Empowering Young Voices – Tiny Voices, BIG ideas! 

Toddlers have big feelings, big ideas, and sometimes zero reliable words to express them. That’s where AAC comes in! AAC is not a backup plan – it’s a voice. And as their SLP or parent, you get to help them find it. The difficult task is how do you actually bring AAC into sessions with little ones and busy families? 

Getting Started: Think Access, Not Perfection 

Early AAC is about exposure and opportunity—not perfection. 

Your toddler client doesn’t need to “prove” readiness. They just need access to communication tools and consistent input. And as their SLP (or biggest communication coach), you can: 

• Introduce core vocabulary early (“more,” “go,” “want,” “stop”) 
• Keep AAC tools within reach (clip to highchairs, toy bins, car seats!) 
• Show families how simple it can be 

Some Easy-to-Use AAC Tools: 

• QuickTalker® Freestyle: A powerful yet approachable high tech AAC device that supports symbol-based language development. With customizable grid layouts, it grows with your learner—from early word combinations to more complex language. It’s durable, portable, and comes pre-loaded with communication apps, making it a favorite for both emerging and progressing AAC users. 
• QuickTalker Feather Touch: A mid-tech AAC device that is simple, reliable, and toddler-tough 
• iTalk2 or Step-by-Step Communicator: Great for routines, greetings, and silly games 
• Core boards (laminated or velcro): Use during snack, diaper changes, or book time (free printable lite-tech boards can be found here)

Implementation Tips: Make AAC Part of the Everyday 

You just need consistency, modeling, and a little bit of fun. 

1. Routines Rule – Want AAC to stick? Embed it into routines the child already knows. Use the same core words during:
   • Snack time: “more,” “eat,” “drink,” “all done” 
   • Diaper changes/Potty time: “go,” “stop,” “done” 
   • Hand washing: “on,” “off,” “yucky,” “rub,” “finished” 
   • Playtime: “want,” “go,” “turn,” “open,” “again” 

2. Model, Model, Model 

You are the best AAC model your child has. That means you touch the symbol or device and say the word at the same time. No pressure for the child to respond- they’re learning through exposure, just like with spoken language.  

Examples: 

• While hanging the child a snack: Tap “eat” + say “eat” 
• During a pause in play or reading a book: Tap “go” + say “GO!” 

Even one modeled word per routine is a win. Remember, consistency is key! 

3. Keep it FUN (AAC = Play, Not Drill) 

Early intervention is about connecting with kids and showing them how AAC can help them, play, protest, comment, and participate.  

Use: 

• Wind-up or action toys for “go,” “stop,” and “more” 
• Sensory bins for choices like “open,” “help,” “want”  
• Books to model words like “look,” “turn,” “uh-oh,” “big,” “little,” “more” 

Bonus: Let the child press the button for silly sound effects or familiar phrases. You can even record your voice to make it fun and engaging! It builds cause-and-effect and gives them power in the play.  

Coaching Families: Keep it Simple 

Most families don’t need perfections and a long list of instructions – they need simple and realistic. 

Share quick and simple wins: 

• “Try modeling one word a day.” 
• “Let them press the button before they get their favorite snack or toy.” 
• “You don’t need to use complete sentences – one word will do.” 
• “You don’t need to program everything – start with ‘more” and ‘go.’ 

Tip: Celebrate the moments when the child reaches for the board, taps the wrong button, or just looks at you with intent. That’s communication starting to emerge. 

Every toddler has something to say. AAC gives them the tools – and you get to be the guide. 

Whether you’re building familiarity by simply having the device present each session, modeling one core word during a favorite activity,, or modeling full sentences, every little effort adds up to big progress. 

AAC isn’t a last resort. It is a first step. 

Tools and Resources Geared Toward Early Intervention: 

If you would like further support about app recommendations for early intervention clients, implementation tips, etc., feel free to reach out to the AbleNet SLP Empowerment Team by scheduling a meeting here!