*** Archived *** {AAC Tips} How SLPs can get FREE access to AAC apps, AAC app user groups, funding options & more! (2021)

*** Archived 3/15/23: See the new AAC Resources Links page here on my blog for the most current links: https://omazingkidsllc.com/omazing-kids-aac-resource-links/

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{AAC Tips} How SLPs can get FREE access to AAC apps, AAC app user groups, funding options & more! (2021 Edition)

I’m doing a simplified version of this blog post. Each section will now be a separate blog post and then will be listed alphabetically and linked here. The focus continues to be on iOS AAC apps but there will also be some linked posts about AAC options on other platforms (Android, Windows, Amazon Kindle Fire, etc.).  

An AAC eval should include consideration and trials of traditional SGDs. You can contact your local AAC vendor reps for training and to borrow an SGD for short term loan.

A good AAC eval should also include consideration of features uniquely available in AAC apps but folks don’t often know how to get access to those. So I continue to feel the need to share info about that to help my fellow speechies build a better equipped AAC toolbox. I retired from clinical practice and am now doing AAC consulting.

The problem is even if there is a free or low cost lite version of a particular AAC app, it is not the same as trialing the full featured app. How can you do a true feature-match when you don’t have all the features? Many SLPs see the prices in the App Store and assume they would have to personally purchase apps or try to get their facility or school to do so. Well unless you work in some mythical setting with unlimited funds or have a well established booming private practice, it’s unlikely that you would be able to afford very many AAC apps. Not saying they are overpriced. App developers have significant costs related to keeping robust AAC apps updated and paying licensing fees for high quality symbol sets and voices. So we shouldn’t expect these apps to be priced at the same level as other speech therapy apps or kids educational apps.

Android AAC Apps: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/12/01/android-aac-apps/

How to Get Access to the Top 12 iOS Symbol-Based AAC Apps (1/29/22): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/How-to-Get-Access-to-the-Top-12-iOS-Symbol-Based-AAC-Apps-TPT-Freebie-6869004 

How to Get Access to the Top 13 iOS Text-Based AAC Apps (2/9/22): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/How-to-Get-Access-to-the-Top-13-iOS-Text-Based-AAC-Apps-TPT-Freebie-7741826

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FREE app, doesn’t have voice output until you activate it via the process described in the posts below: Snap + Core First by Tobii Dynavox LLC, https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/snap-core-first/id1072799231?mt=8

Update 8/24/20: Set up a free MyTobiiDynavox account and go through the steps to verify your status: https://www.mytobiidynavox.com/#/morestuff/professionals. Look on their website and Facebook group for current resources. Their website changes frequently so if any links are not working do a search on their website or ask in their group.

See these posts for info about how to activate the free voice output in the free version of the app: 

1/13/21: See this video on the Tobii Dynavox Technical Support YouTube channel regarding how to fix the voice output if it’s not speaking: https://youtu.be/dE4Zkr6ev5w

11/22/20 Updated post about how SLPs can activate voice output in the free version of the Snap Core First AAC app

https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga/photos/a.433610663356611.117461.174264525957894/1643765069007825/?type=3&theater

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Update 11/10/20: Snap PODD & Snap Gateway have been added and SLP’s with a verified MyTobiiDynavox for Professionals account can access both for free within the Snap Core First app. See step by step tips on how to access these on this post: https://www.facebook.com/174264525957894/posts/3622621321122180/

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They also have this free companion app filled with videos, tutorials and tips. It’s a very large app so make sure you have plenty of free space and a strong WiFi connection before downloading: Pathways for Core First by Tobii Dynavox LLC, https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pathways-for-core-first/id1187433636?mt=8

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Update 11/5/20: Sharing for anyone who has the Tobii Dynavox Core First mini book PDFs bookmarked. Those have moved to this link: https://www.tobiidynavox.com/software/content/core-first-books-and-lessons/

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Tobii Dynavox has an official Facebook group for users and several of their staff are quick to answer questions & troubleshoot issues: https://www.facebook.com/groups/tobiidynavoxcommunity/?fref=ts

How to sync between the Indi & an iPad:

https://m.facebook.com/groups/127748650590859?view=permalink&id=1779827495382958&_rdr&hc_location=ufi

Training info & videos: https://www.tobiidynavox.com/support-training/snap-core-first/

Free PDFs of printable versions of the core pages in Core First are available in all grid sizes: https://www.tobiidynavox.com/support-training/downloads/snap/printable-core-first-communication-boards/

(Note:  Editable versions are available in Boardmaker Online by typing Core First into the Search All Activities box.)

Updated 8/24/20: Thinking Outside of the Box: Two Creative Uses for Snap Core First – https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/08/23/thinking-outside-of-the-box-two-creative-uses-for-snap-core-first/

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keep going

But don’t stop there. You need more than 1 tool in your AAC toolbox. If you are a SLP that frequently does AAC evals and makes purchasing recommendations, then many other AAC app developers will provide you with a free promo code for their app so you would be able to trial it with patients.

How to get codes for AAC apps: The process for doing this is a little different for each app. I always start by contacting that developer via Facebook messaging on their FB page for that app. If I don’t get a response there, then I look on their website for an e-mail address or to see if they have a formal process for requesting a copy of the app. This info can be difficult to find so dig a little. It takes some time but is well worth it.  I am a SLP at a non-profit facility that does tons of AAC evals and purchasing recommendations. I have been able to get most of the main AAC apps and therefore have lots of options to trial during AAC evals. Feel pretty tech-geeky spending evenings and weekends doing this but it’s worth it to have access to lots of AAC options that then result in good AAC matches for the kids I serve.

Update 8/24/20: I am now retired but am staying up to date on features in AAC apps in case I decide to do some consulting work and so I’ll be equipped in case any family members ever need AAC.
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Here is an alphabetical list of AAC apps that I have gotten by going through this process and the way(s) I contacted those app developers. I hope I haven’t left anyone off the list. If I have, feel free to send me a message. There is not room to keep all the AAC apps loaded on my iPad at the same time so I rotate them on/off based on my patient’s needs. Most AAC apps are very large so I always suggest that SLPs get an iPad with the largest memory you can afford. Even with two 128GB iPad Airs, I am still constantly playing the “app shuffle” where I delete apps to make room to install others. I will be updating this list as I get new AAC apps:

  • aacorn & aacorn+ (Facebook messaging)
  • AAC Genie (Facebook messaging)
  • AlphaTopics (Facebook messaging)
  • Avatalker (Facebook messaging)
  • Avaz Pro (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • BridgeBuilderAAC (Facebook messaging)
  • Click ‘n Talk & Talk’n Photos (Facebook messaging)
  • Clicker Communicator with SymbolStix & Clicker Communicator with PCS (Facebook messaging)
  • CoughDrop (the app developer contacted me)
  • Custom Boards (Facebook messaging)
  • GoTalk Now Plus by Attainment Company (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • GoVisual Scene Maker by Attainment Company (e-mail)
  • Grace – Picture Exchange for Non-Verbal People (the app developer contacted me)
  • Grid for iPad by Smartbox Assistive Technology (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • iESLp (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • image2talk (Facebook messaging)
  • InnerVoice (Facebook messaging)
  • LAMP Words for Life (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail. The key was to reach out to the app developers John & Cindy Holloran directly. I spent over a year with no success contacting PRC. You have to go through LAMP trainings prior to getting a code. Updated 8/24/20: new link to application: https://aacapps.com/partners/apply)
  • Make a Choice – AAC Buttons by pkclSoft (received a promo code after helping to beta-test this new app)
  • Mighty AAC (got it while it was free)
  • My First AAC (e-mail)
  • Niki Talk, Niki Talk + Tweet, Niki Music (adapted way to play music) & Niki Video (adapted way to play videos) (Facebook messaging)
  • PECS Phase III & PECS IV+ (e-mail – I had helped coordinate bringing a PECS workshop to our facility so that definitely helped)
  • Picture AAC (Facebook messaging)
  • Predictable, Scene & Heard & ChatAble (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • Proloquo2Go & Proloquo4Text (AssistiveWare provides a free copy of the iOS and Mac versions of their AAC apps to Speech-Language Pathologists who conduct AAC evaluations on a case-by-case basis. Because they get a limited number of codes, they typically have a waiting list and prioritize requests based on caseload and geographic location. To request getting on that waiting list, SLPs can e-mail support@assistiveware.com. This same process applies to their simPODD app but it provides SLPs with a 1-year subscription (doesn’t include printing) and they will need to request access to simPODD each year).
  • Say Some More AAC Plus (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • SayIt! (text to speech) (Facebook messaging)
  • See Me Talk (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • simPODD (e-mailed AssistiveWare at support@assistiveware.com – received a free One Year Digital subscription – cannot print)
  • Snap Scene (it took multiple attempts to finally get connected with the right person at Tobii Dynavox to get a code for the full version)
  • So Much 2 Say (Facebook messaging)
  • Speak For Yourself (Facebook messaging)
  • Talk Tablet US (contacted this e-mail address: gusinc@me.com. Updated 8/24/20: That version of the app is no longer available for purchase. Instead they have a TalkTablet LITE – Eval Version for $1.99 and a Pro paid version. I don’t have either of those)
  • Tools2Talk+ (combo of Facebook messaging & e-mail)
  • Total Talk (e-mail) (Update 8/24/20: the app disappeared for several months from the App Store and then a revamped version relaunched as Talk Suite Pro)
  • TouchChat HD with WordPower (contacted my local Saltillo rep via e-mail. Find your rep: https://saltillo.com/reps. A word of advice… You really need the version that includes WordPower)
  • Verbal Me & Verbal Me Español (website contact form)

keys to success

The key is being persistent. If one contact method doesn’t work, then try another. Another key is building relationships on social media. I put quite a bit of time and effort into liking and sharing posts from app developers pages, announcing when they have app sales and even doing reviews and hosting giveaways for them on my blog and social media sites. Some app developers may require proof of you being a SLP (keep in mind that they may have received numerous requests for a free app from parents or AAC users). The other thing to keep in mind is that app developers only get a certain number of promo codes when they release an app or an update to that app. So if they currently don’t have codes, check back again later. Often good to ask right after an app has been released or it has been updated when they would have a fresh batch of codes.
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Despite numerous attempts, I have not yet been successful in getting access to the full version of following AAC app. Which means I can’t recommend it since I have no way to trial the full featured version during an AAC eval nor do I recommend it when therapists or parents ask about AAC options in the numerous Facebook groups that I participate in since I haven’t used it:

  • Sono Flex (the free lite version has some interesting features but can’t make purchasing recommendations off that for the full app. The app has not been updated since 2014 so it will be interesting to see if still exists after iOS 11 is released. Updated 8/24/20: they finally updated that app in March 2018 but have made it clear that their focus is on updates and support for their Snap Core First app)

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Other AAC apps that I have and use:

  • 2Talk – AAC (got it while it was free)
  • AAC Expression Toolkit
  • Alexicom AAC (free. They also have several different paid apps. The app developer has indicated that they have purposefully released several apps specific to certain ages, genders & symbol types to keep the app sizes small and affordable. They will be adding info to their website to help SLPs and parents figure out which app might be best suited to a particular user. Update 8/24/20: This app developer also has several apps specifically designed for adults in medical situations.)
  • BRIDGE Communication – both the Lite and Pro versions (bought both when it they were on sale, it has some cool articulation pages built into it, can add video clips to buttons, several other unique features, has a Spanish option in the settings, has SymbolStix symbols, has a history of being updated frequently, price is very affordable for an app with this many features)
  • CanTunes (free, music choice boards, adapted means of accessing music on your iPad)
  • CardTalk (free & got the IAP to unlock all functions while it was free)
  • ChatterBoards AAC
  • ChoiceBoard – Creator
  • Choice Board Maker
  • Choice Boards
  • CommBoards
  • Communicate Easy
  • Communication Adventure – An app for communication training for caregivers of children with complex communication needs
  • CoreVoice – AAC Core Board
  • EESpeech Basic
  • Emergency Chat
  • Flip Writer AAC (and the Flip Writer Pocket iPhone version)
  • FreeVOCA
  • GoTalk Now Lite (free, has good features for a lite app. Often recommend it as an option while we are working on getting other options in place)
  • Grid Player
  • iHear PECS: Animals (bought it, a bargain for $1.99)
  • iSpeak Button Collection (bought it, $5.99, large full screen round button (looks similar to a BigMack), swipe screen to see the next button, up to 15 buttons)
  • Leeloo AAC – Autism Speech App
  • LetMeTalk
  • MenuAssist (free)
  • MyTalkTools Mobile Lite
  • PAROL (Has several additional features that are cool: an interactive pain scale (same content as the Doloris app that disappeared from the App Store several years ago), a visual timer, a visual sequence page, the ability to print a PDF of picture symbols, etc.)
  • PAROL Mini
  • PhotoVOCA (had gotten an older version while it was free… then was able to udate to the new version for free)
  • PictoMaker
  • Picture Card Maker PLUS (got it while it was free. The app developer is in the process of releasing a major update for it)
  • PlayButton (free, https://appsto.re/us/WZ2lC.i. This FREE app is one of my faves for use as a single message VOCA. The activation area is very large (almost the entire screen). I use Guided Access to lock the “record” button to prevent accidental activations during use. Update 8/24/20: They added a place in the iPad Settings for this app to toggle off the recording button)
  • Posco AAC
  • Quick Type AAC (bought it, a bargain for $1.99)
  • Smooth Talker AAC
  • Sono Flex Lite
  • SoundingBoard (free)
  • Sorenson BuzzCards (type and show, no voice output, designed for hearing impaired to use to quickly communicate with those who don’t know sign)
  • Speak – Text to Speech
  • Spell Better – Literacy Support (includes text to speech)
  • Spuble – creating live speech bubbles (very unique voice to text app that transcribes what a person says so another person can read it on the screen)
  • SymboTalk – AAC Talker
  • TalkBoard Free
  • Talk For Me – Text to Speech
  • Talking Button by Masanori Kubota (got while it was free)
  • Tap Chat
  • TapSpeak Button Plus (won it in a giveaway on PrAACtical AAC)
  • Tom Taps Speak – AAC for Kids
  • Touch Switch (bought it, $4.99, play any music downloaded onto your iPad with full screen round button. Also plays eye catching animations. Really more for “cause & effect” but thought it was worth mentioning)
  • Verbally (free)
  • Voice4u TTS
  • Whiteboard – nothing more, nothing less
  • Widgit Go Basic
  • YesNo – questions made simple
  • Yes or No Communication
  • Yes/No
  • Yes / No Button Free

There are several other AAC apps that I have gotten when they were free for a day or two. When I see one, I download it to try out before deciding if it is worth sharing on social media. There are some apps in the App Store that claim to be AAC but are so poorly designed that I chose not to post about them.

Updated 8/24/20 – AAC apps for communicating about pain & medical situations:

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Updated 8/24/20: Keyboard Extension Apps: It may be helpful to consider using a keyboard extension app that would make the iOS iPad Keyboard easier to use with features that are special needs friendly.

FYI… There are a few AAC apps that use the iOS iPad Keyboard and therefore would allow for a keyboard extension app to be used. Examples include: Speak for Yourself, Proloquo2Go, Mighty AAC, ChatAble, Proloquo4Text, Predictable, Voice4u TTS, QuickType, Flip Writer, HandySpeech and several other text-to-speech (TTS) AAC apps. Exploring alternative keyboards can be a game changer for making typing as a means of AAC accessible. You may also want to explore accessibility features in the iPad settings (https://support.apple.com/guide/ipad/get-started-with-accessibility-features-ipad9a2465f9/ipados), styluses, adapted styluses, keyguards, external Bluetooth keyboards, etc. Take a look at Lauren S. Enders’ well organized Pinterest boards for ideas: https://pin.it/TWn9w6P (styluses: https://pin.it/t4cy8XV; keyboards & keyboard cases: https://pin.it/NydPTE8). I highly encourage you to collaborate with an Occupational Therapist and/or Assistive Technology Specialist when exploring AT options for the iPad. Some of that equipment is pricey so you want to make good decisions that fit that individual child’s needs. You may want to try things out in order to make those decisions. Check with the AT Lending Library in your state: https://www.at3center.net/stateprogram. Many have iPads, specialized apps and AT equipment available for short term loan to try out before making purchasing recommendations.

Updated 8/24/20: See this post for my top 10 free and affordable Text-to-Speech AAC apps: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/06/11/top-10-free-and-affordable-ios-text-to-speech-aac-apps-list-compiled-by-angela-moorad-ms-ccc-slp-omazing-kids/

Updated 8/24/20: See quite a bit of info about features in free and affordable symbol-based AAC apps + info about Android versions of apps on this post: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/07/13/free-and-affordable-symbol-based-aac-apps-for-ios-ipad-and-iphone-android-google-play-and-amazon-windows-web-browsers-plus-how-to-find-open-source-symbols-list-compiled-by-angela-moorad-ms/
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Free web-based AAC open source options (can be used online and some offer an offline option, may work across platforms):

* AsTeRICS Grid – open source web-based AAC: https://grid.asterics.eu/#welcome. Has the option to set up offline users. Uses voices available on that device or platform. On my iPad the iOS voices showed up as options. The editing is different from what I’m used to so there is a learning curve to get up to speed. Just beginning to explore this option.

* CBoard – open source web-based AAC: https://www.cboard.io. Cboard works on modern browsers and is available on a wide variety of platforms, including desktops, tablets and mobile phones. Offline support is available on Google Chrome (desktop & Android). There is an Android app (see above). Support for up to 33 languages (vary by operating system). Uses open source Mulberry Symbols. More info about features (vary by operating system): https://www.cboard.io/help/#Features & info about how to program and use it: https://www.cboard.io/help/. FYI…. you’ll want to do some editing if you are in the USA. Several of the items are named differently here (ex: biscuit -> cookie, ice lolly -> popsicle, chips -> fries, crisps -> chips, etc.).

* OptiKey – open source Windows eye-tracking and communication tool: http://www.optikey.org, https://github.com/Optikey/Optikey/wiki. Optikey is an assistive on-screen keyboard which runs on Windows. It is designed to be used with a low cost eye-tracking device to bring keyboard control, mouse control and speech to people with motor and speech limitations, such as people living with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) / Motor Neuron Disease (MND). Includes support for the CommuniKate symbol communication boards. More info: https://github.com/Optikey/Optikey/wiki/Support-for-CommuniKate-boards & http://communikate.equalitytime.co.uk. CommuniKate is designed for people who rely heavily on the environment or context in order to communicate effectively but understand concepts and language used in conversation and during everyday activities.

Affordable web-based AAC open source option (can be used in a web browser online and works in apps across multiple platforms – iOS, Android, Amazon Kindle, Windows):

CoughDrop – open source cloud-based AAC: https://www.mycoughdrop.com. They offer a free 2-month trial. After that it’s either a monthly subscription (currently $6.00 per month). Info about other pricing options: https://www.mycoughdrop.com/pricing. They often offer a 50% off discount on the Lifetime Subscription fee in April (Autism Acceptance month) & October (AAC Awareness month). They frequently add new board options and do a good job of keeping the app updated. This is the only affordable AAC option that I’ve seen that can send the text and symbols together in a cohesive message via iMessaging and e-mail. Other higher priced AAC options that can send both symbols & text as a cohesive message: Avaz (in iMessaging and e-mail) and the Clicker Communicator apps (as a PDF either by AirDrop or e-mail. MyTalkTools is the only AAC app that I’ve seen that actually has an iMessaging app component where the app works within iMessaging… but each symbol is messaged separately.)

iOS app: CoughDrop by CoughDrop, Inc., https://apps.apple.com/us/app/coughdrop/id1021384570, Last update: April 2020

Android app: CoughDrop AAC, https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.mycoughdrop.coughdrop

Amazon Kindle app: CoughDrop AAC, https://www.amazon.com/CoughDrop-Inc-AAC/dp/B01BU8RUEY/

Windows: You can install CoughDrop as a Windows desktop app on your computer or Windows device. CoughDrop on Windows has some eye-tracking integrations that will help it work better with more devices. Please make sure to download the right version for your operating system. https://www.mycoughdrop.com/download

Web Browser: CoughDrop is a web-first application, and should work with many modern web browsers.

See this for more open source cloud and web-based AAC – not all of the ones listed on the website are free: https://www.openaac.org/aac.html. More about the Open AAC movement: https://www.openaac.org/participate.html

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Sources for symbols to customize AAC apps:
* https://www.opensymbols.org
* http://www.arasaac.org/index.php
* https://mulberrysymbols.org
* https://www.sclera.be/en/picto/overview
* https://icons8.com/icons/set/open-source
* https://www.flaticon.com
* https://openmoji.org/library/
* https://emojiisland.com/pages/free-download-emoji-icons-png
* https://www.joypixels.com
* https://connectability.ca/visuals-engine/
* https://touchchatapp.com/apps/touchchat-windows-editor
* https://www.prentrom.com/prc_advantage/free-software-download-pass
* https://www.pictoselector.eu
* https://www.senteacher.org/print/aac/
* https://lessonpix.com/tryItNow (very affordable at $3.00 per month)
* take your own photos
* search for pictures online
* take screenshots of symbols in free printable manual communication boards or from other AAC apps
* if you are artistic you could even draw your own symbols and import them

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What are my “favorite” AAC apps? I have several based on the features available in them. I know the list above looks overwhelming and I did not get these apps all at the same time. So here is some advice as to where to start in your quest to acquire AAC apps. If I had to narrow down the list to the top 10 robust AAC apps that stay loaded on my iPad all the time and have been a good match for several patients that I serve… they are (list updated 8/24/20 – subject to change as apps are updated with new features and other apps are released):

  • Avaz Pro
  • Clicker Communicator with PCS (and the version with SymbolStix)
  • CoughDrop
  • GoTalk Now Plus
  • Grid for iPad
  • LAMP Words for Life
  • Proloquo2Go
  • Snap Core First
  • Speak for Yourself
  • TouchChat HD with WordPower

I think of these as the most common tools in my AAC toolbox (like a hammer, pliers, saw, tape measure, drill, level, screwdriver & wrench are common tools at home). The rest are still very important “specialty” tools in my toolbox. They are fabulous for meeting less common and very specific needs. Think of an Alan Wrench. Not something you use very often but when you need one it is the only tool that will meet that need. And sometimes the best solution is a combination of several tools. Remember…. Good builders pick tools based on the task.

Feature Matching:

So I bet you are thinking “oh my goodness… how on earth can I learn about all the features to do a feature-match with so many options?”. The apps I have listed above are just the tip of the iceberg. There are hundreds.

Updated 8/24/20: 

The best way to keep up to date on the features in AAC apps is to have access to them and use them frequently. You can also gain helpful info in the user groups for apps on Facebook, videos released by the app developer and several resources listed below:

This is one of the most current resources that I’ve seen that lists features in AAC apps & devices: https://cpb-ca-c1.wpmucdn.com/learningnetwork.setbc.org/dist/0/896/files/2019/05/Whos-It-For-DRAFT-May-1-2019.pdf.

The app wheels by Call Scotland are very helpful and were updated in 2020:

iPad Apps for Complex Communication Support Needs: 

https://www.callscotland.org.uk/downloads/posters-and-leaflets/ipad-apps-for-complex-communication-support-needs/

(they also have a version for Android apps but it is older – last updated in 2018: https://www.callscotland.org.uk/downloads/posters-and-leaflets/android-apps-for-complex-communication-support-needs/)

iPad Apps for Learners with Complex Additional Support Needs:

https://www.callscotland.org.uk/downloads/posters-and-leaflets/ipad-apps-for-learners-with-complex-additional-support-needs/

See additional resources at: https://www.callscotland.org.uk/downloads/posters-and-leaflets/ & be sure to follow them on social media to see when updates are made (https://www.facebook.com/CALLScotland1983/ & https://twitter.com/CALLScotland?s=12, https://twitter.com/gxmcneill?s=12).

SET BC Supported AAC Device Comparison Chart April 2019 (their documents only include info on the apps and devices that they use but is still a helpful example and fairly recent): https://bit.ly/31qPo42. They also have a Feature Matching: Linear and Auditory Scanning (February 2019): https://bit.ly/32nIP1E & SET BC AAC Software/Apps with Visual Scenes: Comparison Chart (February 2019): https://bit.ly/3jcykF1

FYI…. features change rapidly as apps are updated or companies release new devices. So as soon as any resource list like these are published it likely already has something outdated in it.

But finding fairly recent documents like these at least gives a good starting point when comparing options in a feature match process. Tip: If a document you find online isn’t dated be sure to look at the iOS requirements listed in the features. There are VERY old charts that date back to iOS 4 that I saw that are totally outdated and are not an accurate or fair depiction of those apps.

FYI 2: I haven’t found any document that contains info on every AAC app or device so it’s important to research and consider ones that may not be on a particular list.

This Feature Match Comparison Chart from the Oklahoma Assistive Technology Center is helpful: https://bit.ly/3hs27cl

A Feature Matching Checklist by Jill Senner & Matt Baud: http://www.talcaac.com/SGD%20Features%20Checklist.pdf & several other great resources: http://www.talcaac.com/download.html. They have great Add-On Social Pages for use with Core Vocabularies: http://www.talcaac.com/pages.html

These two archived webinars by Lauren S. Enders are fairly recent and helpful:

AAC APPS: Considerations for Selecting, Customizing, & Getting Started – Part 1 – Lauren Enders (May 15, 2019) – includes 6 robust folder-based AAC apps (Proloquo2go, TouchChat HD with WordPower, Grid for iPad, Clicker Communicator, Avaz Pro & Snap Core First)

Webinar: https://youtu.be/cr9K1oTwpF8

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Slides: http://bit.ly/EndersAACAppsPart1

http://bit.ly/EndersAACAppsPart1
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AAC APPS: Considerations for Selecting, Customizing, & Getting Started – Part 2 – Lauren Enders (May 15, 2019) – includes 2 robust motor-plan based AAC apps (LAMP Words for Life & Speak for Yourself), 1 robust cloud-based app that’s a mix of folder-based with influences of motor-planning (CoughDrop), plus info about other types of AAC apps (including a nice overview of unique ways to use the GoTalk Now app)

Webinar: https://youtu.be/uTcfOouEi6o

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Slides: http://bit.ly/EndersAACAppsPart2

http://bit.ly/EndersAACAppsPart2
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Also this archived presentation by Christine Baudin: Comparing & Contrasting 5 Common Robust AAC apps – TouchChat with WordPower (focusing on 108 & 20 location page sets), Proloquo2Go (focusing on 7×11 grid), Snap Core First (focusing on 8×10 grid), LAMP Words for Life (84 location) & Speak for Yourself (120 location) – 2018 AAC in the Cloud

https://presenters.aacconference.com/videos/UXpNelFURTQ=

Unfortunately the AAC Ferret app that had been so helpful in searching for apps by specific features no longer exists. Word is the app developer ran into funding issues. Even if you still have that app loaded on your iPad, it no longer works. That app truly was a fabulous tool. My hope is that maybe it will reappear one day or that someone else will develop a tool like that.

My next “go to” resource used to be Jane Farrall’s website with her AAC app lists (http://www.janefarrall.com/aac-apps-lists/). Unfortunately she took that part of her website down since she no longer had time to keep updating it and the lists were outdated. It used to have several amazing lists:

  • Symbol/Picture apps – These are apps that have symbol based pages but don’t make text-to-speech available to the person who uses AAC.
  • Symbol & Text Based apps – These are apps that have symbol pages and make text-to-speech available to the person who uses AAC.
  • Text Based apps – These are apps that make text-to-speech available to the person who uses AAC or that have text only communication pages.

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Funding

Funding:

Wanting to get a bundled iPad with an AAC app in a durable case funded as a “dedicated” SGD through Medicaid or insurance? Your best bet is to check with the funding departments at these companies. They all offer iOS based devices with a variety of AAC apps as an option:

Ablenet: https://quicktalkerfreestyle.com

ACCI: https://www.acciinc.com/dedicated-acci-choice-communicators/

Forbes: https://www.forbesaac.com/proslate-series

Lincare AAC: https://www.lincareaac.com/

Talk to Me Technologies: the Wego A series of devices: https://www.talktometechnologies.com/pages/wegoa

We are fortunate in Oklahoma that Medicaid will consider funding an iPad with a robust AAC app in a durable case as a SGD / DME but they require us to try the full version of the app in order to do a complete feature-match, submit a video of the patient using it and extensive justification as to why that particular option us being recommended. Here in Oklahoma, we can only get funding once every 5 years for AAC (with very rare exceptions) so it’s very important to be able to get a good match for that individual’s needs. See details here: https://www.okabletech.org/community/soonercare-provider-for-speech-generating-devices/

Oklahoma Able Tech: https://www.ok.gov/abletech/# & great info here: http://okabletech-atdiscovery.org/at-discovery/speech-communication/

Another source that I’ve had good success with for funding an iPad with a robust AAC app in a durable case here in Oklahoma is the New Voices grant through Ability Connections Oklahoma: https://www.acok.org  (the funding comes and goes on this grant. See their Facebook page for updates: https://www.facebook.com/abilityconnectionoklahoma/).

If you are in Oklahoma, also check out the AAC Funding Guide: http://fundingguide.okstate.edu/

This website has good info regarding potential funding sources: http://ectacenter.org/topics/atech/funding.asp

There are key times of the year that AAC apps tend to go on sale and I always share that info on my OMazing Kids Facebook page and in the AppPeeps group. Some app developers choose to do sales and others do not. When I have inquired about that, they reply that they feel their app is fairly priced given the ongoing costs related to keeping it updated and licensing fees for symbol sets and voices.

Why do many AAC apps cost so much? Drives me a little nuts when I see unkind comments regarding pricing of well designed AAC apps. Where else would we demand that something be put on sale or even worse demand that it should be free? Really?! The well designed robust AAC apps are a bargain even at full price if you stop to really think about being able to get a “voice” for a patient for a tiny fraction of the cost of traditional SGDs. It has been a game-changer and allowed many parents to be able to no longer have to wait on a SLP to be the decision maker / gatekeeper. Many parents post about “going rogue” in buying an iPad, AAC app & durable case for their child after being told they weren’t “ready” for that. News alert…. the old school mentality of there being a “hierarchy” that a child has to go through to “prove” they are “ready” for robust AAC is antiquated. Not saying that every AAC app or SGD is a good match for every child but I am saying that the days of kids with very complex needs being stuck with just a single message VOCA or a few PECS symbols have to end. See this presentation from Jane Farrall: http://www.janefarrall.com/lets-communicate-plenary-presentation-at-qaselcon16/ , this post about “What is “Beginning” AAC?“: http://www.janefarrall.com/what-is-beginning-aac/, and this powerful post on the Uncommon Sense Blog’s Facebook page: http://bit.ly/230RT5r.
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start
What about parents who want to try out AAC options? I highly recommend that you pursue an AAC eval with a SLP who has expertise in this area. Many larger school districts have an AAC team. But don’t feel that you have to wait if you are a parent who has been told “no” and want to proceed on your own. It may just be a little trickier to determine what the best AAC option will be for your child since most parents don’t have unlimited resources to buy several AAC apps to try. All states in the USA are supposed to have an Assistive Technology Lending Library program where parents & professionals can borrow AAC devices, iPads with AAC apps & other AT for short-term trial. It’s a great way to try various options out before making purchasing decisions. There are lots of great AAC devices and apps. It’s important to do a good feature-match and trial of options. Find the AT Lending Library in your state: https://www.at3center.net/stateprogram

The AT Program in your state may also know of SLPs who do AAC evals and funding resources specific to your area.

You can also search for AT Reuse programs: http://www.passitoncenter.org/reuse_locations.php)

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AAC user groups on facebook
Need support with using an AAC app? Most app developers have a Facebook group for that app. I highly suggest joining these groups for an incredible amount of support from the app developers as well as other parents, therapists & teachers. Every group has it’s own “culture”. Some are very open to discussing any topic. Others are pretty strict about only posting info or questions directly related to that particular app. Here is a list of the Facebook app user groups (updated to include support groups for traditional SGDs & PODD):

I have suggested to the developers of the GoTalk Now app that a group be started but so far I’ve only seen a parent led one in Swedish. I have also suggested to the developer of the new Total Talk AAC app that they start a group. He was very open to the idea so I hope to see that soon.

There are also numerous other AAC-related Facebook groups. Again each having it’s own culture and dynamic. I’m not going to list all of those here…. but if you are a SLP, I definitely suggest joining the AAC for the SLP group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1539830846285663/. Also take a look at the 21st Century AAC Practitioners grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/475548015977014/. If you see me “tag” Lauren Enders in a post or comment, it’s because I know that she has a wealth on knowledge about AAC apps, cases, mounting options, etc. You should seriously follow her on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lasenders/. I also know that she will provide an unbiased opinion and always comments in a very supportive way.

Update 8/24/20: See Lauren’s new AAC Boot Camp Infographic: https://www.facebook.com/LaurenSEndersMaCccSlp/posts/2257606171044020?__tn__=H-R)

You may also see me “tag” Carole Zangari from PrAACtical AAC for the same reasons. http://praacticalaac.org/

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{AAC Assessment} “Just like driving a car, when you’ve been doing AAC assessments for a long time, you almost don’t have to think about the details of what you are doing.  I automatically pull out the devices and apps, YouTube, iPad, snack, bubbles and wind-ups, and start playing.  Unfortunately, it is less than helpful to tell people new to AAC to just play with students and watch what they do. In an effort to describe our process, I created a data sheet to break down the steps, and typed up the procedures and suggested apps.”  This post by Vicki Clarke from Dynamic Therapy Associates Inc on PrAACtical AAC is full of awesome tips for AAC assessment! I was excited to get new ideas for several apps that I already had and was inspired to buy an app that’s been on my “wish list” for awhile. I will also confess to buying the hippo toy pictured. It’s been on my “wish list” for awhile too (gotta love shopping on Amazon with free shipping). 😉

http://praacticalaac.org/praactical/aac-assessment-corner-with-vicki-clarke-aac-skills-assessment-for-direct-selectors/

Also: http://praacticalaac.org/praactical/aac-assessment-corner-by-vicki-clarke-is-aac-feature-matching-still-relevant/

Inspired to read more? Check out her other featured posts: http://praacticalaac.org/?s=vicki+clarke

Also check out her fabulous YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/patientmovies, Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dynamic-Therapy-Associates-Inc/120054654686483, Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/aacchicks/ & Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/AACchicks

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conflicting one way signs

What’s the best AAC approach? What’s the best dedicated speech generating device? What’s the best case? What’s the best ______….. Several times a week I am either asked this question or I see it posted in one of the many AAC Facebook groups I follow. Occasionally it seems to end up in a rather heated debate of ______ vs. ________. Even arguments over core vs. fringe vocabulary. For a balanced approach in use of core & fringe vocabulary, check out this fabulous post on PrAACtically AAC: http://praacticalaac.org/praactical/the-baby-the-bathwater-and-core-vocabulary/. This is counterproductive. Although there are key best practices when considering AAC options, there is not any one best AAC option (or one best therapy approach, or one best anything) when it comes to best meeting individual needs. I have added a lot of tools to my toolbox over my 26+ year career as a speech-language pathologist. There have been pivotal moments where new tools were added that forever changed my perspective. Although shiny new tools may be exciting they did not replace the old tried & true tools. The exciting thing about tools is that you can use them together to build & repair. Would it make sense to ask “What’s better…. a hammer or a drill? a saw or a tape measure? a wrench or a flashlight? Of course not. Each tool has it’s specific purpose. You select the tool based on what job you need to accomplish.
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Have questions? The quickest and most reliable way to reach me is via Facebook messaging on my OMazing Kids page. Thank goodness it seems to be immune from spammers unlike my e-mail.
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Are you an AAC app developer? I’d be more than glad to help beta test your app and then post about it when it is released for sale. I don’t charge a fee. Just would need a free promo code for the full version of that AAC app so I can add it to my toolbox. I never post about apps that I haven’t tried out first. Oh and a word of advice to app developers… state run facilities and schools have difficulty with in-app purchases or subscription-based apps as do potential funding sources such as Medicaid or insurance companies. So you will have a wider audience if you also offer a full paid version of your AAC app.

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I am asked pretty frequently for my thoughts on AAC app development. Here is my advice:

  • Any new AAC app needs to support robust communication for a wide variety of functions. There are already lots of simple choice making apps on the market.
  • Take a good look at the major AAC apps on the market and determine what specific features your new app would offer that are not already available.
  • Do lots of beta testing to insure the app is intuitive / easy to use. Even with the best intentions some AAC apps never take off. An example is Total Talk. It has several unique features but is not very intuitive to use and they initially only let you pick one voice (that has since changed but they lost the initial momentum that comes with a new app release). (Update: 8/24/20 – It was nice to see the Total Talk app revamped and relaunched as “Talk Suite Pro”. The app has some unique features so hopefully it will make it this time)
  • You only should offer an AAC app that is truly worth having and meets needs. There are several free or very cheap AAC apps on the market. But you rarely see them mentioned or recommended because they are so poorly designed.
  • Determine what platform you will develop the app for (iOS or Android). It’s very rare for app developers to be able to tackle both platforms and do it well. Most AAC app developers stick with the iOS platform because it is uniform and thus easier and less costly to develop apps for.
  • Beyond the initial costs of developing the app, make sure that you also have a very well thought out long term plan and finances for supporting and keeping an AAC app updated. I’ve received numerous messages on my OMazing Kids page from parents and therapist with very heartbreaking stories of AAC users losing their voice when iOS 11 came out. Several small AAC app developers had not updated those apps in almost 5 years. It’s one thing to lose a favorite game or therapy app but a whole different thing to lose an AAC app.

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Updated 12/1/20 – Links to other AAC posts:

* Looking for Android AAC Apps? Head over to this post: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/12/01/android-aac-apps/. Includes sections for symbol-based & text to speech with robust and free/affordable options in each.

* Free and Affordable Symbol-Based AAC apps for iOS – iPad and iPhone, Android – Google Play and Amazon, Windows, Web Browsers plus how to find Open Source Symbols: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/07/13/free-and-affordable-symbol-based-aac-apps-for-ios-ipad-and-iphone-android-google-play-and-amazon-windows-web-browsers-plus-how-to-find-open-source-symbols-list-compiled-by-angela-moorad-ms/

* Free and affordable Text to Speech AAC apps: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/06/11/top-10-free-and-affordable-ios-text-to-speech-aac-apps-list-compiled-by-angela-moorad-ms-ccc-slp-omazing-kids/

* Free & affordable big text apps that may be helpful when trying to communicate while wearing a mask: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/06/20/10-free-affordable-big-text-apps-list-complied-by-angela-moorad-ms-ccc-slp-omazing-kids/

* Game Apps & AAC: why these need to be on separate devices: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/07/31/game-apps-aac-why-these-need-to-be-on-separate-devices/

* Over 100 Free & Affordable Apps + Boom Cards to Target AAC Core Vocabulary: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/07/22/over-100-free-affordable-apps-boom-cards-to-target-aac-core-vocabulary-list-compiled-by-angela-moorad-ms-ccc-slp-omazing-kids/

* FREE app + PDF with 8 pages of FREE printables to target Core Vocabulary, Articulation & Rhyming: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/07/17/free-app-pdf-with-8-pages-of-free-printables-to-target-core-vocabulary-articulation-rhyming-created-by-angela-moorad-ms-ccc-slp-omazing-kids/

* Review & Comparison of Features in Digital PODD iPad apps (simPODD, Grid for iPad and PODD with Compass) …. plus tons of PODD resources: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2018/01/10/i-have-something-to-say-about-podd/

* Spanish AAC Apps, Devices & Resources (Hablo con CAA): https://omazingkidsllc.com/2018/02/25/spanish-aac-apps-devices-resources-hablo-con-caa/

* Apps & Websites to Create Materials with Symbols on an iPad & iPhone: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/08/25/apps-websites-to-create-materials-with-symbols-on-an-ipad-iphone-list-compiled-by-angela-moorad-ms-ccc-slp-at-omazing-kids/

* The iPad & the SLP in 2020 and Beyond: Interactive PDF Resource List of iOS apps, Boom Cards, Teachers Pay Teachers materials, Teletherapy Resources and Online Resources – organized by goal areas, themes and topics (includes AAC & Assistive Technology sections): https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/11/29/the-ipad-the-slp-in-2020-and-beyond-interactive-pdf-resource-list-of-ios-apps-boom-cards-teachers-pay-teachers-materials-teletherapy-resources-and-online-resources-organized-by-goa/

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Updated 8/24/20:

📥 Want to suggest iOS AAC apps to be added to this post? The best way to reach me is via Facebook messaging over on my OMazing Kids page.

If it’s a free app, please send the link from the USA App Store so I can download and try it out. If it’s a paid app and you are the app developer, please send the link from the USA App Store so I can look at the info before you send a promo code. I want to make sure that one of my iPads or iPhone is compatible in order to try it out.

If you see info or links that need to be updated on this post, feel free to send me a Facebook message on my OMazing Kids page.

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2Si6k7Y
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amoorad1/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amoorad
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

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{please ignore any ads that may appear below. This is a free blog and I don’t have any control over ads nor do I profit from them}

*** Archived *** Updated PDF for the The iPad & the SLP in 2020 and Beyond resource list

9/21/21: An expanded version of this resource that also includes app demo videos is available on my TPT store. Ultimate App and Digital Resource Guide for SLPs: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Ultimate-App-and-Digital-Resource-Guide-for-SLPs-7267356

The PDF in the “The iPad & the SLP in 2020 and Beyond: Interactive PDF Resource List of iOS apps, Boom Cards, Teachers Pay Teachers materials, Teletherapy Resources and Online Resources – organized by goal areas, themes and topics” blog post was updated today (1/14/21).

What’s New:

• Updated link to the various grid sizes of printable Snap Core First communication boards (in AAC section)

• The Bookish AAC’s YouTube channel & Mr. Clay’s YouTube channel (added in AAC section with COREaoke links)

• AAC Parent Coaching YouTube channel (in the Parent Activities section)

• Tools for Clear Speech video modeling for placement (in Articulation section)

• Body Parts – No Print Interactive PDF (in the Basic Concepts section),

• LiveWorksheet website (in the Create Own Materials section)

• Wordless Short Videos for Language Therapy & AAC LAMP Vocabulary Teletherapy EdPuzzle: Wordless Animation (in the Inferences section)

• Scattergories and Cognishine (in the Online Games section)

• WH-Question Paragraph Stories with Who, What, Where, When Questions (in WH questions section)

• Updated social media links for OMazing Kids

The original PDF was deleted and the new one uploaded.

So anyone who had saved the PDF to their iPad or computer will need to delete the old one and save the new one to have the most current info.

https://omazingkidsllc.com/2020/11/29/the-ipad-the-slp-in-2020-and-beyond-interactive-pdf-resource-list-of-ios-apps-boom-cards-teachers-pay-teachers-materials-teletherapy-resources-and-online-resources-organized-by-goa/


The best way to reach me is via a private message on my OMazing Kids Facebook page


Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC OMazing Kids AAC Consulting

Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/omazingkidsaac

Personal Professional Facebook Page (linked to OMazing Kids): https://www.facebook.com/angela.moorad (adding “friends” who have a direct role in AAC or Assistive Technology – AAC / AT app or product developers, AAC / AT consultants, SLPs who specialize in AAC, other professionals who specialize in AAC or AT, etc.)

OMazing Kids Business Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkidsaac/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amoorad

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/amoorad1

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

Making Informed AAC Purchasing Decisions

Making Informed AAC Purchasing Decisions

Thinking about getting an AAC app? Many AAC apps typically go on sale for a few days in April (or May) and October. You can see the pricing history for any app on the AppSliced website (https://appsliced.co/apps) and watch Lauren Enders’ page for her round up posts of AAC app sale dates/details (https://www.facebook.com/LaurenSEndersMaCccSlp/).

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Looking for a way to try out AAC apps before making a purchasing decision? If you are in the USA, all states are supposed to have an Assistive Technology Lending Library program where you can borrow AAC devices, iPads with AAC apps & other AT for short-term trial. It’s a great way to try various options out before making purchasing decisions. How to find the AT Lending Library in your state: https://www.at3center.net/stateprogram

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If you are a Speech-Language Pathologist, then see this post for tips on how you can get access to AAC apps: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2021/02/16/how-to-get-access-to-the-top-10-ios-symbol-based-aac-apps-2-16-21-compiled-by-angela-moorad-ms-ccc-slp-omazing-kids-aac-consulting-part-of-a-larger-feature-matching-chart/

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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC OMazing Kids AAC Consulting

Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/omazingkidsaac

Personal Professional Facebook Page (linked to OMazing Kids): https://www.facebook.com/angela.moorad– adding “friends” who have a direct role in AAC or Assistive Technology – AAC / AT app or product developers, AAC / AT consultants, SLPs who specialize in AAC, other professionals who specialize in AAC or AT, etc.)

OMazing Kids AAC Consulting Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkidsaac/

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amoorad

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/amoorad1

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

Free printable AAC core board with alphabet, numbers, shapes & colors

Free printable AAC core board with alphabet, numbers, shapes & colors (4 page PDF that you can print, assemble and laminate). It was recently shared in the AAC for the SLP Facebook group (original source seen on Pinterest from the Angelman Syndrome Foundation but the link is broken… appears to be no longer available on their website). I saved it to my blog:

https://omazingkidsyoga.files.wordpress.com/2019/10/150-location-core-board-with-alphabet.pdf

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I found this one on Boardmaker Share that is very similar and could be edited if you have the Boardmaker software or online subscription: https://www.boardmakeronline.com/Activity/8583743
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC

Retired Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist with 28 years experience …. still posting occasionally about apps & AAC stuff. 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga

AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

Spanish AAC Apps, Devices & Resources (Hablo con CAA)

Spanish AAC Apps, Devices & Resources (Hablo con CAA)

It can be challenging to find information about and resources for AAC in languages other than English. Since Spanish is the most common language after English in my state I have compiled a list to make it easier to share with parents:
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Added 5/8/23: Bilingüe AAC

https://padlet.com/bilingueaac/bilingueaac-resources-gmw3qsxcg0xo3zaz

https://www.bilingueaac.com


Hablo con CAA is a great website in Spanish: https://habloconcaa.wordpress.com. They also have a Facebook page & Facebook group. Most posts are in Spanish.

https://www.facebook.com/habloconcaa/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/habloconcaa

Prompting hierarchy: https://habloconcaa.wordpress.com/2017/10/01/repensar-la-jerarquia-de-peticiones-en-la-caa-aac-prompting-hierarchy/
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Video about Aided Language Stimulation – in Spanish:

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The Communication Matrix assessment is available online in Spanish: https://communicationmatrix.org. See this post in Spanish explaining the website: https://habloconcaa.wordpress.com/2017/05/04/evaluando-la-caa-la-matriz-de-comunicacion/
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Saltillo webinars in Spanish: https://saltillo.com/videos/x/webinar/es
Saltillo Core Vocabulary handout: https://saltillo.com/downloads/chat/escogiendo-el-vocabulario-clave-el-acercamiento-de-actividad-primero-choosing-core-vocabulary-act/Escogiendo%20el%20vocabulario%20clave%20El%20acercamiento%20de%20actividad%20primero.pdf
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PRC Spanish info: https://www.prentrom.com/prc_advantage/unidad-espanol-language-system
LAMP Words for Life Quick Reference Guide in Spanish: 

http://file.prentrom.com/2097/17908v1_1-LAMP%20WFL%20SE%20Vocab%20Quick%20Reference-Español.pdf
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Assistiveware’s resources for Proloquo2Go in Spanish: http://www.assistiveware.com/es/producto/proloquo2go/recursos
Core Word Board: front: http://coreword.assistiveware.com/uploads/db6476/original/1X/1f0f35191fd7c602c2016dfec3f5f3980d4255f2.pdf, back: http://coreword.assistiveware.com/uploads/db6476/original/1X/8ffa70e175c74006c2b60b7d0a229ff1ab8f7d2d.pdf
Core Word Poster: http://download.assistiveware.com/assistiveware/files/A0-840×1189-CoreWord-Poster-es-ES.pdf

AssistiveWare’s Spanish user group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2123537574601002/

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More printable options:

* AAC Core Words to Go in Spanish Picture Communication (available for purchase on Teachers Pay Teachers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/AAC-Core-Words-to-Go-in-Spanish-Picture-Communication-1829593)

* Spanish Communication Flip Board (FREE on Teachers Pay Teachers: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Spanish-Communication-Flip-Board-2838262)

* Graduated Core Word Photo Boards with Flip Fringe Vocab & Spanish Version (FREE on TPT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Graduated-Core-Word-Photo-Boards-with-Flip-Fringe-Vocab-Spanish-Version-3127128)

* 72 Spanish Graduated Core Board (FREE on TPT: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/72-Spanish-Graduated-Core-Board-2865788)

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More materials:

* http://aulaabierta.arasaac.org
* http://aulaabierta.arasaac.org/materiales-caa
* http://aulaabierta.arasaac.org/materiales-caa-recetas-de-cocina
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Adapted books: http://chapelhillsnippets.blogspot.com/p/spanish.html
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High Tech AAC for Spanish Speakers – in the ASHA Leader 3/18/16: http://blog.asha.org/2016/03/08/high-tech-aac-for-spanish-speakers/ (note: The AAC app world is constantly changing. Even though that article is less than 2 years old it is already outdated. LAMP Words for Life now has a bilingual Spanish/English option & Snap + Core First has been released and then updated to add a bilingual Spanish/English option).
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PrAACtical AAC: http://praacticalaac.org/?s=Spanish & https://praacticalaac.org/?s=CAA
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Boardmaker boards in Spanish: http://prekese.dadeschools.net/Resources/BMDSpanish.html
https://www.boardmakeronline.com/Activities/Search#?page=1&text=Spanish
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Dedicated Speech Generating Devices:

* PRC’s Accent series of devices with UNIDAD bilingual English – Spanish language system.
* Saltillo’s NovaChat series of devices. Several Spanish pageset options.
* Tobii Dynavox offers Snap + Core First in several dedicated devices. This vocabulary has a bilingual Spanish/English option.
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Robust AAC apps:

* CoughDrop by CoughDrop, Inc., https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/coughdrop/id1021384570?mt=8

How to translate a board in CoughDrop: https://coughdrop.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/115001290091-How-can-I-translate-a-speech-board-into-a-different-language-

* Proloquo2Go by AssistiveWare
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/proloquo2go/id308368164?mt=8, has a bilingual Spanish/English option

* Proloquo4Text by AssistiveWare, https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/proloquo4text/id751646884?mt=8 (has Spanish option)

* LAMP Words For Life by Prentke Romich Company
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lamp-words-for-life/id551215116?mt=8, has a bilingual Spanish/English option

* Snap + Core First by Tobii Dynavox LLC
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/snap-core-first/id1072799231?mt=8, has a bilingual Spanish/English option

* TouchChat HD – AAC with WordPower by Silver Kite
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/touchchat-hd-aac-with-wordpower/id412351574?mt=8, has 10 different Spanish pagesets options within the app

* Avaz Español – AAC App para el autismo (Software de comunicación aumentativa Imagen para Niños con Necesidades Especiales) by Avaz, Inc.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/avaz-espa%C3%B1ol-aac-app-para-autismo-software-comunicaci%C3%B3n/id923997149?mt=8 – Spanish only

* BRIDGE Communication by Bioprism, Inc.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bridge-communication/id983660714?mt=8 (has Spanish & English options in the settings area)
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVIr5fmx0b2WTA1yluY-MkQ
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Other AAC apps (not robust but can be helpful to meet specific needs):

* LetMeTalk by AppNotize UG (haftungsbeschraenkt), https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/letmetalk/id919990138?mt=8 (Android version: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=de.appnotize.letmetalk&hl=en)

* Verbal Me Español by fishdog.net, https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/verbal-me-espa%C3%B1ol/id747621945?mt=8

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3/15/20: Check out the updated Pinterest boards by Lauren Enders. Nicely organized by sections within the board to help you find what you’re looking for: https://www.pinterest.com/lasenders/aac-caa-spanish-implementation-supports/

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5/1/20: Spanish translations of the great handouts from The AAC Coach – in this album on Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/pg/theaaccoach/photos/?tab=album&album_id=142370680583444&__tn__=-UC-R

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5/1/20: Spanish versions of Users Guides for GoTalk products & GoTalk apps from Attainment Company

GoTalk 4+ User Guide – Spanish Version

https://www.attainmentcompany.com/mwdownloads/download/link/id/1528/

(For this product: https://www.attainmentcompany.com/gotalk-4)

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GoTalk 9+ User Guide – Spanish Version

https://www.attainmentcompany.com/mwdownloads/download/link/id/1529/

(For this product: https://www.attainmentcompany.com/gotalk-9)

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GoTalk 20+ User Guide – Spanish Version

https://www.attainmentcompany.com/mwdownloads/download/link/id/1533/

(For this product: https://www.attainmentcompany.com/gotalk-20)

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GoTalk Express 32 User Guide – Spanish Version

https://www.attainmentcompany.com/mwdownloads/download/link/id/1530/

(For this product: https://www.attainmentcompany.com/gotalk-express-32)

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GoTalk Now AAC app Users Guide

https://www.attainmentcompany.com/mwdownloads/download/link/id/1527/?fbclid=IwAR0YdHLBZGK7JPBjaO-JD2oi4kLuGIb1SBc-9Oz0LXvP5err1kAztq6YVho

(For this app: https://www.attainmentcompany.com/gotalk-now. The same guide should be applicable to the other versions of the app. I use this version: https://www.attainmentcompany.com/gotalk-now-plus). The Users Guide is also available within the help section in the apps. The Spanish version will only appear if the iPad’s language is set to Spanish (Settings > General > iPad Language & Regions). Then, when in the app, if you go to the Help section it will display the Spanish guide. 

More info: As you adjust the language on that iPad (Settings > General > iPad Language & Regions) the buttons in the app are translated and the user guide has been translated for Chinese, Czech, English, Finnish, German, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish, Turkish, and Ukrainian. Then, for Danish and Greek, the app is translated into the language, but the user guide remains English. 

It is also worth noting that the app can be programmed to speak any language supported by the iPad. For instance, someone who speaks French and has a French keyboard downloaded on their iPad, when they use the text-to-speech within the app, it will speak in French.

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Update 8/15/20:

A Facebook page in Spanish with frequent AAC posts: https://m.facebook.com/patriciagutierrez.es/

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Update 8/22/20:

Spanish translation of Lauren Enders’ brand new AAC Boot Camp Infographic (CAMPAMENTO DE CAA (en Español)): http://bit.ly/CampamentodeCAA2020

(English version: http://bit.ly/AACBootCamp2020PDF)

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Update 11/6/22:

Culturally Responsive AAC, https://aac.sfsu.edu/content/multicultural-aac
Protocol for the Analysis of Aided Language Samples in Spanish (PAALSS): https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.19233237 (Supplemental material)

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If you know of other good Spanish AAC resources, feel free to let me know over on Facebook messaging on my OMazing Kids page.
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: http://m.me/OMazingKidsYoga (note: Facebook frequently changes the link to messaging so if this one doesn’t work head over to my page and click on the “Send Message” button)
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkids
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with 28 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.

{Video} Creative uses for the GoTalk Now Plus AAC app

A quick video of some of the ways that I use the GoTalk Now Plus AAC app from Attainment Company, Inc. It has several unique features that make it a “must have” on any speechie’s iPad 😃.
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In case you are wondering how the sound is that loud… This is my 9.7″ iPad Pro. It is in an original Gripcase USA case with handles on all four sides. I made a “bumper” out of a piece of pool noodle to prevent the bottom handle from getting bent out of shape when using my iPad on my lap.

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Little Light House Therapy Team’s post about how to make LAMP Words for Life CVI friendly: http://www.thelittleanchor.org/2017/03/10/how-to-make-lamp-words-for-life-cvi-friendly/.
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: http://m.me/OMazingKidsYoga (note: Facebook frequently changes the link to messaging so if this one doesn’t work head over to my page and click on the “Send Message” button)
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkids
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
YappGuru: http://yappguru.com/user/omazing-kids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
.
Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with 28 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.

I have something to say…… about PODD (updated with additional resources and a comparison of all digital PODD apps for the iPad and Windows devices in 2023) – updated 3/12/23

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Have you ever had a patient who you knew had something to say but you struggled to find a means of communication?

I spent almost a year trying literally EVERY possible AAC device and app and every type of access option in a quest to find a “voice” for a child who I knew had so much to say. She made it very clear that she wanted to use her hands for direct access despite having minimal use of them. She hated head pointing and eye gaze devices and any type of scanning. I would seriously lay in bed at night and ponder what else we could try. I spent hours scouring the internet looking for PODD resources and watched just about every video I could find. Thank goodness a PODD training finally came close enough and was priced affordably enough that our facility sent two SLPs to get trained. Ideally I would have gone to that PODD training but it didn’t make sense for me to take a spot being so close to retirement. But having two of our SLPs trained gave me access to a PODD book to trial with her and then was able to order a premade one for her. Ideally you would custom make and print a book but the facility where I work had not figured out the logistics of printing on special water and rip resistant paper and spiral binding. So I have customized the premade PODD book for her by using clear packing tape to add symbols. Her older sister has even hand drawn a few symbols and the family has written lists on the back of pages. It may not be perfect but it’s working for her. She is my PODD rock star. Every week I end my session by telling her to “PODD on” (rock on with PODD).

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Here’s a screenshot of my desperate plea for help in the AAC for the SLP group on 10/20/16:

I periodically update this blog post. It is a “pay it forward” labor of love. I had an incredibly hard time finding info about PODD to get started with that patient back in 2016. So I was determined to make it easier for anyone trying to do that. 😊
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The latest update for this post was on 9/26/22 when I went through and checked all of the links and info and updated as needed.
On 1/8/23 I updated pricing info for the digital PODD apps.
On 2/24/23 I updated to reflect that the PODD direct access template is sold out again on the Boardmaker website.
On 3/12/23 I updated this post to add info about Feature Matching Chart for Pragmatic Vocabulary Organization AAC Apps.

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https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Resource-Roundup-PODD-7175047


New resource: Feature Matching Chart for Pragmatic Vocabulary Organization AAC Apps. This is a VERY deep dive beyond just vocabulary organization… it’s also an in depth look at the flexibility or limitations of the app platforms, customization and alternative access options plus includes detailed info about three different Bluetooth switch interfaces (Blue2, iSwitch & Cosmo).

Available on TPT: https://bit.ly/PragmaticOrgVocabAAC-FeatureMatching-TPT. This resource includes free access to over 3 hours of unlisted YouTube videos where I highlight some of the most unique features in each option and discuss the flexibility in customization, options for alternative access, etc…

More info on my blog post: http://bit.ly/3ycG1EL


I’m sharing links to things that were helpful during this PODD adventure and a few lessons learned….
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What does PODD stand for? Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display

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Update 9/25/22: This website has great info about the history of PODD: https://www.cpec.org.au/podd
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How to get started? Ideally go to a PODD training….. but the reality is they may not be offered anywhere near you and they tend to be very expensive. This was my reality so I learned as much as I could online through blog posts, workshop handouts, videos, Facebook groups, etc….

One of the biggest mind shifts for me was to let go of the need to plan contrived communication opportunities in therapy sessions and instead model initiating saying “I have something to say” through facial expression, raising my hand and vocalizing and then using PODD to share my own thoughts or ideas. I had to get comfortable with doing lots of modeling without any pressure on the child to do anything. And comfortable with writing measurable goals in a whole different way.

Examples of some of the goals that I have written for her during this process:

“__________ will show increasing interest and attention to someone using pages from the PODD aided communication system to talk to her in natural contexts throughout the day. This will be measured by an increase in: looking towards the communication symbols or the communication partner, calming during this process, looking away to the side but with a stillness as if listening, or responding the partner’s message. Will increase from ______ to at least _______ times documented during the auth period.”

“Within natural contexts throughout the day, _________ will initiate use of PODD AAC by raising her hand and/or vocalizing to indicate “I have something to say”. Will increase from _______ to at least ________ times documented during the auth period.”

“After signaling “I have something to say”, __________will express an increasing range of communicative functions such as requests, comments, and directing actions using direct selection and/or partner assisted scanning with pages from the PODD communication book and yes/no responses. Will increase from_______ to at least ________ times documented during the auth period.”

…..

Writing IEP Goals and Objectives for Receptive and Expressive Communication for Children with Complex Communication Needs, By Linda Burkhart & Gayle Porter from the PODD Communication Books Advanced workshop Manual ©.2019, https://lindaburkhart.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/IEP-goals-from-Advanced-2019.pdf

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Update 3/10/21: A nice article about Partner Assisted Scanning (shared by Laura Taylor): https://speechpathologyaustralia.cld.bz/JCPSLP-November-2017/28

Update 7/27/20: The Angelman Syndrome Foundation has lots of nice examples of goals in the AAC section on their website (not specific to PODD but relevant): https://www.angelman.org/resources-education/iep-bank/
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Reading these 1 page PODD tip sheets helped break the concept into manageable chunks: http://interactivespeech.com.au/podd-communication-focus-handouts.php

Update 7/24/20: Those handouts are all no longer available. The website indicates they are being updated. Fortunately I had copies saved in the iBooks app on my iPad. I merged them into one PDF and uploaded that to my blog.

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This weekend I found these handouts and videos on Linda Burkhart’s website about PODD:

“Aided Language Stimulation and a Robust Language System: Autism a Case Example” – Presented by Linda J. Burkhart and Aura Baker at Closing the Gap Conference, October, 2016

 

Click to access Jax_story_CTGap_presentation_10_16_post.pdf

http://lindaburkhart.com/index.php/handout_jax_autism

“Aided Language Stimulation: Giving Kids the Gift of Language”
– presented by Linda Burkhart and Karen Owens (We Speak PODD) at AITA January 2017

 

Click to access Gift-of-Language_ATIA_Jan_17.pdf

https://bit.ly/39voWJd

 

Partner-Assisted Communication Strategies for Children Who Face Multiple Challenges Handout by Linda J. Burkhart and Gayle Porter ((Pre-conference Instructional course – ISAAC 2006): https://bit.ly/3f4DlNu

 

Partner-Assisted Communication Strategies for Children Who Face Multiple Challenges: PODD Communication Books – Gayle Porter Handout by Linda J. Burkhart and Gayle Porter (Pre-conference Instructional course – ISAAC 2006):  https://bit.ly/2BvPI7y

http://lindaburkhart.com/index.php/handouts/

Older handouts with great info:

https://bit.ly/3hHmdzb

http://lindaburkhart.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/Light_Com_part_1_-5_12_handout.pdf
http://lindaburkhart.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Light_Com_part_2_PODD_50_min_5_12_handout_rev.pdf
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Update 3/12/21:

Two parents discussing PODD books. Tracey Campbell is the parent describing how she first learned about PODD.

https://youtu.be/4p5eH1u1j40

See her TrAACey Talks YouTube channel for several more great videos: https://youtube.com/channel/UCUR-pRpRI7GH4cn645IbM8w

Intro to a single opening PODD book: https://youtu.be/D5QTl4cfEWs

Update 7/26/20:

Jodi Melendez: Making Modeling Fun at Home – AAC in the Cloud 2018 (webinar by a parent who uses PODD with her daughter): https://youtu.be/J6YfJuz1ktA

Getting Started with PODD with Mary Louise Bertram webinar: https://youtu.be/s_mc6AWQOM0 (it’s part of a great series of trainings from the Angelman Syndrome Foundation: https://www.angelman.org/resources-education/communication/) . She also has a great video where she models on PODD and uses some signs while reading a book: https://youtu.be/4HuJLuPk7Cg

Parents as Partners Working Together to Support PODD Users handouts (March 2017): http://ncaca.info/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/NCACA-2017-PODD-Karen-Lynn-handout.pdf

Recorded presentations from the FAST educational summit 2015 (Foundation for Angelman Syndrome Therapeutics):
Gayle Porter (this presentation was not specifically about PODD… but a little bit about PODD starts at 43:13): https://youtu.be/LoD32hBtyaU
Linda Burkhart (not solely about PODD but a lot about it): https://youtu.be/QZJRK0MB2ug
Handouts from their presentation: https://lindaburkhart.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/handout-Which-Way-to-Autonomous-Communication-AS-Porter-Burkhart.pdf

Talking with Tech podcast with guest Kelly Fonner who is a certified PODD trainer on 2/19/19 (her part starts at 20:33, Why would someone consider using PODD? starts at 29:20, Pitfalls to avoid starts at 40:33) : https://talkingwithtech.podbean.com/e/kelly-fonner-all-about-podd-pragmatic-organization-dynamic-display/

Updated PODD Overview: https://novitatech.com.au/equipment/podd-communication-books/

Lots of PODD info has been added to the PODD USA website…. I wish all of this had been there back when I was on my quest to learn about PODD: http://www.poddusa.com/links.html . Updated 9/25/22: The website is now: http://www.kellyfonner.com/poddusa/links.html


Updated 9/25/22

Update 9/25/22: The PODD Template CDs have been Sold Out on the Tobii Dynavox website for quite awhile: https://goboardmaker.com/products/podd. I was unable to find any info about whether or not those will be restocked. A couple of the USA PODD trainers are recommending folks purchase them from the CPEC website in Australia. If you do that you may need to edit some content from Australian English to USA English and be sure to order the US Letter Paper Size: https://cpec-store.myshopify.com/collections/podd-books/products/pragmatic-organisation-dynamic-display-podd-communication-book-direct-access-templates-a4-a5-paper-size?variant=17769125955

Update 1/8/23: The PODD CD was available again on the Tobii Dynavox website

Update 2/24/23: And it’s sold out again.


Options for purchasing premade PODD books (you have to sign a confirmation that you own both the Boardmaker and PODD software). A big shout out to Rachael Langley & Kelly Fonner for helping me find the first two options! The third one was seen in a Facebook group:

* Alt+Shift: https://www.altshift.education/resources/order-podd-books-through-altshift, http://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/1970606/PODD-Book-Order-Form-3 (several sizes and styles to choose from. This is where we ordered this patient’s book from. The spiral binding is not very large so we had to use a wooden dowel rod to hang it on the PVC stand. Updated 9/26/22: They also offer alternative access PODD books. See their website for requirements.

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* http://www.esc4.net/Assets/podd-books-order-formv2.pdf

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* https://terraslatepaper.com/products/podd-communication-book (you have to send them PDF to print) – Updated 9/25/22 This company no longer does this

* Update 9/26/22: AAC Book Builders in Australia: http://aacbookbuilders.com.au/productpage/ & their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/aacbookbuilders/. I don’t know prices and whether or not they ship internationally but thought it was cool that they also rent PODD books for trials and have tiny doll-sized PODD books

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How to convert PODD to PDF in Boardmaker 6 (tap this title to open PDF)

So I’ve been frustrated that I’m always fumbling through this patient’s PODD book in sessions. I wish there was a “word finder” for PODD (one of the downsides of a no tech system). I’m pretty “at home” with most AAC devices and apps since I have had lots of time to look through them and use them.  I wanted to have this same level of ease in using PODD so I decided that I needed a copy of the same style of PODD book that she is using.

Unfortunately I can’t use the Tobii Dynavox PODD pageset in the Compass app to model since it doesn’t look anything like my patient’s PODD book. Since I am only 14 weeks away from retirement it did not make sense to spend about $80 to order a premade PODD book for me.  I had seen comments online of folks saving a PODD book as a PDF so that’s what I decided to do. I saved the PDF in iBooks on my iPad. Now I have a way to look through it to get a feel for what vocabulary is in it and the pragmatic branching.

Be forewarned ….. it’s a VERY tedious & time consuming process to save a PODD book into one PDF if you are using Boardmaker 6 on a CD. It took me about 3 hours for a 123 pages of PODD. It’s not hard but time consuming.

  • Open the first page of your PODD book in Boardmaker.
  • Go to File – Print Set Up – Print Set Up – selected “Microsoft Print to PDF” – OK – Remember Board Settings for New Boards – OK
  • Go to File – Print (make sure it says “Microsoft Print to PDF” as the printer) – OK

You have to repeat the process for every single page that you want to include in the PDF of your PODD book. (I don’t have access to Boardmaker Online so I don’t know what the steps are there).

After you have all your pages saved as PDFs, then go to the Small PDF website (https://smallpdf.com/merge-pdf). This website lets you upload an unlimited number of PDFs. I uploaded all 123 of the PDF documents that I wanted included in this PODD book. After they are all uploaded then you hit “merge”. I was surprised how quickly this website handled merging 123 separate PDFs into one 123 page PDF document. I then uploaded the merged PDF from my computer into the media storage on my blog (a secured area that only I have access to). From there I was able to e-mail the link to the iPad that I use for AAC and opened the PDF in iBooks to save it on the device.

**** Note: Boardmaker 7 has been released but there are significant issues with its abilities to import PODD books. Tobii Dynavox released info on what to do in this document (last updated 12/14/20): http://tdvox.web-downloads.s3.amazonaws.com/Boardmaker/v7/Using%20PODD%20in%20Boardmaker%207%20FAQ.pdf

Additional info: https://www.tobiidynavox.com/landing-pages/podd-in-boardmaker-7/

7/12/21: See this info for additional help: https://goboardmaker.com/pages/podd-in-boardmaker-7

But I’m hearing that the solutions offered in the Quick Guides may not resolve the issues especially if you are trying to do 2-sided printing. Contact your local Boardmaker support team.

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Find a PODD Training:

Updated 9/25/22:

PODD Training Calendar: http://www.kellyfonner.com/poddusa/index.html

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Comparisons of PODD one page opening types of books: PODD-Comparison-for-one-page-opening-communication-books

Language: Pragmatic Functions and semantic meaning comparisons of PODD one page opening types of books: PODD-Language-Comparison-for-one-page-opening-communication-books

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More PODD tips:
http://praacticalaac.org/?s=PODD
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Mary-Louise Bertram demonstrates how to make a portable stand for a PODD book, that could also work well for other kinds of communication books.

 

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How We Speak PODD makes their carrying rods:

 

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Here are some examples of PODD book stands made out of PVC. The amazing PT tech at our facility made some of the first style ones for us:  PODD PVC stand examples
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Update 1/19/23: Nice short video with carrying strap ideas for two different styles of PODD books: https://youtu.be/PhM4LfPjBIo

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Update 7/28/20: More stand options

Therese Willkomm (a “MacGyver of AT”) making a stand out of corrugated plastic: https://youtu.be/1EeX7bIKiEU
More details (the dimensions are for an iPad stand but could easily be adapted for a PODD book): https://www.atprogramnews.com/2012/08/make-an-ipad-stand-in-under-3-minutes.html . Also found a PDF on this website: https://iod.unh.edu/node/73. (Updated 9/25/22: see this instead: https://iod.unh.edu/sites/default/files/media/2021-09/making-an-eileen.pdf)
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I’ve also seen this stand recommended: BestBookStand Actto BST-09:
https://www.amazon.com/BestBookStand-Actto-BST-09-adjustable-Portable/dp/B005IV6U0U

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And this one: Fellowes Booklift Copyholder, Platinum (21100)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004Z5QI/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_cRElFbJ4VYSBM

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BookStation

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08H8DZ2W8/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_i_.jmOFbXJ02NGD?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

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U.S. Art Supply Hampton Large Wooden Table Easel

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E7GLMOK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glc_fabc_94i0Fb8F9WGQZ

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Updated 3/12/21:

PODD in the Classroom: Portable, Wearable, & Comfortable by Rachael Langley (on PrAACtical AAC): https://praacticalaac.org/praactical/how-i-do-it-by-rachael-langley-podd-in-the-classroom-portable-wearable-comfortable/

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PODD Facebook groups:
* PODD and Alternative Access: https://www.facebook.com/groups/245472458977470
* PODD Trained Discussion Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/146028998941754
* PODD Europe: https://www.facebook.com/groups/304605199684150
* PODD & Angelman Sydrome: https://www.facebook.com/groups/AngelmanPODD/

* PODD with Alternative Access and Alternative Presentation: https://www.facebook.com/groups/245472458977470/

* PODD Interest Group Australia: https://www.facebook.com/groups/poddaus/

More Facebook groups that are not specific to PODD but folks frequently post about it there:

* AAC for the SLP: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1539830846285663/

* AAC Through Motivate, Model, Move Out Of The Way: https://www.facebook.com/groups/421704261346486/

* Angelman, Literacy, and Education (including Alphabet Therapy): https://www.facebook.com/groups/265187670266772/

See Facebook groups for each digital PODD app below.

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Gayle Porter has reportedly been working on an “alternative access” version of PODD for quite awhile but as of the time of this post it is still not available here in the USA.

So I made these very simple eye gaze boards with pragmatic branching to use with a couple of other older patients. (Update: As of 1/13/21 the Alternative Access version of PODD is still not available in the USA and no info could be found regarding when it will be available. Update: As of 1/8/23 the Alternative Access version is still not commercially available in the USA. You could order it from Australia and get A4 paper to print it on but any binders would also need to be that size: https://cpec-store.myshopify.com/collections/podd-books/products/pragmatic-organisation-dynamic-display-podd-communication-book-alternative-access-templates. Or see the ordering info above for Alt+Shift (USA) and AAC Book Builders (Australia) for purchasing premade Alternative Access PODD books.

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Facebook post from 10/31/17:

https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1650668341650831

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https://youtu.be/JKsf9bjRiGU

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Update 9/25/22: This frequently requested resource in now available on TPT. See this blog post for details: Simple Eye Gaze Communication Flip Book: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2022/09/25/new-resource-simple-eye-gaze-communication-flip-book/
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Update 7/22/20:

 

I recently discovered this unique free AAC app in the App Store. pasco by Ace Centre
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/pasco/id1317265884. pasco (Phrase Auditory Scanning COmmunicator). It works on the iPad and iPhone. The auditory scanning options are very similar to those in PODD. There are no symbols. It’s totally auditory. The in app guide is in the “?” area. More info: http://acecentre.org.uk/project/pasco/. Support FAQs: https://acecentre.org.uk/page/pasco-support/

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Update 1/9/21:

Digital PODD books are available on the iPad in four ways: simPODD, Grid for iPad, Snap Core First and PODD with Compass. This post is based on my personal experiences in trying all four options.

Update 7/22/21: Snap Core First has been re-branded as TD Snap AAC. The process of setting up a new user in the app has been improved. The other features remain the same.

Updated 9/25/22:

As of September 1st, 2022, PODD with Compass is no longer available for sale (http://downloads.tobiidynavox.com/Other/Legacy%20EOS/Compass%20EOS.pdf). They will continue to make effort to provide technical support for Compass on devices that have not surpassed their useful lifetime.

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3/12/23 For comprehensive and up to date info about all of the digital PODD options on the iPad and Windows devices, see this new resource. Like all of my feature matching resources it will be updated if features change in apps:

http://bit.ly/3ycG1EL


As I mentioned at the beginning of this blog post, I did not have the opportunity to attend a formal PODD training. I’m in Oklahoma and PODD trainings were always too far away and too expensive for the state agency to send us. There was finally one in Texas just a few months before I retired but I gave my spot to another SLP on the team since spending that much for me to attend did not make sense that close to retirement.

So in order to support the patients that I used PODD with I taught myself via all of the resources that I shared on this blog post: videos, webinars, handouts, reading everything included with the PODD CD, participating in several AAC Facebook groups, and being cross-trained by the two SLPs who did go to that PODD training in Texas, etc. Since then I have continued to remain active with AAC.

I’m glad to answer questions or point you in the direction of who may be able to answer them 😊

The best way to reach me is via Facebook messaging over on my OMazing Kids page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

Want to suggest PODD resources or info to be added to this list? The best way to reach me is via Facebook messaging over on my OMazing Kids page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/. If you are an app developer and would like to have me review a new digital PODD app for the iPad or PODD that was added to an existing app via IAP, please send the link from the USA App Store so I can look at the info before you send a promo code. I want to make sure that one of my iPads is compatible in order to try it out.

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I’m retired from providing clinical services but am doing AAC consulting, creating AAC resources, actively posting about AAC and apps and using AAC in volunteer work.

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Updated contact info 9/25/22

Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP, Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC, OMazing Kids AAC Consulting

• Teachers Pay Teachers Store: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Omazing-Kids-Aac-Consulting

• YouTube: https://youtube.com/user/amoorad1

• Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/omazingkidsaac

• OMazing Kids AAC Consulting Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsAAC/

• AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/

• GoTalk Now AAC & GoVisual Visual Scene Apps – Ideas and Sharing Facebook Group: https://bit.ly/GoTalkNowAACappGroup

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkidsaac

• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/amoorad

• Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/

• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/amoorad1

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelamooradomazingkidsaac

• Blog: https://omazingkidsllc.com

Top 10 AAC App Updates in 2017

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It’s amazing to see how much the field of AAC has changed over the course of my 28 year career as a SLP. Long gone are the old days of it taking years to see any major changes or improvements in AAC options. We are living in an era of rapid advancement thanks largely to social media that provides the opportunity for AAC users, therapists, teachers & parents to provide direct input to app and technology developers regarding what features we need. Most good AAC apps are now updated several times a year. Here is my list of top 10 updates that occurred for AAC apps in 2017:

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#1: Proloquo2Go – in March 2017 version 5.0 added an amazing Search feature & Progressive Language. If you haven’t checked out this AAC app in awhile, I invite you to take a look at it again. These new features are a game changer. It also now includes English, Spanish, French & Dutch languages.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/proloquo2go/id308368164?mt=8

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#2: Speak For Yourself – in January 2017 version 2.6 made this a Universal iOS app that can be used on an iPhone, iPod Touch & iPad. It also includes room for up to 40 different users (a great feature for SLPs trialing AAC with several different patients). Other updates this year added options to share vocabulary via AirDrop, more buttons became editable, the sentence bar background color can be changed & a “Manual Whisper Mode” was added to allow users to create a whole sentence prior to speaking.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/speak-for-yourself/id482508198?mt=8

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#3: LAMP Words for Life – in July 2017 version 1.6.0 added a bilingual Spanish/English pageset, Word Finder updated to show and take you through the path to a word and added the option to backup to DropBox.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/lamp-words-for-life/id551215116?mt=8

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#4: TouchChat with WordPower HD – several updates added new pageset options, Arabic language added through an in-app purchase, Canadian French vocabulary files available as free upgrade and vocabulary files can now be backed up to DropBox and can be shared via E-mail and iMessaging.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/touchchat-hd-aac-w-wordpower/id412351574?mt=8

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#5: GoTalk Now Plus – in March 2017 version 4.11.6 added PCS Thinline symbols as an option through in-app purchase. In September 2017 version 4.11.11 added the option for Hybrid Scene pages (visual scene + up to 4 buttons) & the option to share messages from the Express Bar to Facebook, e-mail and text messaging.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/gotalk-now-plus/id742150885?mt=8

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#6: Snap + Core First – this new app was just released in June 2017 and in December 2017 already had a major update to add a bilingual Spanish/English pageset option & Spanish voices. At the end of October 2017 they added access to voice output in the free version of this app for ASHA certified SLPs as part of your MyTobiiDynavox account.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/snap-core-first/id1072799231?mt=8

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#7: Avaz Pro – in May 2017 version 4.2.6 added the option of having up to 77 buttons per screen. In September 2017 version 4.3 added the option to share via AirDrop and the Search now takes you through the path to a word.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/avaz-pro-aac-app-for-autism/id558161781?mt=8

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#8: ChatAble & Predictable apps by TherapyBox both had major overhauls in 2017.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/chatable-symbol-based-app/id803004748?mt=8

& https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/predictable/id404445007?mt=8

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#9: BRIDGE Communication – in January 2017 version 1.17 added the option to add video clips to buttons. The price was lowered to 99 cents.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bridge-communication/id983660714?mt=8

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#10: Custom Boards Premium by Smarty Ears had a major overhaul. New templates and updated Smarty Symbols were added. A great affordable option for making printable choice boards and visual supports.

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/custom-boards-premium/id463344117?mt=8
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See this updated post for info about how SLPs can get free access to several AAC apps, funding tips & links to AAC user Facebook groups: https://omazingkidsllc.com/2016/06/11/aac-tips-how-slps-can-get-free-access-to-aac-apps-aac-app-user-groups-funding-options-more/.
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2017 was a years of ups & downs in the world of AAC apps. It was exciting to see so many great improvements in apps and a couple of new apps released but at the same time very sad to see a few AAC apps either disappear or no longer function properly after the release of iOS 11. I’ve received numerous messages on my OMazing Kids page from parents and therapists with very heartbreaking stories of AAC users losing their voice when iOS 11 came out. Several small AAC app developers had not updated those apps in almost 5 years. It’s one thing to lose a favorite game or therapy app but a whole different thing to lose an AAC app. It’s a cautionary tale to anyone who has thoughts of developing a new AAC app. Beyond the initial costs of developing the app, it is imperative that you also have a very well thought out long term plan and finances for supporting and keeping an AAC app updated.
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: http://m.me/OMazingKidsYoga (note: Facebook frequently changes the link to messaging so if this one doesn’t work head over to my page and click on the “Send Message” button)
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkids
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
YappGuru: http://yappguru.com/user/omazing-kids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with 28 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.

{New App} Looking for an easy way to make choice boards? Check out the brand new Make A Choice AAC app by pkclSoft

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{New App} Looking for an easy way to make choice boards? Check out the brand new Make A Choice AAC app by pkclSoft

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The app was developed to meet a need expressed by a parent of a child with special needs to be able to quickly create choice boards on the go. I enjoyed helping with beta testing and used it today to quickly prep for a cookie decorating activity we have on Monday. Unique features include the “Pick a Choice Board” area where you can tap on a pic to open that board, the ability to copy/paste pics into the app and the ability to reuse buttons in new boards. I like that it has a plain black background and that there is a lot of space between the buttons. Busy SLPs and parents will appreciate the value of this inexpensive and user friendly app. It would make a great stocking stuffer this Christmas 🎄
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Purchase it on the App Store: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/make-a-choice-aac-buttons/id1295966224?mt=8, $4.99 in the USA App Store (prices vary elsewhere based on the exchange rate)
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See examples and “how to” videos on their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/AppMakeAChoice
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP
Speech-Language Pathologist
Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities
Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: http://m.me/OMazingKidsYoga (note: Facebook frequently changes the link to messaging so if this one doesn’t work head over to my page and click on the “Send Message” button)
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga
AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkids
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/
YappGuru: http://yappguru.com/user/omazing-kids/
Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741
Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad
Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com
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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with 28 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities.

{App Review} Communication Adventure – An app for communication training for caregivers of children with complex communication needs by Avaz, Inc.

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{App Review} Communication Adventure – An app for communication training for caregivers of children with complex communication needs by Avaz, Inc.

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This app from Avaz provides several scenarios to practice opportunities for encouraging and expanding communication. The tips are pretty universal and could apply to any robust AAC system or even general language development. There were a couple of items that I might have coached a parent a little differently in but overall the app has good info and would be a fun and very affordable way to train parents, teachers, aides or other caregivers on ways to encourage & expand communication. After you complete all the modules you then have access to an area with additional tips / ideas.
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[FYI… if you have the  Avaz Pro – AAC App (https://appsto.re/us/19nrH.i) then you have similar scenarios in the “dashboard” area but they take longer to unlock there since that is contingent upon practicing sentences]
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Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist 

Founder of OMazing Kids, LLC – inclusive wellness & educational activities for kids of all abilities 

Facebook Messaging for OMazing Kids: http://m.me/OMazingKidsYoga

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/OMazingKidsYoga 

AppPeeps Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/OMazingKidsAppPeeps/ 

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/amoorad 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omazingkids

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/amoorad1 

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/OMazingKids/ 

YappGuru: http://yappguru.com/user/omazing-kids/

Google+: https://plus.google.com/u/0/110305433538768736741

Boardmaker Share: http://www.boardmakershare.com/Community/FriendsProfile/10916/Angela-Moorad 

Blog: http://omazingkidsllc.com

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Angela Moorad is the founder of OMazing Kids, LLC and is an ASHA certified & licensed pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Kids Yoga Teacher with over 27 years experience working in a variety of settings (early intervention, schools, teletherapy & a nonprofit pediatric rehab hospital for children with developmental disabilities). She is an app beta tester for educational & therapeutic app developers and loves sharing info about great apps, products, books & toys to use with kids of all abilities. 

 

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