South Cook Area Wide Institute Day 2026

Behavior is a form of communication. But how can we support students in replacing challenging behaviors with more socially acceptable modes of communication? This training will review the basics of behavior and communication, and discuss low tech and AAC tools and evidence based strategies to promote effective communication. 

Behavior is a form of communication. But how can we support students in replacing challenging behaviors with more socially acceptable modes of communication? This training will review the basics of behavior and communication, and discuss low tech and AAC tools and evidence based strategies to promote effective communication. 

This interactive training will provide participants with practical knowledge and strategies to support students who may benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Educators will learn how to recognize individuals who could benefit from AAC intervention, explore a variety of evidence-based implementation strategies for classroom use, and develop an understanding of how to select meaningful and functional AAC vocabulary for educational settings. Through real-world examples, guided practice, and collaborative discussion, participants will leave with actionable tools to promote communication, participation, and inclusion for all learners.

This interactive training will provide participants with practical knowledge and strategies to support students who may benefit from Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Educators will learn how to recognize individuals who could benefit from AAC intervention, explore a variety of evidence-based implementation strategies for classroom use, and develop an understanding of how to select meaningful and functional AAC vocabulary for educational settings. Through real-world examples, guided practice, and collaborative discussion, participants will leave with actionable tools to promote communication, participation, and inclusion for all learners.