Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a set of tools and strategies that supplement or replace a child/youth’s spoken and written communication in everyday life.
The AAC Clinic works to identify, recommend, and assist in securing funding for tools that support communication for children/youth who might be:
The AAC Clinic provides training to children/youth, their caregivers, families, educators, and communication partners with respect to the proper use of the recommended communication system.
Communication is a human right and is the foundation for connection. The FIREFLY Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Clinic is dedicated to helping children and youth access to to allow them to communicate in away that they are understood. Communication tools improve well being by reducing barriers to participation in meaningful activities with family, peers,. and community. The AAC Clinic is committed to building community knowledge of communication tools in order to reduce stigma, build inclusive communities, and empower families and communication partners to integrate AAC into their, classrooms, homes, and larger community.
Reducing Access Barriers and Finding the Right Tools
Building Community Competency
Acknowleding the Human Rightr to Communicate
Depending on your child’s needs, a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and/or Occupational Therapist (OT) will meet you and your child to explore communication aid needs and options. Your child will complete an assessment with the SLP/OT to determine the equipment that will best meet those needs. Once the equipment is received, the SLP/OT will ensure it is properly programmed and will provide training on how to use the equipment to all necessary communication partners. The Clinic will also assist in securing funding to purchase any recommended equipment.
NOTE: Initial follow-up visits will occur through the Clinic and then will transition to the community SLP and/or OT.
Child/youth and/or guardian is interested in discussing Augmentative and Alternative communication options AND one of the following three options:
The Clinic is available to children birth to 18 years of age (or 21 years if still attending school) who live in Northwestern Ontario.
All referrals to the Clinic are reviewed by the Clinic team to determine appropriateness. Clients not accepted will be provided with more suitable service options.
Travel may be required.
To access this service or to make a referral for a client visit our Get Services Now page or call Centralized Intake at 1-833-696-5437 or email [email protected].
820A Lakeview Drive
Kenora, Ontario
P9N 3P7
