People who have complex communication needs may benefit from the use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices to assist them in successfully expressing their ideas to others.  Although many positive outcomes have been reported by parents of children who use a variety of AAC methods, research indicates that a significant proportion of high-tech AAC devices prescribed are returned or not effectively used by clients in the long term.  In 2009, Lisa Totten and Sharon Ryder conducted research to investigate the perspectives of parents of children who use communication devices.  In line with previous published research, parents indicated that a team approach between parents, teachers and speech pathologists was preferred.  In particular, parents highlighted the importance of information sharing and regular meetings at school.  Receiving adequate training and support was also identified by families as being helpful.  The aim of this project was to ensure local AAC teams, including parents and teachers, had access to practical, evidence-based information on supporting AAC users through a collaborative teamwork approach.  The Positive AACtion Kit consists of information sheets and templates to guide the AAC team through the process of selecting, trialing and using communication devices with school-aged children.  Topics covered include working together, selecting a communication device, trialing a communication device, sourcing funding (focusing on options in Western Australia) and supporting communication device use.  Feedback received from families, teachers and therapists will be valuable in continuing to update and improve the information package.

Sharon Ryder is a Senior Speech Pathologist at Rocky Bay, a Western Australian organisation working to optimise the quality of life for people living with disabilities.  In 2009, she collaborated with Lisa Totten, Senior Speech Pathologist, on a research project investigating the perspectives of parents whose school-aged children used an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device.  She is committed to improving the outcomes of people with complex communication needs through supporting all members of AAC teams to work collaboratively.