Speech-language pathology (SLP) students Lexis Kreimeier and Natalie Kozak, along with members of the USF Graduate National Student Speech Language Hearing Association, recently organized the AAC Carnival, an event focused on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), in the USF Marshall Student Center.
Organizers Natalie Kozak and Lexis Kreimeier celebrate a successful event.
AAC is a communication approach used by SLPs that can help people who have difficulty with speech or language skills. This community event brought AAC users and their families together for a fall-themed celebration.
SLP students set up multiple games and events that provided individuals with augmentative communication supports and selections to play, and opportunities to win prizes and engage with their care partners and families. Each station was tailored to meet the communication needs of AAC users, with visual supports and accommodations for those with limited mobility. Some stations were also programmed with switches to enhance interactivity.
"This year, we had four kids attend, and we are looking forward to expanding next year to reach even more families who would benefit from this inclusive experience!" said Kreimeier.