First Word Prompt Worksheet

Instructions:

1. Look at the list of simple words below.
2. Point to or circle the word you want to practice saying.
3. We will count to three together and then you will say the word aloud.

1. Choose Your Word

[ ] hi [ ] yes [ ] book [ ] mom [ ] dad [ ] play

2. Write the Word You Chose

Word I chose: ______________________________

3. Practice Saying Your Word

Trial 1: Count 1…2…3… I say: ______________________




Trial 2: Count 1…2…3… I say: ______________________

4. How Did That Feel?

Circle or point to the face that shows how you felt when you said your word:

😊 😐 😞

Nonverbal Communication Cue Cards

Purpose:
These cards offer simple, clear gestures the student can use to communicate without speaking. They reduce pressure and build confidence in responding.

How to Use:

1. Print and cut along the dotted lines to create individual cue cards.
2. Present a question or prompt verbally (e.g., “Do you like this cushion?”).
3. Ask the student to pick up or point to the card that shows how they feel or what they want to say.
4. Provide positive reinforcement for each successful nonverbal response.

Cue Cards

Tips for Preparation

• Laminate cards for durability.
• Attach a key-ring or binder ring so they stay together.
• Keep extras nearby in case cards are misplaced.

Instructor Note: Start with 2–3 cards and gradually introduce more as the student becomes comfortable. Encourage use in multiple activities throughout the session.

Warm-Up: Guided Breathing

Purpose:
Calm the mind and body, reduce anxiety, and prepare for speaking practice.

Materials:

• Comfortable seating (e.g., cushion)
• Quiet corner in the safe space

Steps:

1. Invite the student to sit comfortably on a cushion in the safe space.
2. Explain that you will breathe together to help everyone feel calm.
3. Model a deep belly breath:
   • Place one hand on your chest and one hand on your belly.
   • Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of 4 seconds, feeling your belly rise.
   • Hold the breath for 2 seconds.
   • Exhale gently through your mouth for a count of 6 seconds, feeling your belly fall.
4. Encourage the student to follow along silently, counting out loud for them if helpful.
5. Repeat the cycle three times, offering calm, positive reinforcement after each breath.
6. After the third breath, invite the student to notice how their body feels (“You did great! How does your body feel now?”) and use a nonverbal cue or a simple word if they wish to respond.

Instructor Tips:

• Maintain a soothing tone and relaxed posture.
• If the student seems tense, slow down the counts or demonstrate a hand gesture rising and falling with each breath.
• Praise any attempt to participate (“Thank you for breathing with me!”) to build comfort for the next activity.

Cool-Down: Reflection and Reinforcement

Purpose:
Reflect on today’s speaking activity, celebrate progress, and set a positive tone for next time.

Materials:

• Sticker or small token of choice
• Safe Space area

Steps (3 minutes):

1. Invite Reflection (1 minute)

   • Ask: “How do you feel after saying your word today?”
   • Allow the student to respond with a single word, point to a feeling face, or use a nonverbal cue.
   • Provide a page of faces or simply describe options: 😃 😊 😐 😞.

   Question for student to answer:
   How I feel:
   
   
   
   

2. Reinforce Success (1 minute)

   • Praise the student’s effort: “Great job trying your first word!”
   • Offer a sticker or small token as a reward for participating.

3. Preview Next Steps (30 seconds)

   • Briefly explain: “Next time, we’ll choose another word to say together.”
   • Encourage anticipation: “I’m excited to hear you speak again!”

4. Final Breathing Reset (30 seconds)

   • Lead one calm breath cycle: inhale 4 s, hold 2 s, exhale 6 s.
   • End with a cheerful “See you next time!”

Tip: Keep the tone warm and encouraging. Small rewards and clear previews build confidence for future sessions.