Play, Learn, Connect: Creative Ways to Use Grid for Early Childhood Engagement
Play is a powerful driver of learning and participation in early childhood. This session explores creative, practical ways Grid can be used to make play more accessible and engaging for young learners. Participants will see how environmental controls can connect AAC users to toys and play experiences, and how Grid sets can support interactive learning through music, games, and play-based activities. The session will also highlight how built-in vocabulary supports both play and language development, offering ready-to-use ideas for making play more inclusive, engaging, and meaningful.
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What You'll Learn
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
LEARNING LEVEL
PRESENTED BY
Alicia Alverson, MS, CCC-SLP, ATP
Smartbox
Alicia Alverson (she/her) is an ASHA certified Speech-Language Pathologist and RESNA certified Assistive Technology Professional with background in alternative access. She has experience working in home-care, outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation, schools, and skilled nursing facilities providing AAC and AT services. She is passionate about supporting individuals’ agency and autonomy through access to communication and assistive technology integration. Alicia is employed full-time for Smartbox Assistive Technology, the developers of Grid 3 software and speech generating devices.
Mellanie Gylling, MA, CCC-SLP
Smartbox
THE SCOOP
Monday, February 16, 2026, 10:30 -11:20 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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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.