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Setting Communication Goals for the New Year: A Guide for AAC Users and Support Teams

CBP 6728

As we welcome 2026, it’s the perfect time to reflect on communication journeys and set meaningful AAC goals for the year ahead!

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Table of Contents

Speech bubbles saying New Year New AAC Goals

Why Set Communication Goals?

Setting goals for AAC creates clear direction, helps measure progress, and provides motivation during the learning process. Whether you’re an AAC communicator, a parent, a speech pathologist, or an educator, establishing specific communication goals  can transform everyday interactions into opportunities for growth!

Types of New Year AAC Goals to Consider

1. Expanding Vocabulary Usage

Consider focusing on:

  • Using more core words in daily communication
  • Incorporating descriptive words to add detail
  • Learning vocabulary for specific environments (school, community, workplace)
  • Building phrases beyond single-words

 

“Jamie has made incredible progress with requesting. This year, we’re focusing on using describing words like ‘big,’ ‘little,’ ‘fast,’ and ‘slow’ to add more detail to his communication.” – Sarah*, speech pathologist

2. Increasing Communication Functions

Communication exists to build connection, relationships, creativity… and so much more! It’s not just about making requests. Set goals to expand reasons for communicating:
  • Commenting on surroundings
  • Asking questions
  • Sharing information
  • Expressing feelings
  • Negating/protesting
  • Social connection (greetings, jokes, small talk)

“Our goal this year is to move beyond wants and needs. We’re working on Mia sharing her opinions about activities and commenting on what’s happening around her.” – David*, parent

3. Building Communication Independence

Support greater autonomy by setting goals for:

  • Initiating communication without prompts
  • Problem-solving communication breakdowns
  • Navigating AAC systems independently
  • Communicating  in new environments
  • Advocating for communication supports

4. Exploring New Device Features

Technology and access options continue to evolve. Consider goals related to:

  • Adjusting settings for greater efficiency
  • Integrating multiple communication methods for different situations (e.g. using using a laminated low tech board in the pool)
  • Learning new features on existing devices
  • Explore alternative access methods (eye gaze, scanning, etc.), if appropriate

How to Set Effective New Year AAC Goals

1. Make Them Specific and Measurable

Instead of: “Use more words”
Try: “Use 3 descriptive words during each morning routine”

Instead of: “Communicate better with friends”
Try: “Initiate 2 conversations with peers during lunch using conversation starters”

2. Focus on Functional Communication

The best goals connect to real communication opportunities in everyday life:

  • Morning routine communication
  • Mealtime conversations
  • School participation
  • Community outings
  • Social interactions with family and friends

3. Include the AAC Communicator in Goal Setting

Whenever possible, involve the AAC user in identifying what communication goals matter to them. This might include:
  • Asking directly through their preferred communication method
  • Offering choices between potential goals
  • Observing what motivates their communication attempts
  • Discussing with them what communication challenges they face

“When I asked Thomas what communication goal was important to him this year, he clearly indicated he wants to tell better jokes. So, we’re focusing on timing, humour vocabulary, and social pragmatics around joke-telling.” – Michelle*, support team

Supporting Goal Achievement

Create a Communication-Rich Environment

  • Model AAC use throughout the day
  • Respond positively to all communication attempts
  • Create regular opportunities to practice new skills
  • Use new resources to make practice fun (check out ‘Active with AAC’ from our partner, the AAC Language Lab)

Track Progress Meaningfully

  • Take video samples to document growth
  • Keep simple data on targeted goals
  • Celebrate small wins along the way
  • Adjust goals as needed based on progress
  • Explore a Realize Language subscription

Build Your Support Team's Skills

  • Schedule a training session with our consultants
  • Join our online workshops and webinars
  • Access free resources on our website
  • Connect with other families and professionals (e.g. come along to our upcoming LAMP for Parents workshop to meet people in our AAC community)

Ready to Start Goal Setting?

Our team is here to support your New Year AAC Goals for 2026. Whether you’re interested in device trials, training sessions, vocabulary support, or our brand new App Partner Program, we’re just a click away!

Remember, the most important aspect of goal setting isn’t perfection—it’s progress. Each step forward in communication opens new doors for connection, expression, and participation.

What communication goals are you setting for 2026? Share your ideas in the comments below or reach out to our team for personalised support to make this your best communication year yet!

 

 

*testimonials have been shared proudly by our parent company PRC-Saltillo, with names changed for privacy

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