A recent research project conducted by Dr Kerstin Tönsing from the Centre for AAC explored methods of facilitating expressive language skills in children who have little or no functional speech. These children need other methods of communication as their speech is too unintelligible and/or limited to meet all their communication needs.  In her research, supported by a grant from the NRF as well as the University of Pretoria, Dr Tönsing explored the use of a communication board and an iPad-based application with speech generating capabilities in encouraging expressive language during shared storybook reading sessions. All participants benefitted from the intervention and started using both the communication board and the speech generating application on the iPad successfully to express themselves. In the next phase of the project these communication aids will be implemented within the classroom setting in order to support interaction and learning.