A Note About the Prompting Hierarchy ( Data Sheet)

The prompting hierarchy described here is grounded in principles of ABA therapy and insights from speech therapy best practices. There are various prompting hierarchies available, and the choice of which to use depends on the context and goals of intervention. Many hierarchies are designed specifically for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems.

One highly regarded resource is Kate Ahern’s AAC prompting hierarchy, which I recommend exploring. Ahern's hierarchy notably excludes physical prompting or hand-over-hand assistance. This approach aligns with the principle that every AAC user’s voice is their own, and communication should be empowering, not forced.

Research supports the idea that modeling language on an AAC device—rather than physically guiding a child’s movements—leads to more effective outcomes. Kate Ahern emphasizes this by stating:

"What does a hand-on, full physical 'cue' tell the child? It tells them that:

A) We have the right to manipulate their bodies or make them touch or do things whether they want to or not, and

B) We have the right to force them to say things just because we want them to say it."

This hierarchy prioritizes respecting the autonomy of the individual and fostering authentic, voluntary communication. It aligns with both ABA and speech therapy principles that focus on empowering children to use their AAC tools to express themselves independently.

Speech Therapy Resources:

• American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
• The leading organization for speech therapists, providing extensive resources on speech therapy, disorders, and interventions.
• ASHA
• Speech and Language Kids
• Offers free and paid resources, including activities and tips for parents and speech therapists working with children.
• Speech and Language Kids
• The Hanen Centre