Skip to content
  • Services
    • Speech & Feeding and Lactation Services
    • Insurance vs Self-Pay FAQs
    • Does My Plan Cover Speech Therapy?
  • About Us
  • Testimonials
  • SITC BLOG
    • SPEECH
    • FEEDING
    • AAC
    • Orofacial Myology
    • ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
    • LANGUAGE
    • Practice News
    • ESPAÑOL
  • Resources
    • Client Login
    • ADVOCACY
    • Boom Store
    • TPT Store
    • Podcasts & Interviews
    • Therapy Resources
    • Employment
  • Contact
  • Services
    • Speech & Feeding and Lactation Services
    • Insurance vs Self-Pay FAQs
    • Does My Plan Cover Speech Therapy?
  • About Us
  • Testimonials
  • custom-logo
  • SITC BLOG
    • SPEECH
    • FEEDING
    • AAC
    • Orofacial Myology
    • ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
    • LANGUAGE
    • Practice News
    • ESPAÑOL
  • Resources
    • Client Login
    • ADVOCACY
    • Boom Store
    • TPT Store
    • Podcasts & Interviews
    • Therapy Resources
    • Employment
  • Contact
Selecting Core Words
AAC

Selecting Core Words

November 5, 2019June 4, 2020 speechinthecity Leave a comment

Core words are a systematic way to teach and use single messages by combining either one or a string of them to form either single word phrases or expansive multi-word sentences. A core vocabulary varies from person to person, across ages, cultures and speaking environments. It can be an overwhelming process to select core words, especially since most of the children we work with have had limited to no access to language. We are essentially using clinical opinions, research and caregiver insights to select the child’s speech repertoire. The process can be challenging, in that the system needs to not be too limiting and yet not too expensive. Language testing can be challenging too, as standardized tests do not always capture every facet of language. It is important that in the selection of core words, there is a priority in selection based on the needs of the communicator.  

Even though verbal language varies across so many factors studies 96% of all spoken words in toddlers ages 24-36 m are made up of 23 core words! These words are pronouns, prepositions, verbs and demonstratives. (Banajee, diCarlo, & Stricklin, 2003) The words that Banajee, diCarlo, & Stricklin, 2003 found most common are: I, no, yes, my, the, want, is, it, that, a, go, mine, you, what, on, in, here, more, out, off, some, help, and all done/finished. They are outlined in a way to learn that a speech pathologist can guide use and implementation.

Speech Language Pathologists who specialize in Augmentative and Alternative Communication, AAC, determine alongside parents, appropriate and meaningful core language systems for the children they teach. The philosophy for core language is pretty straightforward, in its essence speech pathologists understand the importance of teaching a multi-use word over a single noun. An early core word might be “want” as it is easier to learn a word that varies across contexts instead of a word like “ball” that can be only used with one object.

Banajee, M., DiCarlo, C., & Stricklin, S. (2003). Core vocabulary determination for toddlers. Augmentative and Alternative Communication, 19, 67-73.

AACcore wordsteaching resources

Related Posts

Common AAC Misconceptions
Common AAC Misconceptions
Too Young for AAC?
Too Young for AAC?
An Idea for Emergent Speakers using a Predictable Line Method
An Idea for Emergent Speakers using a Predictable Line Method
Symbol Use and Transitioning CVI Stages
Symbol Use and Transitioning CVI Stages

Post navigation

Parent Resources for AAC Users
The Best Practice For Teaching Vocabulary
Hey, There!

Hey, There!

Welcome from Rebecca
Welcome to Speech in The City's blog. Here you'll find out lots of resources to help you or your child in speech and/or feeding therapy. We are always looking for new families to meet and professionals to learn from -Rebecca

CATEGORIES

  • AAC
  • ADVOCACY
  • ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
  • ESPAÑOL
  • FEEDING
  • LANGUAGE
  • ORAL MOTOR
  • Orofacial Myology
  • Podcasts and Interviews
  • Practice News
  • SPEECH
  • Testimonials
  • Therapy Resources

Join Us

Get the latest speech news, home therapy ideas and practice updates.

More Posts

<strong>From Rewards to Curiosity: Using Extrinsic Motivation as a Bridge to Intrinsic Motivation in Feeding Therapy</strong>
FEEDING ➤ January 27, 2025

From Rewards to Curiosity: Using Extrinsic Motivation as a Bridge to Intrinsic Motivation in Feeding Therapy

Motivating a child to step outside their comfort zone with food can be one of the most complex challenges in feeding therapy. For families navigating picky eating, the frustration and worry are palpable. A child’s...

Read More
When Your Child is a Gestalt Language Processor: A Parent’s Guide
LANGUAGE ➤ August 20, 2024

When Your Child is a Gestalt Language Processor: A Parent’s Guide

Discovering that your child is a gestalt language processor (GLP) can feel both overwhelming and exciting. While it may mean adjusting your communication and learning strategies, it also opens a world of possibilities for your...

Read More
When Should My Child Stop Thumb Sucking?
Orofacial Myology ➤ July 12, 2024

When Should My Child Stop Thumb Sucking?

Thumb sucking is a common and natural reflex for babies and young children. It can provide comfort and security, helping them to relax and fall asleep. However, if thumb sucking continues beyond the age of...

Read More

Instagram

  • Contact
  • Client Login
  • Employment
  • Newsletter
© 2025 | Made in New York City