Best First Words for AAC at Home

The best first AAC words are useful many times a day.

First AAC words do not have to be fancy. They should help your child ask, refuse, choose, get help, and join routines.

Core words to start with

• I
• want
• more
• help
• go
• stop
• open
• all done
• yes
• no

Feeling and body words

• happy
• sad
• mad
• tired
• hurt
• sick
• hungry
• thirsty

Routine words

• eat
• drink
• bathroom
• wash
• sleep
• play
• outside
• home

People words

Include the people your child sees most: mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, sister, brother, teacher, or caregiver names.

Keep the board available

AAC works best when it is nearby during normal routines. A child cannot use words that are hidden away or only brought out during practice time.