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What are AAC apps, and how do I choose one for my autistic child?

What AAC is, popular AAC apps compared, and why a speech therapist should help you choose.

By The Autism Kit teamUpdated Sep 29, 2026 · 1 min read
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The short answer

AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) apps let a child tap pictures or words to speak. Popular iPad AAC apps include Proloquo2Go, TouchChat HD, LAMP Words For Life, Avaz AAC and CoughDrop. AAC doesn't stop speech from developing. Ask a speech-language pathologist to assess your child and help you choose, since the right vocabulary layout matters more than the app name.

Key takeaways
  • AAC apps let children tap to speak.
  • AAC doesn't stop speech from developing.
  • Choose with a speech-language pathologist.
  • Model AAC by using it yourself.

What is AAC?

AAC includes anything that helps someone communicate besides speech: gestures, picture boards and speech-generating apps. ASHA says AAC helps develop language and can enhance speech.1

How do popular AAC apps compare?

AAC apps on the US App Store (checked September 2026)
AppDeveloperPrice to download
Proloquo2Go AACAssistiveWare B.V.$249.99
TouchChat HD- AAC w/ WordPowerPrentke Romich Company$299.99
LAMP Words For LifePrentke Romich Company$299.99
Avaz AACAVAZ, LLCFree to download
CoughDropMAVWARE, LLCFree to download

Each uses a different vocabulary layout, so try before you buy where you can.23

How do I choose?

Try
  • An SLP assessment first
  • Trial or lite versions
  • Keeping the device always available
  • Modelling words by tapping them yourself
Skip
  • Choosing only by price
  • Taking the device away as a consequence
  • Changing layouts often
Free printable: two-choice boardPDF · 2 pages · two picture slots, plus food cards
Download Free printable: two-choice board

What can I do this week?

0 of 3 done

Read next: Visual supports for nonspeaking kids

Common questions

No. ASHA says AAC helps develop language and can enhance speech. Children can use speech and AAC together.

Sources

  1. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Augmentative and alternative communication. asha.org
  2. Apple App Store: Proloquo2Go AAC (AssistiveWare). apps.apple.com
  3. Apple App Store: LAMP Words For Life (Prentke Romich Company). apps.apple.com

This guide shares general information and our team's perspective, based on the sources above. Every child is different, so please talk with your child's doctor or care team about what's right for your family. How we write our guides.

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