Clinical Reference

Early Introduction of AAC in Medically Complex Infants

Therapy Insights Member Exclusive
Print Resource — US Letter — 1 page

Population:

Pediatric

Discipline:

SLP

Diagnosis:

AACLanguage Development

References:

  • Davidoff, B. E. (2017). AAC With Energy—Earlier: Research shows that children with communication challenges do best when introduced to augmentative and alternative communication as early as 12 months. The ASHA leader, 22(1), 48-53.
  • Lehner, D. C., & Sadler, L. S. (2015). Toddler developmental delays after extensive hospitalization: primary care practitioner guidelines. Pediatric nursing, 41(5), 236.
  • Light, J., & McNaughton, D. (2012). Supporting the communication, language, and literacy development of children with complex communication needs: State of the science and future research priorities. Assistive technology, 24(1), 34-44.
  • O'Neill, T., Light, J., & Pope, L. (2018). Effects of interventions that include aided augmentative and alternative communication input on the communication of individuals with complex communication needs: A meta-analysis. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research, 61(7), 1743-1765.
Early introduction to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an evidence-based intervention for children at risk for developing speech and language delays secondary to medical complexity. This handout provides information related to the importance of early introduction to AAC to aid the development of language skills.
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