Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) for Children in Malta

Not every child communicates through speech — and that does not mean they have nothing to say. For children who are non-verbal or minimally verbal, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) provides a way to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings. At WonderKids, we believe that every child has the right to communicate, and AAC is one of the most powerful tools we use to make that possible for families in Malta.

What Is AAC?

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes any method of communication that supplements or replaces spoken language. AAC is not a single device or system — it is a broad term that covers a range of tools and strategies:

• Unaided AAC: Communication that does not require any equipment — gestures, facial expressions, sign language, body language
• Low-tech AAC: Picture cards, communication boards, symbol books, and visual schedules that the child can point to
• High-tech AAC: Tablet-based communication apps and dedicated speech-generating devices that produce spoken output when the child selects symbols or words

Who Benefits from AAC?

AAC can support children with a wide range of conditions, including:

• Autism spectrum disorder: Many children on the spectrum who are non-verbal or have limited speech benefit enormously from AAC
• Childhood apraxia of speech: Children who know what they want to say but cannot coordinate the movements needed to produce speech
• Intellectual disability: Children whose cognitive profile affects their ability to develop spoken language
• Cerebral palsy and other motor conditions: Where physical limitations make speech difficult or impossible
• Genetic syndromes: Such as Down syndrome, where speech development may be significantly delayed

Common Myths About AAC

One of the biggest barriers to AAC is the misunderstanding that surrounds it. Let us address the most common myths we hear from families in Malta:

Myth: AAC Will Stop My Child from Learning to Talk

This is the most widespread concern, and research consistently shows the opposite. AAC does not prevent speech development — it often supports and encourages it. When children can communicate their needs through AAC, they are less frustrated, more engaged, and more likely to attempt speech. Many children who start with AAC go on to develop spoken language alongside it.

Myth: AAC Is Only for Children Who Will Never Speak

AAC is not a last resort. It can be introduced at any stage — even while a child is developing speech. It serves as a bridge, giving the child a way to communicate right now while spoken language continues to develop.

Myth: My Child Is Too Young for AAC

There is no minimum age for AAC. Even toddlers can learn to use simple picture-based systems or basic signs. The earlier a child has a way to communicate, the better their overall development outcomes.

How AAC Works in Practice

At WonderKids, implementing AAC is a collaborative process. We work closely with parents and carers to find the right system for your child:

• Assessment: We evaluate your child’s current communication skills, motor abilities, cognitive level, and daily communication needs
• System selection: We recommend the most appropriate AAC approach — this might be a simple picture board for a young child or a robust app-based system for an older child
• Modelling: We teach everyone around the child — parents, siblings, teachers, LSEs — to use the AAC system themselves. Children learn AAC best when they see others using it
• Ongoing support: We expand the system as your child’s communication grows, adding new vocabulary and more complex functions over time

AAC in Malta’s Bilingual Context

One important consideration in Malta is that AAC systems can be set up to include both Maltese and English vocabulary. Many app-based systems allow for multiple language settings, and picture-based systems can be customised to reflect the words and concepts that are most relevant to your child’s daily life in Malta — whether that is at home, at school, or in the community.

Could Your Child Benefit from AAC?

If your child is struggling to communicate through speech, AAC could open up a new world for them. At WonderKids, our speech therapists are trained in AAC assessment and implementation, and we are passionate about giving every child a voice.

Call us at +356 77048650 or email us at info@wonderkids.mt.

Communication is a right, not a privilege. Let’s find the right tools for your child to be heard.