# 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.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/aac-apps-for-autism
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-29

**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?

| App | Developer | Price to download |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Proloquo2Go AAC | AssistiveWare B.V. | $249.99 |
| TouchChat HD- AAC w/ WordPower | Prentke Romich Company | $299.99 |
| LAMP Words For Life | Prentke Romich Company | $299.99 |
| Avaz AAC | AVAZ, LLC | Free to download |
| CoughDrop | MAVWARE, LLC | Free to download |

Each uses a different vocabulary layout, so try before you buy where you can.[2][3]

## 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: [Free printable: two-choice board](https://theautismkit.com/printables/choice-board.pdf)

## What can I do this week?

- [ ] Ask for an SLP assessment
- [ ] Try a free AAC app together
- [ ] Model words by tapping them yourself

Read next: [Visual supports for nonspeaking kids](https://theautismkit.com/guides/visual-supports-for-nonspeaking-kids)

## Common questions

### Will AAC stop my child from talking?

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

### Can insurance or schools pay for AAC?

Sometimes. An SLP assessment is usually needed. Schools may provide AAC through an IEP.

### Is a visual schedule app an AAC app?

No. Visual schedules show what's happening; AAC apps are for saying things. Many children use both.

## Sources

1. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: Augmentative and alternative communication. https://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/aac/
2. Apple App Store: Proloquo2Go AAC (AssistiveWare). https://apps.apple.com/us/app/proloquo2go-aac/id308368164
3. Apple App Store: LAMP Words For Life (Prentke Romich Company). https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lamp-words-for-life/id551215116

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.