Early Literacy Support for Students With Physical Disabilities and Complex Communication Needs

Literacy skills for students with physical disabilities and complex communication needs (PDCCN) who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) are critical. However, without systematic instruction and appropriate adaptations, these individuals may encounter difficulties in acquiring needed skills. This article summarizes the unique literacy needs and challenges of students with PDCCN who use AAC and highlights how adaptations and systematic instruction can be utilized to teach early literacy skills to these students.