What Shared Reading Can Look Like Across the Day: Not Just at Story Time
When you hear the words “story time,” do you immediately picture a classroom rug or a traditional bedtime routine? If we only open books during these tiny windows, our AAC users miss out on massive literacy opportunities. In Week 10 of our series, we are breaking out of the “story time box” and exploring simple, no-prep ways to inject functional reading into transitions, kitchen routines, and floor play.
Managing “Book Refusal” and Respecting Autonomy
You prepped the perfect book, set up the sensory tools, opened the AAC system… and your learner slammed the book shut. It’s a heart-sinking moment, but it isn’t a failure. In Week 9 of our series, we are discussing why book refusal is actually a massive win for autonomy, how to honor a child’s “no,” and alternative paths to literacy when the physical book stays closed.
After the Book: Easy Follow-Up Literacy Activities for AAC Users
Looking for ways to extend your shared reading lessons? Learn how to build comprehensive literacy skills with follow-up activities designed for AAC users. We’re sharing five easy, low-stress strategies like sensory story bins and text-to-self photo hunts that generalize core vocabulary and keep engagement high long after the book is closed.
5 Common Myths About Shared Reading with AAC Users
Discover why traditional literacy rules often fail AAC users and how a neurodiversity-affirming approach can change everything. This post tackles 5 common myths about shared reading, including the truth about adapted books, testing vs. commenting, and what ‘successful’ communication actually looks like. Stop focusing on the rules and start focusing on engagement.
Shared Reading at Home: Simple Ways Parents Can Support AAC Without Pressure
Parenting an AAC user is a full plate. Shared reading shouldn’t be another “chore.” Discover how to fit literacy into the “in-between” moments of your day—like bath time and car rides—with zero pressure and 100% connection.
How Sensory Supports Can Make Shared Reading More Accessible and Engaging
Does your AAC user move around or close the book during shared reading? Before you assume they’re “checked out,” consider their sensory needs. Learn how to use sensory anchors and environmental shifts to keep your learner regulated and present.
What Makes a Book AAC-Friendly?
Are you searching for the “perfect” book for your AAC user? You might be overthinking it. Shared reading isn’t about finding specialized materials—it’s about how you see the books already on your shelf. In this post, I’m breaking down my “Three-Question Filter” to help you choose engaging, core-word-rich books that naturally invite communication. Plus, download my free quick-filter cheat sheet for your next trip to the library or book store!
What to Model During Shared Reading with AAC Users
Not sure what to model during shared reading with AAC users? This post shares simple, practical ideas for modeling core words, fringe words, comments, and natural language in ways that support connection and literacy.
How to Start Shared Reading with AAC Users: A Simple Place to Begin
If you’ve been wanting to start engaging in shared reading with an AAC user but aren't sure where to begin, you are not alone. For many parents, teachers, therapists, and support staff, shared reading can sound both wonderful and overwhelming. You may wonder: What...
Shared Reading with AAC Users: What It Is and Why It Matters
When people think about reading with a child, they often picture sitting close, looking at the pages together, listening quietly, answering questions, and making it through the whole book from beginning to end. But for many AAC users, reading together may not look...