Communication boards are considered a form of low tech AAC. They can be used in conjunction with other AAC systems (like high tech) or in isolation. We discuss tools that you can use to make communication boards yourself, further considerations, and additional free premade options ..read more

Core words or core vocabulary refers to the language that we use most frequently in our day-to-day communication. Reading books is a great way to teach core words; find a great list of books for learning them in this post ..read more

Core words, or core vocabulary are important for AAC instruction and use in speech therapy and the classroom. This article dives into the principles behind core words and their importance for AAC users ..read more

Functional communication includes requesting, protesting, describing, commenting, asking and answering questions, and engaging in social routines. Individuals who use AAC engage in functional communication exchanges throughout their days ..read more

Check out our NEW Core Word of the Week Lesson Plan for your AAC users!  This time-saving resource provides a step-by-step guide for teaching 10 core words over 10 weeks. This product includes (1) Core Word Lesson Slides AND a (2) Core Word Companion Packet. Scroll for more info! The 10 featured core words in this program include: GO, MORE, FEEL, I, WANT, YES, NO, HELP, STOP, and LIKE. ⭐Click here to access this resource in our TPT Store! ⭐Click here to access this resource in our Gumroad Store! Click on the image to join! Click here to join our PREMIUM Memb ..read more

This article was last updated on March 21, 2024 Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) goals are used in speech therapy and written by a speech-language pathologist (SLP). The purpose of writing goals targeting AAC skills is similar to the overarching goals for all other speech and language areas: to increase functional communication across a variety of individuals, contexts, and settings. AAC Goals: An Introduction For many individuals, AAC systems are their primary expressive communication modality. Individuals who use AAC systems (e.g., speech-generating devices/SGDs, communicati ..read more

What is Neurodiversity? The concept of neurodiversity acknowledges that brain differences are natural and that conditions like autism, ADHD, or stuttering are variations of the human brain, not deficits. This concept is crucial to recognize in our field, as many speech-language pathologists (SLPs) treat individuals who identify as neurodivergent and are also the ones who provide support to their caregivers/families.  More recently, many SLPs have deliberately made the "switch" to a neurodiversity-affirming approach, which obviously includes goal writing! Part of implementing this approac ..read more

Modeling without expectation is a low-pressure way to model AAC use in a natural environment. Read more about AAC, who can participate in “modeling without expectation,” and tips for doing so! What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication? Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is used to augment (increase) an individual’s ability to communicate and/or provide an alternative way of communicating. It may be used over a long period of time, temporarily, or situationally. Individuals who have difficulty communicating by speaking may benefit from AAC. There are many different forms ..read more

If your child or loved one uses an augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) device, you probably want to support them in the best way possible. However, it can be difficult to know what to do. There is no clear handbook on where to begin and there are a ton of AAC systems/softwares out there. We know that it can be overwhelming, which is why we’re here to help! Continue reading to learn about 5 ways to help support your child’s AAC use. What is AAC? Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is an umbrella term for different communication methods. AAC is often used by individuals ..read more

We love bundling because we also love saving! Quickly access one of our newest bundles via Gumroad (below) or in our Teachers Pay Teachers store! Loading... Each goal bank is adaptable and a great guide for helping you figure out what skill your client needs to focus on next... Just select your own combination of DO + CONDITION + CRITERION (and consistency) statements to develop personalized and measurable goals. Easy. & don't forget about the BONUS AAC goals page included! Click here to find this product in our Teachers Pay Teachers store! Have questions or want to connect? Reach o ..read more