#AACES2026 Conference Session

Adaptive Play, Literacy, and AAC – Triple the Fun!

Play is a powerful context for learning, communication, and connection—but children with complex communication needs and multiple disabilities often face barriers to fully participating in play experiences. This session explores how intentional supports can open access to play while simultaneously strengthening communication and early literacy skills. Participants will learn how to adapt play materials, embed AAC supports, and integrate literacy learning within playful routines. Through practical examples, the session will highlight strategies for arts and crafts, movement, pretend play, sensory play, and STEM, demonstrating how inclusive play can support engagement, learning, and joyful participation for every child.
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What You'll Learn

Upon completion of this session, you will be able to:

  • Identify and propose at least three adaptations to support physical, sensory, or communication access to play materials based on learner needs.

  • Describe and compare at least two strategies for modeling interactive play and select an appropriate strategy for a specific learner.

  • Identify and demonstrate at least one light-tech and one high-tech tool that can be used to support play for individuals with disabilities.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

everyone

LEARNING LEVEL

introductory

PRESENTED BY

Dr. Caroline Ramsey Musselwhite, CCC-SLP

AAC Interventions

Dr. Caroline Musselwhite is an assistive technology specialist with more than 50 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with multiple challenges in a variety of settings, including Head Start, developmental day programs, public schools, homes, and community sites. She has also taught courses at several universities, including West Virginia University and Western Carolina University. Dr. Musselwhite has coordinated Communication Circles and the Comprehensive Literacy Club  Projects in school districts in Massachusetts, New York, Florida, Arizona, New York, Illinois, and Kingston, Ontario.

Dr. Musselwhite has authored a number of textbooks and “how-to” books on a range of topics, including Emergent Literacy Success and Adaptive Play for Special Needs Children. She has presented thousands of workshops throughout the world, and is a founding member of the Board of Directors for the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC).
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Gretchen Hanser, PhD, MS, OT

International Academy of Hope in New York City

Dr. Gretchen Hanser has worked in the field of assistive technology and literacy for students with significant disabilities for over 25 years. She is an educator and an occupational therapist. She has worked in a variety of settings, developing model classrooms and school-based assistive technology centers, providing teacher and related services training, participating in assessment teams, and working directly with students and staff in the classroom. Gretchen has taught university classes and presents nationally and internationally on these subjects. She is currently the Director of Assistive Technology and Literacy Instruction at the International Academy of Hope in New York City.
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Renee Khafaga, MS ECSPED

 Early Childhood Special Education

Renee Khafaga is a special educator who works with students that range from 8-11 years old. She works with students who have traumatic brain injuries and cortical vision impairment.
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Shameke Brown

Special Ed Teacher

Shameke Brown has been an employee at iHope for three years. She has a strong passion for advocating for her students and helping bridge communication gaps. She truly enjoys giving students opportunities to express themselves, grow, and discover new things.

THE SCOOP

WATCH LIVE FOR FREE
GET CMH CERTIFICATE
WATCH THE RECORDING

Sunday, February 15, 2026, 8:30 -10:20 AM 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.
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
 2 certification maintenance hours (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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Start Here

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. 

Explore More #AACES2026 Conference Sessions

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