How to Model AAC Symbols
Modelling is how children learn what symbols mean. You're not asking your child to use symbols yet, you're showing them that symbols MEAN something.
This guide shows you how to model effectively using Mo Speech.
Why Modeling Matters
Children learn symbols the same way they learn spoken words: through repetition and context.
Research shows children need to see a symbol used 50-100 times in meaningful contexts before they understand it well enough to use it independently.
That's why Mo Speech is designed for speed. You need to show symbols quickly and naturally, not hunt for them while your child loses interest.
Key Principles
- Model WITH your child, not AT them (during natural activities)
- Don't expect them to use symbols back yet
- Focus on words that matter (core vocabulary)
- Be consistent - model the same words regularly
Single-Word Modelling
Start with one important word
Why Single Words?
- Children learn one concept at a time.
- Focusing on ONE word makes it easier for them to understand what that symbol means.
Think: Building blocks, not full sentences yet.
- Say 'want' into voice search
- Tap "Play" while saying the word
- Symbol and Audio play fullscreen
How it Works
Open Mo Speech
Use voice search and say "want"
Chose the symbol
Tap the symbol that best fits your situation
Play symbol
Tap the Play button to display the symbol full screen
Repeat naturally
Do this 3-5 times during the activity
When to Use Single-Word Modelling
Meal time
"want"
"more"
"finished"
Play time
"more"
"go"
"stop"
Bed time
"night"
"tired"
"bed"
Getting dressed
"on"
"off"
"clothes"
Try Single-Word Modelling
During your next snack time, open Mo Speech and model "want" 5 times.
Multiple-Word Modelling
Combine 2-3 important words
Why Multiple Words?
- Shows how words combine to create meaning.
- Teaches natural grammar patterns.
Helps children build phrases, not just single words.
- Search for ‘I’ and tap to add to sequence
- Search for ‘want’ and tap to add to sequence
- Press ‘Play’ for symbol and audio to play fullscreen in succession
How it Works
Search for words
Use voice or text search to find symbols of the words
Tap symbols
Add them to the sequence
Add more words
Build up the sequence with combinations
Play back in context
During the actual moment of wanting
When to Use Multiple-Word Modelling
Snack time
"I want"
"more please"
Activities
"go outside"
"play ball"
Reading
"read book"
"turn page"
Outings
"get in"
"go home"
Try Multiple-Word Modelling
Pick one routine today and model 2 words together, naturally, 3-5 times.
Full Sentence Modelling
Complete thoughts with 3-5 words
Why Full Sentences?
- Shows complete communication.
- Models natural sentence structure.
- Prepares for independent multi-word usage.
Only start this after several weeks of consistent single and multiple-word modelling.
- Search for 'time', 'go', and 'bed' using voice or text search
- Add them to the symbol sequence area
- Play the sequence while saying 'Time to go to bed'
How it Works
Build your sentence
Search for the main words in the sentence
Tap symbols in sequence
“Time”, “Go” and “Bed”
Play the sequence
Then say the full sentence
Use during routine
Repeat daily in same context
When to Use Full Sentence Modelling
Meal time
"time to eat"
"all finished now"
School Prep
"get your bag"
"put on shoes"
Bed time
"time go bed"
"brush your teeth"
Transitions
"time to go"
"get in car"
Try Sentence Modelling
During bedtime tonight, model the full sentence "time to go to bed" by playing the sequence as you say the words.
Troubleshooting
My child won't look at the symbols
That's normal! Keep modelling naturally. They're processing even when they don't seem engaged.
I can't find symbols fast enough
Use voice search in Mo Speech - say the word and it appears instantly. With practice, you'll know where common symbols are.
My child just wants to press random symbols
That's exploration! It's a positive sign. Keep modeling correctly alongside their exploration.
How long until my child uses symbols independently?
Every child is different. Some use symbols after a few weeks, others need months. Consistency matters more than speed.
Should I model when my child is upset?
Yes! Model feelings ("you're sad", "you want help") but keep expectations low during distress.
Do I need to model every word in a sentence?
No! Focus on words that carry the most meaning (verbs, important nouns, core words like "want", "more", "help").