All Play Matters: Neurodiverse Approaches to Fun
Play looks different for every child—and all forms of play have value. This session explores how children with complex communication needs engage in play, communication, and learning in ways that are meaningful, joyful, and neurologically purposeful. Participants will learn how sensory regulation supports engagement, why connection-first approaches foster cooperation, and how diverse play styles—including repetitive and sensory-based play—support development for autistic learners. The session will also reframe stimming as an important tool for self-regulation and demonstrate practical ways to embed AAC into playful, everyday interactions. Attendees will leave with actionable strategies for creating inclusive environments that honor each child’s body, nervous system, and communication style—supporting connection, learning, and joy.
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What You'll Learn
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
LEARNING LEVEL
PRESENTED BY
Cici Fritts, M.S., CCC-SLP
Leander ISD
Cici began her career in education as a Speech-Language Pathologist, serving students ages 3–21 in the public school setting. She later combined her love of language and passion for technology as an Assistive Technology (AT) Facilitator for Leander ISD in Leander, TX. She loves to coach families, educators, clinicians, and students across the country and is deeply committed to collaboration across all areas of AT. Cici serves as an adjunct instructor for a graduate AAC course at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. She is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in Texas and is ASHA certified.
Kelley Capin, M.S., CCC-SLP
Needham Public Schools
Kelley is a preschool speech-language pathologist whose work centers on AAC, assistive technology, and inclusive early childhood communication. Her previous roles in AT and professional learning allowed her to develop district frameworks for AAC evaluation, support SLP teams, and build family and educator capacity. Kelley now brings this expertise to Needham Public Schools, where she supports young learners using multimodal communication and play-based intervention. She is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist in Massachusetts and is ASHA certified.
THE SCOOP
Sunday, February 15, 2026, 3:30 -4:20 PM Pacific Time
Access to this live session is free during the 2026 Live AAC Early Starts Conference. Attendees can watch recordings and obtain continuing education credits with paid enrollment or an All Access Membership.
You can watch this conference session live for free. Continuing education credit is available with paid enrollment in this course or an active All Access Membership. Members and paid enrollees get access to the recording and continuing education quiz + certificate for this session.
Save as a Member: All Access Members get FREE access to certificates and session recordings for the entire conference (+ our staple course library of over 80 online courses) with their paid membership.
Save as a Member: All Access Members get FREE access to certificates and session recordings for the entire conference (+ our staple course library of over 80 online courses) with their paid membership.
You can watch this conference session live for free. Continuing education credit via PDH is available with paid enrollment in this course or an active All Access Membership. Members and paid enrollees get access to the recording and continuing education quiz + certificate for this session.
Save as a Member: All Access Members get FREE access to certificates and session recordings for the entire conference (+ our staple course library of over 80 online courses) with their paid membership.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT
This session offers a total of
1 certification maintenance hour (CMH)
1 certification maintenance hour (CMH)
Learn more about CMH/PDH (versus CEU's or continuing education units) on your course syllabus and on our CEU Page. All learners are encouraged to confirm that this course meets the requirements of their licensing board before purchasing.
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find GREAT RESOURCES INSIDE OUR
Virtual Exhibit Hall
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Learn about Grid AAC by 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.
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Learn About DTA Schools by DTA
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.
The AAC Shop
Discover downloadable tools and AAC-inspired merch designed to raise awareness, spark connection, and support parents and professionals helping AAC learners find their voice. Even better, every purchase supports AACcessible’s mission to make communication possible for all.
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Play for Every Body
The theme for #AACES2026 is "Play for Every Body." Play is the heartbeat of childhood — but for many children with disabilities, play isn’t always accessible. Our Play for Every Body campaign is about opening doors: adapting environments, rethinking routines, and equipping families and professionals with practical strategies. When we say Play for Every Body, we mean every child, every ability, every body.