Why it’s time to give students back control of their communication
By Vicki Clarke
The Old Habit That Needs to Go
We’ve all seen it: an adult places their hand over a student’s hand to guide them to a button or symbol on their AAC device. It looks supportive—but in reality, it’s taking away the most important part of communication: agency.
Unless a student truly doesn’t understand how to make the movement, “hand-over-hand” (HOH) prompting doesn’t teach communication—it teaches compliance. It tells students:
- “Wait for me.”
- “You can’t do this yourself.”
- “Your words come from me.”
Even when it’s well-intentioned, it makes communication our action instead of theirs.
Why It’s a Problem
Researchers and clinicians such as Linda Burkhart and Jane Farrall have pointed out that when someone else physically moves your body, it changes how your brain learns that movement. It can disrupt the natural process of motor learning and limit independence.
It can also affect how students feel—especially those with sensory sensitivities. Having someone grab or move your hand can feel uncomfortable or even overwhelming.
If a student truly doesn’t understand what to do (for example, they’ve never used a touchscreen or switch before), a short demonstration or hand-under-hand assist can help. But even then, it should be temporary, respectful, and quickly faded.
Better Ways to Support Communication
Here are a few simple, effective alternatives to hand-over-hand prompting:
- Model the Message
Use the AAC device yourself while you talk.
“I wonder if you like the story.”
Then tap the device and say, “I LIKE the story.”
This shows how communication works—without taking over. - Give Visual or Verbal Cues
Instead of moving a hand, point near the options or say, “Which one do you want?”
Provide gentle guidance, not control. - Wait (and Keep Waiting)
Silence is okay! Give students time to process, explore, and respond. - Celebrate Attempts
Respond to any effort to communicate—not just “correct” answers. Every tap, look, or gesture builds confidence and skill.
The Big Picture
AAC is about giving students their own voice. Our role is to model, encourage, and support—not to control the message.
When we stop using hand-over-hand, we tell students:
“Your words belong to you.”
It’s time to retire this outdated practice and replace it with trust, patience, and modeling. That’s how communication—and confidence—grow.
Quick References & Resources
