How can teachers and parents support AAC use across all settings? 

1. Modeling (Aided Language Input/Stimulation)

Keep the board visible and accessible at all times.

• When you speak, point to the matching word on the board.

  • Example: At snack time, say and point to, “Do you WANT more?” (point to want and more). You can choose ONE word to point to in your sentence, not all the words.

• Use natural speech along with pointing to show how the board works.

2. Encouraging Use

• Offer the board/AAC device whenever a child is trying to communicate (gesturing, reaching, vocalizing).

• Reinforce all communication attempts—even if the child only points to one word.

• Accept any form of communication such as words, pictures, or signs. Don’t force them to point to a picture on the core board or find a picture on their AAC device. If they already said or signed the word, then you can model the picture instead to teach. 

3. Keeping It Simple

• Start with single words (e.g., more, help, stop).

• Gradually expand to short combinations as the child progresses (e.g., want + toy or go + outside).

• Don’t worry about perfect grammar—focus on helping the child express meaning.

4. Embedding in Routines

• Snack/Meal: Use words like eat, drink, more, all done.

• Play: Model go, stop, want, help, turn.

• Music/Music videos: Use look, listen, turn, sing.

• Transitions: Model go, wait, stop, line up.

5. Positive Reinforcement

• Celebrate every attempt, even if it’s approximate.

• Respond quickly to show the child that using the board is powerful and meaningful.

6. Keep AAC Accessible: Treat a core board or AAC device like a child's wheelchair or glasses—it should be within reach at all times (classroom, lunch, recess, and home).

7. Give Wait Time: AAC users need time to process spoken language, navigate to the correct page, and select their message. Wait 5 to 10 seconds before prompting.

By modeling language and encouraging use of AAC throughout the day, we give our students a consistent and reliable way to express themselves. Over time, they will learn that communication opens doors to connection, play, and learning.

Aided Language Stimulation Explained (click the link)

Modeling AAC (click the link)

Expressing Wants and Needs Through Sign Language

For young children, pre-verbal individuals, or those experiencing speech delays, expressing thoughts verbally can be a hurdle. Sign language can serve as a powerful form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC).

By utilizing physical gestures to communicate, children gain immediate access to functional language—the essential words needed to express basic desires, make choices, and interact with the world around them.

When a child lacks the vocal ability to say "I want water" or "I need a break," the inability to communicate can manifest as behavior. Sign language offers a way to communicate that lowers these barriers:

• Reduces Frustration: Giving a child a physical gesture for high-frequency words like "More," "Help," "Eat," or "All Done" grants them immediate control over their environment, eliminating the need to cry or act out to get their point across.

• Supports Language Development: Research shows that learning manual signs does not delay spoken language; rather, it activates the same language processing centers in the brain, often encouraging and accelerating spoken word production.

• Encourages Autonomy: Children feel empowered when they realize their actions can directly influence their surroundings, building confidence and self-efficacy early in life.

Introducing basic signs to young children is most effective when paired with music, repetition, and engaging visuals. 

• Ms. Rachel (click link)

• Baby Sign Language Printable Wall Chart (click link) Free printable guides and visual dictionaries showing how to form essential functional signs like Milk, More, Water, Help, and All Done.

Mealtime and Need Signs

• More: Tap your fingertips of both hands together in front of you.

• Eat / Food: Tap your fingertips to your mouth a couple of times.

• Milk: Open and close your fist like you are milking a cow.

• Drink: Pretend to hold a cup and tip it toward your mouth.

Manners and Daily Routine Signs

• Please: Rub your flat hand in a circle on your chest.

• Thank you: Touch your chin with your fingertips and move your hand forward.

• Sleep: Drop your open hand down your face while closing your eyes.

• All done: Twist both hands back and forth at chest height.