The following tips for introducing AAC are appropriate for both school staff and/or families:
The following tips for introducing AAC are appropriate for both school staff and/or families:
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Make it a Team Effort
Make it a Team Effort
All staff, students and family members should all be familiar with their student's AAC device & AAC App. Allow each person some time to explore the app and locate common words that come up in their interactions with the AAC user.
Keep it (the Device) Handy
Keep it (the Device) Handy
Make sure the AAC device is accessible to the user AT ALL TIMES. Think of the AAC device as their voice. You are never without your voice and they should not be without theirs!
Model, Model, Model
Model, Model, Model
People learn language by observing and listening, then trying it themselves. It has been proven that modeling is the best way to teach people to communicate using AAC. Modeling involves touching and using the device as you talk and interact with the person. Model communication using AAC when you are talking to the AAC user and throughout the day.
All Staff, family members and other caregivers can & should participate in modeling as well.
■ Modeling is about showing the individual how to communicate.
■ It does not require imitation.
■ Model key words instead of every word you say.
■ Model as you look for vocabulary.
■ Mistakes are OK. They give you the chance to model how to correct them.
■ Modeling is not quizzing or testing.
Respond to all communication attempts
Respond to all communication attempts
It is common that AAC users will explore their device and make selections that seem random at first. When you respond to their selections, you reinforce that each word has meaning andnhas real world results.
Recognize Opportunities
Recognize Opportunities
Identify times during the day when an individual can learn and practice communication skills. For example, help them use their AAC device to communicate their choice of snack to eat, movie to watch or activity to engage in.
Be Patient
Be Patient
Learning to use AAC is like learning any new language. You would not expect anyone to produce substantive communication in a completely new language in the first days or even weeks of trying. Just continue to model, provide high interest opportunities for communication, and responding to any selections that they make with their AAC device.
Being a great communication partner
Being a great communication partner
Remember to use the strategies below to be a good communication partner and create an environment for communication success:
Create a positive communication environment
Create a positive communication environment
Adopt these attitudes and strategies that encourage communication:
■ Assume competence
“I know you have things to say.” “You can do this.”
■ Focus on use, not testing
Instead of saying “Find book.” Say “It’s reading time. What book should we read?”
■ Respond to all modes of communication
Learner: Smiles at you. Partner: “Well, hello to you too!”
■ Wait
AAC communication takes time. Count to five before providing help to locate vocabulary. If the AAC user is composing a sentence, wait patiently for them to speak instead of reading over their shoulder, guessing what they will say, or simply moving on in the conversation.
Look for success!
Look for success!
Communication success is more than the individual communicating what you expect, when you expect it, and how you expect it.
Success may include:
■ Increased attention to interactions
■ Initiation of communication
■ Use of more vocabulary
■ Longer interactions
■ Greater enjoyment of interactions
■ More independence in communication
Adapted from Tobii Dynavox - AAC Training Cards
Image credit: Drawn to AAC
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