AAC Evaluations and Treatment

At Happy Play Therapy, we believe every child deserves a voice. For children who face significant challenges with verbal speech, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and Speech-Generating Devices (SGDs) can open the door to meaningful connection, participation, and independence.

Our experienced speech-language pathologists specialize in evaluating and supporting children who may benefit from AAC. We guide families through the process of exploring, trialing, and implementing communication devices, while also providing parent training and ongoing support.

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes any method of communication—other than spoken words—that helps your child express themselves. This can range from simple picture boards and gestures to high-tech speech-generating devices (SGDs).

For children who have limited or no verbal speech, AAC provides a reliable way to share their wants, needs, ideas, and personality.

AAC can:

• Give your child a consistent and reliable way to express themselves
   
• Reduce frustration and challenging behaviors linked to communication difficulties
   
• Support language development and learning
   
• Build confidence in social and academic settings
   
• Provide a foundation for literacy and pre-academic skills

At Happy Play Therapy, we tailor AAC support to your child’s unique needs. Services may include:

• Comprehensive AAC Evaluations – to determine if your child would benefit from AAC and what system is the best fit
   
• Device Trials – hands-on exploration with different devices to find the right match
   
• Parent & Caregiver Training – so you feel confident supporting your child’s communication at home and school
   
• Collaboration with Vendors – we partner with trusted companies like PRC-Saltillo, Lincare AAC, and Lingraphica to help families access devices, insurance funding, and ongoing technical support
   
• Therapy Integration – teaching your child to use their device across daily routines, play, social interaction, and academics

Children with communication challenges related to:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
   
• Cerebral palsy
   
• Childhood apraxia of speech
   
• Down syndrome
   
• Genetic conditions
   
• Developmental delays
   
• Neurological disorders
   
• Severe speech or language impairments

We know AAC is not “giving up” on speech—it’s about giving your child access to communication now. Research shows that using AAC can actually support and strengthen verbal speech development, while also reducing frustration and helping children connect with their world.

If you think your child may benefit from AAC, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. From evaluations to device selection, insurance paperwork, and hands-on training, we make the process approachable and family-centered.

Don’t wait to give your child a voice—contact Happy Play Therapy today to schedule an AAC consultation!