If you’d like to download this resource as a PDF, click here!

Personalizing a child’s AAC device is a powerful way to make communication more engaging and relevant. Every child is unique and may benefit from incorporating preferred items—like dinosaurs, trampolines, or favorite snacks—to make the device more motivating and encouraging to use. However, there comes a point where too much personalization can actually hinder the user’s ability to use the device effectively as their language skills grow.

So, when does personalization cross the line from being beneficial to becoming a barrier?

Key Considerations for Personalizing AAC Devices

Many concerns around personalization come from a place of good intention, including questions like:

• Is this system overwhelming for the child?
• Is it too complex for them to use?
• Would the home page be more engaging if it were fully personalized?
• Should all stakeholders have the ability to edit the device based on what they think the child needs?

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here are some important factors to consider:

Growth with the System

Children typically grow and adapt with their AAC system over time. It’s often more effective to start with a larger grid size and hide icons that aren’t immediately needed. This allows for a gradual increase in complexity as the child becomes more comfortable with the device.

Don’t Underestimate the Child’s Abilities

Kids are often more capable with technology than we give them credit for, and AAC devices are no exception. What might seem overwhelming to us as adults might not be as daunting for them.

Trust the Research Behind AAC Systems

AAC page sets are typically built on years of research designed to facilitate language growth, improve grammatical use, and develop motor planning. Over-customizing these pages can undermine this research. Instead, consider adding fringe vocabulary as needed to maintain the integrity of the system.

Maintain Consistency in Editing

While multiple stakeholders may want to help a child with their AAC device, having too many people making changes can disrupt consistency in the child’s motor planning and usage patterns. It’s best to limit editing to one or two individuals, with others communicating their suggestions for discussion before any changes are made. What may seem like a small adjustment to an adult can be a significant change for a child!

Strategies to Avoid Over-Personalization

Search Before You Add

Before adding new words or icons, check if they are already present in the device to avoid redundant efforts.

Collaborate with Your Team

Discuss any significant changes with the team, particularly changes to the home page, to ensure a consistent and research-based approach.

Create an “AAC Passport”

Develop a guide that explains how to use the system and details the child’s communication preferences. This “AAC passport” can be carried with the child and include helpful tips for caregivers and educators.

Personalize the Right Vocabulary

Edit vocabulary that is personal to the individual! That may include people important in their lives, places they love to go, activities or toys they love, or even certain phrases they may like to hear or say!

What to Do If the Device is Already Over-Personalized

Assess the Current System

Hold a team meeting to determine if the current system truly meets the child’s needs. If it does, no immediate changes may be necessary. If not, consider reverting to a home page that aligns more closely with the original, research-based system.

Model Different Systems

Consider modeling both the over-personalized system and the original robust system. Many AAC devices allow you to switch between different page sets, providing flexibility for both learning and transition.

Seek Training and Support

Training can be challenging to access, but we are here to help! If you need incident-based training or resources, reach out to us. If time is limited, we can provide short, helpful videos that staff can watch at their convenience to gradually build their knowledge.

Need further support? Please contact the SLP Empowerment Team!