We interviewed Julie Sando, a teacher of online communication-based courses for children with autism, about alternative forms of communication, including her experience with S2C, RPM and other assistive technologies for non-speakers and low-verbal children. You can watch the replay below:

In this webinar, Julie helped us to understand:

• Why should we presume competence in non-speakers?
• What is the brain-body disconnect in non-speakers?
• What is the difference between receptive and expressive language?
• What are assistive technologies and how can they help with expressive language?
• What are the differences between S2C (Spelling to Communicate), RPM (Rapid Prompt Method) and other assistive technologies?
• How every person is different and progresses at a different rate.
• Why may schools and therapists be resistant to these technologies?

Julie gave an example of the brain-body disconnect of a child with autism: The child had breakdowns and would verbally say “I want to go home” but would use the letterboard to say “I want to stay” because the child’s mind was trapped in a body that was stuck in a neural pathway. The mind wanted to stay, but the body would want to go and didn’t know how to physically, verbally say “I want to stay”.

These children are trapped in bodies that don’t let them communicate, similar to an adult that has had a stroke (which may be why HBOT is so helpful for both). Many of the children who learn to use assistive technologies like S2C and RPM to communicate have said that having apraxia of speech is like being in solitary confinement for years. Both non-speaking and low-verbal children and adults can learn to use assistive technologies successfully.

Please note that you will be asked to enter your email address after 30 minutes to continue viewing the replay.

Inspired by her new understanding, she voraciously learned various forms of alternative communication for children with autism and received her certificate in Assistive Technology from CSUN in 2018. Julie now teaches online connect and communicate online training programs that presume competence in the child with autism and that offer new ways for these children to communicate what’s inside their incredible minds.

Today, Julie uses her extensive training in relationships and communication, paired with her training from the best experts in the world (thank you autistic people), to help parents and professionals find their true voices, so they can best help their kids (and adults) find their true voice. Her purpose is to remind people how to be human in their interactions with people on the spectrum or with any disability. And to make sure everyone is heard, valued, respected, and living their best reimagined lives.

You can find out more about Julie and her work at her website https://www.autisticallyinclined.com/

Disclaimer

This webinar is not a substitute for medical advice, treatment, diagnosis, or consultation with a medical professional. It is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be relied on to make determinations related to treatment of a medical condition. Epidemic Answers has not verified and does not guaranty the accuracy of the information provided in this webinar.

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