A practical mindset shift for everyone who supports communication
In many classrooms, we’ve done the work of programming AAC systems, printing core boards, and labeling environments — but the real shift happens when teams begin to think in core. It’s not about having the right app or the perfect grid size — it’s about seeing communication opportunities everywhere.
Core vocabulary isn’t just a list of words; it’s a way of teaching, interacting, and connecting that allows every student — verbal or not — to participate meaningfully.
What It Means to “Think in Core”
To “think in core” means:
- Using high-frequency, flexible words (like go, want, more, stop, help) in every context
- Modeling language that’s simple but powerful — the kind of words students can use across settings, not just in therapy
- Seeing every routine — lining up, snack time, morning meeting — as a language opportunity
When we think in core, we stop planning communication only for speech sessions or device time — and start embedding it in real life.
The Problem: Over-Programming, Under-Modeling
Too often, teams:
- Spend hours customizing devices but rarely model how to use them
- Assume “students will get it” once the vocabulary is loaded in
- Focus on nouns (“apple,” “car,” “dog”) rather than core words that drive conversation (“want,” “go,” “like”)
The result? Students end up with rich vocabularies they’ve never seen used in context — and partners who freeze when something goes off-script.
Step 1: Build a Shared Core Mindset
Before teaching students, teach the adults:
- Choose 3–5 anchor words for the week or month (e.g., want, go, stop)
- Create quick visuals for staff rooms — sticky notes, door signs, morning reminders
- Encourage every adult to model even when they’re not “the AAC person”
Step 2: Model Core Words Across Routines
Here’s how a team can integrate modeling into daily life:
| Routine | Core Word Focus | Example Model |
|---|---|---|
| Morning arrival | Go / Come / Help | “Come in!” “Help me hang your bag.” |
| Snack time | Want / More / Eat / Stop | “You want more crackers?” |
| Centers | Go / Turn / Play / Like | “Go play blocks.” “I like that!” |
Keep it imperfect. Model naturally — even if you make mistakes.
Step 3: Reflect and Reboot
Use team check-ins:
- What core words did we model this week?
- Where did students respond most?
- What’s one routine we can add next week?
Small, authentic victories help sustain the mindset.
Step 4: Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Thinking in core takes time. You don’t master it by memorizing a list — you grow it through repetition, laughter, and shared success stories.
Every modeled word is a brick in a student’s foundation for communication.
Closing Thought
AAC isn’t about adding more buttons — it’s about changing how we think, talk, and connect. When teams begin to think in core, they stop viewing AAC as a separate system — and start seeing it as the language of inclusion.
Team Reflection Prompt
- Which 3–5 core words will we anchor this week?
- Where can we add one more natural modeling opportunity each day?
- How will we share wins so the mindset sticks?
Final Thought
You don’t need a perfect plan to start. Start with one modeled word. Then another. Then another. That’s how you turn on a core mindset — and keep the light on for every communicator in your room.
