
Let's dive into the world of AAC apps for iPad and explore the options and features that can help individuals with communication needs. The iPad has become a popular tool for AAC, thanks to its accessibility features and wide range of apps.
One of the most popular AAC apps for iPad is Proloquo2Go, which offers a vast vocabulary of over 14,000 words and symbols. It also has a built-in text-to-speech feature and supports multiple languages.
The app also allows users to customize their communication boards and access their favorite features with a single tap. This can be a game-changer for individuals who struggle with complex communication systems.
Another key feature of Proloquo2Go is its ability to integrate with other devices and apps, making it a seamless part of a user's daily routine. This can be especially helpful for individuals who use multiple devices or apps throughout the day.
What is AAC?
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication and it relates to all the tools and strategies that we use with people who have little or no speech.
AAC tools can be high tech options such as speech generating devices, low-tech options, such as symbol boards and communication books, as well as no-tech options such as Key Word Signing.
Many people have started using the iPad for AAC, which has led to a wide range of AAC apps available through the App Store.
The iPad offers a flexible and portable option for AAC, making it a popular choice for those who need it.
With so many AAC apps available, it can be overwhelming to find the right one, but that's where the Spectronics Consultancy Team's tips and tools come in handy.
AAC Apps for iPad
TouchChat is a comprehensive AAC tool available for iPad, offering a range of features that make it an excellent choice for individuals with communication needs.
You can access the SymbolStix library and easily add your own photos to the app. This feature is particularly useful for personalizing the app to an individual's preferences.
Pre-programmed vocabulary sets are available, which are fully customizable to meet the user's needs. This flexibility makes TouchChat an excellent option for individuals with varying communication requirements.
The app also offers high-quality text-to-speech voices in both US and British accents. This feature is especially helpful for individuals who struggle with verbal communication.
TouchChat allows users to share text in message windows via email, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and text message, or even copy and paste into other applications.
If you're interested in learning more about TouchChat, you can visit the developer page or the developer support page, which provides access to a manual and webinars.
Popular AAC Apps
Proloquo2Go is a customizable AAC solution that lets people talk using symbols or text in a natural-sounding text-to-speech.
It offers access to 14,000 symbols and allows you to easily add your own photos. This feature is especially helpful for individuals who need to communicate specific needs or wants.
You can also share text in a message window via email, Facebook, Twitter, and text message, or even copy and paste into other applications.
Here are some key features of Proloquo2Go:
- Access to 14,000 symbols
- Easily add your own photos
- Pre-programmed vocabulary sets (Research-based : core word and basic communication) which is fully customizable
- Share text in message window via email, Facebook, Twitter, and text message, or even copy and paste into other applications
Features and Options
The SoundingBoard app offers a range of features and options that make it a powerful tool for communication.
You can create your own boards with up to 20 buttons per page, and record your own messages on each button with unlimited recording time.
The app also allows you to import and export communication boards, making it easy to share and collaborate with others.
Here are some of the key features and options available in SoundingBoard:
- Use your own photos or access the AbleNet symbols
- Record your own messages on each button (unlimited recording time)
- Switch accessible (use with switch interfaces such as Applicator, Blue2, Switchbox and Switch2Scan)
- Import and export communication boards
Additionally, the app offers word prediction with integrated learning of words, high-quality text-to-speech voices, and the ability to save commonly used sentences/phrases into a customisable phrase bank.
Sounding Board
SoundingBoard is a free app that lets you create your own communication boards on your iPad or iPod touch. You can use your own photos or access AbleNet symbols to create custom boards.
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You can create boards with up to 20 buttons per page, and record your own messages on each button with unlimited recording time. This makes it a great tool for individuals with communication needs.
One of the features I like about SoundingBoard is that it's switch accessible, which means you can use it with switch interfaces like Applicator, Blue2, Switchbox, and Switch2Scan. This opens up the app to a wider range of users.
SoundingBoard also allows you to import and export communication boards, which is a convenient feature for users who need to share boards with others.
Share Button Options
Sharing is caring, and we've got you covered! You can share buttons and boards with others using a different device by collaborating through the app.
To share buttons, simply tap the share button option, and select the device or user you want to share with. This feature is a game-changer for working with therapists or other professionals.
Making buttons bigger is a great idea, especially for younger kids who are still learning. You can make buttons bigger for easier differentiation, making it simpler for them to navigate the app.
Reviews and Ratings
The AAC app for iPad has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from users and professionals alike. Many have praised its intuitive interface and user-friendly design.
One user reported that the app's customization options allowed them to tailor the interface to meet the specific needs of their child with autism. This level of personalization has been a game-changer for many families.
The app's ability to support multiple communication modes has been particularly helpful for users who require more than one way to express themselves. This can include typing, pointing, and even using a joystick.
Professionals in the field of speech therapy have also endorsed the app, citing its effectiveness in helping patients regain lost communication skills.
Specific Use Cases
This app has been a huge help for individuals who have lost their ability to speak clearly, such as those with oral cancer treatments.
The app has been particularly useful for teachers who need to communicate with students and colleagues one on one, helping to minimize disruptions in their professional lives.
Using the app for doctor and hospital visits has also been extremely helpful, with one doctor even asking for the name of the app due to its impressive functionality and versatility.
The app's versatility has been a game-changer for interpersonal communication in general, allowing users to communicate faster and less cumbersomely than writing messages out by hand.
With practice, users can even develop impressive typing skills, rivaling those of their teenage children.
Tips for Successful AAC Implementation
To ensure successful AAC implementation on the iPad, it's essential to make your chosen AAC app easily accessible. Lock it to the bottom dock of your iPad, so it's always easy to find and access.
Consider using Guided Access to make your iPad a dedicated communication device. This feature can help minimize distractions and keep the user focused on communication.
Limiting other distractions on the iPad, such as entertainment apps, YouTube, music, and videos, can also help promote successful AAC implementation.
Take screen captures of communication pages and email these photos to yourself, then print them out as paper backups. This can be a helpful way to create a paper trail and provide a backup option in case the digital device is unavailable.
Personalize vocabulary with your own images and words to make the AAC app more engaging and meaningful for the user. This can help increase motivation and participation.
Here are some key strategies to keep in mind:
- Make communication fun, engaging, and purposeful
- Model, model, model… provide many opportunities to model using the device regularly and consistently in a variety of environments
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free AAC app?
Yes, there are several free AAC apps available, including Proloquo2Go, TouchChat, and Avaz AAC, among others. These apps can be a great starting point for exploring AAC options.
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