CORE WORD OF THE WEEK
What Are Core Words?
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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.
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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.
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For AAC users, learning core words can open up many more opportunities to communicate throughout everyday life.
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Why a Core Word of the Week?
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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.
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This week's core word is: STOP!
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This week's Core Word is "STOP"
Ways to Use "STOP"
"STOP" is a word we can use in many different ways throughout the day. Instead of only practicing STOP during one activity, try modeling it during play, daily routines, movement, and trips into the community.
STOP for Safety
STOP + Movement
STOP and wait
STOP the car
STOP at the street
STOP-not safe
STOP walking
STOP running
STOP jumping
STOP swinging
STOP the ball
STOP the bubbles
STOP the music
STOP the game
  STOP During Play
STOP During Routines
STOP eating
STOP pouring
STOP brushing
STOP getting dressed
   AAC TIP
   You don't have to ask the AAC user to say "STOP," Model STOP on their device while you say the word, then give them time to respond.
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ready, set, STOP!
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Roll a car or ball.
 Model GO while it moves.
Then say STOP!
Let's Practice STOP!
GO & STOP LIGHT
Turn the light to GO.
Move, walk, or roll a toy.
Change it to STOP and freeze!
water STOP!
Use a spray bottle, hose, or water toy.Â
Model GO before turning the water on.
Say STOP! and turn it off.
STOP & GO Game
Practice STOP and GO through movement and play. Use the printable cards while dancing, walking, rolling cars, playing with bubbles, using a ball, or listening to music.
Tap the cover to download the free STOP & GO Activity Pack.
Tips for Practicing STOP
1. Model STOP
Show where STOP is on the AAC device or communication board. Model the word naturally during play-there's no need to require the AAC user to copy you.
2. Pause & Wait
After you model STOP, pause and give the user time to respond or communicate before starting the activity again.Â
3. Create Reasons to Use STOP
Use everyday activities where STOP has a real purpose-STOP a car, STOP bubbles, STOP music, STOP walking, or TOP a silly action.
4. Take Turns
Let the AAC be the one who decides when everyone should STOP. Taking turns makes the word meaningful and gives them more control.
Remember: Model, pause, and have fun. Communication doesn't have to be perfect to be meaningful.
Watch, Sing & Practice STOP!
Sing & Model STOP
Model STOP on AAC
Practice STOP & GO
AAC Tip: Watch together and model STOPÂ on the AAC device when you hear it. Pause, give time to respond, and keep it fun.