Augmentive and Alternative Communication (AAC)

The Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) program is designed to help children with complex communication needs find a way to connect and communicate with those around them.

Overview

Our team works with school teams and families to help the child achieve their communication goals. The AAC program sees children and youth up to 18 years old who have physical access and communication needs that are not currently being met.

What To Expect During Your Visit

Please see front reception at SSCY Centre who will assist you with check in. The AAC team will review your child’s history and current communication approaches with you. Assessments are typically 1-2 hours long. We encourage you to bring your child’s team members and any communication systems you have been using.

Meet Your Team

The AAC Team is made up of an Occupational Therapist, a Speech Language Pathologist (SLP) and an Electronics Engineer. They will complete an assessment of current language abilities and access needs, provide a report outlining findings and recommendations for next steps with AAC, goals for communication and access to carry out at home and in school (created in conjunction with school team). If a communication device is required, our team will help determine the appropriate device and assist with acquisition. Follow up appointments will be arranged when the communication system has been obtained.

Program Funder

This program is funded by the WRHA and the Rehabilitation Centre for Children.

How To Access The Program

We request that the referral be completed by an SLP or OT knowledgeable about the child’s current communication abilities. The AAC Referral form can be found here. For questions contact aac@rccinc.ca. Our fax number is (204) 474-2387. You can also call for more information at (204) 258-6597.