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AAC Resources
When Behavior Speaks Louder Than Words: Understanding “Noncompliance” in AAC Users

When a child who uses AAC appears to be noncompliant or engages in behaviors that seem to “shut down” communication or participation, it’s easy to label it as defiance or resistance. But what if these behaviors are actually communication?

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Vicki Clarke
May 14, 2025
Language & Communication Development
How Do We Know They Meant It? Understanding Intentionality in Emergent AAC Communicators

One of the most common questions we hear when supporting emergent AAC users is: How do we know they meant it?

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Vicki Clarke
May 7, 2025
Student Participation Supports
AAC Partner Strategy: Respect and Reflect

As AAC partners, it’s our job to recognize these messages and respond in a way that helps the child learn more effective ways to communicate. One powerful strategy to support this process is called “Respect and Reflect.”

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Vicki Clarke
April 30, 2025
Teaching Tools & Strategies
When a 1:1 Paraprofessional Is in Place: Supporting Inclusion and Communication in the Classroom

The support of a 1:1 paraprofessional may be one part of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team’s plan to ensure access, participation, and meaningful communication in the general education setting.

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Vicki Clarke
April 23, 2025
AAC Apps, Equipment & Tools
Helping AAC Users Communicate More Effectively: Why Consistency Matters

One common mistake is moving words around or creating too many special pages for specific activities. While this might seem helpful in the moment, it can actually make communication more difficult in the long run.

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Vicki Clarke
April 16, 2025
AAC Resources
Looking at Communicative Competence in AAC: What Really Matters

If you support individuals who use AAC, you’ve probably heard the term “communicative competence.” But what does it really mean—and how do we make sure we’re considering everything that contributes to communication success?

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Vicki Clarke
April 9, 2025