How we’re celebrating AAC Awareness Month

Every year during October, people around the world raise awareness of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). Members of the community including users, professionals and AAC providers come together to celebrate the diverse ways people communicate, sharing their stories, highlighting statistics, and providing discounts on AAC software to improve access to a voice.

Nonetheless, we recognise that awareness is important beyond October, which is why we engage in year-round initiatives to shine a light on the need for AAC.

This year’s theme

ISAAC (International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication) set an annual theme to spotlight various aspects of AAC. This year, they chose “Say what? Sharing your most memorable moments with AAC.”

This theme encourages us to reflect on and celebrate the unforgettable moments made possible by AAC.

Why are we raising awareness for AAC?

Most people have never heard of AAC yet 1 in 200 people around the world could benefit from access to it for communication and independence:

• 75% of those with Parkinson’s disease
• 70% of people with MND
• 20-30% of people who have had a stroke
• 15% of those with learning difficulties
• 10% of those with dementia
• 10% of Autistic people

UK data (Creer et al, 2016)

Discounts for AAC Awareness month

We are offering you first-of-their-kind discounts on Grid for iPad software and training via Smartbox Academy to celebrate AAC Awareness Month.

Grid for iPad

Get started with Grid for iPad at 50% off! This limited offer will be available from Monday, October 16 – Friday, October 20 in the US, UK and Ireland.

Grid for iPad is the all-in-one AAC tool with content for all ages and abilities, from powerful communication tools for text users to grid sets for communicating with symbols and developing literacy. Learn more about Grid for iPad and claim your discount.

Paid courses on Smartbox Academy

All paid courses on our online learning platform are half-price for people who sign up and opt-in to our email marketing during the month. This makes it the best time ever to kickstart or continue learning about AAC and Grid.

Enrol now to secure this offer.

Smartbox on socials

On our social media and in our Facebook Community, we will be spreading the word with a series of infographics, information and stories from our community.

Smartboxers sharing memorable AAC moments

Many Smartboxers have put years into working with AAC users and hold some inspiring memories, throughout October we will be sharing some of our highlights over the years.

Share your most memorable AAC moments

In line with this year’s theme, we want to hear your most memorable moments made possible with AAC.

Whether inspirational, emotional or humorous, we want to share your stories in our communities to raise awareness throughout October. You can share your story via email, DM or in the Community.