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Available Workshops:

  • Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC) Strategies for Young Children (Series) - new dates available

Augmentative Communication Strategies for Young Children Training Series

Text: AAC Strategies Series

This training series will focus on exploring, identifying and implementing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) strategies for young children with complex communication needs. Participants will build a comprehensive understanding, and practical application, of the AAC process for young children.

Training Activities

Three small group full-day trainings:

  • Day 1: AAC Assessment 
  • Day 2: AAC Options: Hands-On Lab
  • Day 3: AAC Implementation Strategies

Within the small group trainings, we'll use a variety of learning activities to enhance the application of concepts. Hands-on practice with instructional and evaluation processes and AAC options will be provided.

Case study sessions

Each session will focus on two case studies of children within the participants’ caseloads. The children's identities will be anonymous. The case study presentations will follow a specific structure and be facilitated by ITEI members.

Activities will include:

  • brainstorming AAC assessment ideas
  • completing AAC feature match
  • discussing AAC implementation strategies.

ITEI will also provide resources for participants to reference and use in the future. Resources may include slide decks, observational tools, planning tools, communication supports, and other items.

Upcoming dates:

Location: 

Langevin House, Vermont Tech Campus, Randolph

Dates: 

AAC  Assessment                 September 24, 2024 8:30-3:00
Case Study Session #1                     October 10, 2024, 1:00-3:00
AAC Options (hands-on AAC lab)    October 22, 2024 8:30-3:00
Case Study Session #2                     November 14, 2024, 1:00-3:00 
AAC Implementation Strategies       December 3, 2024, 8:30-3:00
Case Study Session #3                     December 19, 2024, 1:00-3:00

Text: Vermont I-Team Early Intervention Project

The Fall 2024 AAC Training Series is now full.  If you'd like to be added to a waiting list, please contact pamela.cummings@uvm.edu.

 

Training Series Goals

  • Learn to assess and identify AAC systems for young children
  • Learn to implement light and high-tech AAC systems with young children in inclusive community, childcare and school environments

Target Audience: SLPs, Early Childhood Special Educators (ECSEs), Developmental Educators, OTs, PTs, classroom teachers, and paraeducators working with children from preschool to grade 2.

Cost: Free.

 

This training is the prerequisite to joining the AAC Mentorship program offered annually.

 

“I really appreciate that this training was informal…  …having an opportunity to reflect, and listening to others reflect, helps me take in the information. I felt the concepts presented are ones I am familiar with, but they were broken down in a new way that allowed me to think about them in a deeper way.”

 

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