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Literacy and AAC: Practical Suggestions to Facilitate the Development of Reading & Writing Skills

In today’s society, literacy skills are critical for successful participation in academic, employment, and community settings. However, for children with severe speech impairments, learning to read and write can present an even greater challenge as students are often restricted from participating in traditional literacy activities (e.g., sound out words, reading aloud). This session will focus on issues pertaining to literacy development for individuals who use AAC with an emphasis on practical suggestions for improving literacy skills in individuals with severe speech impairments. Discussion will include information on strategies to facilitate emergent literacy including suggestions for successful joint-book reading experiences. The session will also provide participants with empirically-based suggestions for adapting literacy materials and instructional techniques to meet the needs of individuals with severe speech impairments.