For many children and adults with Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE), communication can look different. Some may develop speech later than expected. Others may rely on gestures, sounds, or facial expressions to connect. And for many, speaking words out loud may never be the most effective or reliable way to share their thoughts, needs, and personalities.
That’s where AAC — Augmentative and Alternative Communication — comes in.
AAC provides a bridge for people whose brains and bodies process communication differently. Whether through a simple picture board, sign language, or a high-tech speech-generating device, AAC gives individuals with HIE a way to express themselves — clearly, confidently, and authentically.
October is AAC Awareness Month, and at Hope for HIE, we’re celebrating the tools, people, and technology that make communication possible for every voice.
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It includes any method of communication other than spoken words.
AAC can be:
AAC isn’t just for people who can’t talk — it’s for anyone whose speech is limited, unclear, or unreliable. It helps ensure communication doesn’t depend on the ability to speak.
HIE can affect areas of the brain that control speech, movement, and coordination. Some children may have the words and ideas but struggle with the motor planning needed to speak them. Others may experience ongoing delays in expressive language.
AAC bridges that gap — giving people a way to communicate right now, while supporting long-term language growth.
Research shows that AAC:
And despite persistent myths, AAC does not prevent speech — it often supports and accelerates it.
Families are at the heart of successful AAC use. When caregivers model AAC during play, meals, and daily routines, children learn that communication happens in many forms.
Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) specializing in AAC can guide families through assessments, trials, and customization. For children with HIE, this may also include working with occupational and physical therapists to ensure access and comfort with the chosen system.
AAC is most effective when it’s woven into daily life — not limited to therapy sessions or school. Every conversation counts.
These resources offer evidence-based information, practical guidance, and inspiration to help families learn, choose, and use AAC successfully.
PrAACtical AAC
A go-to hub for families and professionals, filled with blogs, visual supports, and strategies for everyday AAC use.
👉 praacticalaac.org
AssistiveWare Resources
Makers of Proloquo and Proloquo2Go, they offer free posters, videos, and printable guides to support modeling and device use.
👉 assistiveware.com/resources
AAC Community – AAC Institute (Parents’ Corner)
A welcoming space for parents and caregivers to learn, connect, and find ongoing support.
👉 aacinstitute.org/parents-center
Stepping Into AAC (Angelman Syndrome Foundation)
A 100-day learning program with weekly lessons, videos, and prompts — perfect for families getting started with AAC.
👉 angelman.org/resources/stepping-into-aac
Speech & Language Kids: The Ultimate AAC Resource Page
Curated by an SLP, this page compiles tutorials, app suggestions, and guides for home and school.
👉 speechandlanguagekids.com/aacpage
NWACS – AAC for Parents, Guardians & Caregivers
Offers blogs, literacy tools, and transition resources for AAC use across the lifespan.
👉 nwacs.info/for-parents
AAC Toolkit for Parents (DoDEA)
Tips for modeling AAC, embedding it in daily routines, and building family confidence.
👉 sites.google.com/student.dodea.edu/dodea-aac-toolkit/parent-training
“AAC and You” Handout for Parents & Caregivers
A simple, printable two-page introduction covering AAC myths, benefits, and everyday use.
👉 Teachers Pay Teachers – Free Download
Speechy Musings: 5 Steps for AAC Implementation
A parent-friendly guide with visuals and free printables to support communication at home.
👉 speechymusings.com
NSSEO: AAC Strategies for Home Use
Practical ideas for incorporating AAC into daily routines, from mealtime to playtime.
👉 nsseo.org
AAC isn’t about replacing speech — it’s about building connection. For people with HIE, AAC can be life-changing, helping them share who they are and participate fully in their world.
At Hope for HIE, we believe communication is a human right. Whether it’s through words, pictures, gestures, or technology — every voice matters.
Connect with families, read inspiring stories, and get helpful resources delivered right to your inbox.
Connect with families, read inspiring stories, and get helpful resources delivered right to your inbox.
