Before a typically developing child utters their first word, they have been exposed to approximately 2,400 hours of language from those around them. However, a child who uses AAC will probably have limited examples of how to communicate using their specific methods (e.g., voice output device, communication book, etc). In fact, it would take 23 years for a student who receives 120 minutes per week of speech therapy to have the same level of input. Therefore, daily communication partners of studen

Before a typically developing child utters their first word, they have been exposed to approximately 2,400 hours of language from those around them. However, a child who uses AAC will probably have limited examples of how to communicate using their specific methods (e.g., voice output device, communication book, etc). In fact, it would take 23 years for a student who receives 120 minutes per week of speech therapy to have the same level of input. Therefore, daily communication partners of students who use AAC have a critical role in successful device implantation. In this session, we will identify strategies that communication partners can use throughout the day to have a positive impact on their student’s device use and language. This training is intended for assistive technology professionals, speech-language pathologists, teachers, teaching assistants, parents, and occupational/physical therapists. COST INFORMATION: Workshop fee* waived for NSSED employees, Member District* employees, and parents of students in our member districts. For individual participants who do not meet the above criteria, certain fees will apply. NSSED reserves the right to cancel any workshop due to low enrollment. Registration or material fee per participant will be indicated when registering and billed after the session. **Member Districts include: Northbrook 27, Northbrook 28, Sunset Ridge 29, Glenview/Northbrook 30, West Northfield 31, Glenview 34, Glencoe 35, Winnetka 36, Kenilworth 38, Lake Bluff 65, Lake Forest 67, Bannockburn 106, Deerfield 109, North Shore 112, Township HS 113, Lake Forest 115, New Trier 203, Glenbrook 225.