Training Communication Partners for Nonspeaking Spellers: A Replicable, Evidence-Informed Framework

• By: Dawnmarie Gaivin, RN, AT-ACP Spellers Freedom Foundation | Spellers Method
• July 9th, 2026
• apraxia, augmentative and alternative communication, autism education, communication partners, CP training, nonspeaking spellers, sensorimotor science, spelling-based AAC, Summer 2026 Issue
• 5    0

I have watched my adult nonspeaking, autistic son be offered a letterboard by someone untrained in his primary form of communication: spelling. His thoughts were clear, but the board wasn't properly placed, no relationship had been established, no motor coaching was provided — and nothing came...

Connecting With Nonspeakers: A Practical Guide

• By: Noah McSweeney Nonspeaking Autistic Self-Advocate, College Student, Poet, and Award-Winning Student Journalist
• July 9th, 2026
• AAC, augmentative alternative communication, communication partners, letterboard communication, nonspeaking, presuming competence, Summer 2026 Issue
• 9    0

April traditionally brings showers, but in my world, it brings Autism Awareness Month – or is it Autism Acceptance Month, or is it Autism Action Month? It seems the verbiage changes from year to year. Awareness is good, acceptance is great, but action is the key to inclusion. For me, April means...