SNEAK's Top 5 Web Resources for Teaching Language to Kids Who Use AAC

I often encounter colleagues and parents who find themselves stuck at many levels of the AAC and language continuum.  For some of us who support kids who use AAC, getting tangled in the technology can often leave us feeling confused and overwhelmed (Imagine how our kids feel!)  In my own quest for a life raft in this sometimes daunting task, I have found some wonderful resources to support the process of teaching language to children who use AAC! as well as those responsible for teaching them!  Here are my fav 5 web resources for AAC implementation strategies:

 

1.  AAC Language Lab is a site operated by Prentke-Romich Company, an AAC device manufacturer.  Even though the resources on this site are designed to be used with PRC's Unity software on their devices, the activities and resources here can be used to teach core vocabulary to kids who use any device or low-tech system.  Access to all info and teaching resources on this site is completely free!  I use the plans and handouts on this site daily with my kids and families and all of the information is clearly illustrated, in parent-friendly language, making AAC Language Lab an awesome resource for therapy sessions and carryover across daily routines. 

2.  PrAACtical AAC  is an amazing blog and web resource with frequent posts on language building strategies to support AAc users at a variety of levels.  PrAACtical AAC also has an AAC e-Toolbox with tons of implementation techniques, handouts, articles, and videos.  There is a wealth of other valuable information on this site and it is updated frequently with PrAACtical tips :). 

3.  Dynavox Implementation Toolkit  is a site by Dynavox Techno,ogies, another AAC device manufacturer.  This site is intended for use with Dunavox's InterAACt software on their devices.  However, much like the AAC Language Lab by PRC, the principles outlined in this extensive toolkit can be used with other devices and low-tech systems.  I especially like this resource because it has a range of information that varies in detail, making it a great source for pros, teachers, And parents.  You have to create an account to use the toolkit but it is quick, easy, and free to do so.  :)

4.  AAC Intervention provides a Tip of the Month on implementing ASC and archives all other tips for reference.  Eavh tip focuses on a different topic in ASC implementation and most include detailed handouts on what the strategy is, how to use it, and why.  The site is free for all resources and is updated somewhat frequently.  

5.  YAACK: Connecting Young Kids has a wealth of information on  the span of AAC, from defining through assessment, and also has some great, basic information on teaching AAC and building communicative competence in AAC users.  This isn't a site that is updated frequently as it is a compilation of information by Ruth Ballinger, completed for fulfillment of her Masters in Special Education.  BUT, it is an essential reference for anyone supporting an AAC user, especially those who are a little shaky on the subject of AAC.  

Have an AAC site or other resoirce that you depend on for guidance?

 

 

 

 

 

ATIA Update! Adapted Learning for Kids with CVI

 I have been dieing to attend a workshop with Linda Burkhart since graduate school, but I just haven't had a chance to make it happen. Today, I FINALLY got a taste of her wisdom and on, of all things, one of my favorite topics-CVI (cortical visual impairment).  A bit of what I took from today's mini-session with Linda Burkhart:

• All kids with CVI are different and even skills within each child with CVI may vary
• Don't judge a book by its cover: not all children with CVI have the same level of,m If any, significant cognitive impairment.  
• Successful intervention for children with CVI isn't just facilitating opportunities for sight, but also providing meaningful contexts for associative learning.  
• Adapting materials and the environment is not a one size fits all solution for kids with CVI: try these strategies and measure how they improve or hinder visual and leaning progress

                   -Add light via use of flashlight and other focused light sources to draw visual attention to symbols and objects for children with CVI who "light gaze" 

                   -Reduc glare which interferes with "flashlight  highlighting".  One way to do so, avoid high gloss laminating film and go for low-gloss or no- gloss options.  An alternative way to protect visual supports without lamination is a waterproof paper called iGage, sold at www.trailexplorers.com

                  -Establish visual attention by incorporating movement with objects or symbols, which taps into the "fight or flight" area of the visual brain.  Move objects and symbols by shaking them in the  periphery for establishment of visual attention, and then stilling them centrally for children o establish visual focus.  Use animation in computer programs and realize tthat some kids see better when they move-bounce on therapy balls, swing, or learn while moving in other ways. 

                  -Visual complexity is a significant problem for many kids with CVI so simplify visual materials by presenting pictures and text separately, reducing detail in symbols, reducing color array, and reducing symbol array (in situations of AAC).  

                 -Mask visual complexity by using simple techniques like covering extra visual info (e.g.,  extraneous objects, busy prints on clothing or confusing work surfaces, like clear lap trays) with dark fabrics in navy or black.  

                  -Use software programs that reduce visual complexity by keeping graphics and colors simple, such as those by Inclusive Technology.  Also, incorporate additional visual and auditory info via screen highlights, sounds assigned to different functions within games and AAC layouts, and verbal auditory cues. To AAC devices  

                  -Test software for kids with CVI to meeT these guidelines and do so with your eyes literally closed so you can experience what the feedback is like.  

                    - Keep in mind that kids with CVI may have difficulty processing sensory info together.  So they may not be able to look and listen or look and physically activate at the same time.  

I love the twist that Linda Burkhart gives to the field of working with kids with severe challenges and it was so awesome to hear her share her experience in person.  She also mentioned that Mayer -Johnson is due to release a high contrast version of PCS symbols as an addendum library to BoardmKer, very exciting for the application of visuals in the learning environments of children with CVI. Goodnightbfir now, more info from ATIA tomorrow, including extra focus on apps and other great gadgets in the exhibit hall!  

Gain more insight from Linda Burkhart at her site!

 

 

 

 

 

ATIA Update! AAC Institute & Developing Language Competence in AAC Users

A great session with Katya Hill, SLP of the University of Pittsburgh/AAC Institute, stressing the importance of helping families, professionals, and kids move forward, beyond core words, beyond requesting and social phrases, to full language competence with AAC Systems, including grammar and literacy. We forget sometimes that we need to follow normal developmental norms for Language acquisition with nonverbal or limited verbal kids and that we need to set their systems up with this evolution in mind!  Check out the great links below to learn more from the AAC Institute!  

 AAC Institute on Facebook 

AAC Institute Main Site 

Gail Van Tatenove, Pixon Project, & Core Words 

AAC Language Lab, Materails and Teaching/Implementation Materials 

 

I hope to find more Webinars and trainings on this topic for pros and parents in the future!

 

 

Stay Tuned to SNEAK for ATIA 2012 Coverage!

 How amazing is technology?  As I write this, I am 35,000 feet in the air, wedged in the middle seat of a very full airplane, on my way to Orlando! And what waits for me there?  More amazing technology!  While I may not be a reporter, I'm going to take a stab at it this weekend to bring all of you on-the-spot coverage of the great resources at ATIA.  Most of you know about ATIA, some of you may not, but in short, it is an amazing conference that brings together great minds in education, innovation, therapy, advocacy, and so much more!  AT for mobility, low vision, special education, hearing impairment- you name it and it is at ATIA!  And to back up these amazing products, fresh and innovative perspectives from experts in the supporting fields that bring ability to children and adults with special needs.   Stay tuned through SNEAK email updates, my Twitter feed (@sneakotb), RSS feed, and Facebook so you won't miss a thing tomorrow through Sunday!! :) 

 

The Debate Over BPA & Some Cool Products to Keep Kids Safe

 

 

The National Children's Study , addressing the debate over the potential health hazards of BPA  and other factors in our environment on childhood development, is officially underway!  This study will focus on correlations between childhood developmental delays, behavioral issues, and disease, and the presence of toxins in our environment.  Many believe that toxins, such as BPA, found in many products that our children consume daily, can lead to negative developmental and health impacts.  The goal of this study is to lean further insight into this issue as it pertains to humans (not animals, as in previous studies).  Visit The National Children's Study for detailed information about the study, and to receive email updates.  

ESP  (Essential Safe Products)is a great source of BPA-free products for babies and kids of all ages. Each product is tested before it is placed on their site, assuring no traces of BPA or other toxins.  Check out the products on their site! I use many of these myself, and I have found a few products at The Container Store.  Not high-tech but still great technology!

You can stay informed on this issue and the results of this study by subscribing to  email updates from The National Children's Study.  

 

ATIA Conference, 2012: A Great Experience for Parents and Professionals!

The Assistive Technology Industry Association ("ATIA") is a not-for-profit membership organization of manufacturers, sellers and providers of technology-based assistive devices and/or services.  The Annual ATIA Conference is a HUGE source of information on assistive technology and disabilities for professionals and families!  This conference, held in Orlando this year (January26-28, 2012), offers a wide variety of lectures, hands-on demos, trainings and more on technology and resources related to all disabilities (e.g., communication, hearing, vision, mobility, etc...).  There are specific tracks for families and professionals and the exhibit hall is free of charge with an "exhibit hall only" registration.  Parents, this is a great place to connect with professionals (e.g., therapists, teachers, advocates), products, and services that can greatly improve the lives of your special kids!  Professionals, this is a great place to network with experts, learn about new research, therapeutic principles, products, and services, and get continuing education credits! Check out the ATIA conference site for more details.  Register soon so you don’t miss out on the early bird discounts!  ATIA also provides great resources year-round on their website, including free webinar trainings, a newsletter, and links to vendors/products!

Free PDF Booklet on Building Switch Skills

Do you have a child or work with a child who uses a switch (or would benefit from using a switch) to access toys, computers, and more?  Are you stuck on how to help this child move forward with switch use?  Check out this free booklet on Switch Skills Progression at The Spectronics Blog!
"This booklet collates over ten years of best practice research and classroom observations from around the globe. Detailing every stage of switch skills acquisition from cause-and-effect through to competent scanning, this document will help you plan meaningful and motivating routes to success for your switch users accessing communication, learning and leisure."-The Spectronics Blog.

I downloaded this doc totally free in PDF form and I could even read it in iBooks on my iPad!  Spectronics is following up with another free resource on Touch Skills Progression (i.e., training children to access the various touchscreen commands used on touch devices like iPad) in early January, 2012! 

New Study on Behavior Problems and Early Birth

Very interesting study posted on Science Daily:
Kids born just a few weeks early at risk of behavioral problems, study suggests