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AAC Early Starts Conference

The annual AAC Early Starts (AACES) Conference is a FREE, LIVE, online event for professionals and families supporting young children with complex communication needs. Over two days, attendees engage in live and asynchronous sessions that address the unique strengths and challenges experienced by young AAC communicators (birth to eight years), their families, and their care teams. AACES offers holistic insights, covering all aspects of development, and provides valuable resources, inspiration, and hope to all navigating the AAC journey with young children. Join AAC communicators, families, and leading experts in child development, early intervention, special education, and assistive technology as they share their knowledge and experience!
SAVE THE DATE

2026 AAC Early Starts Conference

FREE, LIVE, & VIRTUAL!
February 14 - 16, 2026

#AACES is possible because of you.

Each year, we rely on volunteers to share their time and talents as a member of the editorial board, moderator, or presenter.  Will you join us this year?

Become an AACES Reviewer


 

Serve as an AACES Moderator


 

Meet Our #AACES2026 Sponsors

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AACcessible

AACcessible is a mission-driven nonprofit focused on advancing access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) through education, training, and community collaboration. We support families and professionals with practical resources and learning opportunities that strengthen AAC implementation across everyday environments.

Conference Host

Thank you, AACcessible, for hosting and sponsoring the AAC Early Starts Conference! 💛 As the main conference host, AACcessible supports the full learning experience—bringing together presenters, partners, and the broader community to advance meaningful AAC support across early childhood. Learn more about AACcessible and explore conference resources below 👇

Saturday, 02/14/26

Exploring AACcessible Resources

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DTA Schools

DTA Schools brings AAC and special education expertise straight to your district—classroom resources, training, and coaching included! Our membership hubs offer 1,000s of materials plus 100+ AAC learning modules your team can use right away. We support teachers and students in person and nationwide through telepractice.


Tech Check Sponsor

Thank you, DTA Schools, for your generous sponsorship of our Day 1 tech-check session! 💛 Learn more about DTA Schools during their upcoming conference sessions 👇

Sunday, 02/15/26

AAC in Education
with DTA Schools

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Smartbox

Smartbox creates software and devices to support a wide range of complex needs. We are passionate about helping people succeed on their journey with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Our technology exists to give people a voice and independence, so they can build meaningful connections and achieve their ambitions. We are building a world where no one is left without a voice. 

Conference Co-Host

Thank you, Smartbox, for your generous sponsorship of our Day 2 conference sessions! 💛 Learn more about Smartbox during their upcoming conference sessions 👇

Monday, 02/16/26

Accessible Books in Grid: Opening Doors to Early Literacy

Play, Learn, Connect: Creative Ways to Use Grid for Early Childhood Engagement

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LEARN BIG. SAVE BIG.

Members Get #AACES Recording Access +

With your annual membership (just $100 per year!), you get access to the entire library of AACES conference recordings and CMH/PDH opportunities for less than half of the cost of purchasing each session recording individually. And the perks don't stop there! Members have access to over 60 other staple courses in our online library, with new content added monthly! 

AACES On-Demand Courses

Access recorded sessions from past AACES conference events here in our on-demand course library.  All Access Members can view all courses in this library with their paid, annual membership!  Non-members can access individual session recordings for a fee per session. 

Want to Sponsor #AACES?

We welcome individual and corporate sponsors who share in our mission to improve access to AAC knowledge, skills, and tools through education, awareness, advocacy, and action.  More information on sponsorship options and a link to the sponsor application can be found on our conference sponsorship page. 

Many Thanks to Past #AACES Sponsors

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