Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is essential for individuals with complex communication needs, but they often face barriers when accessing and participating in their communities. This presentation will share success story of working with a city to promote AAC inclusion. We will follow a family in Prescott, AZ who worked with an SLP to design and build AAC playground boards, coordinated with the City of Prescott to have them installed, collaborated with local businesses to provide manual low-tech boards, and provided community training about AAC. By sharing their journey, this presentation aims to inspire other families and communities to collaborate in promoting AAC inclusion.The presentation will conclude with practical strategies for engaging with city officials and local businesses to promote AAC inclusion.
1)Understand the barriers that AAC users face in accessing and participating in their communities._x000D_
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2)Learn about effective interventions for promoting community AAC inclusion, including peer-mediated support, community-based training, technology-based interventions, and design principles for AAC playground boards._x000D_
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3)Learn how to engage with city officials and local businesses to promote AAC inclusion in the community, including strategies for identifying key stakeholders, crafting persuasive messages, and building partnerships.