What is AAC?

AAC, or Augmentative and Alternative Communication, refers to ways of communicating that does not require spoken or sign language. AAC helps people who can’t communicate verbally to express themselves using symbols to convey meaning including objects, real life images (people, places, things), symbolic images, words, and much more.

Typically, AAC is driven by technology, but this is not always the case. In fact, there are some cases where low-tech alternatives are more suitable. More on that later! AAC is all about improving a person’s ability to communicate their needs and desires.

Who needs it?

Does my child need AAC? There are many reasons why a child might benefit from using AAC systems with their communication partners/caregivers: they have been diagnosed with conditions such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), cerebral palsy , developmental delay etc., they have had a brain injury that has impacted their ability to produce any speech sounds

AAC can help adults too. Do you know someone who has lost their ability to speak due to a medical condition such as ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) or stroke? In this case, they might benefit from an Augmentative and Alternative Communication device since it would allow them another option for communication besides writing. Adults with autism can also benefit from AAC strategies.

What does AAC look like?

As mentioned earlier, AAC devices come in many forms – and not all require technology! There are several different ways of using AAC strategies which include manual signs, picture symbols , gestures, objects and more. Examples of AAC systems that do not need to be “plugged in” are photo albums, communication books or binders, physical objects, buttons, wooden or plastic boards to name a few.

For more advanced users, technology is required. Common AAC systems that require technology include systems communication apps available on computers, tablets, or iPads. Read the next section for more information about popular communication apps.

For early or emergent communicators, AAC systems include yes/no response systems, object choices, paper-based communication boards with pictures, and devices that speak when an item or message is selected (voice-output systems).

While technology is a blessing for those who require alternative means to communicate, it is best to have a paper-based communication system as a backup for days when the iPad is forgotten, out of charge, or damaged.

An AAC device should be as ‘available’ to its user as possible. Without their device, they are essentially without their voice. Many systems, such as paper-based, book-bound, tablet/iPad or purpose-built AAC devices are convenient and portable.

Physical ability and general mobility are also factors in determining which AAC device to use. Depending on an individual’s ability and mobility, an AAC user may have their system secured to their wheelchair (an occupational therapist is also involved in fitting such devices.)

Common Communication Apps

A communication app is software that you can download onto a device that you already own, such as a laptop, tablet, or iPad. Some examples of popular apps include:

Communication apps are made up of pictures and words in a grid. Depending on  the user’s needs and abilities, there may be many (up to 80 or more) selectable images, categories, and grammatical markers on each page, or there could be a few large images. Don’t worry though, the configuration of the grid and the number of images on each page is part of the recommendations provided by the speech-language pathologist.

Communication apps can cost hundreds of dollars, and that does not include the device that it runs on. This is why having a speech-language pathology AAC assessment is so important as you will have certainty that you are being recommended an app that is right for you before you buy.

Speech-Language Pathologist AAC Assessment

An AAC Assessment falls under the Speech-Language Pathology profession. Assessments can last from 45 minutes to several hours, depending on the individual’s diagnosis and needs.

A speech-language pathologist will begin by determining the individual’s ability to communicate functionally in all areas of their life. The individual as well as their family will be asked to provide important information that will indicate whether an AAC device is required.

Just because your family member can communicate verbally, does not necessarily mean they are not a fit for an AAC evaluation and device. Many AAC users have the ability to speak verbally to some extent, use sign, or have already developed a system of their own to communicate. Regardless, AAC may be able to enhance their ability to have their thoughts and desires understood.

A speech-language pathologist’s AAC assessment will help determine the ideal AAC set-up for your scenario. There are many factors taken into consideration including upper body mobility, eye sight, literacy, cognitive abilities, age, and lifestyle. 

Based on these factors and more, a speech-language pathologist will make specific recommendations as to what, if any, AAC device is required, how and where you can obtain an AAC device, as well as help with access to funding and any other questions you may have.

Costs and Funding for AAC Devices

It is important to know that there are options for many individuals in BC who may require access to alternative and augmentative communication. Depending on your situation, your Arbutus Speech Therapist will know what/if any funding options are available to you. Fortunately, there is funding available in BC for Alternative and Augmentative Communication for a number of different situations.

Below is a list of organizations and suppliers in BC who provide funding for devices:

Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults (CAYA):

CAYA is a province-wide service program that supports adults aged 19 years and older who require an AAC system due to a severe communication disability (i.e. speech that is not functional for daily communication.)

Assistive Technology BC

For people with disabilities, Assistive Technology BC provides assistive technology and related support services to British Columbians with disabilities.

Special Education Branch of the BC Ministry of Education (SET-BC)

SET-BC is a good place to start for BC students with complex needs to participate more actively in their education and in standard curriculums. SET-BC also have a wealth of resources and training to tap into.

Without funding, the cost of a specialized device is typically within the range of $3,000 to $8,000 CAD, depending on the complexity of the device. Devices can be rented or purchased from a number of suppliers in BC such as the resources mentioned below. Tablet-based apps on the other hand tend to be more cost effective, and in many cases are highly effective (see our list of recommended apps above.)

Ready to get started?

AAC is a valuable assistive communication tool that should be considered as part of an effective treatment plan for children and adults with severe speech or language difficulties. If you are based in BC and suspect that AAC might be helpful for you or someone you love, reach out to Arbutus Speech Therapy for a free consultation.

The post What is AAC? A Guide to Augmentative and Alternative Communication appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

A Speech Therapist can help you identify where your child is in terms of their developmental milestones. So, when should parents and caregivers be concerned that their child is not talking yet? Read on to find out when to contact a Speech-Language Pathologist (and everything else you’re wondering about speech and language in the first two years.)

When should I be worried?

As babies grow, they acquire new skills in a predictable sequence and timeline referred to as developmental milestones.

These milestones include physical, social and emotional, cognitive, and language skills. A child’s language milestones include all forms of communication including spoken language, gesture, speech, hearing, and understanding.

Did you know that your baby’s adorable sounds are helping them towards saying their first word? Take a look at the speech milestones you can expect leading up to your baby’s first birthday:

Children who aren’t reaching their milestones will not necessarily develop a problem with speech and language delay. There are normal developmental differences, and some children learn new skills faster or slower than others. Even so, Speech & Audiology Canada reports that up to 10% of children in Canada will begin school with a language disorder.

What should I be looking out for?

Parents often have an intuitive idea that their child is behind in their milestones. They may see other children the same age as their own and wonder “hmm my child isn’t at that level yet, is something wrong?” Or a well-meaning family member may ask, “She doesn’t talk a lot, does she?”. Other times, families may be so busy they haven’t had a chance to stop and think about what is normal or not.

Here are some signs of atypical language development that may require intervention:

Other concerns you can speak to your Speech-Language Pathologist about include:

• Not responding to their own name
• Not responding to loud noises
• Excessive drooling
• Problems sucking, chewing, or swallowing
• Sudden loss of speech and/or language skills
• Stuttering

“They’ll grow out of it” and other common misconceptions

It can be difficult for a parent to know if their child is a “late bloomer” or if they have a speech or language delay. Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions that make it more difficult for parents to make an informed judgement on whether to seek help. Here are some of the common myths around speech and language development:

Myth #1: “Bilingual children are prone to having speech and language delays.“

Reality: There is no evidence that suggests that speaking more than one language causes a speech or language delay. There may be an initial silent period and smaller vocabulary in each language. But, when considered together, bilingual children have equal or larger vocabularies than monolingual children – with cognitive benefits later in life!

Myth #2: “Boys speak later than girls.“

Reality: A child’s gender should not be the reason that a speech-language assessment is postponed. Studies show that girls do develop language skills faster than boys, however not to the extent that it makes a significant difference to long term outcomes. That said, boys are 4 times more likely to have Autism than girls, and two-thirds of children with Autism have associated language disorders. However, other factors such as parents’ level of education and involvement in children’s learning are much stronger predictors of early language abilities than sex or biology.

Myth #3: “They’ll grow out of it. “

Reality: A child’s speech and language will develop at different rates, but this advice can provide a false sense of comfort. Normal speech and language development can be assessed by a Speech-Language Pathologist in a few short sessions. This will provide you with conclusive information about your child’s development. Unfortunately, when left untreated, speech and language delays persist in 40-60% of kids.

“It can be difficult for a parent to know if their child is a “late bloomer” or if they have a speech or language delay.”

Arbutus Speech Therapy

What causes speech and language delay?

The most common reason that a child is delayed in their language is due to a developmental language disorder (DLD). This is the term used to identify children who have language problems that create obstacles to communication or learning in everyday life. Children with a DLD have difficulties that will not resolve on their own and are not associated with a known condition.

Other causes of speech and language delays are:

• Hearing loss
• Language deprivation
• Premature birth
• Neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy or traumatic brain injury
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Oral-motor disorders (Childhood Apraxia of Speech)
• Selective mutism

First steps if you think your child might have a speech or language delay

Your first call should be to your family doctor or pediatrician, who may then make a referral to your local public health unit for a comprehensive assessment. This is provided by the public health system, which means it is free of charge.

If Autism is suspected, they will refer you to either a developmental pediatrician for further assessment or directly to BC Autism Assessment Network (BCAAN) for a free Autism Assessment.

Unfortunately, in both cases, public health waiting lists can be long, sometimes a year or more. To learn more about the process of receiving a diagnosis in BC, you can review our guide to receiving an Autism (ASD) Diagnosis.

I don’t want to wait a year for my child to see a specialist – what are my options?

You have been in contact with public health and have secured a spot on the wait list, only to find out you might be waiting more than a year to receive an assessment. There are private practitioners in your community who will have much shorter waiting lists, or possibly no waiting lists at all. Here are some links you can use to find private healthcare professionals in your community:

• For Speech-Language Pathology services in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, contact Arbutus Speech Therapy for a free phone consultation
• Occupational Therapists in BC: Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists
• Physiotherapists in BC: Canadian Alliance of Therapy Regulators

Arbutus Speech Therapy is here to help

The process of working through your child’s possible speech and language problems can be complicated. With so much information, it can be hard to know where to begin.

Speaking directly to a Speech-Language Pathologist can shortcut your path to getting your child the help they need to reach their potential. We are here for you and can help connect you to the resources, information and professionals that will help. Contact Arbutus Speech Therapy today or Book Online for a free phone consultation with a registered Speech-Language Pathologist.

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The post My Child is Not Talking Yet – When to Start Speech Therapy? appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

Families with children aged 0-5 in British Columbia who suspect their children are not meeting their developmental milestones in speech and language can access free speech-language pathology (SLP) services through their local public health units.

Families are put on a waiting list and contacted when a Speech-Language Pathologist becomes available.

Not sure which Health Authority you currently fall under?

For a guide to BC’s Health Regions, Click Here

Vancouver Coastal Health (VCH)

Click here for the Vancouver Coastal Health Public Health Unit Request for Service

Check out the Vancouver Coastal Health Website for locations and resources on speech and language development

Fraser Health Authority (FHA)

Residents falling within the Fraser Health Authority catchment area can contact Fraser Health Authority by telephone, who can then refer you to their nearest Preschool Speech Development service provider.

FHA’s information on accessing Speech-Language Pathology services can be found Here

Vancouver Island Health Authority (VIHA)

To receive services, children must have only speech and/or language delays or disorders and be preschool aged – not yet eligible for kindergarten.

Self-referral accepted, please connect directly with the health centers listed on the Vancouver Island Health Authority Website

Interior Health Authority (IHA)

Information on Interior Health Authority’s Speech & Language services.

Click here for the Interior Health Request for Services

Referrals are accepted by mail or fax. To find your local health center within the Interior Health catchment area, Click Here

Northern Health Authority (NHA)

The Northern Health Speech and Language Program provides SLP services for children from birth to kindergarten entry. These services are offered at NO COST to families.

You can download the referral forms at Northern Health’s Speech & Language Website

Referrals can be done by electronic PDF, phone or in-person

Private Speech Therapy

Many families will seek out private speech-language pathologist services in the interim while they wait to be contacted by their public health unit. Private SLPs in Vancouver and the rest of BC often have shorter wait lists and are able to accommodate families more quickly than a public health SLP, but the convenience does come at a cost to the families. See our Funding Guide to see if your child is eligible for financial assistance for private SLP services while on the waiting list for public health. 

To discuss interim treatment, you can book a free consultation with a Speech-Language Pathologist at Arbutus Speech Therapy by clicking here.

Questions?

We’re here to help! One of our Speech-Language Pathologists would be happy to assist you with any questions you might have about accessing public health SLP.

The post Accessing Public Health Speech Therapy services in BC for Children 0-5 appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

This guide provides information on how to obtain a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in British Columbia through public health. An Autism diagnosis not only helps your family to better understand your child’s developmental journey, but also provides your family with access to provincial funding for vital therapeutic services and equipment using Autism Funding.  Qualifying services for Autism in BC include Speech-Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and others.

There are 4 steps to diagnose, fund and treat ASD:

Step 1 – Family Doctor Referral

If you suspect your child may have Autism, the first step is to speak to your family doctor. A physician’s referral is required to receive an appointment for a diagnostic assessment for Autism Spectrum Disorder in BC. Your doctor will either refer you to a qualified professional (such as a pediatrician or psychiatrist) or directly refer your child for an assessment at the BC Autism Assessment Network (BCAAN) at Sunny Hill Health Centre. BCAAN will then contact families with an appointment time. As of the time of writing, the current average wait time for an Autism assessment in Vancouver is 73.8 weeks.

In order to best prepare for your initial visit to your family doctor, you should first learn the steps involved to receiving a diagnosis of Autism in BC. If you’re reading this article, you’re off to a great start! Here are some other ways you can prepare for your initial family doctor visit:

More information about BCAAN and wait times can be found here

Step 2 – Your child’s BCAAN Assessment

You can expect your child’s diagnostic appointment to take approximately 3 hours. The appointment involves two parts: a detailed parent interview (preferably both parents/caregivers are present) and an interview/interactive observation session with your child. Both parts will be run by either a pediatrician, psychiatrist, or psychologist. There is no cost for the BCAAN assessment. Note: Portions of the appointment may be completed over the phone or through video conferencing.

The BCAAN team may require additional testing to make their final diagnosis. This may include speech-language pathologists, psychologists, psychiatrists, and/or medical evaluations. If this is the case, these appointments will be booked for you at community-based public health units. However, it is possible that no further assessment is required and the results of your child’s assessment will be discussed with you at the end of the appointment.

If a diagnosis of Autism is received, a Clinical Outcomes Form will be provided to you immediately. This form is the official document you will provide to prove that your child has been diagnosed with Autism and you will need to supply it during the application for funding. Your referring family doctor will also receive a diagnostic report in the mail.

Step 3 – Accessing Autism Funding through the BC Ministry of Child and Family Services

Families with children who are diagnosed with Autism in the province of BC are eligible to access funding for eligible therapeutic services and equipment using their Autism Funding.

In order to apply for funding, you first need to contact the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) to schedule an appointment with a children and youth with special needs worker. He or she will request that you bring the following documents to the appointment:

Following this meeting, you will receive your Autism Funding Agreement in the mail within 2-4 weeks. You need to SIGN and RETURN both copies to the Autism Funding Branch (address on form). Once the AFB has received your forms, you will be sent a “Welcome to Autism Funding” letter which details the funding amount available. As of 2021, children aged 0-6 receive annual funding in the amount $22,000 and children aged 6-19 receive $6,000.

Families may wish to register for an account online where they can manage their child’s Autism funding and submit documents electronically. Families can do that the BC Government’s Autism Funding site.

Step 4 – Finding your child’s therapy team

Once you have secured funding, it is up to you to seek out service providers including Speech-Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, and others. A number of resources are listed below to help you find service providers.

It is important to know that for children aged 0-6, Autism funding can only be used for services provided by professionals listed on the Registered Autism Service Providers (RASP). For children 6 and up, service providers do not need to be on the RASP.

The RASP is a managed list of qualified service providers who work with children under the age of 6 diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The professionals on this list meet specific standards and qualifications set by the Ministry of Children and Family Development in BC. These service providers range from Behavior Consultants (who design and monitor intervention plans) to Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), who play a crucial role in helping young children with autism develop effective communication skills.

Once families have found a service provider, they will need to fill out a Request-to-Pay form and submit this to the Ministry via the online portal or email. Once approved, service providers submit their invoices directly to the Autism Funding Branch and pay the service provider directly. RTP forms expire in the month of your child’s birthday, so it’s important to remember to resubmit every year.

Arbutus Speech Therapy provides speech therapy services to children with autism. If you are based in BC and would like to discuss your child with a Registered Speech-Language Pathologist, you can book a free phone consultation. We look forward to speaking with you!

Useful Resources to find Service Providers

Frequently Asked Questions

To learn more about the topics in this article, please refer to the following websites/references:

The post 4 Steps to Autism (ASD) Diagnosis, Funding, and Treatment in BC (Updated 2024) appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.

Arbutus Speech Therapy will be glad to assist in determining which funding options are best throughout the intake process. Get in touch here for more information.

Please click on the link that applies to you to learn more:

Children

Do you have an Extended Health Plan that lists your child as a dependent?

To access extended health care, call or email your insurance provider and ask if they cover speech-language evaluation and/or therapy or look at your benefits summary. Many providers will also cover parent coaching for both parents which can triple the amount of services your child receives.

Large providers of extended health benefits in BC include Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life Financial, Great-West Life Insurance and Manulife Insurance

The first step is to contact your local public health unit for free evaluation and therapy. See our article on Accessing Free Public Health SLP Services for more information about how children under the age of 5 can access public SLP services.

Is your child First Nations?

All First Nation children are eligible to receive services that they need including funds for health, social and education products, supports and therapeutic services including speech-language pathologist services for individuals or groups through the Jordan’s Principle program.

Does your child have a have a severe disability or complex health care needs?

The At Home Program is designed to support children and teens with a severe disability or complex health care needs who would benefit greatly from at-home services for up to $3,840 per year.

Did you adopt a child through the Ministry of Children and Family Development?

With the assistance of their Adoption Social Worker, funding is provided for adopted children with special needs for services such as speech-language pathology, physiotherapy, counselling, respite, and more. Visit the Post-Adoption Assistance Program Website for more information.

Are you a serving member of the military with a child who has special needs?

Military families with special needs children can receive funding from Support Our Troops to cover services such as speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy.

Have you considered applying for a grant from a local charity?

If your family earn less than $65,000 and has a child with a qualified special need (medical/developmental,) you may be eligible to apply for assistance from Variety Children’s Charity. Variety provides financial assistance for families with special needs children for medical care, services, mobility, communication equipment, therapies, and education. If you believe you are eligible to apply for a Variety grant, let us know so we can assist you with the application process.

The CKNW Kids Fund provides timely support to vulnerable kids with physical, mental, and social challenges by providing grants for essential specialized medical equipment, therapies, and youth programs. Again, if you believe you are eligible to apply for a CKNW grant, we would be happy to assist you with the application process.

Adults

Do you have an Extended Health Plan that covers Speech-Language Pathology services?

To access extended health care, call or email your insurance provider and ask if they cover speech-language evaluation and/or therapy or look at your benefits summary. Large providers of extended health benefits in BC include Pacific Blue Cross, Sun Life Financial, Canada Life / Great-West Life Insurance and Manulife Insurance.

Are you an adult with a disability or impairment?

You may be eligible for the Government of Canada’s Disability Tax Credit (DTC.) You can claim the DTC for yourself, your dependent or your spouse/common-law partner. The purpose of the DTC is to provide for greater tax equity by allowing some relief for disability costs, since these are unavoidable additional expenses that other taxpayers don’t have to face. More information can be found on the Government of Canada’s website or call 1800-959-8281.

Did you suffer a work-related injury or disease that requires speech or language rehabilitation?

Worksafe BC provides compensation (up to $160.00 per clinical visit) for employees who have suffered a work-related injury or disease who require the services of a speech-language pathologist. Any Speech-Language Pathologist in good standing with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of BC is eligible for approval to treat a worker as long as their claim has been accepted.

More information can be found on WorkSafe BC’s website

Do you need rehabilitation for speech, language, or swallowing due to an automobile accident?

For those involved in automobile accidents, ICBC provides coverage to access rehabilitation services including speech-language pathology.

Still have questions? Contact us or book a free consultation and we will be happy to help! For more Speech Therapy information, check out our Resources page

The post Easy Guide to Funding for Speech-Language Pathology Services in BC (Updated 2024) appeared first on Arbutus Speech Therapy.