AAC Basics
When should a student's AAC be available?
ALWAYS
(even if they are unable to use their high-tech device outside in the rain, cold, etc., bring a low-tech option!)
When are three times you could model the word MORE for a student?
Do you need MORE water?
You're getting out MORE blocks!
Let's blow MORE bubbles.
etc.
Only non-speaking kids can use AAC.
MYTH: AAC can be a support for kids who also use verbal speech.
What is the most important principle of teaching kids AAC?
MODELING WITHOUT EXPECTATION
What are two different ways to model the words LITTLE and BIG?
Talking about foods, e.g. Your pieces of rice are LITTLE and the chicken pieces are BIG
Talking about animals, e.g. That is a BIG elephant! It's standing next to a LITTLE cat
Kids should always start with PECS.
MYTH: There is no evidence that kids must start with paper-based AAC systems.
What does AAC stand for?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication
What are five different words you could model while using playdoh?
my playdoh is PURPLE, you HAVE RED playdoh, you're using the YELLOW cutter, let's CUT the playdoh, do you need HELP opening the container, here are MORE cutters, you LIKE PLAYING with PLAYDOH, etc.
AAC supports speech development.
FACT: Research shows kids can develop stronger verbal speech (and language) skills through using AAC.
What are two types of AAC vocabulary?
CORE and FRINGE
What are five core words you can model during lunch?
LET'S sit down and EAT, are you going to DRINK your milk, I can HELP you open that, you FINISHed your pizza, DO YOU WANT your cheese, I LIKE grapes too, THAT looks like it tastes GOOD, etc.
There are cognitive prerequisite skills for using AAC.
MYTH: There are no prerequisite skills for using AAC; kids should be exposed to AAC as soon as possible!
What are three different communicative functions OTHER THAN requesting?
Describing, Directing, Commenting, Asking/Answering Questions, Protesting, Engaging in Social Routines, Giving Opinions...
What are two different communicative functions you can model with the word GO?
Asking/Answering, e.g Where do you want to GO?
Directing, e.g. GO over there
Protesting/Refusing, e.g. GO away
Commenting, e.g. You like to GO outside
Kids learn their AAC best when we use it to communicate with them.
FACT: modeling without expectation is THE best way to get kids familiar and comfortable with using their AAC.