Feeling overwhelmed about where to start supporting AAC users?
Supporting AAC users can feel overwhelming, especially if you are new to the AAC world! The bilingual AAC guidebook is a must-have digital resource packed full of information on AAC basics, funding, implementation, and practical advice to help you confidently get started!
"As an SLP who struggled to find comprehensive guidance on AAC implementation early in my career, I can wholeheartedly say that this guide is the type of resource I wish I had access to from the beginning. It is packed with information, from foundational concepts to real-world applications and best practices; all presented in practical, easy-to-digest-ways. If you’re an SLP, educator, family member, or other professional just starting out with supporting AAC, this guide will not only equip you with essential knowledge but will give you the confidence to start making a meaningful impact right away. I promise you will walk away feeling more prepared to support the AAC users in your life.”
-Hannah Croll , M.S., CCC-SLP
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Here's some of the topics you'll find inside the guide:
Information on AAC basics- what AAC is, who may benefit from AAC, AAC types, and AAC systems that we want to avoid
Debunking common AAC myths: AAC does not negatively impact speech and language development, high-tech AAC is not screen time, AAC is not just for nonspeakers, no prerequisites for AAC
Funding options on getting an AAC device and free low tech AAC you can access immediately
Do's and Don'ts for successful AAC modeling and implementation, including handouts on the use of hand over hand prompting, PECS, and placing verbal demands for AAC use, such as "Use your words"
15 pages of examples on how to model AAC naturally within everyday routines
Essential AAC programming tips including emergency planning, and customizations for gestalt language processors
Cultural considerations for supporting bilingual AAC users
My name is Jenny, and as both a BCBA and the mother of an autistic child, I’ve had the opportunity to experience firsthand the journey of introducing an AAC device to my son. We've been using it for nearly a year, and we're still learning. Brianna has put so much care and passion into the resources she creates for families and professionals alike. I initially struggled to find ways to model AAC use consistently due to the demands of parenting, but her AAC resource has been incredibly helpful. The examples she provided sparked new ideas for modeling in various contexts, making me feel more confident and at ease. She also included valuable tips on how to get AAC devices funded. I highly recommend this resource—it has truly increased my competence and comfort as both a mother and a behavior analyst.”
-Jenny Sun Lai, MA, BCBA
This guidebook was created for anyone supporting AAC users whether you're:
Entirely new to AAC and not sure where
to start
A professional looking for easy to understand, print-and-go handouts for AAC trainings
A caregiver feeling overwhelmed with how to use the AAC device at home
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“These resources should accompany an AAC device. Brianna highlights essential practices for becoming a confident communication partner, addressing all the questions you might have at the start of this journey. Access to materials like these is crucial for making a meaningful difference. As a parent of an AAC user, I’m thrilled to see bilingual resources that foster acceptance, connection, and education.”
-Kymberlie, mom of AAC user
Hi! I'm Brianna.
I discovered my love for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) when I accepted a job at a school with a caseload of 60 students who were all nonspeaking or minimally speaking, using some form of AAC. I was incredibly overwhelmed and tried my best to learn as much as I could as quickly as possible. I made a ton of mistakes along the way, seriously. There are things I did in my early years as a therapist that I would never do today. Reflecting back on it now, there are so many things that I wish I would have known from the moment I began supporting AAC users. That right there, was the inspiration for creating the guide. Everything I wish someone would have told me on my journey, I included in the guide for you, and then a little extra. My hope is that this guide provides you with the practical tips and knowledge that you need to start supporting AAC users now.