Aided Language Stimulation (ALS) is an evidence based strategy for teaching the AAC user about their system and how to use it! ALS provides a visual model for communication using the AAC system.
Here are some simple steps to get started:
Start with an interaction/activity/routine that is meaningful and sparks joy in your AAC user! Does your child love books? Start during shared book reading! Does your child love tactile play? Start during play with play-doh! Always follow your child’s lead and choose activities that bring them joy, and especially activities they enjoy with YOU!
Provide repeated exposure to words that are meaningful for the child. Know the difference between core (high frequency) vocabulary and fringe vocabulary. For example, if your child loves swinging and is enjoying this activity with you, you could provide ALS and model words like, ‘more,’ ‘push,’ ‘up,’ ‘down,’ ‘stop,’ and ‘swing.’ While you say the word, access it on their device either by touching the corresponding symbol or accessing it via their unique access method.
Don’t expect your child to use the word right away after you provide the modeling through ALS. You can provide the model, then the resulting response to the word! No need to prompt the child to use the word. This is the opportunity to show your child ‘how’ his system can be used, not expect any response from the child.
Provide modeling for different ‘reasons’ for communication. The goal for a new AAC user is to learn to use the system for many reasons! For example, to ask for something they want, to say what they don’t want, to share their opinion, to describe, to ask questions, and so much more!
Use the same program as the child! Whether on their device or an identical device or communication page. And know their system so you know where to find pertinent vocabulary!
Have fun!! Remember to start always by following your child’s lead and interests, then modeling the vocabulary to match these interactions! Making the ALS meaningful is THE MOST important!
Please reach out if you would like more information on this topic!
Warmly,
Alexis
Read more