AAC Belongs in Community Programs

Communication is more than speech.

That should be reflected in community programs too.

Throughout the Bronx Special Kids sensory gardening curriculum, AAC and visual communication supports are incorporated into activities rather than reserved for a separate therapy setting. Children may use visuals for words such as help, break, stop, garden, plant, seed, bird, look, I see, I found, and feelings.

AAC can be used while planting. AAC can be used while painting. AAC can be used while exploring a garden, preparing food, choosing materials, or telling someone that you need a break.

And AAC is not only for answering adult questions.

Children need ways to say: No. Help. I want that. I’m finished. I need a break. Look! I like this.

When we design activities with multiple ways to communicate, we send an important message: Your communication counts here.

Community inclusion should not require a child to leave their communication system at the door.

Source note: Adapted from AAC and visual-support guidance throughout the Sensory Gardening Curriculum Packet.