Opening the Door to Communication: Understanding AAC for Young Learners
January 14, 2027 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Location Online – at your computer
Time 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sign In 3:45 PM – 4:00 PM
Description
Communication is more than spoken words, and every child deserves a way to express themselves. This introductory session provides an overview of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), including low-, mid-, and high-tech communication supports used with young children. Participants will learn what AAC is, who can benefit from it, and how AAC supports language development, social interaction, and participation in everyday routines. Common myths and misconceptions about AAC will also be addressed, leaving participants with a strong foundation for recognizing when and why AAC may be appropriate.
Presenters Brigid Peterson
Learner objectives 1. Differentiate between low-, mid-, and high-tech AAC systems and describe common examples of each. 2. Explain the purpose of AAC and identify young children who may benefit from AAC supports. 3. Describe how AAC supports communication, language development, participation, and social engagement in early childhood settings.
Early Childhood Special and General Educator, Family Educator, Family Member, Occupational Therapist/Physical Therapist, Social Worker, Speech/Language Therapist, Teacher
DEC RECOMMENDED PRACTICE ALIGNMENT
Interaction
GATEWAYS TRAINING STAGE
Stage 1 - Introductory
TRAINING TOPIC AREA
INT - Interactions with Children, SN - Special Needs/Inclusion, TECH - Technology
Location
Online – at your computer
Time
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Sign In
3:45 PM – 4:00 PM
Description
Communication is more than spoken words, and every child deserves a way to express themselves. This introductory session provides an overview of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), including low-, mid-, and high-tech communication supports used with young children. Participants will learn what AAC is, who can benefit from it, and how AAC supports language development, social interaction, and participation in everyday routines. Common myths and misconceptions about AAC will also be addressed, leaving participants with a strong foundation for recognizing when and why AAC may be appropriate.
Presenters
Brigid Peterson
Learner objectives
1. Differentiate between low-, mid-, and high-tech AAC systems and describe common examples of each.
2. Explain the purpose of AAC and identify young children who may benefit from AAC supports.
3. Describe how AAC supports communication, language development, participation, and social engagement in early childhood settings.
Details
Venue
Other