Aided Language Stimulation / Input

Also know as "Modeling" "Partner Assisted Input: Aided LAngague Stimulation"

"By 18 months, babies have heard 4,380 hours of spoken language and we don't expect them to be fluent speakers YET.  If AAC learners only see symbols modeled for communication twice weekly for 20-30 minutes, it will take 84 years for them to them to have the same aided language as an 18 month old has to spoken language".  

The main purpose of the strategy is to MODEL and provide examples of how to use language and communicate, It may also help a child understand language, promote better symbol comprehension and production.  Using AAC promotes social acceptance.

The child is a passive observer while the communication partner looks at or points to the Speech Generating Device SGD and verbally says the word. I promise you, my typical kids are not looking at me when I talk....don't wait for kids to be looking at the device to model it. 

Whenever a child indicates something non-verbally, for example pulling your hand to an object. Indicate "HELP" on the SGD acknowledging the communicative internet and shaping language.

Whenever a child indicates something non-verbally, for example pulling your hand to an object. Indicate "HELP" on the SGD acknowledging the communicative internet and shaping language. Go one stop beyond, your child says 'help," you say "help open."