At Variety Child Learning Center, we pride ourselves on offering programs and services that not only meet but exceed the needs of all our students. Whether through special trainings, new technology, system or program implementations, we strive to be ahead of the curve when it comes to ensuring positive outcomes for the children in our schools.
These services include specialized Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) evaluations and assistive technology support for children in our programs and the surrounding community, led by Lauren Runkel, Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Professional (ATP). Through comprehensive AAC evaluations, Lauren determines the most appropriate tools and strategies to support each child’s functional communication.
“By incorporating tools and strategies like picture-based communication, speech-generating devices, vocabulary boards, communication apps and other technology supports, AAC allows children who are non-speaking or minimally speaking to actively participate in their learning environments, social interactions, and daily routines,” Lauren explains.
Lauren supports both preschool and school-age students in our in-house programs by identifying and implementing communication systems that empower children to express their wants, needs, thoughts, and ideas. She collaborates closely with teachers, therapists, and families to ensure these systems are used consistently across environments. Her work includes conducting AAC and assistive technology evaluations, selecting and customizing devices, training staff and caregivers, and helping integrate communication tools into daily classroom routines and therapy sessions.
“This collaborative approach helps ensure that communication systems are functional, meaningful, and consistently supported throughout the child’s day,” Lauren adds.
In addition to supporting students within our programs, Lauren also works with local public schools to expand understanding and implementation of assistive technology, providing professional development and staff training on AAC and assistive technology, offering guidance on implementation strategies within classrooms and consultations to support IEP teams in selecting and using communication tools.
“Access to appropriate assistive technology can be life-changing for students who struggle to communicate verbally,” she continues. “When implemented thoughtfully and consistently, AAC promotes independence and self-advocacy, reduces communication frustration, supports language development and social interaction, and enhances participation in academic and social settings. Our goal is to ensure that every child has a voice.”
At Variety Child Learning Center, we are proud to support our students, families, and school partners in creating communication-rich environments where every child can be heard.
