The use of AAC with young children in Croatia- from the speech and language pathologist's view

Abstract

All children with complex communication needs have the right to engage in interpersonal communication and participate in society. The field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) provides education, systems and practice that enable such participation. AAC requires a multidisciplinary approach. A speech and language pathologist (SLP) is an important member of the team responsible for assessment, implementation and evaluation within AAC. This paper presents the current knowledge and practice of SLPs in Croatia in the area of AAC. The data shows that SLPs in Croatia rarely use aided and high-technology tools with clients. Three cases of children with low levels of expressive communication are elaborated from the aspect of their needs and intervention. It is concluded that the area of AAC has a great need for attention in the following: 1) further promotion among the general public, 2) multidisciplinary collaboration and 3) additional education for professionals. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.