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Communication Services

Expression Connection

Expression Connection is a program of the DSCBA Educational Alliance. Through this program, we ensure that children who have communication and speech difficulty due to Down syndrome have access to Augmentative Alternative Communication systems (AAC). It is our goal to make sure every individual is empowered and has the ability to communicate. We offer a lending library of AAC devices, consultations and training presentations. To learn more about the program, please see our information guide here.

Email Us for More information Here

Thank you to the California Communication Access Foundation for giving the gift of expression to our members and education to their families and schools!

Low Tech Library

Children and adults with moderate to severe speech impairments benefit from alternative and additional ways to talk. Communication boards are a great low-tech AAC tool to quickly improve basic communication. These boards can also be utilized as visual supports to help with comprehension and/or following multi step tasks.  Explore our inventory here. 

How the library works

Find a board and print!  Select the pdf file, download it to your device and print.
Customize. Did you find a board that will work but needs a little personalization such as pictures, names, etc.? Customization of a board can be requested by submitting this form.

Low Tech Library Inventory

Made with Padlet

Augmentative Alternative Communication Resources

 

AAC In Action

 

 

 

No Tech

"No Tech" AAC are methods people use to communicate without using external supports and devices

Low Tech

Icons on paper or objects used to communicate

Light Tech

Communication systems that are often battery operated and have a static display

High Tech

Systems that require an electronic source and have a dynamic (changing) display

Communication Partner Supports

 

 

 

A Vital Role

Communication partners make all the difference when it comes to encouraging, engaging, and teaching communication.  

AAC Calendar

Daily activities to facilitate AAC use

AAC in your day


Sample schedules and ideas for AAC throughout the day

AAC Manual for Caregivers

Free AAA/AT Resources

 
     

Don Johnson

Free AT supports for reading and writing provided to educators!

     

AAC Companies

 

     

Cough Drop

     

 

 

 

AAC Lending Library

We also have various devices in our AAC lending library. Check out what we have here.

If you are interested in borrowing from the AAC lending library, please contact:

  • Download a copy of the Loan Agreement here.

AAC Resources

The following presentations have been presented at the DSCBA:

  • PRAACTICAL AAC: A blog about the state of the field, sharing information about implementing AAC strategies, providing resources and discussing news of interest to the AAC community.
  • YAACK: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Connecting Young Kids (YAACK) is a website that covers issues related to AAC and young children.
  • AAC INSTITUTE: A nonprofit, charitable organization dedicated to the most effective communication for people who rely on Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).
  • BOSTON CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL: The Augmentative Communication Program has a rich history in the design, development and research of assistive technology in issues related to augmentative communication.
  • SPECTRONICS: A great resource for AAC communication-based apps.
  • ACTS: ACTS has provided AAC and AT services in the Bay Area since 1982. In addition to services, ACTS contains a wealth of information regarding best practices in AAC and funding.

Program Feedback

From Resource and Inclusion Specialists: 
“(Student) uses his AAC device to answer questions which allow him access to participate in games with his peers, and allow greater access to the school curriculum.”
“Even more amazing is how other General Education students in their classes are able to use the device to communicate with our students, creating an incredibly understanding, patient and inclusive community.”
“...using AAC devices makes an amazing difference in the school day for our students.  We have multiple students who use AAC devices.”
From parents:
"Thank you, thank you for giving her a voice.  She is so much happier these days, now that she can 'talk'.  We are beyond thrilled!!!!"
“My son’s ability to narrate his experiences definitely increased."