A collage of ARASAAC pictograms forming the shape of a heart, or a photo of a child pointing to a laminated ARASAAC communication board.
ARASAAC is a comprehensive graphic communication system that offers thousands of standardized pictograms designed to represent actions, objects, emotions, and abstract concepts. The system operates under a Creative Commons license, meaning anyone can download, modify, and distribute the materials for non-commercial purposes.
Hospitals, transport hubs, and government buildings utilize ARASAAC signs to create universally accessible, barrier-free environments. Best Practices for Implementing ARASAAC Materials
(Aragonese Portal of Augmentative and Alternative Communication) is a government-funded initiative that provides open-source graphic resources to assist people with complex communication needs. It is widely recognized for its vast database of high-iconicity pictograms that help bridge communication gaps for individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, or language barriers. Core Functions & Resources The project serves as a comprehensive hub for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Aula abierta de ARASAAC o arasaac work
: Such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, or degenerative diseases like ALS. Language Learners
Their "work" isn't just a library of images; it’s a standardized visual language used by millions of teachers, therapists, and families worldwide to support individuals with: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Aphasia or stroke recovery Intellectual disabilities Language barriers (non-native speakers) How "ARASAAC Work" is Applied in Practice
Helping adults regain functional communication. A collage of ARASAAC pictograms forming the shape
ARASAAC was launched in 2007, the brainchild of the Department of Education, Culture and Sports of the Government of Aragon (Spain) . The iconic pictograms themselves are the work of , a fine arts graduate who won the original commission and has since dedicated his career to designing accessible visual languages .
This global reach has led to tangible, real-world impacts. From the National Police of Spain incorporating ARASAAC pictograms into emergency communication kits, to entire cities like Murcia, Badajoz, and several cities in Argentina using them to signal public spaces, hospitals, and shops, ARASAAC’s work is building more accessible and inclusive environments. International bodies like the European Union also rely on these resources to bridge language gaps. The work of ARASAAC shows that a pictogram, a simple graphic, can become a key to unlocking communication and fostering inclusion, regardless of a person's native language, cognitive ability, or age.
Transform physical spaces into communication-rich environments. Label classrooms, therapy rooms, or household cabinets with corresponding ARASAAC pictograms. This constant exposure reinforces word-object association and encourages spontaneous communication. Step-by-Step Guide to Creating ARASAAC Materials Core Functions & Resources The project serves as
Visit arasaac.org today. Explore the 12,000+ free pictograms, download the ones you need, and start building your own communication boards. Communication is a right—make it visual.
Are you creating a "Morning Routine" chart? A "Restaurant Menu" for a field trip? Or a "Choice Board" for playtime? Narrowing the scope prevents visual clutter. 2. Select Consistent Symbols
ARASAAC demonstrates the power of collaborative, open-source projects to solve real-world problems. What started as a regional initiative has blossomed into a global standard for AAC, built on the principles of sharing and inclusion. Whether you are a professional, a caregiver, a teacher, or someone discovering these tools for the first time, ARASAAC offers a world of possibilities, all with a single purpose: making communication a right, not a privilege.
ARASAAC represents a profound shift toward equity in the field of accessibility. By lowering financial barriers, it empowers underfunded schools, rural clinics, and families worldwide to provide gold-standard care. As technology continues to evolve, the integration of ARASAAC icons into digital AAC software, eye-tracking hardware, and mobile applications ensures that the voice of the non-verbal community will continue to grow louder and clearer.
The is a globally recognized initiative that provides free resources for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) . Funded by the Government of Aragon in Spain, it aims to facilitate communication and cognitive accessibility for individuals with speech, language, or cognitive impairments. What is the ARASAAC Project?