Back to School, Back to Communication: Supporting AAC and Speech Needs from Day One

August brings a fresh start. New backpacks, sharpened pencils, and for many families — a fresh wave of emotions. For students who use AAC or receive speech-language services, the transition back to school can bring unique challenges, but also powerful opportunities.

At Marigold Speech, we believe communication belongs in every space, especially the classroom. That’s why we’re sharing simple, impactful strategies to help families and educators set the tone for a strong, communication-rich school year — right from day one.

💬 Communication Doesn’t Start in the IEP Meeting

It starts in the hallways, at the bus stop, in circle time, and during lunchroom giggles. For students who use AAC or have speech/language goals, success begins when everyone knows how they communicate and how to support them.

🧡 5 Ways to Support Speech & AAC Needs This School Year

1.

Share a “Communication Snapshot”

Teachers meet dozens of students in the first week. Help them understand your child faster by providing a one-page summary:

• How your child communicates (AAC, signs, gestures, spoken words)

• What motivates them

• Triggers to avoid

• What to do in moments of communication breakdown

Need a template? We’ve got one for you — just ask!

2.

Reintroduce the Device Early

Don’t wait until mid-September to dust off the AAC system. Practice school-based vocabulary now — words like lunch, recess, help, wait, done. Let kids practice navigating their system in “school-like” routines to build fluency before the first bell rings.

3.

Build Communication into Routines

Involve your child in daily routines using their AAC or communication supports:

• Packing their backpack (What goes in? What are they taking?)

• Choosing lunch (Use their system to request, describe, or say “no thank you”)

• Talking about their day (Give options for emotions, events, or favorite parts)

4.

Collaborate with Educators Early

Email teachers before school starts or in the first week:

• Introduce yourself and your child

• Offer quick AAC tips or links to short training videos

• Ask how communication will be supported in the classroom

Building rapport early makes it easier to problem-solve later.

5.

Remember — Communication is a Team Sport

SLPs, teachers, aides, families — we’re all on the same team. When we approach communication with curiosity, flexibility, and kindness, amazing things happen.

🛠️ Free Resource Alert!

We found this FREE AAC Implementation Guide for Parents to help you feel confident supporting AAC at home and in the community. It’s full of routines-based tips, visuals, and parent-friendly strategies.

👉 Download it here: AAC Implementation Guide for Parents – TpT

💡 Want Support This School Year?

Marigold Speech offers:

• Mobile AAC consults

• Parent coaching

• Collaboration with school teams

• Teacher trainings

• And of course — caring, neurodiversity-affirming therapy designed to meet your child where they are

Let’s make this school year one filled with connection, growth, and joyful communication.

📩 Reach out to us today to learn more or schedule a free consultation. 608-728-7774

Marigold Speech

Where every voice matters — and every way of talking counts. 🌼