SWAAAC

State-Wide, Assistive Technology, Augmentative, Alternative, Communication

 

Augmentative and alternative communication is a term used to describe a form of communication that is designed to either supplement or replace more typical means of communication.

 AAC allows for a child to be able to access the world around them through aiding language development, assisting with language planning (e.g., sentence formation) and categorizing vocabulary. AAC allows for back and forth communication for a child, which you and I experience verbally every day.

 AAC can also be an aid to language development and understanding across varied settings and/or persons. One might say… “My child doesn’t need AAC—I understand them just fine.” While you, and other caretakers, may understand your child in the way they communicate, not everyone in their community does. AAC opens up independence, and the chance to communicate with others in restaurants, stores and school, etc.

Children without a formal diagnosis or disorder may still benefit from AAC. In schools, AAC can be recommended when there is a need for increased access to educational and/or academic settings. It may also be recommended as support if there are behavioral concerns (e.g., tantrums, self-harm, etc.) as these behaviors may be directly related to concerns or struggles in communication.

Our team is comprised of:

Kelsey McClure
Special Education Coordinator- SWAAAC
254-5432

Keri Himler
254-5170

Additional Resources: