Discovering Communication: U of A Professors Establish Camp for Children with AAC Devices

A research lab aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with communication limitations has been established by two professors from the U of A College of Education and Health Professions. Through their WE CARE program, they are organizing a free camp for children this summer to provide an opportunity for children between the ages of 4 and 10 who are Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users or potential users to participate in STEM-themed activities. The camp will run on campus from July 8-26, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The camp facilitators, Elizabeth Lorah and Christine Holyfield, are professors at the U of A specializing in special education and communication sciences and disorders, respectively. They have established the Augmentative and Alternative Communication research lab at the university, which focuses on developing and assessing instructional techniques and technologies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Children of all levels of experience with AAC devices are welcome to participate in the camp. AAC devices enable individuals with limited speech to communicate by selecting images or words on a tablet, enhancing interactions with family, friends, and others in educational and social settings.

Families are encouraged to enroll their children for all three weeks, but a commitment to at least two weeks is required. The camp will be staffed by students from various programs within the college, including teacher education, communication disorders, and occupational therapy. For more information about the camp or to apply, individuals can contact Elizabeth Lorah at lorah@uark.edu or Christine Holyfield at ceholyfi@uark.edu. Applications for the camp can be submitted through the provided link.