The 2024 knAAC Awards
Keepers and Noteworthies in AAC
Welcome to the 2024 knAAC Awards! Short for "Keepers and Noteworthies in AAC", the knAAC Awards are all about highlighting the wonderful work happening in the world of AAC! We want to help celebrate the unsung heroes of AAC in all their different efforts, and we need your help to do it!
All of these people and products have done impressive work, and we are grateful for how their contributions have helped AAC users. Our goal is not to start a popularity contest, but instead to try to bring attention to all of the nominees, and maybe have a little fun like a chilli cook-off or voting for our favorite superheroes.
Anyone is welcome to vote on the nominees, please either go through each category, or only vote on those categories that you're already familiar with. Highlights are chosen based on a combination of popular vote and selections from our judging team. Thank you again to the over 100 nominees in 18 different categories!
2024 knAAC Awards Nominees (voting link at the end)
AAC Advocate of the Year
Alyssa Hillary Zisk
Alyssa is an Autistic part-time AAC user, using a variety of text-based tools. They are the AAC Research team lead at AssistiveWare, conducting AAC research both related and unrelated to their own AAC use and needs. Alyssa completed their PhD in neuroscience in May 2021, working on brain-computer interfaces for people with ALS. They are also one of the moderators of the Facebook group, Ask Me, I'm an AAC User, which earned
a Service to the Self-Advocacy Movement Award from the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network in 2021.
Lydia Dawley
Lydia graduated with a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin. She is the founder and CEO of Click. Speak. Connect. She consults with Speech-Language Pathologists, teachers, parents in access methods, faster access, device experiences and language skills related to AAC, and also mentors other AAC users to work on social skills. She is the inventor of the NadPen, an adapted stylus for touchscreen devices.
Hannah Foley
Hannah Foley, B.A. is an Assistive Technology (AT) Specialist concentrating in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Beyond her daily work, Hannah provides national-level consultation on AAC-related topics. In her current role as the Support and Implementation Specialist at Forbes AAC, Hannah delivers clinical support to optimize the implementation of AAC systems, with a particular emphasis on CoughDrop.
Hannah earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and received her Graduate Certificate in AT with concentration in AAC from the University of Illinois Chicago. She is a member of the United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (USSAAC) and is a member of USSAAC's Awareness Committee.
endever* Corbin
endever* corbin is a mostly-nonspeaking autistic self-advocate who is multiply disabled, trans, and queer. They enjoy sharing their lived experience and expertise as an AAC user with professionals, caregivers, and peers. Xe is also proud to contribute to academic work as a community research partner and as a presenter in a range of professional, preservice, and community settings.
Donnie Denome
Donnie TC Denome is an autistic AAC user. Their work focuses on making information accessible for people with intellectual, developmental, and speech/language disabilities. They are interested in making health care more accessible to people with the most significant disabilities. Donnie holds a master’s degree in public health and was a 2023-2024 Minnesota LEND fellow. They want to go back to school for their doctorate and conduct community-based participatory research with people with intellectual disabilities. Currently, Donnie uses Proloquo4Text for most of their communication. They are also, slowly but surely, recreating the Unity 45, 60, 84, and 144 vocabularies in Touch Chat.
Michael Hipple
Mike has been using AAC for 20 years and is an active participant in the AAC community. He founded Wisconsin AAC Network in 2015, a state network for everyone in the state's AAC community. He sits on many committees for AAC, assistive technology, and special education, and wrote a children's book about starting school in 2010. In addition to speaking events, Mikes mentor and work with therapy teams and families virtually.
AAC Presenter of the Year
Beth Poss
Beth Poss is an educational and technology consultant, accessibility and inclusion advocate, speech/language pathologist, former special education administrator, and former assistant principal. In addition to her independent consulting, she is the Director of Educational Programs for LessonPix. Beth is passionate about designing educational environments that support all students in accessing a rigorous curriculum and meeting educational outcomes. In her work with school districts, universities and national and state level organizations she focuses on literacy, augmentative and alternative communication, Universal Design for Learning and inclusive educational practices. She is one of the authors of Inclusive Learning 365: EdTech Strategies for Every Day of the Year, released in August 2021.
Lauren Enders Gonzales
Lauren (Enders) Gonzales is an ASHA certified SLP currently serving as a full-time AAC and AT Consultant for Bucks County IU, Pennsylvania. Lauren is passionate about advocating for individuals with complex communication needs and strives to share best practices with all AAC stakeholders. She has presented on numerous topics related to AAC at large conferences including Closing the Gap, ATIA, ASHA, and ISAAC Connect as well as more intimate conferences, speaking engagements and webinars. Lauren is an Adjunct Faculty member at the Delaware Valley University where she teaches courses in assistive technology.
Kate Ahern
About. Kate is a renowned special education teacher, consultant, and author with over two decades of experience. She specializes in helping children with complex communication needs, sensory processing issues, and profound/multiple disabilities. She operates multiple Facebook groups and teaches online classes focused on supporting AAC users.
Alyssa Hillary Zisk
Alyssa is an Autistic part-time AAC user, using a variety of text-based tools. They are the AAC Research team lead at AssistiveWare, conducting AAC research both related and unrelated to their own AAC use and needs. Alyssa completed their PhD in neuroscience in May 2021, working on brain-computer interfaces for people with ALS. They are also one of the moderators of the Facebook group, Ask Me, I'm an AAC User, which earned
a Service to the Self-Advocacy Movement Award from the Autistic Self-Advocacy Network in 2021.
Kelly Fonner
Kelly is a self-employed consultant and trainer in assistive and educational technology. This is her 40th school year in providing Special Education services. Kelly has worked for non-profits, school districts and statewide organizations. She has taught in university programs including The Johns Hopkins University, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and for the California State University - Northridge's ATACP course. She has presented in 48 US states & internationally in Australia, Brazil, Canada and South Africa and has been a constant presence at both CTG and ATIA conferences. In addition to presenting, Kelly continues to teach several students online. She is a volunteer leader within the QIAT Community and the Wisconsin AAC Network.
Symbol-Centric AAC App of the Year
TouchChat HD
Designed for individuals with autism, Down syndrome, ALS, apraxia, stroke, or other conditions that affect a person's ability to use natural speech, TouchChat uses the familiarity of iOS technology to provide a dynamic AAC solution for a lifetime of successful communication. With easy-to-customize features and a wide range of intuitive vocabularies (including the most comprehensive WordPower® options), languages, and voices, people who are non-speaking can experience the unlimited power of communication. TouchChat is a universal app supporting iPhone®, iPod®, and iPad® as well as multiple access methods.
LAMP Words for Life
LAMP Words for Life is a renowned, motor-planning-focused language system for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. With an 84-button location grid and multi-meaning symbols, this iOS app combines the power of the Unity® vocabulary and Language Acquisition Motor Planning (LAMP™) approach. It includes developmentally progressive vocabulary files and features to scaffold language learning for each individual's current skill level with a clear path for unlimited language growth. Available in English as well as bilingual Spanish/English and Canadian French/English, LAMP Words for Life is a universal app supporting iPhone®, iPod®, and iPad® as well as multiple access methods.
Proloquo2Go
Trusted by hundreds of thousands worldwide, Proloquo2Go is the most popular AAC app for iPhone, iPad and Apple Watch. It is highly flexible and can be personalized to cater to individual needs and various disabilities.
Customize, communicate and connect with Proloquo2Go!
TD Snap
TD Snap is a flexible communication app supporting individuals with speech and language disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Rett syndrome, and aphasia. It meets users where they are while fostering the development and growthof communication, language, and literacy skills. Accessible via touch, eye gaze, and scanning, this symbol
Proloquo
Proloquo is a comprehensive AAC app available for iPad and iPhone, expertly crafted to fit everyone from toddlers to adults. It’s more than just a communication tool; it's a gateway to language development and effective communication.
Proloquo offers an extensive vocabulary unmatched in size and efficiency that can support the growth of language skills at any age. With a user-friendly interface and innovative features, Proloquo ensures everyone can discover, learn and love language.
CoughDrop
CoughDrop is a cloud-based, modern, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app that helps people communicate better. This app is built for individuals who have a hard time speaking, like those with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Angelman syndrome, Rett syndrome, or other complex communication needs.It works across multiple devices, and platforms such as Android, iOS, and Windows, as well as the web. CoughDrop lets you personalize your communication boards with symbols, images, and audio. Users can access CoughDrop's communication and reporting features on their tablets, phones, and other devices. This way, you can communicate the way that works best for you.
Grid
Grid is used by children and adults with communication difficulties across the world to have a voice and live more independently. Available on Windows and iPad, Grid always includes our premier symbol-centric vocabularies: Super Core, a research-based core vocabulary, and Voco Chat, a pragmatically organized symbol vocabulary. Grid can be used with a range of symbol libraries, including SymbolStix, PCS, and Widgit, with a wide variety of grid sets for all abilities and access modalities.
Text-Centric AAC App of the Year
Proloquo4Text
Proloquo4Text is an intuitive Text to Speech app for iPad, iPhone and Apple Watch designed for people who can write but cannot rely on speech. This app can fit a variety of communication settings - it is as useful for social interaction as for giving a presentation.
Pasco/Echo
pasco is designed for a specific need and is a development project led by Ace Centre. Its primary purpose is an AAC solution for individuals who need an auditory scanning system and who possibly require multi-lingual support.
Alpha Core
Designed by Amy Roman MS CCC-SLP, Alpha Core provides robust core vocabulary alongside text-based AAC. Intended for adults with changing access needs, it offers a range of keyboard layouts and text-entry strategies to maximize communication efficiency as your physical abilities evolve. Alpha Core provides quick access to prediction and phrases, a choice of keyboards, and is optimized for access.
Predictable
Predictable, is an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) text-to-speech app. Designed for people who cannot speak because of conditions such as ALS/MND, autism, cerebral palsy, down's syndrome, learning difficulties, stroke / aphasia, laryngectomy and apraxia.
Speech Assistant AAC
Speech Assistant AAC is a text-to-speech app designed for people who are speech impaired, for example due to Aphasia, MND/ALS, Autism, Stroke, Cerebral Palsy or other speech problems.
With the app you can create categories and phrases, which are placed on buttons. With these buttons you can create messages that can be shown or spoken (text-to-speech). It is also possible to type any text using the keyboard.
Talk for Me
Talk For Me - Text to Speech will help you to communicate with ease. Type in the main text area or tap one of the six main custom buttons and your iPhone or iPad will talk for you. Need to make a phone call or a FaceTime audio or video call? Automagically the spoken text will be heard on the other caller's phone or iPad when on a call. Want to set up more custom phrases? Swipe up for more pages with custom editable buttons. Need even more? Save phrases in an archive database. Can you type fast or need to spell a word? Turn on the Auto Speech Function to have every word or letter spoken as you enter it. Together with keyboard shortcuts, predictive text and your custom phrases, this app will allow you to communicate with ease.
Vocable
Through head tracking or touch, Vocable gives a voice to all. Users have the ability to create a customized library of words, phrases and categories for every day use, or use the power of AI to assist with active conversation. Devices that do not support head tracking will only work with touch.
Up-And-Coming AAC App of the Year
WeaveChat
Weave Chat AAC is a free and dynamic AAC application that can be used on iOS, Android (including Chromebooks), and Kindle devices. There are several boards to choose from, including the default “scrolling” board, which is designed to be used on a phone; additionally, there are a variety of grid boards, many of which are designed for the larger screen of a tablet. Features include custom buttons and phrases; record speech to a button; word finder; symbol or text-only functionality; in-app support; and individual & group texting with symbols and/or words. Spanish will be available in early 2025.
Proloquo
Proloquo is a comprehensive AAC app available for iPad and iPhone, expertly crafted to fit everyone from toddlers to adults. It's more than just a communication tool; it's a gateway to language development and effective communication.
Avaz
Avaz AAC is an Augmentative and Alternative Communication App that empowers children & adults with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Aphasia, Apraxia and individuals with any other condition/cause of speech delays, with a voice of their own.
CoughDrop
CoughDrop is a cloud-based, modern, augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app that helps people communicate better. This app is built for individuals who have a hard time speaking, like those with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Angelman syndrome, Rett syndrome, or other complex communication needs.It works across multiple devices, and platforms such as Android, iOS, and Windows, as well as the web. CoughDrop lets you personalize your communication boards with symbols, images, and audio. Users can access CoughDrop's communication and reporting features on their tablets, phones, and other devices. This way, you can communicate the way that works best for you.
VoiceItt2
The Voiceitt2 solution offers groundbreaking voice recognition technology based on AI, that allows people with speech disabilities to communicate using their own voice, which it translates into standard speech so that it can be understood by others. No need to tap symbols or write text to communicate. Just speak!
Best New AAC Feature
Avaz - Expressive Tones
Individuals with complex communication needs have often been provided with limited opportunities to learn to express their emotions. With Expressive Tones, modelling an emotion becomes easier.
Use our Angry Tone to differentiate whether they don’t like something or they really don’t like it
Differentiate between an Excited Tone “Yay” and a Sarcastic Tone “Yay” to show how you feel about an ice cream vs maybe a salad?!
Use Whisper Tone when you want to tell them a secret, and Question Tone when you are curious to know more
They didn’t find their favourite socks today – ask them to say it with our Sad Tone.
Grid - Mind's Eye AI Art
Developed in partnership with Area 23 and the MND Association, Mind’s Eye is an accessible AI art tool that can be used with Grid AAC software. Creativity and self-expression are fundamental to personality, connection, introspection, and growth. Mind’s Eye provides that outlet for people using AAC and any form of physical access.
WeaveChat - Direct Messaging
Weave Chat AAC is the first AAC app to offer in-app picture/symbol/icon messaging between devices! Users can communicate individually or within groups, using pictures/symbols/icons as well as traditional text. Messaging can occur across device types (ex: iOS to Android) and all messages sent can be read aloud (using synthetic voices) by the sender(s) and receiver(s) of the message.
AAC User Community of the Year
impAACt Voices
impAACt Voices' Hangouts are a virtual venue where Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users meet to build relationships by socializing with their peers of all abilities.
Hangouts, for ages 14 and older, are led by AAC users and rooted in compassion, belonging, and community. They are a fun way to foster connections, have lively discussions, join in activities, and most importantly, enjoy yourself. Hosted Hangouts are hosted by expert ImpAACt Leaders and are every second Tuesday of each month from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM ET.
Star-guest speakers join the Hangouts to uplift and encourage AAC users. They discuss what they are working on and pass down valuable insights to inspire AAC users to pursue their dreams.
TechOwl weekly meetups
At TechOWL, we have a weekly meetup for people who use AAC. Many of our past ACES participants have become regulars. Each week we look forward to learning new tech, troubleshooting device challenges, and talking AAC.
Adult User Community
AssisstiveWare’s Adult AAC User Community group is to provide support and share information. Members can chat with AssistiveWare developers and Support team. Note: If you need assistance we encourage you to contact support@assistiveware.com for 1:1 help.
Hardcore AAC
This is a radical group!!!!
WE DO BELIEVE IN THE SOCIAL MODEL OF DISABILITY AND WE ARE USER LED! IN THIS GROUP DISABLED AUGMENTATIVE AND ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION USERS ARE THE *MOST IMPORTANT*PEOPLE [I'm sorry for shout ing ]We are Hardcore AAC, a collective of people who believe in the right to communication for people without biological speech and other impairments and use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)this group absolutely believes in access to AAC for all. A lot of people says language makes us human. so we take any denial of giving anybody AAC a crime! This is a radical group!!!!
AAC Supporter Community of the Year
AAC for the SLP
This group is for those who work with and evaluate individuals for AAC. The purpose of this group is to be able to discuss with other professionals anything related to AAC and share useful information. Please add others. Thanks!
Ask Me, I'm An AAC User
This is a Group where AAC users are the authority on AAC and here AAC users, SLPs, support staff, doctors, parents, family, and others who are interested in AAC, can ask questions and get advice and some insight from actual AAC users!
We are * Not* an autism specific AAC group! While we do have a lot of autostoc member we do also have alot of allist (non autistoc AAC users as wellour goal prioritize the voices of the general aAC user community!
QIAT
The QIAT Community is a nationwide grassroots group that includes hundreds of individuals who provide input into the ongoing process of identifying, disseminating, and implementing a set of widely applicable Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services in school settings that can be used as a tool.
AAC & Gestalt Language
AAC & Gestalt Language Processing - This group is designed to discuss AAC and Gestalt Language Processing! Many people have had success stories with these students, but we don't have one place to share all the information. This group is designed to do just that! Share ideas an collaborate as professionals, parents, and others.
AAC through Motivate...
AAC through Motivate, Model, Move Out of the Way - This group is for those who believe in robust AAC for all and using Aided Language Stimulation and other ethical and scientifically based methods of promoting independent and generative communication in all those who do not speak or are not generally understood.
The goal of this group is to share how to use motivating activities and interactions, modeling and fading supports to increase independence to support AAC users in becoming competent communicators. This group is for everyone regardless of where they are in their AAC journey and what robust communication system is being used.
The AAC Connection
This group provides a safe space to discuss anything and everything to do with communication whether you are AAC users, family members or 'just' a communication partner.
Topics welcomed include: training and skills development, lived experiences, all ages and all abilities, shared learnings, top tips and hacks.
AAC "Podcast" of the Year
Awe and Wonder
Are you losing the human connection in the midst of data collection? Join Brenda and Sarah as they talk with inspirational people who create awe and wonder in unique ways. “Wonder inspires the wish to understand; awe inspires the wish to let shine, to acknowledge and to unite.” Ulrich Weger & Johannes Wagemann (sourced from Atlas of the Heart by Brene Brown) Participants will hear first hand accounts from people supporting students with complex needs. Assistive Technology, Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) and IEP goals are discussed, but human connection is highlighted throughout this engaging series.
XCeptional Leaders
Since launching in 2018, the Xceptional Leaders Podcast, has been committed to representing and giving voice to leaders in the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) community, reaching listeners in 140 countries. Hosted by speech-language pathologists (SLPs), Mai Ling Chan and James Berges, the show has featured seven guests who use AAC, sharing their leadership journeys and lived experiences through prepared remarks and spontaneous conversation. The show also highlights dedicated SLPs and assistive technology professionals who are passionate leaders in AAC. This blend of voices offers listeners a comprehensive view of how AAC can empower, inspire, and unite people globally.
AAC in the Cloud
AAC in the Cloud is a free, fully-online annual conference focused on all things AAC. Sessions are available online throughout the year and can be tracked for CEU participation credits.
beautifulspeechlife
[I]’m Anne. A heart-centered SLP (speech language pathologist), educator and creator dedicated to helping you take the fear out of AAC. This website is devoted to sharing ideas, tips and resources that will help you not only SLP Like a Boss, but AAC like a Boss too. We’ll put the fun back in functional communication for the kids you work with (and for you too).
AAC Training Resource of the Year
Stepping Into AAC
Despite the growing amount of AAC information that is available, parents of children with very limited language struggle to support their children’s communicative development. Stepping Into AAC is a program to support your individual’s communication journey.
Stepping Into AAC
Introduces you to Augmentative/Alternative Communication (AAC)
Guides you through the early months of using new communication tools and strategies
Offers resources to engage school teams and other caregivers
The program is divided into 20 parts with the intention to complete one part a week. There are activities, resources and videos to guide you along the way. Our hope is that you find support and inspiration whether you are just getting started with AAC, seeking momentum or looking to learn more about AAC.
Tarheel Shared Reader
Tar Heel Shared Reader provides free access to quality professional development, materials, and technology that support the implementation of shared reading for school-aged students with significant cognitive disabilities (SCD) who do not read connected text with comprehension above a 2nd grade level.
Tar Heel Shared Reader strives to improve literacy, communication, language, and academic skills of this group of students. The goal is to empower teachers to use an evidence-based approach to shared reading to provide their students with interactive access to grade level content while improving their students’ communication and literacy skills.
Project Core
The Project Core implementation model is aimed at helping teachers provide students with significant cognitive disabilities and complex communication needs with access to a flexible Universal Core vocabulary and evidence-based instruction to teach them to use core vocabulary via personal augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems.
The model is designed for students with significant disabilities who do not yet use speech, signs or symbols to communicate in flexible ways. This includes students who rely on early forms of communication such as facial expressions, vocalizations and body movements, as well as students who are beginning to use symbols, signs, or words but cannot yet put them together.
AAC Learning Center
The AAC Learning Center is a free educational resource on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC), and provides presentations by persons who use AAC, short lectures by AAC researchers, and links to information on AAC. Please visit the AAC Learning Center Moodle for supports for coursework in AAC.
The AAC Academy
The AAC Academy offers live and on-demand, online learning opportunities for professionals, families, and communicators across the globe!
AAC Community Site of the Year
PrAACtical AAC
PrAACtical AAC supports a community of professionals and families who are determined to improve the communication and literacy abilities of people with significant communication difficulties. It was founded in 2011 by two SLP professors, Carole Zangari and the late Robin Parker, around a shared passion for AAC.
NWACS
Welcome to NWACS! The Northwest Augmentative Communication Society (NWACS) is a nonprofit organization. Dr. David Beukelman helped form what is now known as NWACS in the 1970s. We run completely on volunteer power. Our focus is on educating and raising awareness about augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).
Project Core
The Project Core implementation model is aimed at helping teachers provide students with significant cognitive disabilities and complex communication needs with access to a flexible Universal Core vocabulary and evidence-based instruction to teach them to use core vocabulary via personal augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems.
AAC Institute
AAC Institute, established in 2000, is a resource for all who are interested in enhancing the communication of people who rely on AAC (augmentative and alternative communication). Organized as a 501(c)3 not-for-profit charitable organization, AAC Institute offers information and provides services worldwide. AAC Institute promotes the goal of AAC, the AAC Rules of Commitment, and evidence-based AAC clinical practice. This mission is accomplished through service delivery, research, activity organization, information dissemination, and education.
OMazing Kids
Angela Moorad, MS, CCC-SLP. Over 34 years experience in AAC. OMazing Kids AAC and app consulting. Creator of several AAC Feature Matching resources (https://omazingkidsllc.com/omazing-kids-aac-resource-links/). Includes info about unique features to support Gestalt Language Processors
TechOwl
TechOWL (formerly PIAT) helps people with disabilities explore the tools and technology they need to be independent. TechOWL is Pennsylvania’s Assistive Technology Act program. TechOWL has 9 regional centers across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
AACessible
AACcessible is a 501(c)(3), charitable organization, driven by volunteer and donation power. AACcessible was founded to bring awareness and action to the AAC access barriers that remain for communicators, partners, and families.
Printable AAC Tool of the Year
LessonPix
LessonPix is an easy-to-use online resource that allows users to create various customized learning materials.
Global Symbols
Global Symbols has a huge collection of high-quality symbols you can use for communication. Search our symbols, download and use them.
With our free Board Builder and Symbol Creator, you can quickly create boards of symbols to help communication. Create boards for day-to-day activities, special occasions, special topics such as games or mealtimes etc. The templates are easy to use for making information sheets or any curtomised designs you want to create.
BoardMaker
Boardmaker is a complete special education platform that supports education, communication, access and social and emotional needs of more than six million students in 51 countries. At home, at school, or in a clinical practice, Boardmaker drives your student’s success.
SymbolStix Prime
SymbolStix PRIME, the evidence‑based symbol communication tool, provides that lifeline, ensuring everyone has access to learning, language and self‑expression.
Smarty Symbols
At the heart of our software lies an enormous and continually expanding library, brimming with over 70,000 contemporary images that resonate with children of all ages. With such a diverse and expansive selection at their fingertips, educators and families can drop and drop them into a template to create a myriad of resources, from lessons to games, that make learning fun, interactive, and impactful.
Widgit Online
Create visual, communication and learning supports in your web browser using over 20,000 Widgit Symbols and 100s of easy-to-use templates. No installation or updating required!
ARASAAC
ARASAAC is an AAC center funded by the Department of Education, Science and University of Aragon Government (Spain). It offers a free catalog of more than 13.500 symbols and 6000 downloadable materials resources, translated to more than 30 languages and widely used in the whole world for millions of users. All the resources are distributed with a Creative Commons license (BY-NC-SA) to facilitate communication and cognitive accessibility to all people who, due to different factors (autism, intellectual disability, lack of language, elderly people, etc.), present serious difficulties in these areas, which hinder their inclusion in any area of daily life.
Lite-Tech AAC Product of the Year
Eye-Com
This clear acrylic board sits in a sturdy wooden stand that makes it convenient as an eye-gaze device. The non-speaking person looks at a picture and the person on the other side of the acrylic board follows that person gaze to interpret the person's message.
Size: 15" X 19" X 1/8" with wood stand.
PicSeePal
The world's first AAC housing that is lightweight, portable, customizable, splash proof, modular and easy to use. If you are looking for a light-tech solution that you can take anywhere and empowers users of AAC, you're in the right place!
Smile4Autism Book
Smile4Autism Communication Book contains a range of visual aids that are commonly used by parents, caregivers, teachers, and therapists across homes, centers, and schools. It is designed to promote language and cognitive development, enhance social skills, and help individuals with autism communicate their needs and wants effectively.
Flip 'n Talk
The Flip 'n Talk Kit is a manual augmentative communication system that organizes vocabulary for individuals who need no-tech and low-tech augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) support. The Flip 'n Talk Kit features the Flip 'n Talk Book (small or large), Flip 'n Talk Add-on CD for Boardmaker (only compatible with Windows), color PCS labels, communication strips and a vinyl communication board.
Mini Core Board
Mini core board, lanyard AAC board.
Keep your communication support with you using these lanyard-sized core vocabulary boards. Perfect for the SLP or SPED teacher on the go, these mini boards come in your choice of vertical or horizontal orientation to make modeling language easy.
Mid-Tech AAC Product of the Year
QuickTalker
The QuickTalker FeatherTouch speech device provides multi-message communication that is highly portable, durable, and easy to use. The FeatherTouch membrane responds to the lightest touches and smallest fingers, and makes it easy for almost anyone to communicate. QuickTalker FeatherTouch 12 includes 48 unique messages available across five recording levels and provides an individual with robust communication options throughout the day.
BigMack
Start your communication journey with a BIGmack speech device. With a press of the large colored top, an individual can communicate a single message up to 2-minutes long. New messages are easily and quickly recorded to the BIGmack on the fly throughout the day to provide opportunities to communicate in almost any scenario.
ProxTalker
The Logan® ProxTalker® is the most advanced and adaptable recorded speech communication device available. It uses RFID (radio frequency identification) technology to enable independent verbal picture communication for non-verbal people of all ages. This technology allows you to simply place any photo, symbol, or object on a sound tag card and have a voice! To trigger voice output place your sound tag card on any one of the 5 buttons and push. Now silent picture users have easy access to voice output. Life changing!
Go Talk
The GoTalk 9+ Lite Touch is a powerful, lightweight, and portable voice output communication device to support individuals with limited to no speech. Durable like all GoTalks and provides fantastic sound with volume control, easy sequential recording, quick level erase, built-in overlay storage, record lock, level lock and a 2-year warranty. Record and store up to 45 personal messages in five levels and 3 additional core buttons for frequently used words or phrases across levels. In addition to these classic GoTalk features the GoTalk Lite Touch device is five times easier for individuals to activate and communicate messages throughout the day.
MegaBee
The MegaBee is an assisted communication tablet. An easy to use, low tech, eye pointing, rapidly deployed, convenient, frequent means of communication for people who have no speech. Ideal for people with a range of neurological conditions, acute and progressive.
Talker Buddy
The Talker Buddy is a low-cost basic communication tool for a variety of professionals and caregivers who work with non-verbal individuals Parents or caregivers of non-verbal children and adults can use the device as an effective means of communication with their loved ones.
Alternative Access Product of the Year
Blue2 FT
Go wireless with your switch access to a tablet, computer, mobile phone, or other devices with a Bluetooth connection. The Blue2 FT accessibility switch uses highly-sensitive proximity sensor technology for activation. Any time the user is near or touching the activation surfaces, the Blue2 FT accessibility switch will activate.
XBox Adaptive Controller
Designed primarily to meet the needs of gamers with limited mobility, the Xbox Adaptive Controller is a unified hub for devices that helps make gaming more accessible. Connect external devices such as switches, buttons, mounts, and joysticks to create a custom controller experience that is uniquely yours. Button, thumbstick and trigger inputs are controlled with assistive devices (sold separately) connected through 3.5mm jacks and USB ports.
Smoothie Switch
The Smoothie is a beautifully designed, wired switch for computer or AAC access. It’s available in four colors: red, green, blue and yellow. All Smoothies feature a large activation area, require low activation force, give tactile feedback and are easily mounted. Smoothies also have a remarkably low activation profile, so users can activate the switch without lifting their hand off the table.
HoneyBee
The HoneyBee switch senses the proximity of a hand, finger, head or nearly any object. To activate the HoneyBee, the user places his or her hand, head or other body part over the sensor window. An audible tone is heard when activation has occurred. See the video.
The sensing range can be adjusted for any of four distances, 6 inches, 3 inches, 1 inch or touch.
Candy Corn
The Little Candy Corn 2 accessibility switch uses highly-sensitive proximity sensor technology for activation. Any time the user is near or touching the activation surface, the LITTLE Candy Corn accessibility switch will activate. The medium-sized activation surface is suitable for most users. When activated, an auditory beep and light appear. You may turn off the auditory beep and light if the user does not need these prompts.
HeadMouse Nano
HeadMouse replaces the standard computer mouse for people who cannot use or have limited use of their hands. The HeadMouse translates natural movements of a user's head into directly proportional mouse pointer movement – move your head and the mouse pointer follows along. The HeadMouse has a wireless optical sensor which tracks a tiny disposable target worn by the user on his/her forehead, glasses, or even a hat. It works just like a computer mouse, with the mouse pointer being controlled by head movement.
Irisbond Hiru
Irisbond, an eye-tracking company, specializes in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and develops devices for assistive communication, such as Hiru. Hiru has been certified as Made for iPad, meeting Apple's performance standards, and is the world's first multiplatform eye-tracker that operates seamlessly on both Windows and iPadOS. As a team, our work has a significant social impact on various levels, and we take pride in that. We develop technology that goes beyond merely facilitating communication. Hiru, our eye-tracker, empowers individuals to express themselves, have fun, pursue their dreams, and be free —all through the power of their eyes.
Symbol Library of the Year
PCS (BoardMaker)
For more than 30 years, Tobii Dynavox Picture Communication Symbols® (PCS) have been used by millions of students and adults to understand and structure the world around them, communicate their thoughts, and learn to read and write. Symbol-based visual supports have been proven to help people with communication, behavior and learning challenges succeed in school and life and amaze their peers, families, therapists and teachers.
SymbolStix
SymbolStix PRIME, the evidence‑based symbol communication tool, provides that lifeline, ensuring everyone has access to learning, language and self‑expression. Learning through effective communication is at the heart of n2y’s mission, and it’s what drove the development of the 100,000+ dynamic, engaging and personally relevant education symbols in the SymbolStix PRIME database. Teachers can also embrace their multicultural classrooms through the ability to easily change skin tones and generate symbols and text in English, Spanish and 7 other languages.
LessonPix
LessonPix is an easy-to-use online resource that allows users to create various customized learning materials. It doesn't have to be difficult or expensive to be good. We believe in the power of visuals. Our priority is to give the flexibility you need for customization, simplicity of 60,000+ symbols for families, and affordability for individuals.
Smarty Symbols
At the heart of our software lies an enormous and continually expanding library, brimming with over 70,000 contemporary images that resonate with children of all ages. With such a diverse and expansive selection at their fingertips, educators and families can drop and drop them into a template to create a myriad of resources, from lessons to games, that make learning fun, interactive, and impactful.
Widgit
The Widgit Symbol Set is used within all Widgit products. The simply-drawn, colourful symbols each illustrate a single concept in a clear and concise way. They cover a range of topics (including many curricular areas) wide enough to make them suitable for symbol users of all ages and abilities.
Global Symbols
Global Symbols has a huge collection of high-quality symbols you can use for communication. Search our symbols, download and use them.
AAC Vocabulary of the Year
WordPower
WordPower by Nancy Inman is a unique vocabulary design for an augmentative/alternative communication device. WordPower combines the features of core vocabulary, spelling and word prediction. The system takes advantage of the fact that while we may have a normal speaking vocabulary of between 10,000 and 30,000 words, a core of just 100 words accounts for approximately 50 percent of words spoken.
WordPower is available on multiple AAC systems, and was originally designed for an individual in need of an augmentative communication device based on words. A vocabulary based on pre-stored sentences would not meet his communication needs. Though he could see the advantage of a picture-based system with symbol sequencing, he did not want to learn the complex language coding system. At the same time, he wanted more than a system based on spelling and word prediction. WordPower provided him a fast and efficient language, with minimal time and effort required for learning the system.
Word For Life/Unity
Unity® is the most established AAC language system in the industry. It's used by tens of thousands of individuals with apraxia, cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, Rett syndrome, and other diagnoses that involve receptive or expressive language deficits. It's also the foundation of LAMP Words for Life® and CoreScanner™ vocabularies. Known for its multi-meaning symbols and consistent motor plans, Unity helps communicators of all ages, skill levels, and access methods learn quickly and build language skills for maximum independence. Bilingual options available.
Crescendo Evolution
The robust and innovative vocabulary in Proloquo is developed with motor-planning at its heart and has more than 4 times the words of other AAC systems. Out of the box, it includes thousands of curriculum words to allow AAC users to fully participate in the classroom.
TD Snap Motor Plan
TD Snap Motor Plan is an efficient way for learners with complex access needs to develop language. This page set focuses on core words and word-by-word sentence construction. Each word appears only once with a distinct path, or motor plan, to find it. Over time, the communicator will effortlessly locate words, allowing them to focus more on what they want to say. TD Snap Motor Plan has pagesets available in English, Spanish, and Spanish/English bi-lingual including Castellano and Español Latino dialects.
Quick Core
Quick Core is an open-licensed, core, motor-planning based vocabulary set with up to 112 buttons per board. It has built-in progression to gradually expand the vocabulary over time. Quick Core is based on similar motor-planning-based board sets, with the goal of minimizing hits to access words. Buttons are organized loosely by concepts or categories, with consistent button sequences providing individual growth over time.
PODD
PODD is an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) tool that organizes vocabulary to support expression and comprehension for individuals with complex communication needs. Language is organized in a practical layout that requires minimal page turns to communicate.
PODD is available as low tech communication books or supported through multiple high tech software companies. PODD can also be modified to accommodate students with various complex communication, physical, and sensory needs.
Super Core
Super Core was specifically designed to support language, literacy and learning for children, teens, and adults. It provides quick, motorically consistent access to over 3,500 of the most commonly used words and phrases – organized in a predictable and meaningful way to help you find the words you need. With 50 cell, 30 cell, and Super Core Learning layouts available in many languages, Super Core provides an easy to personalize, comprehensive vocabulary.
Vendor AAC Blog of the Year
AssistiveWare
The AssistiveWare Blog and Learn AAC offers a treasure trove of knowledge and resources for anyone in the AAC field. Available in English, Spanish, French and Dutch, it stand out as a platform for sharing expertise and advocating for the AAC community, empowering readers with practical strategies and inspiring stories. Its content is essential for educators, therapists, and family members seeking to support communication for those with speech disabilities, enhancing understanding and promoting advocacy.
CoughDrop
CoughDrop's blog includes updates about the
CoughDrop AAC app, strategic approaches to AAC,
and important topics that need to be both
considered and addressed by the AAC community
at large.
Smartbox
The Smartbox blog is a single source of news for
Grid updates as well as AAC in general. It includes
product updates and strategies, user stories,
upcoming events and news, and more.
Avaz
The Avaz blog includes updates on the Avaz family
of products, as well as general AAC implementation
strategies and posts both from and about AAC
users through the "Avaz Megaphone" category.
Thank you for visiting! The knAAC Awards are one of the important projects we host as a non-profit in the AAC community. Please consider donating to help us continue funding this and other work to help lift everyone in the world of AAC!
Help Us Grow!
OpenAAC needs donations like yours to expand our reach and continue to provide meaningful resources that will help everyone at every point on their AAC journey.