#292: Comparing Vocabulary Intervention For Children Who Use AAC with Dr. Courtney Trevino

Comparing vocabulary instruction for children who use AAC is not a one size fits all decision, and that is exactly what makes this conversation so valuable. Vocabulary intervention is one of the topics I get asked about most often, and there is still so much to learn about the best ways to support children who use AAC. I’m joined by Dr. Courtney Trevino to unpack her research comparing explicit vocabulary instruction with more naturalistic, incidental teaching. We explore what each approach looks like in practice, how vocabulary was selected for the study, and what the findings can teach us as clinicians. One strategy that really stood out to me was navigation description, talking out loud through the path you take to find a word on an AAC system. It is such a practical way to support learning, while also helping parents, teachers, RBTs, and other team members become more confident using AAC. I walked away thinking differently about how I teach vocabulary, and I think you will too. If you are looking for practical, research-backed ideas that you can start using right away, this conversation is full of them. #autism #speechtherapy **What’s Inside:** - Why explicit vocabulary instruction led to stronger word learning outcomes - How navigation description can support both AAC users and communication partners - Choosing vocabulary for early AAC learners, including developmental versus core words - Practical ways to blend structured teaching into everyday therapy **Mentioned In This Episode:** Comparing Two Vocabulary Interventions for Children Who Use Augmentative and Alternative Communication Dr. Courtney Trevino AAC Mastery for SLPs and BCBAs Earn CEUs with a community of peers. Join the ABA Speech Connection ABA Speech: Home