Parent Training Series on Language Development and Augmentative/Alternative Communication(AAC)

Nassau Suffolk Services for Autism(NSSA) is launching a pilot program consisting of parent workshops on topics related to language development and augmentative/alternative communication (AAC). The workshops will be held at NSSA in Commack on four consecutive Wednesday evenings from 7PM to 9PM beginning on February 27th and running through March 19th. The purpose of this four week course is to provide parents with a basic understanding of augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) and language development [in AAC]. It is rare that training occurs for family members in how to incorporate the use of technology into family and community life. Often this results in abandonment of the recommended technology. With appropriate supports and training the probability of technology abandonment significantly decreases. Attendance at all four sessions is mandatory as the information from each week will be built upon in the following week's session. The workshops will offer hands-on training and activities will be provided at the end of each session for participants to complete and discuss at the following session. If you feel you will not be able to attend all four sessions, please do not register for this program. If you would like to be considered for this program or to receive further information, please contact Michael J. Cunningham, M.S., Ed., M.S., M.S., CCC-SLP at mjcunningham@nssa.net by February 7th. ---------------------------------------------------------- Date: Wednesday, February 27, 2008 Language Development: This presentation will provide a general overview of typical language development including developmental milestones. In order to have a framework to organize vocabulary and develop communication overlays for AAC systems, typical language development will be used as a reference from which to build functional communication skills. The differentiation between speech and language will be discussed. Date: Wednesday, March 05, 2008 Vocabulary Selection: This presentation will include a description of linguistic features and functions [how and why language is used]. A variety of vocabulary selection techniques will be discussed as they relate to language development. . Date: Wednesday, March 12, 2008 Vocabulary Layout: There are several methods of presenting vocabulary to an individual who uses AAC. This session will present the most frequently used methods with a critique and explanation of each. A discussion of how to transition from simpler formats to more grammatically complex and generative formats will be discussed. Explanations as to how to determine when it is appropriate to increase the cognitive-linguistic demands on the user will be discussed. Date: Wednesday, March 19, 2008 Activities: During the final session of this series, various activities of daily living that are rich in language development and communicative opportunities will be provided to the participants for the first half of the session. During the second half of the session participants will discuss and demonstrate communication overlays specific to their child that they have worked on for the entire series based upon information provided in each session. Kathy Mannion Associate Executive Director Nassau Suffolk Services for Autism The Martin C. Barell School 80 Hauppauge Road Commack, NY 11725 (ph) 631-462-0386 (fax) 631-462-4201 www.nssainfo.org