What is it?
Multimodal communication recognizes that people communicate in many different ways and may use several methods within the same interaction. Communication can include speech, AAC, gestures, facial expressions, body movements, signs, writing, drawing, vocalizations, objects, and other forms of expression. There is no requirement to use only one communication method; effective communication may look different across people, activities, environments, and moments.
How to use it?
Recognize and respond to all meaningful forms of communication rather than requiring a learner to use speech or AAC every time. Keep AAC and other communication supports available while allowing learners to choose the methods that are most effective for them. Communication partners can model multiple modalities themselves, for example, speaking while pointing to an AAC symbol, using a gesture, writing a key word, or showing a visual. Focus on understanding and interaction rather than requiring communication to look a particular way.
Why use it?
No single communication method is equally effective in every situation. A learner may speak in one interaction, use AAC in another, and combine speech, gestures, facial expressions, and AAC within the same conversation. Valuing multimodal communication supports autonomy, reduces pressure to communicate in one prescribed way, and gives learners more options for expressing complex ideas, repairing misunderstandings, participating, and connecting with others.
