This interactive two-day learning experience is designed for every SLP, not just AAC specialists. Many clinicians say, "I don't have any AAC users on my caseload." In reality, students who are minimally speaking, hard to understand, emerging communicators, or communicating through gestalts can all benefit from AAC. This course builds the confidence and skills general SLPs need to begin AAC work before a specialist referral is needed.

Day 1 lays the foundation. Participants will explore the mindset and evidence behind AAC, core vocabulary, aided language modeling, motor planning, and autonomy-centered prompting. Participants will practice selecting vocabulary and learn how to honor diverse language learning pathways, including gestalt language processing, within AAC intervention.

Day 2 moves into assessment and implementation. Participants will learn a step-by-step approach to basic AAC assessment and trialing using the SETT framework and feature matching, including how to use regional loan and trial resources and when to refer to a specialist. The day also covers alternative access for students with motor and sensory needs, and the thoughtful use of AI-supported tools to support therapy planning, documentation, and data reflection without replacing clinical judgment.

Throughout both days, the course emphasizes coaching communication partners. Participants will learn coaching-based strategies that empower teachers, parents, and support staff to use AAC consistently across environments. Through clinical stories, therapy videos, small group discussion, and hands-on practice, participants will leave with actionable strategies to support meaningful, lifelong communication growth.