Dr. Caroline Musselwhite
What is it that I do...
I try to support AAC and literacy for all people with complex communication needs, regardless of age or ability. This includes working directly with people who use AAC and their families in schools, homes, and in the community. I also provide trainings and create support materials through blogs, website tips, books, and software or apps. I spend lots of times with colleagues creating new workshops and materials, and brainstorming how to try to truly change lives. I have also found that being part of AAC and Literacy ‘Camps’ is an amazing way to support significant growth in a short time period, so I hope to do more of that in the future!
Why do I do it...
I realized in the early seventies that trying to figure out how to work collaboratively with people who use AAC, their families, and the professionals who work with them to promote better communication, literacy, and social engagement would be a lifetime goal. I am tired of hearing statements such as “oh, she’s really low” or “we only teach functional skills, not literacy.” My goal is to help shift attitudes and show successes that grow more successes.
How do I spend my free time...
I love hiking, biking, and/or kayaking anywhere, but especially with friends across the world. So far, I’ve enjoyed these activities in Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, England, Germany, Ireland, Peru, Portugal, Scotland, South Africa, Spain, and Switzerland, – and I’m hoping to add your country to that list! I knit for joy, to reduce stress, and to support many different charities, and I read relentlessly. Best of all is spending time with my husband, children, and grandchildren!
Why should you get in contact with me/how can I help you...
I have developed an extensive set of in-person or recorded webinars for supporting language and literacy for people who use AAC. I also love doing in-person or remote coaching for teams to develop their skills and help them empower the individuals they work with. Finally, I have developed and am continuing to develop a wide range of materials to support both families and professionals.
I try to support AAC and literacy for all people with complex communication needs, regardless of age or ability. This includes working directly with people who use AAC and their families in schools, homes, and in the community. I also provide trainings and create support materials through blogs, website tips, books, and software or apps. I spend lots of times with colleagues creating new workshops and materials, and brainstorming how to try to truly change lives. I have also found that being part of AAC and Literacy ‘Camps’ is an amazing way to support significant growth in a short time period, so I hope to do more of that in the future!
Why do I do it...
I realized in the early seventies that trying to figure out how to work collaboratively with people who use AAC, their families, and the professionals who work with them to promote better communication, literacy, and social engagement would be a lifetime goal. I am tired of hearing statements such as “oh, she’s really low” or “we only teach functional skills, not literacy.” My goal is to help shift attitudes and show successes that grow more successes.
How do I spend my free time...
I love hiking, biking, and/or kayaking anywhere, but especially with friends across the world. So far, I’ve enjoyed these activities in Argentina, Australia, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ecuador, England, Germany, Ireland, Peru, Portugal, Scotland, South Africa, Spain, and Switzerland, – and I’m hoping to add your country to that list! I knit for joy, to reduce stress, and to support many different charities, and I read relentlessly. Best of all is spending time with my husband, children, and grandchildren!
Why should you get in contact with me/how can I help you...
I have developed an extensive set of in-person or recorded webinars for supporting language and literacy for people who use AAC. I also love doing in-person or remote coaching for teams to develop their skills and help them empower the individuals they work with. Finally, I have developed and am continuing to develop a wide range of materials to support both families and professionals.
