In this enlightening episode, we journey into the realm of non-speaking autism, understanding the reasons behind why some individuals on the spectrum may not communicate verbally. We dismantle common misconceptions surrounding non-speaking autism and shed light on alternative communication methods like Spelling to Communicate (S2C). Discover how to better support and connect with those who experience life beyond words.
Guest Expert:
Samantha Fox, MA, CCC-SLP, S2C Practitioner
Samantha is a Kent State University alumnus with a Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She’s dedicated her career to working with non-speaking, minimally speaking, and unreliably speaking individuals on the autism spectrum. As a registered Spelling to Communicate (S2C) Practitioner, she pioneers in tailoring therapy to each individual’s needs. Samantha founded Beyond Speech Therapy Center in Munroe Falls, Ohio, envisioning a practice that wholeheartedly presumes competence in all patients, irrespective of their diagnosis or test scores.
- Learn more about S2C and Samantha’s practice Beyond Speech Therapy Center: https://beyondspeechtherapycenter.com
- Like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/beyondspeech
- International Association for Spelling as Communication (IASc): https://www.i-asc.org
Hosted by Rob Gorski:
Rob Gorski, a devoted single father to three incredible autistic sons, is the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. As a multi-award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, and influential social media figure for over a decade, Rob continues to share his family’s journey, providing insights, resources, and support to the autism community.
- Connect with Rob: https://theautismdad.com
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Today’s Sponsors:
Meerkat Village:
A comprehensive platform aiding special needs families in managing daily challenges through seamless communication and coordination. Discover more at https://meerkatvillage.com.
Kinjo:
Elevate Roblox gaming with Kinjo’s educational spin, blending fun with learning. Enjoy a 10% discount on Kinjo Plus with code “theautismdad” at https://theautismdad.com/Kinjo.
Join us as we explore the nuances of non-speaking autism and empower ourselves with the knowledge to foster a more inclusive and understanding environment for all.
Samantha is our son’s practitioner. She is a bright, compassionate, genuine professional and she has given our 27 year old his voice using Spelling to Communicate. We, in turn, are getting to know our son for the first time! There aren’t any words to adequately describe our overwhelming gratitude. Before taking the leap of faith and trying S2C, we had given up hope that there was anything more for our son besides basically surviving day to day. Having aged out of our county’s MRDD school, our son was attending a day program. I don’t even want to imagine how life would have been had friends not told us about their son’s success with S2C with Samantha. To be quite honest, it haunts me to think about how many individuals have lived and died without being able to have their voices heard and I will advocate every opportunity I get.
If you are a parent whose autistic child is nonverbal or unreliably verbal (echolalic/repetitive speech) and are skeptical, I encourage you to “break through the wall” of your skepticism.
S2C has completely changed our lives.
Really interesting and has given me a different perspective into my non-verbal 6.5 yr old son and his actions. The whole body separate from your brain thing that’s just hit the nail on the head for me. I have never heard anyone say it like that before and it just makes complete sense ! This is the first one I have listened to. I’m new to the site and very glad to be here 🙂