Early communication refers to the exchange of information without using language or symbols (also called nonsymbolic). Many children and youth with severe and multiple disabilities do not use conventional symbolic systems to communicate with others. Instead these individuals rely on their own bodies and current contexts to communicate. These expressions may include facial expressions, body movements, gazing, gesturing, and touching. It is essential that communication partners be responsive to and strive to expand the existing communication abilities of the individual. Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to multiple interventions for individuals with severe communication disorders in attempts to compensate for their impairment. Components of AAC systems include; symbols, aids (such as computers, electronic devices, or a communication book), strategies, and techniques.

Web Links

Augmentative and Alternative Communication Center--This site provides information about the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Center at UN-L. It also provides many links related to AAC including educational opportunities, terminology, and links to other resources and web sites.

Speech and Language Disorders--This site provides a library of information and resources on the Internet relevant to speech language disorders. Augmentative communication is one topic within this extensive index.

National Center to Improve Practice (NCIP) -- NCIP was funded by the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Special Education Program to promote the effective use of technology to enhance outcomes for students with sensory, cognitive, physical, and social/emotional disabilities.  NICP's website is full of great information!  NCIP Library section provides a collection of resources about technology and special education; Video Profile section provides videos of students using assistive and instructional technologies; NCIP Guided Tours section explores two exemplary early childhood classrooms; and links of NCIP provides wide variety of links related to various disabilities.

The Teaching Research Institute--Information regarding programs and research for early childhood and preschool integration. Includes a list of texts for assessment of persons with severe disabilities and assessment of AAC and communication needs.

Ablenet-This is a very resourceful site for parents, teachers, and other professionals working with students who either utilize or rely on assistive technology to maximize their learning potential. This on-line catalog provides creative products and ideas to help address real life challenges both in and out of the classroom with innovative easy-to-implement technology and ideas. This site also offers suggestions and specific examples of how to implement assistive technology into daily activities.

PALAESTRA-PALAESTRA is an on-line magazine designed to enlighten parents and professionals in all aspects of physical activity, to increase the knowledge base of professionals working with children or adults with disabilities, and to provide other professionals with information regarding the physical wellness of students with severe disabilities.

Activity ideas for students-This issue of PALEASTRA features activity ideas for students wit severe disabilities. The purpose of this article is to suggest some basic ideas and adaptations for teaching students with severe disabilities. This article was constructed into units and the topics include: Cause and Effect, Ball Play, Group Activities, Music, and Locomotor Movements. Other articles included in this issue include: Effects of Exercise on respiration in children with cerebral palsy, The Driver with Disabilities-Free Wheeling-Part V, The XVIII Word Games for the Deaf: A Musical Paradox, and Springfield College Plays Host to Two Summer National Championship.

Adaptive Equipment & Technology

www.Rehabtool.com-- Internet Resources for Special Children (IRSC) provides lists of very useful information on the computer aids to help and empower people with disabilities to access to new technology.  This site provides good information for both people with general disabilities and people with specific speech and language problems. Our mission at Rehabtool.com is to help children and adults with disabilities enhance their lives, increase their independence and productivity, and gain greater social inclusion throught the use of leading-edge assistive technology.

Applied Science & Engineering Laboratories - This is the homepage for the Applied Science and Engineering Laboratories at duPont Hospital for Children and the University of Delaware.  There are links to the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative and other sites on AAC.

Assistive Technology Partnership - The Assistive Technology Partnership has been helping Nebraskan's with disabilities obtain assistive technology devices and services since 1998. Information, training, peer volunteers and demonstration centers have increased awareness about the benefits of assistive technology and how it can be utilized at home, school and work.

The Assistive Technology Partnership provides information on locating devices and funding from assistive technology and home modifications and assists persons with disabilities in the areas of employment, independent living, education and housing. (888) 806-6287.

Nebraska Educational Assistive Technology -Here at Answers 4 Families, our mission is to provide information, opportunities for dialogue, education, and support to Nebraskans with special needs and their families; by developing and providing internet resources; and by encouraging others to do the same.

Purpose: To provide an assistive technology service delivery model that will support the implementation of assistive technology for youth with disabilities in Nebraska. NEAT is a statewide service to provide technical assistance, training, resources (including assistive devices for trial use and demonstration), and funding coordination for the use of assistive technology devices and services by youth with disabilities, birth to age 21. Services are available to educators, agencies, youth, and their parents.

Assistive Technology for All (A+4 All) - Loans are available to Nebraskans with disabilities, their family members or caregivers, school personnel, related service providers, and others who are addressing assistive technology needs of persons with disabilities.

Contact NEAT to request a loan of assistive technology eqiupment or materials. Call (308) 784-4525 or e-mail: neat@esu10.org

Direct questions or comments: to Dr. Ellin Siegel esiegel1@unl.edu