I can...learn online!

What a great summer it has been...the Olympics, fantastic weather, ISAAC conference and so much more!  We hope you have made some great memories and that your child is looking forward to seeing classmates and learning something new this year. With that in mind, if you feel like you'd like a refresher on supporting your child's use of an augmentative communication system here are some online resources that may help.

 Speech Generating Device (SGD) Training Resources: 

Many device manufacturers provide some online training that is often FREE!  If you're child's device is connected via wifi...you may be able to search for the answers right on the device.  Bookmark your child's SGD manufacturer's website for quick and easy access. Here are some examples of SGD online resources. 

Dynavox - Webinars related to Boardmaker and Dynavox products such as V, Maestro, VMax.

PRC - Webinars related to PRC products such as the Springboard Lite, Echo, Vantage Lite.

 

 Proloquo2Go - Webinars for current and previous versions of this iDevice app.

If your child or student is a TVCC ACS client and you'd like specific training related to a device or communication system, speak with your clinician(s) to arrange a date and time.

Assistive Technology Training Resources: 
Do you want to learn more about assistive technology in general or have a particular area you'd like to learn more about.  Be sure to check out these online webinars and fantastic resources.

ATIA (Assistive Technology Industry Association) hosts a variety of live and on demand AAC webinars.

ATIA On Demand Webinar Topics: 

1. Teaching Core Vocabulary to Students with Severe Intellectual Disabilities 
2. Core Vocabulary: Why Use It?
3. Implementing Activity-Based Learning Using Core Vocabulary with Students using AAC Systems
4. Apps for the iPad, iTouch, & iPhone on Alternative and Augmentative Communication

Keyboarding: Learning to type can be fun!  If your child is interested in learning about keyboarding, here are some programs that are available online:

Dance Mat Typing 

Good Typing

http://www.goodtyping.com/ 

In this program you can increase the size of the copy text.

Power Typing

http://www.powertyping.com/

Great for kids who can handle several lines of text presented at once.

If you are thinking of purchasing a keyboarding instruction program, check out this review online:http://superkids.com/aweb/pages/reviews/typing/

General AAC Information: 

Pinterest - Check out the latest "pins" by searching augmentative communication, speech generating device, aac, communication symbols.

 

Twitter - keep your finger on the pulse with the latest tweets about AAC by following your favourite AC manufacturers and those interested in AC...including us!  If you'd like to follow us, click the link below.
follow @Icannewsletter

 

YouTube - Search particular devices or augmentative communication in general.  You'll be sure to find a wide variety of interesting videos.  Supervision is a must on this site.

I can...be a STAR!

Terrell shows his ability to use his low tech communication display to spell words and use core words to communicate with others.  Way to go Terrell!

Here's a great example of taking AAC strategies and using them no matter where you are.  If you need a smile and some inspiration about the everyday use of AAC, check out this fantastic blog: Neider Family Blog