All students—regardless of diagnosis, age, or verbal ability—deserve access to a robust communication system. Robust systems include a wide range of vocabulary: core words, fringe words, social phrases, question words, and academic vocabulary. These tools allow students to go beyond simple requests and truly express themselves.
“If the only words available are ‘want’ and ‘more,’ then that is the only message the child can learn to say.”
— Gayle Porter, Creator of PODD
If a student doesn’t yet have a high-tech device, or their device is not available or functioning, we can still give them access to this full range of language using low-tech and no-tech options.
Throughout many of our tools, you'll find embedded printable, low-tech versions of robust AAC systems. These programs also have light tech versions of their apps or core word boards online for free downloads!
These boards and books reflect the layout and vocabulary of their high-tech counterparts, making them perfect for:
The Dynamic AAC Flipbook is our portable, printable AAC system designed for classroom modeling and student use across a variety of settings. These categorized books are a simple tool to support speaking students who need simple visual supports for their language development.
This tool is perfect for:
Download these below or in our Classroom Toolbox and Library in the Communication Materials section.
Whether you’re using a printed board or a Flipbook, robust AAC tools should be present, available, and used throughout the school day:
📚 Circle Time & Morning Meeting
Use a mounted core board and Flipbook to model greetings, calendar phrases, weather terms, and participation comments.
🧩 Centers & Table Time
Model words like “turn,” “want,” “help,” and “look” during puzzles, playdoh, and matching activities.
🧃 Meals & Snacks
Use a printed fringe page or flipbook tab with food vocabulary to support choice-making, commenting, and requesting.
🚪 Transitions
Keep a lanyard board or wall-mounted backup near the door to support “go,” “wait,” “stop,” “outside,” and “bathroom.”
💡 Tip: Use these tools not only to give students access, but to coach paraprofessionals and peers on how to model language during natural interactions.
Students don’t need to wait for a device to start learning language. With printable, robust tools and consistent adult modeling, communication can begin today—anywhere, anytime.
