Hi friends! If you’re shocked that I’m posting twice in one week, believe me, I am too. But I’m just now learning about some truly amazing programs offering free and discounted tools for kids that could benefit from AAC, in honor of AAC Awareness Month. Some of them have deadlines this week, so I had to share now.
I’ll give a quick explanation about AAC, but if you’re already familiar, go ahead and scroll to the end for the links.
What is AAC?
AAC stands for “Augmentative and Alternative Communication.” It’s a broad category that includes all the ways a person communicates besides talking out loud. Sign language, visual aids, and speech generating devices are all forms of AAC. Even body language and pointing could technically be considered AAC. Anyone can use it–I’ll admit, I’m an eye-roller myself–but it’s especially helpful for those with communication challenges, including autism, apraxia, and cerebral palsy.
Our AAC Story
…Or at least, the short version! If you’re a regular on this site, you know my daughter Lina is four-years-old and non-speaking, but she has a ton to say. She started signing around 18 months, and gradually progressed to picture symbols, and, most recently, an AAC app called Proloquo2Go which speaks out loud when she taps on icons. You can read about our experience with Proloquo2Go here. There’s a learning curve, but I can tell she loves being able to make her thoughts known.
It’s truly unfortunate that non-speaking individuals often face barriers and discrimination (my recent experience trying to find an autism-friendly kindergarten for my non-speaking daughter was eye-opening), but AAC can improve their quality of life. For those concerned that using an AAC can inhibit spoken communication, the research has shown that AAC does not prevent speech development (if anything, it may help). If your child (or you!) are struggling to communicate, it doesn’t hurt to give it a try.
Downside: AAC technology can be expensive. But with October being AAC Awareness Month, I was pleased that a number of companies are opening programs and offering discounts to help make it a little more affordable. Read on for my list of AAC discounts and free products.
Important: I am not sponsored by any of these products and do not receive any incentives for sharing. I’m just a mom with a daughter who has greatly benefited from AAC, and I think it’s so important to make these options more affordable when possible. No ads, just information.
Now….the good stuff for AAC Awareness Month!
Free iPads for Autism and Apraxia
A number of AAC apps run on iPads, which are obviously pricey. There are a couple programs that can help, and they are currently open for registration.
- The ASDF iPad for Kids Program provides free, no-strings-attached iPads to autistic children to aid their communication. Their registration is only open from October 1 – 21, 2021. You can register for this program by emailing myasdf@yahoo.com.
- Apraxia Kids “Speech Tablets for Apraxia” Program provides free iPads to children with apraxia and financial need. Their application period runs from October 1, 2021 – January 10, 2022. The paperwork is here.
Discounted AAC Apps and Software
I really appreciate how many companies are getting on board with discounts this month! I have no personal experience with some of these options, but I’m sharing for those who might benefit. Be sure to do your research and talk to a speech therapist if possible.
- AssistiveWare is offering 50% off of six different options from October 1 – 9, 2021, including Proloquo2Go. I wish we had purchased Proloquo2Go when it was on sale, but I don’t regret buying it at all!
- Avaz apps are on sale for 50% off October 1 – 15, 2021.
- Coughdrop is on sale for 50% off (the website is not clear how long the sale lasts).
- GoTalk NOW is on sale October 10, 2021 (yep, the one day ONLY) for $10, and it’s usually $100.
- TouchChat, LAMP Words for Life, and Dialogue are on sale for 50% off October 1 – 7, 2021.
Other Options
- If you’re interested in learning American Sign Language, you can learn from Gallaudet University for free online.
- The PrAACtical AAC website has frequent tips and free resources.
- Find free, downloadable visual images from Amy Speech & Language Therapy to make your own picture symbol book.
You can sometimes find sales on AAC technology in April for autism awareness month, but if you’re thinking about trying it, October is a great time to jump in. Please share if you have more discounts we should include in this list. I’ve been posting the best on my Instagram – follow for updates!
And be sure to check out my list of Free Autism Resources for year-round assistance!
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