Core Boards and Core Vocabulary for AAC
A core board puts the most useful everyday words in one place, so a learner who does not use speech can point to them. Here is what core vocabulary is, how a board is laid out, and how to start using one well.
Make a Core BoardWhat Core Vocabulary Is
Core vocabulary is the small set of words people use over and over, in almost every situation. Words like "go", "stop", "more", "want", "help", "like", "not" and "all done" show up across activities, places and conversations.
Fringe vocabulary is the specific stuff: a particular snack, a person's name, the name of a toy. It is important, but it changes with the situation. A core board focuses on the first group, because those words let someone say many different things with a few symbols.
AAC stands for augmentative and alternative communication. A core board is a low-tech form of it. It does not replace other communication; it adds a way to be understood.
How a Core Board Is Laid Out
- A grid of words with pictures Each cell has a word and a symbol, in a grid that is easy to scan.
- Words stay in the same place Keeping each word in a fixed location lets the learner build motor memory, so they can find it faster over time. Avoid rearranging a board that is in use.
- Color helps find words Many boards color-code by word type, such as actions, descriptors and people, so patterns are easier to see.
- Start small A smaller grid with a handful of words is easier to learn than a full page. You can add words as the learner shows they are ready.
Using a Core Board Well
Model it
Point to the words on the board while you speak, as you do things together. "We need more" (point: more). Learners see how it works before they are asked to use it. This is often called aided language input.
Use it all day
Keep the board close, and use it in play, meals and routines, not only at a table.
Respond to any attempt
If the learner touches a word, honor it, even if it was an accident, and talk about it. Do not test with "show me" or "what is this?"
Give it time
Wait a few seconds after you model. Some learners need longer to respond.
Work With Your Speech-Language Pathologist
Choosing the right AAC system, the right words and the right layout for a learner is an assessment decision. A speech-language pathologist (SLP) can match the system to the learner's needs, and tell you when a printed board is the right tool and when something else is.
If your learner has an SLP, ask them what words to start with and how they model. Using the same words and layout in therapy, at school and at home makes the system much easier to learn.
Common Mistakes
Too many words too soon
A crowded board is hard to learn. Start with a few and grow.
Rearranging words
Moving a word to a new spot makes the learner relearn where it is.
Only the learner is expected to use it
If only the learner uses the board, it is hard to learn. Everyone around them should model it.
Keeping it out of reach
A board in a bag or on a shelf cannot be used. Keep it where the learner can reach it.
Make a Core Board
Start with a few core words, add pictures, and print it. You can edit any cell by clicking on it.
Make a Core BoardFree. No credit card needed.
Related Guides
- Core BoardsThe Fitzgerald Key for AAC: Color-Coding a Core Board
- ClassroomsClassroom Behavior Charts That Teachers Can Actually Keep Up
- First/ThenPotty Training Visual Schedules for Children With Autism
- Token BoardsToken Economy in ABA: Theory and Real-World Examples
Make a board
- Token Board Maker
- Choice Board Maker
- First/Then Board Maker
- Target Board Maker
- Core Board Maker
- Visual Schedule Maker
- Free printable token board templates
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