Language is the principal means of communication between human beings. Not only is it used to express and decode messages (ideas, concepts and feelings), but it also contributes to the development of one’s cognitive abilities.
Speech may be recognized as the “ideal means of communication; but communication is not limited to such means” (FLOURIOT, M.). Thus, the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Program provides children and teenagers who have speech or language impairments with alternative means to communicate.
Mandate
The Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) program is offered at the Centre de réadaptation Marie Enfant (CRME) of the CHU Sainte-Justine and is part of its physical rehabilitation services. The AAC program provides ultra-specialized services through consultations and assessments to the referral rehabilitation agent with regard to recommendations of assistive communication aids.
Within the scope of the Quebec government’s augmentative and alternative communication program known as PMATCOM, the CRME was also designated as the resource centre for all establishments providing services to this clientele.