What is the most beneficial time to integrate an AAC system into a child's daily routine?

Integrating an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system during snack time to facilitate choice-making is particularly beneficial for several reasons. Snack time often involves opportunities for children to express preferences, make choices, and engage in meaningful interactions with peers and caregivers. During this routine, children are presented with concrete items (e.g., different snacks), which allows them to practice using the AAC system to communicate what they want.

This context supports the development of functional communication skills, as it is a naturally occurring situation where the use of the AAC system can lead to immediate and relevant responses. Furthermore, making choices can enhance a child's sense of agency and involvement, which is fundamental for their social and emotional development.

On the other hand, integrating AAC during free play, unstructured games, or song sessions presents challenges. While these times could also involve communication, the less structured nature may lead to difficulties in focusing on the AAC system itself, potentially hindering its effective use. Using AAC in less predictable environments might overwhelm the child or dilute the significance of its function, as attention could be divided among many activities or interactions.