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AAC Awareness Month 2024: Let’s Talk About Augmentative and Alternative Communication

AAC Awareness Month 2024


October marked AAC Awareness Month: a month dedicated to showcasing the different ways individuals use Augmentative and Alternative Communication in their daily lives. Everybody has the right to communicate in their own way!

AAC Awareness Month is an initiative of ISAAC, the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication, and is acknowledged all over the world each October. This year’s theme was ‘Vibes of AAC’. 

 

What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)? 

AAC refers to any communication tool that either helps supplement spoken language or can be used as a replacement for spoken language. Some examples of AAC include:

  • Facial expressions
  • Hand signs or gestures
  • Images or photos
  • Writing or typing
  • Communication books
  • Speech generating devices

Throughout October, our specialist AAC team shared information on Augmentative and Alternative Communication, and how everyone communicates differently. The team supports individuals year-round to trial different communication devices and find one that allows them to express themselves and connect with others. Check out the video below to find out more!

 

You can also take a look at our Communication Toolbox on YouTube where you will find a variety of videos exploring communication tips and strategies. 

 

Key Word Sign Awareness Day

October is not just AAC Awareness Month – Key Word Sign Awareness Day is also acknowledged on the 10th of October each year.  

This day is used to spread the word about this simple and effective way for individuals with speech, language, and other communication difficulties to communicate. 

Key Word Sign (KWS) is a type of AAC. It uses facial expressions, hand signs, and gestures as a way to communicate alongside spoken language and can be used as a tool or approach to support self-expression.

In Australia, KWS acknowledges and borrows the signs from Auslan (Australian Sign Language). This is the native language used by the Australian Deaf community. 

KWS can support language development for children and adults by enhancing their ability to understand spoken information and express their wants and needs.

You can help make a difference by incorporating KWS into your conversations while learning, playing, reading books, or singing songs. Click here to access some resources to get you started.

 

Get involved in AAC Awareness and Key Word Sign

Here is a list of simple ways you can acknowledge all things AAC, not just in October but all year round: 

  • Share your AAC vibes on social media using the hashtag #AACAware24.
  • Keep the conversation about Key Word Sign Day going using the hashtag #KWSAwarenessDay.
  • Watch session recordings from Key Word Sign Australia’s KWS Awareness Day Seminar to learn, sign, share, and connect with the KWS community across Australia. You can have the link sent straight to you by emailing contact@kwsa.org.au.
  • Find out more about KWS by visiting the Key Word Sign Australia website here.
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