Aided language stimulation is an intervention strategy used with individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). While the current literature supports the use of aided language stimulation when implemented by speech-language pathologists and educators, there is limited research to support the use of aided language stimulation by caregivers, especially when using dynamic display speech-generating devices (SGDs). The purpose of this investigation was to determine if teaching caregivers in the use of aided language stimulation would increase their ability to spontaneously model vocabulary with their children using AAC systems. Two caregivers were taught aided language stimulation during preferred activities with their children, measuring caregiver rate of spontaneously modeled opportunities using a dynamic display SGD. Results showed an increase in rate for both participants using a single-subject, changing criterion design. Data interpretations and directions for future research are discussed.
Keywords: augmentative and alternative communication, AAC, modeling, dynamic display, communication partner
