Teletherapy has opened up new opportunities for speech and language therapy, particularly for individuals who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Once SLPs learn how to set up teletherapy AAC sessions, it's time to find a repertoire of virtual activities.
Teletherapy Activities for AAC Users
Here are ten engaging activities that integrate AAC into teletherapy sessions to make learning both effective and fun. Tip: Use a split-screen setup to model AAC use while simultaneously interacting with the client in various activities. It’s super useful!
Story Builders
Creating stories together encourages narrative skills and vocabulary building. Navigate pages on the AAC device to choose characters, settings, and actions, constructing unique stories that spark creativity and language use. Make up your own stories or use your favorite storytelling games online.
Shared Storybook Reading
Reading storybooks together is an excellent way to improve comprehension and vocabulary and it’s so easy to do virtually. Search read-alouds of your favorite books, check out e-books from the library, or use sites like Epic and Vooks to find a book your client would love. Use the AAC device to answer questions, predict outcomes, request ‘more’, or comment on the story.
Songs and Videos
Incorporate songs and videos to make your sessions lively and engaging. Clients can use their AAC devices to sing along, label songs, and express their preferences.
Online Coloring and Art
Digital art activities allow clients to express themselves creatively using their AAC devices. Explore their device to describe the artwork, choose colors, and follow instructions, enhancing both their artistic and communication abilities.
Hidden Pictures
Games like iSpy or Hidden Pictures are perfect for developing vocabulary and attention to detail. Use their AAC devices to describe what they see, ask for hints, and indicate where they find hidden items.
Routines and Routines Games
With clients at home, it’s even easier to have them complete routines with you as they learn the vocabulary. You can even simulate daily routines like cooking or bath time through interactive games to help clients learn relevant vocabulary and sequences. They can follow steps, make choices, and describe actions, making real-life scenarios easier to navigate.
Board Games
Many classic board games are available online and are great for turn-taking, following rules, and using language for activities they love. Communicate moves on the board, ask questions, and celebrate wins through their communication board or AAC device.
Virtual Field Trips
Virtual field trips are fun for all our clients; taking a trip to zoos, museums, or parks can be exciting and educational. Have fun as you explore new environments, ask questions, and share experiences. Search where you want to go online and you’ll be there in seconds!
Dress-up and Building Games
Games that involve dressing up characters or building objects foster creativity and decision-making skills. Use core and fringe vocabulary to describe choices, explain designs, and enjoy the process of creating something new.
Puzzles
Solving and putting puzzles online helps with problem-solving and the vocabulary opportunities are endless. Clients can use their AAC devices to discuss their strategies, ask for help, and celebrate when they complete the puzzle. You are sure to find a puzzle for your client’s favorite characters, toys, or animals online.
Integrate these activities into your teletherapy sessions to make them more engaging and beneficial for clients using AAC. The key is to be creative and flexible, adapting each activity to meet the individual needs and preferences of your clients. Try it out!
Hi! I’m Alexis– a virtual assistant and licensed speech-language pathologist.
Since graduating from Duquesne University, I have been a practicing pediatric SLP in Iowa, Maryland, and North Carolina.
I enjoy working with the DHH population, early language, and AAC users. Most recently, I put my passion for creating, organizing, and helping others reach their goals into starting Speech Savvy, LLC - a virtual assistant for SLPs.
Outside of work, you can find me wherever there is sunshine! My husband and I currently live in Cary, North Carolina and spend our weekends redecorating, trying new coffee shops, and going for walks. I love traveling, reading, eating at new restaurants, and sitting on the beach.
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