A Systematic Qualitative Review of Parent Perceptions and Experiences of Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Their Autistic Children

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) can benefit autistic children. AAC should be integrated into daily life, especially parent–child interactions, as parents are often key communication partners. The aim of this qualitative systematic review was to understand the perceptions of parents of autistic children regarding barriers and facilitators to the use and implementation of AAC. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria. The resulting thematic synthesis identified six themes: (a) hopes and fears for communication, (b) sources of knowledge, (c) trying so hard and still don’t know, (d) resignation and resistance in response to rejection and reluctance, (e) what communication brings, and (f) doesn’t fit and doesn’t work for us. Implications for families and professionals are discussed.