Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) may be necessary for individuals with complex communication needs. How do I get started?

Description:

Check out these Professional Learning Possibilities:

Mindset 

• Article: Five Signs Your Child Needs Augmentative and Alternative Communication
• **Webshop: [TechKnowledgy 2017-18] Archived Webinar: Implementation of AAC: Debunking Common Myths and Road Blocks 
• Article: Communication Bill of Rights (ASHA)
• Article: AAC Myths: Busted (Small Talk Speech Therapy)

What device is needed?

• **Webshop: [TechKnowledgy 2017-18] Archived Webinar: Necessary Components of Successful AAC Consideration (Part 1)
• **Webshop: [TechKnowledgy 2017-18] Archived Webinar: Necessary Components of Successful AAC Implementation (Part 2)
• Course: Asynchronous Virtual Virginia Course - Virginia Assistive Technology, Tools, and Strategies (VATTS): Consideration Guide and Resources 2022-2023
• Article:  Low-Tech & High-Tech AAC (Liberator)

Which Words Do We Start With?

• Article: Core vocabulary - first 40 from DLM (Center for Literacy and Disabilities Studies)
• **Webshop: A Few Good Words: Using Core Vocabulary to Support Students Who Are Non-Verbal
• Training: Project Core: Professional Development Modules

How to be the best communication partner you can be:

• Training: MASTER PAL training
• **Webshop: [TechKnowledgy 2015-16] Aided Language Stimulation: An Essential Strategy for Teaching Language to AAC Users of Any Age
• **Webshop: [TechKnowledgy 2016-17] Say what you wanna say
• Youtube Video: Speech without limits (modeling videos)

**Note: You will need to create a free account on TTAC Online to access these webshops.

For further information and resources, please visit: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) provided by VDOE's Assistive Technology Network