Getting started with AAC: A guide for beginners 

Exploring AAC tools can feel exciting at first, but once the dust settles, the reality of implementing them may become overwhelming. At Smartbox, we understand that this can happen, and we want to reassure you that we are here to support you throughout your AAC journey – not just when you receive your device. 

Becky, Clinical AAC Specialist and Speech and Language Therapist (SLT) at Smartbox, has shared some of her key tips to help you get started, recognising that everyone’s learning journey and confidence levels are different. While this is not an exhaustive list, these tips provide a great starting point. 

 

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Take your time

There’s no rush! It takes time to familiarise yourself with existing content and consider what might need personalisation. Explore our free Smartbox Academy courses, such as Introduction to AAC and the Grid for iPad Learning Pathway, to build confidence in using AAC. 

Focus on what matters

Stay focused on what’s important for the AAC user. What connections are missing? What vocabulary could support more meaningful interactions? Think about the real-life impact of AAC and personalise the experience accordingly. 

It’s okay to not know everything

Learning where words and phrases are located takes time. Exploring and making mistakes is part of the process! Think about how often we pause in conversation to recall a word; AAC users need the same opportunities to explore language naturally. If you’re struggling to find a word, try using the Find Word tool in Grid for iPad and Grid 3. 

For pre-made grid sets like Super Core and Voco Chat, the Find Word feature is built into the vocabulary, guiding you step-by-step to the word you’re looking for. 

Prioritise personalisation

Personalisation is key to motivation. If an AAC user sees value in their device, whether it’s requesting a favourite snack or sharing a joke, they’re more likely to engage with it. Start by adding words and phrases that truly matter to them. 

More words aren’t always better

AAC vocabulary growth isn’t just about adding more words, it’s about adding the right words. Think about what’s relevant to the person’s everyday life now while also allowing room for future growth and new conversations. 

Sometimes, phrases can be more useful than single words. To better understand language development stages and how to support them, check out our webinar on Gestalt Language Processing. This session provides an introduction to language acquisition and explores a person’s potential language lens in more depth.

Repetition will have meaning and doesn’t need to be a problem 

If an AAC user is frequently selecting the same word or phrase, they might really enjoy it – or they could be stuck and need more modelling. Model new words and phrases across daily activities without pressure to use them.

Ensure AAC covers key communication needs

AAC should allow users to participate in all aspects of their day, not just make requests. Consider whether they have the vocabulary to: 

• Transition between activities 
• Ask for help 
• Comment and share experiences 
• Engage in sensory-based conversations 
• Express protests or dislikes 

Encouraging a mix of core vocabulary and pragmatically organised phrases to help create a more well-rounded communication experience. 

Model everything – not just words!

Model not only words and phrases but also operational commands like “back” or “clear.” This helps AAC users navigate their device with confidence. For further support, check out our SIMPLE AAC Framework.