Making AAC Work at School and at Home
At AAC and Me, we support children aged 2 to 11 with complex communication needs to use AAC with confidence, wherever they are.
We work closely with families, schools and professionals to build practical, child-centred approaches that fit real life.
From specialist assessment and teaching plans to hands-on input, training and reviews, we help AAC become part of everyday routines, relationships and experiences — at home, in school and beyond.
Communication That Fits Your Family
Every family wants their child to be part of things — baking together, playing with friends, ordering their favourite treat at a café.
AAC can open those doors, and we’re here to help you get started.
We shape support around your child’s real life, helping you build the confidence and skills to use AAC in everyday routines and shared experiences. It’s not about ticking boxes — it’s about helping your child connect, join in and feel included.
“Success is not just about getting a device. Children then need to learn how to use it, and for most children using AAC often involves learning a second language of symbols, alongside everything else happening in the classroom” – Dr Beth Moulam, Paralympian and lifelong AAC user
Putting the Learner at the Centre
You know your child best — and we’re here to build on that.
Our support is tailored to your child’s needs and strengths, with personalised teaching and consistent input that fits into family life. We work closely with you and your child’s team to help communication grow in ways that feel natural and meaningful.
Whether at home, in school or out in the community, our focus is simple: helping your child take part, feel understood and connect with the people around them.
Building Confidence, Together
AAC feels most natural when everyone around the child knows how to support it.
We use real-life modelling, clear strategies and ongoing input to help families, educators and support teams feel confident using AAC in everyday situations.
Each session is shaped around your child and their world.
Got questions about AAC and how we work?
Take a look at some of our most frequently asked questions on the right. If you’re still unsure, just get in touch – we’re always happy to chat.
Contact usWhat age range do you support?
AAC & Me primarily works with children aged 2 to 11 who have complex communication needs.
This includes early communicators, children using low-tech or high-tech AAC, and those still developing consistent ways to express themselves.
While our core focus is on early years and primary-aged pupils, we can occasionally support older learners on a case-by-case basis, depending on need and fit.
Do you only work with high-tech AAC users?
Not at all. We support children using a wide range of AAC approaches, including both low-tech and high-tech systems. This might include communication boards, books, switches, tablets, or eye gaze devices. The right solution depends on each child’s individual needs.
We also work closely with communication partners, the people around the child, to make sure AAC is used consistently and meaningfully throughout the day.
Do you offer training for school staff?
Yes. We offer practical, hands-on training tailored to your setting and the children you support, including early years.
This includes one-off sessions, ongoing coaching, and accredited Elklan Level 3 courses in Supporting Children and Adults Using AAC and Communication Support for Children and Young People with Complex Needs.
We also provide follow-up support to help embed strategies over time. Our aim is to build confidence across the whole team so AAC becomes a natural part of everyday teaching.
Can you work alongside NHS or local authority teams?
Yes. Our role is designed to complement the work of NHS AAC Hubs, speech and language therapists, and local authority teams. We focus on day-to-day teaching and implementation, helping schools and families build consistent, confident use of AAC.
We are happy to work collaboratively to make sure support around the child is joined up and practical.
Can you help with AAC assessments?
Yes. We offer teaching-led assessments that focus on what a child can do, how they learn best, and which AAC approaches might support their communication and development.
Our assessments are practical and collaborative. We observe the child in real environments, explore access methods and communication tools, and involve those who know the child best. The outcome is a clear set of recommendations tailored to the child and setting, along with support to put them into practice.
What does a typical session involve?
Every session is tailored to the child and setting. It might include observing the child in class, modelling AAC strategies, adapting resources, or coaching staff and family members.
We always follow up with practical, written recommendations. Our focus is on building confidence and making AAC part of everyday routines, both in school and at home.
Can you help us set up a new AAC user?
Yes. We support new AAC users by helping teams set up the right tools, model language from the start, and build consistent routines. We work closely with staff and families to ensure everyone feels confident using AAC in daily life.
Can you support transition planning?
Yes. We can support transitions into school, between settings or key stages, or into more independent AAC use. This might include resource preparation, staff training and advice for families to ensure continuity.
Can you help us run an AAC club?
Yes. We currently run the Northallerton Communication Club and are looking to expand. If you’re interested in running a club in your school or local area, we can help you set up the right structure and support.