AAC Adventures

AAC Adventures is a play-based, enrichment program designed for children who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems (e.g., speech-generating devices, communication boards). Led by Speech Therapist, Maureen O’Brien, MS, CCC-SLP, and integrating equine interactions and the outdoor environment, children participate in structured and semi-structured activities such as grooming, leading, barn routines, and collaborative games - all embedded with intentional communication opportunities. The novelty of the outdoor environment and the intrinsic motivation of working with animals help regulate sensory systems and increase attention, which in turn supports more frequent, functional AAC use.

Group facilitators model AAC throughout the day, focusing on:

  • Core vocabulary in meaningful contexts

  • Expanding utterances (from single words to phrases)

  • Initiation and turn-taking

  • Social communication with peers

  • Functional communication (requesting, commenting, protesting, directing)

The program emphasizes a total communication approach, honoring all modalities while consistently supporting AAC as a primary system. Caregivers may also be included through coaching sessions to support carryover into home and school environments.

The Details

  • Ages: 4 –12

  • Schedule: Tuesday–Thursday, 2-week program (6 sessions total)

  • Dates: July 7th-9th & July 14th-16th

  • Time: 9:00am – 10:30am (90-minute visits)

  • Investment: $270