CORE WORD OF THE WEEK
What Are Core Words?
Core words are words we use over and over throughout the day when we communicate. They are useful in many different situation-not just for one specific activity or item.
We use core words all the time when we talk. Words like go, stop, more, want, help, like, you, me, it, in, out, and all done can be combined in many different ways to help someone communicate what they want, need, think, or feel.
For AAC users, learning core words can open up many more opportunities to communicate throughout everyday life.
Why a Core Word of the Week?
Each week, Logan & Friends will highlight one core word and share simple, fun ways to model and practice it during everyday activities, play, books, songs, and more.
This week's Core Word is "OPEN"
Ways to Use "OPEN"
"OPEN" is a word we can use in many different ways throughout the day. Instead of only practicing OPEN during one activity, try modeling it during play, daily routines, movement, and trips into the community.
OPEN + People/Help
OPEN it please
Help OPEN
Can you OPEN it?
I want OPEN
OPEN for me
OPEN During Play
OPEN the box
OPEN the toy
OPEN the bag
OPEN the surprise
OPEN the door
AAC TIP
You don't have to ask the AAC user to say "OPEN" Model OPEN on their device while you say the word, then give them time to respond.
OPEN + Places/Things
OPEN the door
OPEN the gate
OPEN the window
OPEN the box
OPEN the bag
OPEN During Routines
OPEN the door
OPEN the fridge
OPEN the cabinet
OPEN the backpack
OPEN the container
Let's Practice OPEN!
Practice OPEN during play! Model OPEN on the AAC device before opening each toy, then give time to respond.
Put a favorite toy or surprise inside a box.
Model OPEN before lifting the lid.
OPEN it together.
Close it and try again!
ready, set, OPEN!
OPEN THE DOOR
Stand by a door together.
Model OPEN before opening it.
Pause and give them a chance to say or select OPEN.
Then OPEN the door together.
OPEN THE WATER BOTTLE
Hold up the water bottle or spray bottle.
Pause and model OPEN.
OPEN it together.
Then CLOSE it and try again.
What Should We OPEN?
Tips for Practicing OPEN
1. Model OPEN
Show where OPEN is on the AAC device or communication board. Model the word naturally during play and everyday routines - there's no need to require the AAC user to copy you.
2. Pause & Wait
Before opening something, pause and give the AAC user time to communicate OPEN. Then open it together.
3. Use Real-Life Opportunities
Practice OPEN with doors, boxes, bags, containers, books, cabinets, and other things you open throughout the day.
4. Keep It Fun
Put a favorite toy or surprise inside something that opens. Model OPEN, enjoy the activity together, and repeat without pressure.
Remember: Model, pause, and have fun. Communication doesn't have to be perfect to be meaningful.
Watch, Sing & Practice OPEN!
AAC Tip: Watch together and model OPEN on the AAC device when you hear it. Pause, give time to respond, and keep it fun.
"Practice OPEN on AAC with Logan"
🐷 Practicing OPEN with the Pig
Logan selects OPEN on his AAC device before opening the pig and taking out the pieces.
🚪Knock, Knock - Who's There?
Practice OPEN by knocking on the door, saying "Knock, knock! Who's there?" and then modeling or selecting OPEN on the AAC device before opening the door together.
Logan knocks on the pig door, selects OPEN on his AAC device, and then opens the pig to take out the pieces.
