Once upon a time, I knew a student – we will call him Steven. He had eyes and a smile that would brighten up any room. Steven was about 8 years old when I first met him. He had cerebral palsy and access to anything (e.g., toys, communication devices, curriculum, computers, etc.) was physically difficult [...]
We’ve all heard the saying, “A family that plays together, stays together.” I think we can apply this to the kids we know who use augmentative communication devices. In my more than 17 years of experience, the children with supportive parents were always more successful with their AAC systems that those children without. These were [...]
I am a horrible speller. I can admit it. I rely heavily on spelling supports when I write. Dictionary.com, Thesaurus.com and spell check are my best friends. Before this wonderful technology, I would often carry a pocket dictionary in my purse. I consider myself to be a relatively intelligent woman – I just need spelling [...]
I’m reading a book right now that discusses how small changes can make a huge impact. While the book is referring to changes in society, social networking and the economy – I believe that this phenomenon also applies when working with people who use AAC systems. I believe that the most significant (and small) change [...]
I like technology just as much as the next person, but sometimes I find myself feeling overwhelmed with it all. I rely on technology everyday to do my job, to stay connected with friends and family, to drive, to withdrawal money from the bank, and to learn new things (What would we do without the [...]
There never seems to be enough time (or money) in the day to get everything done. Now, more than ever, I am becoming extremely resourceful. I am constantly looking for time and money-saving tips (The highlight of my day is an organization tip of the day email that I receive first thing in the morning!) [...]
I hear this question all the time. How can you know that a student is an appropriate candidate for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)? The answer is easy. If the student cannot communicate effectively in all environments, then they are a good candidate for AAC. Being able to say ten words and form five sign [...]
Visual supports are those things we can see that can improve communication, interaction and understanding (Hodgdon, 1995). Visual supports are photographs, symbols, line drawing or words that can be used to reduce some of the anxiety, confusion and frustration that many students with autism may feel when they come across unexplained or unfamiliar events.
Visual supports [...]
I was at the store the other day and all of the new school supplies were out! When I was a little girl, this was my favorite time of year. I got to pick out all of my supplies AND I still had a few more weeks of summer break to get ready for school.
We [...]
Many of us feel like we have been working in the field of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) since the beginning of time. I often reminisce about drawing my own pictures before Boardmaker was developed or about using my soldering gun to make cheap switches and adapted toys. Sometimes we forget that technology comes like [...]
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