Reading together can be a great opportunity to model language using augmentative/alternative communication. When reading a story together, communication partners (you!) can help a student learn vocabulary by using the AAC yourself to comment on what’s happening in the story, ask an open-ended question about the story or picture in the story, and then respond to the question or whatever the student expresses.

Focusing on specific words provides repetition necessary to learn how they are used.

The following is an example created by Speech-Language Pathologist Jessica Cerovich who models language using an AAC application while reading a book. The words focused on are Like and Don’t Like.

• • Comment on what is happening such as “I like” and “don’t like.”

  • Ask an open ended question like “What do you like?”

  • Respond when the child communicates anything.