Which verbal operant do we usually teach a learner first?

The verbal operant that is typically taught first is the mand. Mands are requests made by the learner to obtain a specific item or action, which reinforces the connection between the learner's needs or desires and their ability to communicate those needs effectively. Teaching mands first is beneficial because it is often the most motivating for the learner; they are likely to be more engaged and responsive when they recognize that they can communicate to gain access to something they want or need.

In early communication development, establishing control over their environment through mands allows the learner to feel empowered and encourages them to engage more actively in their learning process. Once learners are comfortable with mands, it becomes easier to progress to other verbal operants such as echoics, tacts, and intraverbals, which build on the foundation of effective communication skills initiated with mands.

By beginning with mands, educators aim to set a strong groundwork for further language development and functional communication.