Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC)

Recorded May 18, 2022. Children and adults with severe speech or language problems may need to find other ways to communicate besides talking. There are many types of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) they can use. Speech-language pathologists, or SLPs, can help. AAC means all of the ways that someone communicates besides talking. People of all ages can use AAC if they have trouble with speech or language skills. Augmentative means to add to someone’s speech. Alternative means to be used instead of speech. Some people use AAC throughout their life. Others may use AAC only for a short time, like when they have surgery and can’t talk. Join Fright Moore and Colleagues as they explore AAC.

Presented by Speech Matters SLP Services Inc.

Holly Smith (she/her) is a speech-language pathologist with over 12 years of experience working with clients of all ages. She is currently registered with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of British Columbia (CSHBC) and the Alberta College of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA), and she is certified with Speech-Language and Audiology Canada (SAC). Holly has worked with many autistic learners and their families, working collaboratively to provide client-centered and autism-affirming SLP services. Holly also has spent many years working with Indigenous children and families, and she is passionate about informed, inclusive, and culturally-sensitive practice for Indigenous communities.

Fright Moore (they/them) is an autistic speech-language pathologist currently registered with the College of Speech and Hearing Health Professionals of British Columbia (CSHBC) and the Alberta College of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA). Fright is also provisionally certified with Speech-Language and Audiology Canada (SAC). Fright has worked with many autistic children and their families, equipping learners with the tools to communicate and live authentically. As part of their practice, Fright provides autism-affirming caregiver education and coaching.

Laurisa Adams (She/Her) is a speech-language pathologist and currently registered with the Alberta College of Speech Language Pathologists and Audiologists (ACSLPA). Since moving to Alberta, Laurisa has gained much experience working with autistic clients and their families across many aspects of their daily lives; whether that be through FSCD home visits or within educational and daycare settings. Laurisa has a strong passion for early language development and providing education and support to families that can help stem successful early communication skills in whatever capacity that feels right for the family.

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Please note: The information given in this video was correct at the time of recording. If you are watching it at a later date, details could be outdated, and resources given may no longer be available.