AAC Resources & Guides
Practical guides, tips, and insights for parents, caregivers, and speech-language pathologists navigating AAC.
Core Vocabulary AAC Activities: 15 Games and Exercises for Practice
15 practical, play-based activities parents can do at home to practice core words with AAC. Grouped by category with target words, materials, and step-by-step instructions.
Core Words for Toddlers: Building First Sentences with AAC
Learn which core words to target first for toddlers ages 2 to 3, how toddlers naturally combine core and fringe words, and practical tips for modeling with AAC.
Core Words List for AAC: 100+ Essential Words by Category
A comprehensive, organized reference list of 100+ core words for AAC, grouped by category. Use this list to set up your child's communication device with the most powerful vocabulary.
Core Words vs Fringe Words: What's the Difference and Why It Matters for AAC
Learn the difference between core words and fringe words in AAC. This guide explains what each type is, how they work together, and practical tips for balancing both in your child's communication system.
Fringe Vocabulary Ideas for AAC: Words to Add by Activity
Practical fringe vocabulary suggestions for AAC, organized by 10 real-life activities. Find the right topic-specific words to add to your child's communication device for mealtimes, bath time, the playground, and more.
How Many Words Should Be on an AAC Device?
Grid sizes, motor planning, and vocabulary growth. A practical guide to figuring out how many words belong on your child's AAC device.
How to Teach Core Words in AAC: 8 Strategies That Work
Learn 8 proven strategies for teaching core words on an AAC device, including aided language stimulation, recasting, expectant delay, and more. Each strategy includes a concrete example and practical tip.
What Are the Most Common Core Words in AAC?
A ranked list of the 40 most frequently used core words in AAC, with word types and example sentences. Based on word frequency research.
When to Add New Words to an AAC Device
Not sure when to add more vocabulary to your child's AAC device? This guide covers the signs it's time, how to choose between core and fringe words, and why you don't need to wait for mastery before expanding.
AAC for Apraxia of Speech: A Parent's Guide
Learn how AAC supports children with apraxia of speech. Covers research, choosing the right system, and using AAC alongside speech therapy.
What Is AAC? A Simple Explanation for Families
AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. Learn what it means, how it works, and how it helps children who struggle with speech.
AAC for Down Syndrome: Getting Started
How AAC helps children with Down syndrome communicate. Covers the receptive-expressive gap, choosing vocabulary, and practical tips.