Technology has significantly enhanced access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), but there may be times when a high-tech AAC device is unavailable or impractical. Whether the device is being repaired, the battery dies, or the setting isn’t technology-friendly (e.g., swimming, bath time, outdoor play), having a lite tech backup ensures continuous access to communication. 

Why Are Lite Tech Backups Essential? 

1. Ensuring Continuous Communication 

A backup system prevents communication breakdowns when a high-tech AAC device isn’t accessible. No one should ever be without a voice, and having a lite tech option ensures uninterrupted interaction. 

2. Supporting Communication Partners 

Lite tech communication boards provide a consistent vocabulary across different settings, helping caregivers, teachers, and peers model language, encourage inclusion, and increase exposure to core words. 

3. Versatility Across Environments 

Certain activities, such as swimming or outdoor play, may not be compatible with high-tech AAC. Lite tech backups allow users to communicate in any situation without the worry of damaging their device. 

Best Practices for Implementing Lite Tech Back Ups

• Consistency in Lite Tech Systems: Ensure that the backup system aligns with the vocabulary that the AAC user most often uses.  
• Keep Copies in Key Locations: Store backups in frequently used places like a backpack, wheelchair, classroom, or home. 
• Train Caregivers and Support Teams: Educate family, teachers, and caregivers on how to use the backup system effectively. 
• Regularly Update and Practice: Keep communication materials up to date and encourage frequent use to maintain familiarity. 

What Do Lite Tech Backups Look Like? 

Backups can take many forms, including: 

• Printed Core Boards: Laminated small or large printouts to prevent wear and tear from water, bending, or daily use. 
• Playground Core Boards: Large, durable boards placed in outdoor settings to ensure all students have access to communication. 
• Binder of Printed Pages: A set of printed pages from a user’s AAC system that mirrors their device layout, ensuring consistency if their device is unavailable. 

Free Printable Lite Tech AAC Boards by System: 

AAC apps and software often provide free printable lite tech boards, allowing users to maintain access to familiar vocabulary. While these generic boards may not be customized, they still offer a consistent way to communicate when technology isn’t an option. 

• Proloquo2Go 
• TouchChat 
• TD Snap Core First 
• LAMP Words for Life 
• Grid for iPad 
• Avaz 
• CoughDrop 

How to Create Printable Communication Boards from Your Own AAC Device: 

Additionally, QuickTalker Freestyle users can easily turn their personalized AAC layout into a communication board by taking a screenshot, exporting the file (via Dropbox or Google Drive), printing, and laminating it for durability. 

How to Take a Screenshot on an iPad: 

1. For iPads with a Home Button:
   • Press the Top (Power) button and the Home button at the same time. 
   • Release both buttons quickly. 
   • A thumbnail will appear in the lower-left corner—tap it to edit or swipe it away to save it automatically. 
   1. For iPads without a Home Button (Face ID models):
      • Press the Top (Power) button and the Volume Up button at the same time. 
      • Release both buttons quickly. 
      • A thumbnail will appear in the lower-left corner—tap it to edit or swipe it away to save it automatically. 

How to Export the Screenshot to Dropbox or Google Drive: 

Using Dropbox: 

1. Open the Photos app and find your screenshot. 
2. Tap the Share icon (square with an upward arrow). 
3. Select Dropbox from the app list (if you don’t see it, tap “More” and enable Dropbox). 
4. Choose a folder where you want to save the file. 
5. Tap Save to upload it to Dropbox. 

Using Google Drive: 

1. Open the Photos app and locate your screenshot. 
2. Tap the Share icon (square with an upward arrow). 
3. Select Google Drive (if not listed, tap “More” and enable Google Drive). 
4. Choose a folder and rename the file if needed. 
5. Tap Upload to save it to Google Drive. 

Printing and Laminating for Durability: 

• Once uploaded to Dropbox or Google Drive, open the file on a computer. 
• Print the screenshot in the desired size. 
• For long-term use, laminate the printout to protect it from spills, wrinkles, and daily wear. 

By following these steps, you can create a personalized, durable lite tech AAC backup that ensures access to communication anytime, anywhere! 

Conclusion

Having a lite tech backup is a crucial part of AAC success. It ensures that communication remains accessible in all environments, provides a valuable tool for modeling language, and prevents disruptions when high-tech devices are unavailable. By preparing and integrating these backups into daily life, AAC users and their support teams can foster more consistent and inclusive communication experiences.