What are speech-generating devices?
Speech-generating devices are hand-held electronic devices that produce words or phrases when the user touches a switch or presses buttons or keys. Some devices ‘speak’ words as the words are typed on a keyboard.
Speech-generating devices can be specialised devices used only for communication. They can also be tablets, laptops or other common devices with speech-generating apps or functions.
These devices are also known as communication devices, electronic augmentative and alternative communication devices or systems and voice output communication aids.
Who are speech-generating devices for?
People who have difficulty communicating using spoken language use speech-generating devices.
Autistic children might use speech-generating devices for a short time, or they might use them for longer. Some autistic people might use speech-generating devices at some times and spoken language at other times.
What are speech-generating devices used for?
Speech-generating devices let people ‘speak’ words and sentences electronically to communicate their wants, needs and ideas.
Where do speech-generating devices come from?
Speech-generating devices have been used to help autistic children communicate since the 1990s.
What is the idea behind speech-generating devices for autistic children?
Spoken language can be challenging for some autistic children, which can make it difficult for them to communicate their needs, wants and ideas. This can lead to frustration and challenging behaviour that negatively affects them or other people.
Speech-generating devices allow autistic children with spoken language difficulties to ‘speak’ electronically. This gives children a way to communicate, which might help with their behaviour and wellbeing too.
What do speech-generating devices involve?
The child chooses the icon on the speech-generating device that matches what they want to communicate. So if the child wants to eat an apple, they can push the button with a picture of an apple. The device plays a recorded human voice or computer-generated voice that says, ‘Apple’ or ‘I want an apple’.
Some devices allow people to communicate by typing words or combining pictures to make sentences.
Do speech-generating devices help autistic children?
Research on speech-generating devices shows that autistic children can use them to communicate and that children often prefer them to other augmentative and alternative communication systems.
There’s no evidence that using a speech generating device stops children from using spoken language. In fact, some research suggests that using augmentative and alternative communication systems might help children to communicate using speech.
More large-scale research is needed to work out which systems suit which children and which strategies best support children who are using speech-generating devices.
Who can help autistic children with a speech-generating device?
A speech pathologist can work out which type of speech-generating device might be right for your child and then help your child learn to use the device.
An occupational therapist trained in augmentative and alternative communication systems might also be involved. They can make sure the device is set up so that your child can use it comfortably.
Where can you find a therapist?
You can find therapists trained in the use of speech-generating devices by going to:
If you’re interested in speech-generating devices, you could speak about them with your GP or one of the other professionals working with your child. You could also talk about them with your NDIA planner, early childhood partner or local area coordinator, if you have one.
How are parents involved with speech-generating devices?
You need to work with an experienced speech pathologist to choose and buy an appropriate speech-generating device for your child.
You also need to be involved in:
- learning how to support your child’s communication with the device
- using the device with your child
- ensuring that everyone in your child’s environment knows how to use the device.
You also need to encourage your child’s attempts to communicate using the device.
How much do speech-generating devices cost?
The cost of speech-generating devices varies widely, from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.
Cost depends on the type of device and its features. For example, the device might be a dedicated device, or it might be an app on a phone or tablet. Also, the device might require software, either as a once-off fee or as part of a subscription.
Your child will need sessions with a speech pathologist to choose the most suitable device, set up the device with individually chosen words, and learn how to use the device. The cost of these sessions depends on the therapist’s qualifications and experience. Some private health care funds might cover a portion of the consultation fee. If the provider has HICAPS, this can be claimed immediately.
You might be able to include the cost of a speech-generating device and speech pathology in your child’s NDIS plan. You can contact the NDIS to find out.
Therapies and supports for autistic children range from behavioural therapies and developmental approaches to medicines and alternative therapies. When you understand the main types of therapies and supports for autistic children, it’ll be easier to work out the approach that will best suit your child.