Children learning to use AAC thrive when they have communication partners who show them how their AAC system works in real-life situations. One of the best ways to support them is by modeling language on their AAC device.
If you only model a few words a couple of times a week, it can take a long time for an AAC user to build language skills. Consider this:
“The average 18-month-old has been exposed to 4,380 hours of oral language at a rate of 8 hours/day from birth. A child who has a communication system (AAC) and receives speech/language therapy twice a week for 20-30 minutes will reach the same amount of language exposure (in their AAC language) in 84 years.” — Jane Korsten, SLP
That’s why frequent, everyday modeling is key!
Making AAC Modeling Easier
One of the biggest challenges for communication partners is learning how the AAC system is organized. If you don’t know what vocabulary is available or where to find it, modeling can feel overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to be perfect—just practicing and exploring the device makes a difference! Here are some simple ways to get familiar with the AAC system:
Everyday Modeling Opportunities
- Watch a TV show together: Use the AAC device to comment, greet, ask questions, narrate actions/feelings, and explore new vocabulary.
- Find key words ahead of time: Think about frequent words and phrases you use during daily routines and locate them on the device.
- Mealtime: “Eat,” “want [food],” “more,” “get,” “open.”
- Transitions: “Let’s go,” “go,” “done,” “bye,” “where.”
- Getting dressed: “Put on,” “take off,” “like.”
- Playtime: “Play,” “your/my turn,” “like,” “again.”
- Practice using the device instead of your voice in different situations:
- You’re hungry and need something to eat.
- You feel sick.
- You don’t want to do an activity and want to do something else instead.
- You feel happy or sad.
- You really like something.
When to Practice?
Great times to explore and practice AAC include moments when the AAC user doesn’t need access to the device—after bedtime, during nap time, or any quiet moment you have.
Want to explore AAC tools on your own? Try these free PC versions:
- TouchChat: Download here
- TD Snap: Download here
Helpful Resources
By taking small, everyday steps, you can make a huge impact on an AAC user’s ability to communicate. Keep exploring, keep modeling, and most importantly—keep having fun!