Gabriel Ryan, School Health Blog Writer and Contributor
October is AAC awareness month, do you know what AAC stands for? Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)! AAC includes all the ways people communicate when they can’t rely on speech alone, this can range from gestures and sign language to high-tech devices and communication apps. AAC awareness is an opportunity to promote learning and understanding of access for all.
AAC is used by individuals in various settings, such as classrooms, communities, homes, or even restaurants. Having access to a variety of ways to communicate is transformative for individuals who would otherwise not be able to express their needs and interests. When individuals have access to AAC, they can expand their independence in a variety of ways, such as sharing their preferences for daily activities like clothing choices or beverage preferences, participating in conversations, and experiences in the community like employment and group events.
Whether you're an educator, therapist, family member, or self-advocate, you can learn more about AAC systems and how they work, promote inclusive communication in your community, and support AAC users to be heard in all areas of life.
Did you know School Health offers a couple of different AAC products to consider? Our team would be happy to assist you! You can reach out to us here. Learn more about the products by visiting our AAC page.
Let us know: Did you find this article interesting? Would you like to read more of these types of articles? Do you have a topic you would like to see highlighted? Contact me through email Gabe Ryan gryan@scoolhealth.com. I’d love to know how you’ve used information from the School Health Access Angle segments.