Team Supports Guide
Empowering the Team with Shared Core Words
Practical strategies to build consistent AAC modeling across therapy, the classroom, and home—without adding to the homework burden.
Shared Core Words
Align therapy, classroom instruction, and home routines around a single target word to give the child consistent, connected exposure across all environments.
Team Modeling
Provide staff and caregivers with focused tip sheets. Look for ways to model the target word in routines they already share with the child, rather than adding another separate activity.
Actionable Family Notes
Share brief, highly specific modeling ideas with families. Focus on natural opportunities to show the word, removing the pressure of formal "homework."
Practical Adult Modeling Examples
Modeling is about showing, not demanding. Here are simple ways adults can highlight core words during natural transitions and play.
Model "GO" at the door
Before walking out to the playground, point to "GO" on the child's communication system and say, "Time to GO." You don't need to ask them to say it back—just show them how the word works in a real, motivating context.
Model "LOOK" during storytime
While reading a favorite book, point to "LOOK" when turning a page to a surprising illustration. Say, "LOOK at that big bear!" It naturally draws attention to the word's meaning without interrupting the joy of the story.
A family note can be this simple
“We’re modeling GO this week. When you’re heading outside, you could point to GO on your child’s communication system and say ‘Let’s GO!’ No need to ask for a repeat—just share the moment.”
Choose words and routines with the child’s SLP and team. Keep the child’s full communication system available; a shared focus word does not limit what they can say.
Core Word Tip Sheets
Support your team with practical, ready-to-use tip sheets. Each sheet focuses on a single core word, providing ideas for literacy, play, and daily routines that educators and families can implement immediately.
Ready to Learn More?
Explore our comprehensive guide on Core Words or browse the full collection of speech and language resources.