Free AAC Apps and Resources for Speech-Language Pathologists
Are you an SLP looking for free AAC apps to use with your students? AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. AAC is used by people who, some or all of the time, cannot rely on their speech. According to ASHA, well over 2 million persons who present with significant expressive language impairment use AAC. These conditions include but are not limited to autism, cerebral palsy, dual sensory impairments, genetic syndromes, intellectual disability, multiple disabilities, hearing impairment, disease, stroke, and head injury.
The Importance of Free Trials for SLPs
I am here to tell you to try these FREE AAC apps that will be life-changing for you as an SLP! SLPs need free trials for testing, assessing, modeling and well, trialing with students. AAC equipment and programs can be very expensive. Ideally, the decision to introduce AAC should be made in consultation with the consumer, family, and a team of professionals. However, no individual should go without communication, and all individuals should have access to AAC systems that promote effective communication.
Tobii Dynavox Free AAC Solutions
Below are some leading companies and apps in the AAC world and these companies provide you a free copy as a certified SLP. Tobii Dynavox is the industry leader helping connect lives through communication and learning for over 25 years.
- Compass Connect App: This app provides a research-based communication solution for individuals of all ages and abilities who cannot use their natural voice. It provides communication that empowers individuals to learn, grow, and achieve their goals by allowing you to quickly customize communication pages based on age and ability level.
- Communicator 5: This solution empowers people with speech and language disabilities to efficiently convert text and symbols into clear speech. This app is great for high school students and beyond, and it even lets them communicate via Facebook Messenger.
- Snap Core First: This is a favorite AAC app for nonverbal students. I recently found out that as an ASHA member you get the FREE, full speaking version of Snap Core First for your iPad.
How to Obtain Tobii Dynavox for Professionals
- To register for Tobii Dynavox for Professionals, you will need your own myTobiiDynavox account.
- Once you have logged into your account, click the “Professionals” box under More Stuff.
- Enter your information including your professional membership number or ID.
- If you are an ASHA or SAC member, your membership will be verified immediately.
- Once verified, click on the “Professionals” title under My Stuff to access the free full speaking version.
LAMP Words for Life ® Features
LAMP Words for Life ® is structured to enable early success and allow the client's vocabulary and communication skills to grow in a way that doesn't require re-learning along the way. It is a pre-programmed vocabulary program that doesn't require extensive customization. The app is designed to support the Language Acquisition through Motor Planning approach, which is based on neurological and motor learning principles.
- One Motor Pattern per Word: Each word is produced by a unique motor movement that remains consistent whether there are 10 words or all words showing.
- Vocabulary Builder: This feature lets you target select words during engaging activities so the learner can practice the motor movement without visual distraction.
- Word Finder: This tool helps you learn where a word is stored; type in the word to see where it’s located and touch the picture sequence to practice the motor plan.
| App Name | Primary Feature | Target Users |
|---|---|---|
| Compass Connect | Customizable communication pages | Individuals of all ages and abilities |
| Communicator 5 | Text/symbol to speech conversion | High school students and adults |
| Snap Core First | Core vocabulary support | Nonverbal students |
| LAMP Words for Life | Consistent motor patterns | Individuals with limited spontaneous communication |