What is AAC?

​Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas.  AAC includes the use of signs, gestures, communication boards, and voice output communication aids. AAC can be low tech or high tech with no voice output or voice output.

• 12 % of children receiving special education services have complex communication needs (CCN) and AAC is required (Binger & Light, 2006).
  

• Children who use AAC have various diagnoses, which may include autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, traumatic brain injury, apraxia, and multiple disabilities.
  

• It is important to note that the prevalence of children with complex communication needs is increasing (Light & McNaughton, 2012).

_{Source: https://www.assistiveware.com/learn-aac/what-is-aac}

Communication Bill of Rights

​The Communication Bill of Rights outlines specific communication rights that should be ensured in ALL daily interactions involving persons who have complex communication needs.  
The Communication Bill of Rights was initially passed in 1992 and a reprioritized version was passed in 2016.  The reprioritized version has been provided below for you to review.