Using a Prerequisite Skills Assessment to Identify Optimal Modalities for Mand Training
Test two-syllable vocal imitation first—if the child can’t do it, start mand training with picture exchange, not vocal.
01Research in Context
What this study did
Valentino et al. (2019) ran a quick skill check before starting mand training.
They looked at vocal imitation, matching, and picture exchange skills.
Then they tried vocal, sign, and picture mands to see which one each child learned fastest.
What they found
Picture exchange won most of the time.
Vocal mands only took off when a child could already copy two-syllable words.
No vocal imitation? Picture exchange was the safer first pick.
How this fits with other research
Kunnavatana et al. (2018) asked adult users which mand they liked. Valentino flips the question: instead of asking, test the child’s skills first.
Chambers et al. (2003) also saw PECS beat sign for speed. Valentino adds a rule: check vocal imitation first; if it’s missing, go straight to pictures.
Van der Molen et al. (2010) showed sign plus prompt delay can spark later vocals. Valentino short-cuts the wait—if two-syllable imitation is absent, skip sign and start with pictures.
Why it matters
You can avoid weeks of slow progress. Run a five-minute prerequisite probe first. If two-syllable vocal imitation is missing, begin with picture exchange. You’ll see faster mand acquisition and fewer frustrated learners.
Want CEUs on This Topic?
The ABA Clubhouse has 60+ free CEUs — live every Wednesday. Ethics, supervision & clinical topics.
Join Free →Open your next session with a quick probe: ask the child to copy ‘ba-by.’ If they can’t, switch to picture exchange for new mand targets.
02At a glance
03Original abstract
This study examined the utility of a brief prerequisite assessment in predicting the subsequent effectiveness and rate of acquisition of mand training in each of three response modalities (sign, picture exchange, and vocalizations). Overall, the picture exchange was the most effective and efficient modality for acquiring the targeted mand. The vocal modality was the least effective except when the prerequisite assessment indicated that two-syllable vocal imitation was intact. The implications for selection of response modality for early mand training are discussed.
Behavior Analysis in Practice, 2019 · doi:10.1007/s40617-018-0256-6