My 5 favorite words are
Go
Stop
Red/Yellow/black Car
Music
I like/don’t like
You might think that this is a rather strange selection of words, but today I embarked on a new journey teaching AAC to a nonverbal little boy and these were the words that he used!
AAC refers to Alternative and Augmentative Communication. It includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write. (www.asha.org)
People with severe speech or language problems rely on AAC to supplement existing speech or replace speech that is not functional. Special augmentative aids, such as picture and symbol communication boards and electronic devices, are available to help people express themselves. This may increase social interaction, school performance, and feelings of self-worth.
Thanks to sponsorship from Saltillo Corporation who have provided me with an iPad App called TouchChat, I am embarking on a journey of teaching a little boy to speak.
The five words that this little boy used today to express communicative intent so that we could play with cars, listen to music that he liked and tell me to stop when he had had enough, made me realize how important each word is.
These are the words that I love. 
