Together We Speak: Building Community Through AAC Caregiver Support

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)

Format:

lecture

Subject Level:

intermediate

Age Span:

preschool
kindergarten - grade 6
grades 7-12

Target Audience:

AT specialist
educator
family member / caregiver
occupational therapist
physical therapist
special educator
speech language pathologist
university professor / personnel

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

0.01

ACVREP CEs:

1

Presentation Length: 1 hour

Location:

Atrium 4

Description:

This session will examine the role of Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) in facilitating caregiver support groups for families of children using speech-generating devices (SGDs). It will begin with an overview of the evidence base, followed by guiding concepts, principles of learning, and a practical support group framework. The session will highlight how SLP-led groups foster family engagement, improve communication outcomes, and build caregiver confidence. Participants will engage in a simulated caregiver support group through education, facilitation, and coaching. Real caregiver perspectives will inform discussion, and practical tools for group facilitation, caregiver coaching, and resource sharing will be provided. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies to implement support groups and strengthen communication outcomes.

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• List three key roles Speech-Language Pathologists play in facilitating caregiver support groups for children using speech-generating devices.

• Identify two benefits of caregiver support groups that enhance family engagement and communication outcomes for children using speech-generating devices.

• Recommend three strategies caregivers can use, supported by Speech-Language Pathologists, to improve communication consistency across home and community settings.

Disclosures:

I, Meg Stumpf, have no relevant financial relationships or relevant non-financial relationships to disclose related to the content of this presentation. While I am employed as a Speech-Language Pathologist, this salary does not constitute a financial relationship that could influence the content of this session. I have no other affiliations, funding, or personal interests that could be perceived as creating bias in the material presented.