate.

Bottom line? Your dedication is the secret sauce. With a dash of patience and a sprinkle of persistence, you're serving up a communication feast for your child.

FAQs

How to start using an AAC device?

Starting with an AAC device isn't rocket science. Here's what you need to do:

1. Get familiar

Play with the device yourself. Press buttons, explore features. It's like getting to know a new smartphone.

2. Keep it close

The device is your child's voice. Don't lock it away. Keep it within reach, always.

3. Show and tell

Use the device when talking to your child. It's like teaching a new language - immersion works best.

4. Core words are key

Focus on words like "more", "want", "go", "help". These are the building blocks of communication.

5. Create chat chances

Set up situations where your child NEEDS to use the device. It's practice time!

How to implement an AAC device?

Bringing an AAC device into your homeschool? Here's how:

1. Know your tool

Get cozy with the device. Know it inside out.

2. Always available

Keep the AAC device around during lessons and free time. It's not just for "communication time".

3. Be the example

Use the device while teaching. Show its value in action.

4. Core vocab is crucial

Weave core words into different subjects. Make them part of every lesson.

5. Push for practice

Create chances for your child to use the device all day long.

"The most important thing is that AAC is your child's voice, never ever take it away from them." - Vidya Banerjee, Autism Parent and Blogger

Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. Take it slow, be patient.

Step	Action	Example
1	Know your tool	Learn device features
2	Always available	Keep device on study desk
3	Be the example	Use device to explain math
4	Core vocab is crucial	Use "more" in counting lessons
5	Push for practice	Ask open-ended history questions