What is the Watch, Practice, Play methodology?

Watch, Practice, Play is InnerVoice's three-step approach to language learning that mirrors how children naturally acquire language. Watch: Visual stories show vocabulary in real-world situations. Practice: Guided exercises model exactly what to say, then wait patiently for the learner to try. Play: Interactive Story Mode where the child's words control what happens, turning communication into adventure.

How do Visual Stories teach language?

Visual Stories show animated characters in real-life scenarios (dentist visits, birthday parties, school). Children see vocabulary used in context before being asked to produce it—matching how neurotypical children learn through massive contextual exposure (Hart & Risley). This is based on Tomasello's usage-based language acquisition theory: language is learned through use in context, not memorization.

What makes Practice Mode different from flashcards?

Traditional AAC often uses flashcard-style drilling of isolated words. InnerVoice's Practice Mode models complete phrases in context, waits patiently (no time pressure), provides encouraging feedback, and adapts difficulty based on progress. The avatar assistant is always supportive, never judgmental—practicing as many times as needed.

How does Story Mode work?

In Story Mode, children create their own narratives with support. Their word choices control what happens in the story—communication becomes adventure. This builds creative expression, narrative skills, and intrinsic motivation to communicate. Stories can be shared with family and therapists to celebrate progress.

Watch. Practice. Play.

A proven three-step methodology that mirrors how children naturally learn language—through observation, guided practice, and creative expression. Based on Tomasello's usage-based language acquisition research.

Step 1

Watch

Beautiful visual stories show vocabulary in real-world situations. Learn what to expect at the dentist, at school, at a birthday party—before anyone asks you to speak. This mirrors how neurotypical children learn: through massive contextual exposure (Hart & Risley).

Animated characters model natural conversations
Real-life scenarios children encounter daily
Visual context reinforces meaning
Paced for comprehension, not overwhelm

Children watching an animated visual story showing vocabulary in context

Step 2

Practice

Guided exercises model exactly what to say, then wait patiently for the learner to try. As many times as they need. No frustration. No judgment. Unlike flashcard drilling, practice happens in context.

Vocabulary building with visual supports
Sentence construction exercises
Adaptive difficulty based on progress
Immediate, encouraging feedback

Meet your helper

A patient friend who's always ready to practice

Step 3

Play

Interactive Story Mode where your words control what happens. Communication becomes adventure. Every choice matters. This builds intrinsic motivation and creative expression.

Choose from diverse characters and settings
Build original narratives with support
Share stories with family and therapists
Celebrate creativity and self-expression

"When children tell their own stories, they're not just learning language—they're finding their voice."

Child creating their own story in Story Mode

Always by their side

Our avatar assistant provides consistent, patient support throughout the journey.

Patient & Supportive

Never rushes, never judges. Available whenever the child is ready to learn.

Adaptive Responses

Adjusts communication style based on the child's needs and preferences.

Consistent Presence

A familiar face across all activities, building trust and comfort.

Ready to see it in action?

Experience the Watch, Practice, Play methodology with your child or students.

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