Record frequent, universal phrases, such as "Hi," "My name is...," "thank you" and "you're welcome," and more personal phrases, such as "I need to use the restroom," "I am hungry" and "I do not feel well." These phrases are especially important for students at school, communicating with unfamiliar people instead of the families that know their body language and motions.
Choose vocabulary appropriate to the grade level and ability of the child. A preschool or kindergarten-level student might want animal names or the words to sing along with a favorite class song, whereas an upper elementary student may desire more complex phrasing over simple words.
Encourage the student to verbally repeat or do the sign for a word after hearing it pronounced on the AlphaTalker. A child who possesses the ability to make some sounds may feel inspired to copy the words he hears, and a nonverbal student may take the opportunity to practice sign language, thus helping to improve his own communication skills.
Invite the student to participate in class discussions by using the AlphaTalker to answer questions. The purpose of this communicative device is to allow the student to socialize and feel more a part of his surroundings.
Pre-record information to allow the student to give an oral presentation. Since the AlphaTalker can hold a little over five minutes of speech per button, the student could go to the front of the class and "speak." He could even collaborate with another student, taking turns to present information.