This presentation will begin with a brief review of core language principles for vocabulary selection and language teaching.    Participants will then learn how typical language learners acquire language and why the technique of aided language stimulation/aided language input is an essential component of any successful AAC implementation plan, regardless of a student’s age or language level. Sample activities for various age ranges will be described and demonstrated. 

Learning Outcomes: The participant will be able to:

• Define the technique of aided language stimulation and how it can be used to teach language to students who use AAC
• Explain why using aided language stimulation when teaching language to those with complex communication needs is considered best practice
• Explain why use of no tech language representation methods (i.e., manual boards) is an essential component in aided language stimulation, even with those who have high tech systems.