October is International AAC Awareness Month, a time to spotlight tools and strategies that help children communicate when speech alone isn’t enough. At OrbRom Center in Phnom Penh, we support families exploring AAC—low-tech options like picture boards and high-tech speech-generating devices—so children can express needs, join classroom learning, and build friendships. For many families in the capital, AAC becomes the bridge to confident, everyday communication.
What is AAC and who benefits?
International AAC Awareness Month reminds us that AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is not “last resort.” It’s a set of supports for children with autism, developmental language disorder, apraxia, or limited verbal speech. Some start with simple visuals at home and school, then progress to tablets with robust vocabulary.
AAC supports:
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Learning: Visual symbols help children follow routines and answer questions.
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Behavior & regulation: When a child can request “break” or “help,” frustration decreases and engagement rises (see our overview of Communication and Language).
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Inclusion: AAC allows students to join group work, share ideas, and be heard alongside peers.
Families often ask whether AAC will “replace” speech. Research and clinical experience show that AAC frequently supports speech and language growth. For examples of how communication tools fit into therapy goals here in the city, explore Speech Therapy in Phnom Penh.
Getting started at OrbRom Center
During International AAC Awareness Month, OrbRom’s speech-language therapists provide:
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AAC screening & trials: We match symbol systems and access methods (touch, keyguards, switch) to your child’s motor and visual profile.
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Family training: Short, practical coaching so parents can model words at home during meals, play, and routines.
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School collaboration: We coordinate with teachers to place core words on desks, label learning centers, and plan carryover.
Because many children with autism in Phnom Penh also benefit from sensory and visual supports, we often pair AAC with structured strategies used in our therapy rooms. Tech-curious parents can also read about related tools in Assistive Technology for Autism.
Take the next step
If your child is not yet meeting communication milestones—or relies on pointing and pulling—International AAC Awareness Month is the perfect time to act. Book a consultation with OrbRom’s Speech Therapy team, or start with a comprehensive Assessment to understand strengths, needs, and the right AAC pathway. For broader context on autism and support options in Cambodia, you may also find Autism in Cambodia informative.
