AAC Awareness Month 2025
Every voice deserves to be heard, at home, in school, in the community, and everywhere in between.
This October, in celebration of AAC Awareness Month, we’re shining a spotlight on the many places and ways that Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) supports people to express themselves, connect with others, and participate in daily life.
Our theme this year is AAC Everywhere, because communication should never be confined to one setting. It belongs in every conversation, every classroom, every playground, every workplace, and every moment where someone has something to say.
What is AAC and why does it matter?
AAC includes all forms of communication that support or replace spoken language. It can be paper-based, such as symbol-based communication books and communication boards, or electronic, such as our Grid software and Grid Pad range.
AAC matters because it gives people the ability to express themselves, connect with others, and participate more fully in daily life. It supports children and adults with a range of physical disabilities or communication challenges, including autism, cerebral palsy, motor neurone disease (MND/ALS), and stroke or brain injury.
What to expect this month
Throughout October, we’ll be sharing stories, resources, and learning opportunities that highlight the real-world impact of AAC and how it can be supported across different environments. Learn more about what’s coming up below.
Hear from AAC users
We’ll share the stories of individuals and families using AAC everyday, at school, at home and in their communities. These stories show that AAC isn’t just a communication tool, it’s a means of independence, learning, expression and connection.
Free training and education
Smartbox Academy is home to a range of free, on-demand training courses. This month, we’ll be highlighting:
- Introduction to AAC – perfect for those new to AAC
- The Art of Conversation – exploring expressive, social, and creative communication
Additionally, our Clinical AAC Specialist, Becky, will share a blog diving deeper into what ‘AAC Everywhere’ means – exploring the different types of AAC and how it can support people at every stage of their communication journey, in any environment.
Making AAC more accessible: 50% off Grid for iPad
In celebration of AAC Awareness Month, we’re pleased to share that we will be running a promotional offer of 50% off Grid for iPad during October. This offer supports our ongoing mission and goal to see AAC everywhere, by making it more accessible to individuals, families, and schools around the world. Find out more in our blog.
Join the conversation
Follow along as we share content across our channels throughout October, including:
- Stories and insights from our AAC users
- Free resources for families, professionals, and educators
- Tips from our clinical team
- Opportunities to learn and share
Together, let’s celebrate AAC everywhere and help create a world where communication is possible for everyone, in every space.
