Book Sharing With AAC Over Telepractice: A Tutorial

Abstract

Telepractice offers speech-language pathologists (SLPs) increased flexibility to support language development, including emergent literacy in clients with complex communication needs. However, clinicians may feel uncertain how to pair books with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) over telepractice. Following an overview of telepractice, book sharing, and e-helpers, we describe four practical ways to combine storybooks with AAC online. These include: (a) using accessible books, (b) screen sharing e-books and communication aid, (c) adapting slide shows, and (d) creating asynchronous videos. Finally, we offer suggestions for modeling AAC, prioritizing emotions in storybooks, and tips for clinical supervisors. This topic can direct future researchers and is relevant to practicing clinicians who want to support language development for clients using aided communication systems.