"How this setup (albeit transitional) supports social reciprocity and opportunities to help children--especially with strong gestalt language learning style, additional avenues to practice flexible language use--and how to avoid pitfalls of creating limiting carrier phrase as primary communication option. Handouts were very helpful and will be good for training/sharing with parents and assistants." R.L. (Dec. 2024)

"The first section explaining the CVES was the most beneficial to me as I had specific students in mind that I would like to use this system with. For me and my caseload of students, this course touched on so many areas pertinent to my students. I now have a better understanding of where to start with using a picture communication system. The discussion on ABA and reinforcers was also very helpful to me. After this course I am excited to incorporate so much of what I have learned into my therapy practices." P.D. (Dec. 2024)

"The discussion of imageability was beneficial. Lots of visuals and examples." A.R. (Dec. 2024)

"The slides and the presenter were simple to understand." A.R. (Nov. 2024)

"CVES! Core Vocabulary Foldout, Binder Inserts and Communication Card helps the students to learn more words and helping with communication! The presenter is very knowledgeable and the topics she covers are helpful to me for teaching the Sped kids!" H.C. (Oct. 2024)

"Detailed explanation of the importance of core vocabulary and personal core. Very detailed and thorough explanation of CVES." P.R. (Oct. 2024)

"How to start with CVES as a way to incorporate more core vocabulary into my everyday practice. The presenter was very knowledgeable and explained the content well." E.J. (Oct. 2024)

"Excellent course overall. All topics were important to consider. Info on autism was appreciated." G.S. (Aug. 2024)

"Using Core Vocabulary checklists to determine selection and track use was helpful. I enjoyed the examples and explanations." E.O. (Aug. 2024)

"Development of a Personal Core List was beneficial. The topic was very functional." C.M. (Aug. 2024)

"Discussing how to set up core word boards, and an overview of CVES was beneficial. I liked that this course presented exactly what it advertised." C.A. (Jul. 2024)

"Discussing ways to determine which words are beneficial to begin using with a child. I also liked the specific examples." M.R. (Jun. 2024)

"Discussing applied behaviour analysis to apply in the area of reinforcer assessment, core words chart etc was helpful. I enjoyed learning and understanding the general knowledge and doing it in our free time." K.S. (Jun. 2024)

"It was beneficial to discuss how to utilize the CVES system. Very thorough information and applicable/functional." K.H. (May. 2024)

"The use of prompt hierarchy and how does a prompt look or sound like was beneficial. I liked the chart of prompt hierarchy." J.L. (May. 2024)

"Adding in core words to picture exchange type system was helpful." S.S. (May. 2024)

"Beneficial information about use of core words vs fringe words; definition of imageability and the importance of sensory modalities to teach core words." T.A. (May. 2024)

"CVES is new to me, so the course as a whole is beneficial to my daily practice. She did a great job with visuals (I did not have to do a lot of note-taking), and gave lots of examples as well." S.D. (May. 2024)

"Core Word and Core Vocabulary and how they are utilized to communicate using CVES as a starter for AAC was beneficial. I liked the slides and her examples on the table." M.S. (Apr. 2024)

"The materials were practical and the examples and tools provided can be used with a variety of students. The idea of a low-tech AAC could benefit many non-verbal students and understanding what vocabulary to use that can support communication of a variety of communication needs." O.Z. (Apr. 2024)

"I found all of the course very beneficial, I particularly liked the resources provided for planning core words and extended vocabulary. Also transitioning from CVES to other systems. Resources, handout examples in the last section." P.Z. (Apr. 2024)

"I liked the ideas of how to incorporate core words into daily routines." M.T. (Apr. 2024)

"Discussing core vocabulary and the first functional words from all children was helpful. I liked all of this course." P.C. (Apr. 2024)

"Imageability and CVES were beneficial topics." A.J. (Mar. 2024)

"It was beneficial to discuss how to use CVES. Great to see the speaker on video next to slides." S.L. (Mar. 2024)

"Excellent course." C.C. (Mar. 2024)

"All of this course was helpful. I work with many preschool and school-age children with ASD who benefit from the use of visual icons to enhance their understanding and expression of basic needs and wants. I enjoyed the accessibility of viewing the speaker, reviewing the slides, printing out handouts and watching the videos in my own time." V.M. (Mar. 2024)

"The instructor was so knowledgeable. Learning how to choose specific vocabulary." R.F. (Jan. 2024)

"Beneficial topics included aided language input, modeling more than what the child may use in their exchange, communication loops, and the child being both speaker and listener (practice both roles). Well organized and good overview of CVES." C.W. (Dec. 2023)

"Discussing low-tech devices was helpful. I liked the checklists." P.W. (Dec. 2023)

"Excellent presentation with valuable expertise." S.S. (Dec. 2023)

"I liked learning how to use CVES, the visuals, and the pace of the course." E.B. (Nov. 2023)

"The course content was very easily absorbed with great examples (I loved examples!) and quite easily carried into everyday practice. Learned the concept of pruning and the loss of cognitive function over time if receptive and expressive language stimulation isn't varied in order to grow white matter in all communication areas." S.G. (Nov. 2023)

"All of the topics were very helpful as I am new to AAC and trying to gain a better understanding. I found how to correctly use the low-tech devices in my therapy the most beneficial. I loved the videos the presenter showed of her clients using the low-tech devices and communication exchanges." K.H. (Nov. 2023)

"It was helpful to learn more information about AAC. The explanations were easy to follow." A.L. (Nov. 2023)

"The organization of the core vocabulary was helpful. I liked the visuals of the low-tech AAC boards." C.S. (Oct. 2023)

"I liked the concept of this system and will use it with students. Clear slides and very well explained by the presenter." E.D. (Oct. 2023)

"We have many students who use either PECS or the Proloquo2Go application on a an iPad. I've had a hard time bridging the gap between the two, as well as teaching core words using PECS. This course provided great input regarding these two issues, as well as many functional tools for assessment and activities to facilitate increasing utterance length and vocabulary repertoire. I liked the assessment tools and handouts, and video examples." G.O. (Oct. 2023)

"The core checklist was helpful to determine the plan for targeted vocabulary based on what words the child understands, uses and generalizes. I liked the course handouts and charts." V.F. (Oct. 2023)

"I liked the rationale for beginning with the 105 to 189 word sets. And the ability to take the course when & where I have time." S.B. (Oct. 2023)

"Learning how to use the CVES system with different approaches was beneficial. This course addressed many of the issues that PECS and core board have." M.P. (Sep. 2023)

"Speaker was knowledgeable. I liked the reinforcer assessment and use of CVES." M.P. (Sep. 2023)

"The entire presentation was very comprehensive and organized. The information presented thoroughly described how to implement the CVES program. The core word acquisition checklist seems very useful to assess ongoing progress." K.R. (Aug. 2023)

"The steps for language acquisition were beneficial and including the desired words. I liked the different ways for using requests, labeling, rejecting, etc." L.W. (Aug. 2023)

"Data collection and reinforcer assessment tools were helpful. Good organization of materials presented." E.E. (Aug. 2023)

"The topic of personal core is meaningful. The importance of teaching core vocabulary and what is meaningful to students using AAC. Instead of using random core words, I will choose words that are imageable to increase communication. Her presentation included visual examples and how to implement them in therapy." S.G. (Aug. 2023)

"All of it was useful! I liked the examples of what the CVES looked like and how it is used." R.R. (Jul. 2023)

"I found that the CVES was a systematic way of introducing a low tech communication system to facilitate language acquisition and communication intent to mainly non-verbal students. The system is customizable to individuals and incorporates personal core to the already 400 core vocabulary. The presenter demonstrated how to initiate the system and to facilitate language development. I liked the many forms and examples." M.L. (Jul. 2023)

"I liked the core vocabulary usage. Course was easy to follow." W.S. (Jul. 2023)

"The speaker was interesting, and time flew by! The overall design of this program with charts to track will be extremely useful. All the handouts were very detailed and comprehensive, which allowed more attention to listening to the speaker and adding notes versus taking notes." E.V. (Jun. 2023)

"The presenter was well-spoken and provided a lot of research and examples throughout. Learning to use a low-tech AAC system to transition to a higher-tech device was beneficial. I liked the course pace." B.S. (Jun. 2023)

"I liked the idea of keeping icon pictures in the same place for motor memory and color-coordinating types of words. The idea of placing white masking icons around a target word was a great teaching tool. The addition of core words to a student's visual schedule was also a great idea. This course was well organized and there were several examples of how this system would work throughout the day." S.Q. (Jun. 2023)

"This information is usable and relatable. I liked the reinforcer profiles and the checklist for words being used and in what context they are being used. I also liked how this system combines using core words with a picture exchange and with a motor plan component." M.J. (May 2023)

"I liked the discussion of core vocabulary with autism. And the CVES binders." A.G. (May 2023)

"Quality instruction and knowledgeable instructor. In-depth discussion of the Core Vocabulary Exchange System." P.S. (May 2023)

"Handouts and presentation were clear. Learning prompts to be avoided was beneficial." C.C (May 2023)

"I liked the speaker's knowledge and this use of AAC." L.V. (May 2023)

"The entire discussion! I soaked it all in! I appreciated the supplemental videos. I liked the whole course!" C.R. (Apr. 2023)

"I liked learning how to integrate the CVES into therapy and routines." A.C. (Mar. 2023)

"This system makes so much more sense than the basic picture exchange for items in immediate environment. Personally, the section on autism and the neuroscience behind attention and filtering deficits was the most beneficial." D.H. (Mar. 2023)

"I enjoyed the discussion on how to implement and use CVES with students. I thought the structure of explaining the purpose of CVES, how to put the tools together, and begin introduction for use was helpful." S.M. (Mar. 2023)

"Reasoning behind single word use. I liked the entire course and especially loved all the checklists and planning tools." S.M. (Mar. 2023)

"Language development (SNUG), motor planning were beneficial. I liked the focus on language, resources, and videos." A.B. (Mar. 2023)

"All of it was beneficial." B.S. (Feb. 2023)

"I liked the concepts of low-tech and core vocabulary with AAC systems and how they can be used in situations where hi-tech cannot be used. Core Word Acquisition Checklist will be beneficial." M.B. (Feb. 2023)

"I liked the core language and the case studies." B.R. (Jan. 2023)

"I liked all of it. Seeing how to use CVES with students in therapy was beneficial." R.I. (Jan. 2023)

"Course was practical. Examples were easy to understand. I liked the use of core vocabulary." O.R. (Dec. 2022)

"The speaker was excellent, and the resources will be extremely helpful." C.P. (Dec. 2022)

"Thorough and great handouts - and videos of actual use of program." M.S. (Dec. 2022)

"Good pace and demonstrations." C.R. (Dec. 2022)

"I learned more about brain functioning in ASD individuals, and the possibility that we can influence that development via language and communication skills learning. Excellent language development review. Specific information on how to use the system. A presentation I could easily refer back to, as needed." M.G. (Dec. 2022)

"This is a great AAC tool and helpful for those patients that aren’t ready for a high tech device. I recently took another AAC course and the content in this one was very consistent. It mentioned the following: elicit requests using preferred reinforcers, give adequate response time, and having icons in the same place is very important for motor planning." J.V. (Dec. 2022)

"Very clear, organized presentation. One of the best I have ever attended." T.R. (Nov. 2022)

"Easy to navigate course." E.S. (Nov. 2022)

"The combination of the speaker's instruction, videos, materials, and examples for better understanding was good. I liked the connection between typical language development and the actual use of CVES." A.L. (Nov. 2022)

"I liked the structure of the handouts and the idea of imageability. Good protocol for initial core word identification." T.C. (Oct. 2022)

"Format of course was good. I liked the explanation/discussion of core words." S.F. (Oct. 2022)

"I liked the visuals included in the slides. And learning how to assess for core word acquisition." R.M. (Oct. 2022)

"Using CVES to increase both expressive and receptive language skills was good to learn. The course was rich in content." A.G. (Sept. 2022)

"I liked how it tied in with typical language development. And learning how to setup the core boards and binders." P.K. (Sept. 2022)

"I liked all of the content - choosing core words and fringe vocabulary for specific children, and taking data for understanding and use." D.K. (Aug. 2022)

"The whole webinar was beneficial for my daily practice."  V.K. (Aug. 2022)

"Learning how to use picture exchange when teaching vocabulary was good. I liked all of the course content."  N.C. (Aug. 2022)

"Great information to utilize in practice."  M.C. (Aug. 2022)

"There was a lot of information and examples provided that allowed for application of the knowledge. I liked the demonstrations for carryover of skills for more than communication for basic statements." A.R. (July 2022)

"I liked the instruction on phrases to model using child's preferred activities." M.V. (July 2022)

"Learning how to incorporate low tech AAC into different forms of communication was beneficial. And learning how to use this form of communication with different populations." L.K. (July 2022)

"I loved the organization, the colorful slides and using the CVES pictures. I loved recording the baby’s first 10 words and analyzing what word types they are using." J.S. (July 2022)

"It was packed with an abundance of information. I liked the downloadable handouts/inventories. Also the therapy clips of the children using CVES." L.M. (June 2022)

"It was all superbly explained and pertinent to helping my youngest students who are just beginning a language journey. The Aided Language Input section was especially helpful; also showing first 10 words, and how to use masking. The presenter did a marvelous job of comprehensive coverage of CVES and all its components as well as explaining all of the what/how/why basics." K.A. (June 2022)

"I liked how it supported functional communication. The video clips showing use of the visual schedule, masking icons, SNUG and specific uses of the CVES were good. The handouts are helpful including the reinforcement assessment, etc." C.H. (June 2022)

"I liked the entire course. The instructor was great!" R.E. (June 2022)

"I liked learning to use core with the first / then and scheduling, how to use core words in their many functions, how to get started - the inventories and language acquisition, and that I was able to view course in my own time and place. Also great resources." T.P. (June 2022)

"It gave excellent explanation on how to teach core vocabulary using picture exchange. I liked the discussion on how to choose core vocabulary based on imageability." S.Z. (May 2022)

"I love that it was on demand and saved my progress!" J.F. (May 2022)

"I liked the examples for language expansion." A.S. (May 2022)

"I liked the use of core words in language acquisition and expansion. Appreciated that the presentation was divided into sections with access to print the slides." M.H. (May 2022)

"I liked the concept of parents filling out the inventory at the beginning, then again after a few weeks to assess progress and determine goals." S.F. (May 2022)

"I love the idea of pairing our daily schedule with core words (I'm currently a Pre-K teacher, though I've also been an SLP for many years). The information was very practical and very clear." R.W. (Apr. 2022)

"The use of the CVES system as a low tech AAC system for use with my low to non-verbal students will benefit my practice. I liked the course. It was a wonderful presentation." N.W. (Apr. 2022)

"The course was very easy to understand and interesting. Learning how to incorporate core vocabulary and aided language into my sessions, creating a communication loop, and using the icons to respond back to my students was beneficial for my practice." D.G. (Apr. 2022)

"I liked the availability of how to start with use of icons, then track and keep data on progress." A.B. (Mar. 2022)

"Very practical. I liked the imageability and methods to create inventories." D.G. (Mar. 2022)

"Course was engaging. I liked the ideas to mask words for students who are learning at a slower rate." J.G. (Mar. 2022)

"The course had the content and style of in-person, yet it was online. Very convenient." L.C. (Mar. 2022)

"Will definitely be utilizing this process. Very, very useful!" J.H. (Mar. 2022)

"Learning that with ASD there are connectivity deficits in the brain and their impact and how we as clinicians can connect the white fiber tracts via receptive input to reduce over-pruning." J.B. (Mar. 2022)

"I think this will benefit some of the younger kids at our school." J.W. (Mar. 2022)

"I liked the blend of best practice and research information, and learning about an exchange system highlighting core words. I liked how CVES can be a bridge to a speech generating device with robust language pages." M.J. (Mar. 2022)

"Excellent Workshop! This system is completely new to me and I'm excited to try it!" D.B. (Mar. 2022)

"I liked the importance of core vocabulary overall and how to use it with picture exchange. The presenter kept my attention throughout and it was easy to follow." K.K. (Feb. 2022)

"I liked the information on how to start choosing vocabulary and then how to build child's language going forward using the device. Sometimes choosing vocabulary can be overwhelming as there can be so many options." K.W. (Jan. 2022)

"Great conference - excellent examples - well explained and demonstrated." T.A. (Jan. 2022)

"Presenter was very easy to follow and kept my attention even though it was online." L.T. (Jan. 2022)

"I liked all of it as I continue to struggle with how to use low tech devices with nonverbal children. We do not have a system in place so I will have to order this one. Plus being able to watch tutorials on youtube is very helpful." N.M. (Jan. 2022)

"Excellent examples - well explained and demonstrated - great handouts." T.A. (Jan. 2022)

"Presenter was very easy to follow and kept my attention even though it was online." L.T. (Jan. 2022)

This program is offered for 0.3 ASHA CEUs (Intermediate Level; Professional Area).

ASHA CEUs: NSS online courses are registered with ASHA and are offered for ASHA CEUs. The number of ASHA CEUs is noted above. Note that 0.1 ASHA CEU = 1 contact hour = equals 1 CEE.

ASHA CEUs: Attendees must meet at least one of the following conditions in order to be eligible to earn ASHA CEUs:

• Current ASHA Member.
• ASHA Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC) Holder.
• Licensed by a state or provincial regulatory agency to practice speech-language pathology (SLP) or audiology.
• Credentialed by a state regulatory agency to practice SLP or audiology.
• Credentialed by a national regulatory agency to practice SLP or audiology.
• Engaged in a Clinical Fellowship under the supervision of an individual with their ASHA CCC.
• Currently enrolled in a master's or doctoral program in SLP or audiology.

If an attendee is not an ASHA member or CCC holder but meets any of the above criteria, they may inform the ASHA CE Registry of their eligibility by visiting this site.