Niagara Children’s Centre Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) equipment

What is this project about?

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) provides tools and strategies for children to communicate effectively, increasing their social inclusion, overall wellbeing and resiliency. With funding support from a L.E.A.F. grant, we will purchase a variety of modernized, high technology devices that can be adapted to meet a diversity of strengths and needs. These devices will be used for assessments and temporary loan to families to determine the most suited equipment for the child prior to the family purchasing and potentially investing their own resources. An increased variety of devices will support staff to personalize supports for children in home and community, practically supporting kids in real world engagement, participation, function, learning, resiliency and growth.

Why is this project important to the community?

The waitlist for our AAC services is currently 2.5 years long. Our entire inventory of devices are on loan to children, restricting our ability to help more children. Early intervention is vital, as without this support children are left unable to communicate. As they grow older and more aware of their limitations and differences, this makes children significantly less likely to engage in their community.

Our current AAC devices are outdated, creating barriers to children’s functional use. Technology has significantly progressed with longer battery times, lighter devices, high volume speakers with “human” sounding voices, and easier programming for families. In addition, children who can use their hands to operate devices can now use specialized software on an iPad. Given that iPads are commonly used within communities, this reduces inclusion barriers & real or perceived stigmas.

New AAC devices will reduce our waitlist & enable the effective communication and participation of more children in the community. Children will acquire new skills & confidence to further their development and resiliency. They are less likely to become socially isolated and sustain the adverse health outcomes that come alongside social isolation. Community members gain confidence in interacting with individuals who are not able to speak, fueling community responsivity, inclusion & accommodation initiatives to strengthen the overall well-being, resilience and interconnectedness of all members. "AAC tools have given my son his voice, opening doors to learning, friendship, and community that were once closed to him as a nonverbal child. He has been able to participate more fully in school and family life, sharing his thoughts and emotions in meaningful ways building connection. One of the first things he told me using his device was I love you Mom, a moment that changed everything for our family" Michelle, Centre parent

Target Completion Date
March 31, 2026
Location
567 Glenridge Ave, St. Catharines ON
St. Catharines
L2T 4C2

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