Transforming Communication: U of A Professors Host WE CARE Camp for Augmentative and Alternative Communication Users

Two professors from the U of A College of Education and Health Professions have established a research lab to improve the lives of individuals with communication limitations. They are hosting a free camp this summer through their WE CARE program for children between the ages of 4 and 10 who are Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) users or potential users. The camp will run on campus from July 8-26, Monday to Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Children of all levels of experience with AAC devices are welcome to participate in the camp, which aims to enhance interactions with family, friends, and others in educational and social settings using this technology. During the camp, children will engage in STEM-themed activities and be paired with peers who do not use AAC devices. Families are encouraged to enroll their children for all three weeks, but a commitment of at least two weeks is required. The camp will be staffed by students from various programs within the college, including teacher education, communication disorders, and occupational therapy.

The camp facilitators Elizabeth Lorah and Christine Holyfield are both professors at the U of A specializing in special education and communication sciences and disorders respectively. They have established an Augmentative and Alternative Communication research lab at the university that focuses on developing instructional techniques and technologies for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

For more information about the camp or to apply, individuals can contact Elizabeth Lorah at lorah@uark.edu or Christine Holyfield at ceholyfi@uark.edu . Applications for the camp can be submitted through the provided link.