Communication: Core Words
We started a new project at CPA to support beginning and struggling communicators. School wide we are focusing on using a small set of powerful words, symbols and signs called core words.
Core words are the building blocks of language and include words such as like, want, more, not, and go. As we all use these words often they provide many opportunities to teach our children how to use them too. For example, we only use words like drink, book or iPad a few times a day. But we use want, not or more countless times! We can say we want (drink), not (iPad) or more (book) or combine them to say not want more (brussels sprouts)!
Here are 3 steps you can take to support your child using core words at home.
- Request a core words chart. Please let your teacher know and we can send it home
- Use the communication chart yourself. We teach our children how to use the symbols by showing them. Here’s a quick video on getting started: youtu.be/mXj1Btf0qFw
- Have fun! Encourage your child to use the core word chart but don’t require it. Find fun and motivating times to use it yourself and in time your child will want to join in. Don’t worry if it takes awhile, it’ll be worth the wait!
The Communication Team will be inviting you to opportunities as well as update our website so you can learn more about supporting
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