“All Done Talkin’ ‘Bout It:” One Mom’s Journey to Communicating With Her Autistic Daughter

• By: Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM Devereux
• July 9th, 2026
• alternative communication, autism, autism services, communication, family support, nonverbal autism, PECS, Summer 2026 Issue, verbal apraxia
• 71    1

I vividly remember when Annie was diagnosed with autism on Jan. 8, 2004, the day before her second birthday. I had no idea what autism was, other than how it was depicted in the movie “Rain Man,” starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. I felt shocked, worried and alone. I didn't know any other...

How to Advocate for Your Nonspeaking or Minimally Verbal Child or Adult

• By: Amy Kelly, MBA, MNM Devereux
• January 2nd, 2023
• advocacy, communication, less verbal, nonspeaking, parenting, self-advocacy, verbal apraxia, Winter 2023 Issue
• 4932    0

Over the last decade, there has been an increase in autistic self-advocates coming into the public eye through their incredible means to advocate for themselves - and others like them. These individuals have become a powerful voice for boards, committees, research and quality improvement...