Resources to Support the Complex Communication Needs (CCN) Population
Complex Communication Needs (CCN)
Children and youth with complex communication needs (CCN) benefit from assistive technology and augmentative and alternative communication to support communication and language development. Students who have complex communication needs are unable to communicate effectively using speech alone. They and their communication partners may benefit from using alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) methods, either temporarily or permanently.
AAC systems of communication do not rely on speech. Children and youth who require AAC may have some speech but not enough to meet their daily needs. AAC systems may be used to augment existing communication skills or provide an alternative to speech.
These resources are intended to provide professional learning for professionals working with children and youth in the complex communication needs population.
Communication is more than exchanging messages: Social Closeness in AAC Intervention
Archived Webinar with Dr.Erna Alant
This presentation will focus on the benefits and importance of a meaning-making approach to AAC intervention. The approach acknowledges the importance of students’ participation in
activities, but emphasizes the role of engagement and social closeness in interacting with others. The development of friendships between peers in a classroom can only thrive when
teachers and therapist facilitate an environment conducive to meaning-making in interactions.
Length: 55:06