Meaningful Exchanges for People with Autism: An Introduction to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (Topics in Autism)

When children and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have difficulty communicating, the world can be a painful and frustrating place. Fortunately, there are now tools and strategies that can help make interactive communication possible for individuals with ASDs who can’t use speech effectively.

This guide to augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) provides an overview of the AAC techniques and devices available today. AAC refers to any tool, device, picture, word, symbol or gesture that compensates for expressive and receptive communication deficits. An AAC tool is as simple as a picture schedule made at home or as sophisticated as a voice output communication aid (VOCA); MEANINGFUL EXCHANGES covers both low and high-tech varieties.

The author also explains how AAC appeals to the particular learning style and communication strengths and weaknesses of people with ASDs. An extensive section on ACC and Special Education Law covers eligibility and entitlement issues; how to make sure a communication system is included in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and stays with a student from school to school; and who pays for a device. Real-life vignettes help to illustrate how various AAC tools increase communication with others and, consequently, improve quality of life. Appendices provide additional sources of information about specific devices and software, as well as listings of manufacturers and training opportunities.

Communication is an essential part of the human experience. This excellent resource introduces parents and practitioners to ways they can make interactive communication as easy and meaningful as possible for people with ASDs, young and old.

Joanne M. Cafiero, Ph.D., has 22 years of experience working with people with ASDs. She is an Autism and AAC Consultant, providing services to families, practitoners, and school systems in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. She is also on the faculty of Johns Hopkins School of Professional Studies and is the co-designer of the graduate program, "Teaching Students with Autism."