This guide addresses issues facing the parents, teachers and caregivers of children who are unable to use normal speech as a means of communication. It focuses on people who are intellectually disabled or children who are starting to use augmentative communication. The guide includes the following topics: the nature of communication; an overview of the range of alternatives available to people who are without functional speech; the team approach to the management of severe communication impairment; how to evaluate a communication aid; how to make a communication aid; communication games; technology and communication aids; and a national resource guide to available services. Chapters include: "What is Communication?" (Bronwyn Dredge); "What is Augmentative Communication?" (Cheryl Crosthwaite); "Working Together: The Role of the Family, School, Professionals and the Community" (Thelma Stone); "Early Communication" (Ann Doran and Karen Bloomberg); "Which One for Your Child?" (Karen Bloomberg); "Reviewing Augmentative Systems" (Bernadette O'Connor); "Working with Visual Communication" (Tracey Ayton and Gayle Porter); "Learning Day by Day" (Hilary Johnson); "How to Make a Communication Aid" (Bronwen Jones); "Communication Games to Play." (Sally Legge and Jann Kirkland); "Make Technology Your Tool" (Chris Williams); and "Resources: A National Guide to Services" (Cheryl Crosthwaite). (PRA)