Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC) Camp Alberta
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a set of tools and strategies that can help people who are unable to rely on verbal speech to communicate. AAC systems may include gestures or signs, picture/word boards, mobile devices with communication apps, and/or speech generating communication devices.
We are offering two camps this year!
AAC Camp Alberta
Our 2026 camp was held at Gull Lake Centre in Lacombe County, AB
Announcement of the dates and location of our 2027 camp will be posted here when available.
AAC Camp is an annual weekend family camp for children (ages 6-16) with complex communication needs who use robust AAC systems. Communication is fostered through natural play, including canoeing, biking, music, and campfires. Each camper is paired with a 1:1 SLP, OT, or PT graduate student counsellor to provide individualized support.
At least one parent must attend with the camper, but all parents and siblings are welcome to participate. To empower the entire family, siblings participate in camp activities while learning AAC strategies, and parents receive specialized training to facilitate communication at home. Supported by a dedicated team of practicing clinicians, the camp helps families build lasting connections in a fun, inclusive environment.
Camp Connect - New in 2026!
Dates: October 2-4, 2026
Location: William Watson Lodge, Kananaskis, AB
Cost: $250 for camper plus one support person, $100 for an additional support person (covers all programming)
Applications open: April 1, 2026
Application deadline: May 1, 2026 (EXTENDED to May 15, 2026)
Notification of acceptance: May 7, 2026 (EXTENDED to May 20, 2026)
Payment due: May 15, 2026 (EXTENDED to June 1, 2026)
NOTE: You must be signed into a google account to access and submit the application form. If you do not have a google account, please contact us at aaccamp@ualberta.ca and we will send an alternate form.
NOTES:
- All cabin rental fees are being covered by a generous private donation for this inaugural camp.
- Food service is not available at William Watson Lodge; participants are responsible for bringing and preparing their own meals - all cabins have full kitchens.
- Kananaskis park pass is required (fee per car is $15/day → $45/weekend).
Camp Connect is a weekend retreat specifically for older teens and young adults (ages 16–30) with complex communication needs who use robust AAC systems and is supported by an interprofessional team of clinicians and OT, PT, and SLP graduate students. Campers attend with one (or two) support persons.
Held at the fully accessible William Watson Lodge in Kananaskis, this program bridges the gap for those transitioning out of youth services. Campers and their support person(s) can enjoy activities like hiking and paddlesports, facilitated by Rocky Mountain Adaptive, plus games, campfires, music and dancing. Participants have space to connect and share experiences with others in a similar life stage, while building friendships, self-determination, and confidence using their communication systems in more independent, real-world contexts.
About AAC Camp
AAC Camp Alberta is delivered through the University of Alberta’s Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders and has been offered every year since 2016 (including virtually in 2020 and 2021).
First Annual AAC Camp Alberta in 2016 (at Camp Horizon in Bragg Creek, AB)
10th Annual AAC Camp Alberta in 2025 (at Easter Seals Alberta Camp Horizon in Bragg Creek, AB.)
- AAC Camp 2023 - Global News
- The camp that became a community
- 'We were just surviving, one day at a time'
- Bond, sibling bond
- Grandfather turned volunteer gives back to camp that has helped his family grow
- Easter Seals camp helps kids with AAC devices untrap their minds - CBC News Calgary
- Untrapping the mind: New kids camp focuses on using technology to talk
- A Time To Talk - New Trail Magazine, Spring 2021, pp 16
- AAC Camp Alberta 2017