Can I Play Too? + 5 AAC Core Vocabulary Activities
Can I Play Too? by Mo Willems is my favorite Elephant and Piggie book. In this book, these two friends are enjoying playing catch when a snake comes along and politely asks to join in. Elephant and Piggie are a bit puzzled… how can a snake play catch? Together they find a creative way for them all to play together.
In addition to its message about including others, this book provides numerous opportunities to model the core words “can” and “play”.
Puzzles
Work together to complete a puzzle. You might say “this piece can go here”. Invite others to take part by asking “Can you help?”.
Gross Motor Activity
Play a variation of “Simon Says”. Take turns demonstrating actions like jumping or waving your arms then ask “Can you do it?”.
Full STEAM Ahead
Make Paper Airplanes
Model core vocabulary using the child’s AAC system as you make paper airplanes. Experiment with different designs and discover how far each one can go.
DIY Musical Instruments
Make your own musical instruments using everyday items like uncooked rice and an empty water bottle, or rubber bands and a tissue box. Provide as much assistance as needed but encourage independence by modeling the phrase “I can do it”. Then play the instruments.
Press Play
Consider using music and videos in your AAC sessions. The child can request the song or video they want to play. When it stops, the child can ask you to press play again.
Using “Can” and “Play” During Social Interactions
Don’t forget about the various uses of core words. This includes asking questions with “can…?” or declaring “I can’t!”. We play games and sports and use expressions like “playing with fire”. Model phrases the child can use with peers like “Let’s play!” and “Can I try?”.
P.S. Discover more core vocabulary resources on my Teachers Pay Teachers store.
