When working in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), there are many tools and strategies that can enhance our clients’ ability to communicate effectively. One of the most underutilized verbal operants is echoics—the ability to repeat spoken words and sounds. Echoics can play a pivotal role in improving vocal clarity, sound complexity, and overall communication skills for clients.
As I’ve refined my practice, I’ve discovered how speech therapy tools—like articulation cards—can seamlessly integrate into ABA sessions. These tools are not only effective but also align perfectly with evidence-based speech development norms.
Echoics: Beyond the Basics
When I first started training, I was taught to use the Echoic Skills Assessment as targets for echoic programming. However, I later learned that this assessment was never intended to serve as a direct intervention tool. Instead, the assessment identifies a baseline of echoic ability to inform clinical decisions.
Using clinical time effectively in intensive ABA isn’t about targeting large quantities of words or sounds. It’s about focusing on quality practice that leads to measurable gains. By blending verbal operants and incorporating speech articulation cards, I’ve found a way to increase both vocal clarity and my clients’ expressive repertoire.
Why Speech Articulation Cards?
Articulation cards, traditionally used in speech therapy, provide a visual, structured, and developmental approach to sound practice. These cards often include images that correspond to specific speech sounds. Importantly, they are organized according to speech sound development norms, which ensures that we are working on targets that are appropriate for a child’s developmental stage.
By collaborating with speech therapists, we can leverage these cards to improve both echoics and tacts effectively.
How I Use Articulation Cards in ABA Practice
Here’s my step-by-step approach for integrating articulation cards into echoic practice:
- Present the SD for an Echoic
- I show the client an articulation card with an image.
- I present the SD (discriminative stimulus) by saying: “Say [word].”
- For example, if the card shows a picture of a “pie,” I prompt, “Say pie.”
- Reinforce the Echoic
- Once the client echoes the word, I provide non-specific reinforcement(e.g., “Great job!” or “Nice saying pie!”).
- Transition to a Tact
- As clients begin to master the echoic, I often find that I can transition to a tact (labeling the item).
- I change the SD to “What is it?”, and in many cases, the child will label the item (e.g., “pie”) without additional prompting.
- This transition feels natural and allows me to get the tact “for free”.
This simple method enhances clarity and speech complexity while strengthening the child’s ability to echo and label sounds effectively.
Developmental Norms of Speech Sounds
To ensure that the sounds we target are developmentally appropriate, it’s helpful to reference a Speech Sound Development Chart. Below is a table outlining when children typically develop mastery of specific speech sounds.
Blending Verbal Operants: A Holistic Approach
Using articulation cards in echoic practice is more than just drilling sounds. It allows us to blend verbal operants—echoics, tacts, and even intraverbals—into cohesive and natural learning opportunities. By reinforcing clear speech production, we improve the clarity and complexity of our clients’ communication, empowering them to express themselves more effectively.
Key Takeaways
- Echoics Matter: Don’t overlook the importance of echoic training in vocal development.
- Speech Articulation Cards Work: They provide structure and align with developmental norms.
- Quality Over Quantity: Focus on meaningful, high-quality practice rather than rote repetition.
- Collaboration is Key: Partner with speech therapists to incorporate evidence-based strategies into your ABA sessions.
By integrating articulation cards and thoughtfully blending verbal operants, we can support our clients in achieving clearer, more expressive communication.