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Enjoy this replay of one of my favorite episodes! Executive functioning skills are essential for all ages, and in this episode, we dive into this critical topic with Sara Ward, an SLP specializing in executive functioning. Sara brings a unique perspective, sharing practical strategies for assessment and intervention that can transform how we support students.
Sara simplifies executive functioning for young children as âsequencingâ and explains how it evolves into planning across growing windows of time and space for teens and adults. A neurotypical brain visualizes where it needs to be in the future to plan and act. However, parents and professionals often become a âprosthetic frontal lobeâ by overprompting. Sara emphasizes the importance of teaching students to visualize and take ownership of their tasks.
One standout strategy Sara shares is using gestures to support task planning. When children physically act out steps with their hands, the connected language often follows, helping them internalize the process of execution.
For assessment, Sara suggests tools like the Barkley Deficits in Executive Functioning Scale, which distinguishes attention issues from executive skill deficits, and the Clinical Executive Function Inventory (CEFI) for behavior insights. She also advocates for viewing speech and language assessments through an executive functioning lens.
This episode is packed with actionable strategies and tools that Iâm excited to bring to my therapy sessions and IEP meetings. I hope you find these insights as inspiring and practical as I did!
#autism #speectherapy
What is executive functioning?Why are executive function skills important?Assessment and intervention for executive function skills.Executive functioning in young children, teens, and adults.
Whatâs Inside:
Mentioned In This Episode:
ABA Speech: Home
Cognitive Connections: Executive Function -
Attending ASHA 2024, the largest conference for speech-language pathologists (SLPs), was an incredible experience for networking and professional growth. As the national association for speech therapy, ASHAâs annual event is a hub for innovation, collaboration, and learning.
I kicked off the conference by attending an insightful talk by the Speech Production Lab on speech motor chaining, setting a high bar for the days ahead. Later, the reception for CEU providers offered a fun and engaging opportunity to connect with peers and discuss the field's nuances.
Day two was packed with impactful sessions, covering topics like MTSS, group therapy for complex learners, and a critical appraisal of gestalt language processingâa particularly hot topic. I also relished conversations with other SLPs, dually certified SLP/BCBAs, former podcast guests, and ABA Speech members.
While some discussions highlighted tensions around controversial issues, this only strengthened my commitment to fostering kind and cohesive collaboration. The work we do as therapists and providers is vital, and this event reinforced how meaningful and inspiring our shared mission is.
Whatâs Inside:
What is ASHA?Highlights of ASHA 2024.Nuances, hot topics, and the need for collaboration in the field of SLP.Mentioned In This Episode:
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Professionals
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Parents
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Rob Harvey specializes in cooperative, fun social skills groups, using creative strategies to teach social language in ways that truly resonate. Today, we explore the transformative power of thinking outside the box when it comes to social skills development.
Robâs innovative approach integrates therapy with theater and tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. Starting with theater, learners practice social skills by engaging with scripts during rehearsals and performing in front of an audience. This structured setting provides a safe space for learners to build confidence, interact, and refine their social abilities.
Seeking opportunities to promote improvisational skills, Rob turned to one of his passions: tabletop role-playing games. These activities go beyond scripts, encouraging learners to dive into spontaneous social interactions. They donât just foster interest and motivationâthey offer real-life experiences, helping learners develop initiation skills, express emotion, and create lasting connections that extend beyond the group.
"Lead with joy" is a message Rob passionately shares, and itâs his top tip for launching bold, innovative therapy ideas. Find someone who shares your excitement, and imagine the possibilities that emerge when you embrace silliness! Breaking that barrier opens the door to incredible engagement and connection.
#autism #speectherapyWhatâs Inside:
Creating community with social language skill groups.Creative, cooperative, and out of the box therapy strategies.Table top role play and theater as social skills practice.What it means to âLead with Joyâ.Mentioned In This Episode:
Rob Harvey (@therapeuticdungeonmaster) - Instagram
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Professionals
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Parents
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Dr. Amanda Cash highlights the unique challenges and opportunities of transitioning from school to adult services. In adult settings, the fast-paced, skill-driven structure of school is replaced by a slower, more flexible approach focused on long-term growth. Without the looming deadline of graduation, the emphasis shifts to safety, happiness, and meaningful, lifespan-focused skill-building. Human rights and personal preferences become central, with care providers ensuring that all practices align with ethical standards and individual interests.
The differences in school and adult settings for autistic learners.The importance of self-advocacy and learning this skill early.How to prepare for the transition to adult settings.
Self-advocacy is a cornerstone of this transition. Dr. Cash emphasizes the importance of teaching these skills early, such as how to request needs, make choices, and exit situations when necessary. These abilities empower individuals to navigate adult environments with confidence and independence, fostering greater self-determination and engagement in their lives.
To prepare effectively, schools should focus on rigorous skill development and provide opportunities for community and workplace experiences. Backward goal-setting, working from long-term objectives backward to current needs, ensures students are equipped for the demands of adulthood. Through thoughtful preparation and early advocacy, individuals can move into adult settings ready to thrive.
#autism #speectherapy
Whatâs Inside:Mentioned In This Episode:
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Professionals
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Parents
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Rob Gorski, widely known as The Autism Dad, started his blog over a decade ago as a private space to document his familyâs journey with autism. Today, itâs evolved into a business, podcast, and vital resource for autism families. Through his work, Rob shares insights on communicating about autism, helping families understand their children, and breaking down stigma.
Discussing autism with kidsâwhether autistic or notârequires sensitivity and simplicity. Autistic brains are wired differently, and kids donât need complicated explanations. Small, clear insights can help them understand their differences without feeling isolated. Rob emphasizes that openness empowers autistic kids and avoids the distrust that can stem from hiding autism as a âtabooâ topic. Every child is unique, and thereâs no single right approach to this conversation.
To foster understanding, Rob suggests choosing a neutral, calm environment where children feel safe, sharing small pieces of information over time rather than a single, in-depth talk. Parents know their kids best, and trusting their instincts is essential. Mistakes are part of the journeyâwhat truly matters is a willingness to adapt, grow, and create a supportive space for their children.
#autism #speectherapy
The story behind The Autism Dad.When should you tell your child about an autism diagnosis?Tips for talking about autism with your kids.Parents on social media; doâs and donâts.
Whatâs Inside:
Mentioned In This Episode:
Visit The Autism Dad
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Professionals
Join the ABA SPEECH Connection - Parents
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Today, we're diving into empowering parents and the magic of early intervention through teletherapy with Glory Lichon, founder of Glow Bright Therapy. Gloryâs journey started in school-based therapy, but like many SLPs, she faced burnout. That experience led her to create a teletherapy practice focused on early intervention, where parent involvement takes center stage.
Without the barrier of school-based settings, early intervention teletherapy actively involves parents, guiding them through strategies they can use in daily routines and their childâs natural environment. From evaluations to progress checks, families and therapists work together on a HIPAA-compliant Zoom platform, making it simple and secure. Each session kicks off by understanding the familyâs recent experiences and observing the child in their environment, looking for natural opportunities to support communication and learning.
Gloryâs approach is all about letting the child leadâshe believes communication isnât just about talking and prompting. She follows the âObserve, Wait, Listenâ strategy, which allows kids to explore at their own pace, focusing on authentic engagement rather than prompting. She also shares practical, easy tips parents can try at home, like using bath time to practice verbal routines (âwash, wash, wash your hair...â) or learning body parts during soaping up.
Check out Glow Bright Therapy on Instagram or visit their website to learn more!
#autism #speectherapy
Proving teletherapy to support and empower parents.What does child-led, natural environment teletherapy look like?Habit stacking communication opportunities throughout meaningful routines.
Whatâs Inside:
Mentioned In This Episode:
Glow Bright Therapy
glowbrighttherapy (@glowbright_therapy) on Instagram
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
I connected with my guest Wall Street Journal and USA Today best-selling author, Dr. Paul Gavoni, on LinkedIn. His work focuses on creating positive and safe cultures by driving meaningful behavior change. He explains that learner behavior often reflects the actions of adults in their environment, a key idea in Organizational Behavior Management (OBM), an application of the science of ABA.
Dr. Gavoni describes OBM as "zooming out" to look at how adult behavior impacts learners. He shares a story of working with a community school, where implementing OBM strategies for the adults created momentum and encouragement while keeping the effort low and the outcomes valuable.
In our conversation, he also talked about the inspiration behind his 10 books, including Quick Wins and Positional Authority Ainât Leadership, where he breaks down practical behavior management and leadership strategies that drive real change.
We wrapped up with his thoughts on becoming a keynote speaker and getting involved in conferences. His advice? Anyone can do itâitâs JUST behavior.
#autism #speectherapyWhatâs Inside:
What is Organizational Behavior Management?Dr. Paul Gavoni, Best Selling Author.A story on the impact of OBM in a community school.âItâs all about behavior.â
Mentioned In This Episode:Translating the covenant: The behavior analyst as ambassador and translator - PMC
Paul "Paulie" Gavoni on Linqapp
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Today I am joined by Eileen Lamb, founder of the Autism Cafe. I recently shared a video of Eileenâs son, Charlie, that really struck a chord with my audience. It showed how his use of AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) had progressed over time, offering a message of hope for others in similar situations.
Eileen talks openly about how tough it can be to share your familyâs journey online. Her story started when Charlie began showing signs of autism at 18 months. What began as updates on her personal Facebook for friends and family soon grew into the platform she has today, with a large following across social media.
Among her involvement in the field, Eileen is also an author. Her first book, All Across the Spectrum, is an autobiography that explores her experience being diagnosed with autism after her son. It highlights the differences in severity and what itâs like to parent a child on the spectrum while being on the spectrum herself. Her second book, Be the One, is a collection of prose poetry about overcoming lifeâs challenges. Eileenâs third book, And Yet Here You Are, is coming out soon.
For parents raising children with autism, Eileen has some advice: Be mindful of social media. While it can be a great place for finding support, community, and information, it can also lead you into a lot of unnecessary controversy.
#autism #speectherapy
Raising an autistic child with high support needs.A warning for parents on social media.Elieenâs personal journey with autism and sharing with the online community.All Across the Spectrum, Be the One, and Eileenâs forthcoming book And Yet Here You Are.
Whatâs Inside:Mentioned In This Episode:
The Autism Cafe
Eileen Lamb (The Autism Cafe) on Facebook
Eileen Lamb (@theautismcafe) on Instagram
Eileen Lamb on TikTok
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
From taping in my walk-in closet to experiencing incredible growth and change over the last 199 episodes, it's been an amazing journey. Today, as I record this special episode, Iâm also celebrating my 16th wedding anniversaryâwith none other than today's guest, my husband, Patrick Griffin.
Seven years ago, I started ABA Speech with two physical products: Action Builder Cards and Double Up. Since then, Iâve branched out, and in recent years, I've focused heavily on this podcast. In this episode, listen in as my husband interviews me in a rapid-fire format, covering happenings, inspiration, and growth from episode 1 of Autism Outreach to where we are now.
Thereâs so much thought and intention that goes into each episodeâfrom selecting guests to crafting meaningful takeaways to expanding the reach and impact I want to create. My goal is always to make a difference in the lives of individuals with autism, their parents, and practitioners.
Thank you for listening and celebrating this huge milestone with me!
#autism #speectherapy
Celebrating 200 episodes!A rapid-fire interview by my husband, Patrick Griffin.Growth, inspiration, and the future of the podcast.
Whatâs Inside:
Mentioned In This Episode:
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Joining me today is the SLP behind the Instagram account @language_processing, Kathleen Oppenheimer. She caught my attention because she consistently shares excellent information on her page about language processing and the research behind it.
Gestalt Language Processing (GLP) is a hot topic these days. Kathleen defines GLP as a hypothesis about how language is acquired, in contrast to Analytic Language Processing (ALP). Itâs important to note that these terms are not commonly used outside this specific context, nor are they frequently found in research articles. For many in the autism community, GLP currently serves as an identity label for their echolalia, but it's crucial to distinguish this from its use as a clinical label to guide therapy.
We also discuss the abundance of ongoing research and debates in the field. If youâre not aware of what's available, you might not know what to trust. Kathleen emphasizes that pseudoscience can appear scientific but is not applied in a scientifically rigorous manner (e.g., ignoring parts of research, relying solely on anecdotal evidence, not being evidence-based, etc.). When navigating the internet, you may come across ASHA journals, clinical research, peer-reviewed articles, white papers, anecdotal articles, and viewpoint articlesâitâs essential to understand the publication requirements for each before applying them to your practice.
As a final thought, Kathleen reminds social media consumers: You donât know what you donât know, especially when it comes to research and research methods. Be sure to check out her page for more insights on language processing!
Whatâs Inside:
What is Gestalt Language Processing and Analytic Language Processing?What is pseudoscience?What kind of research is out there and what should you trust?Mentioned In This Episode:
Kathleen Oppenheimer - Google Scholar
What's Language Processing (@language_processing) on Instagram
@TheLanguageScientists
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Today, I learned about a new tool in therapy and AAC, speaking with guests Dr. David McNaughton and Dana Patenaude, who collaborated on the research article "Using Visual Scene Displays With Young Children: An Evidence-Based Practice Synthesis," published in the Journal of Special Education Technology.
Visual Scene Displays (VSDs) are interactive visual representations, such as photos or images, that depict scenes, objects, or events. They allow users to engage with elements within the image, providing a more immersive and interactive communication experience. VSDs can be used with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools, offering a more contextual and personalized way for users to communicate. This is not an either/or tool but a powerful resource that can be combined with other AAC methods.
This study found that VSDs are an evidence-based practice. Their use can be personalized with meaningful photos, tailored to individual interests. Children can even participate in creating and selecting "hot spots," giving them real-time language engagement with the parts of the scene that interest them most. There are also ways to create video VSDs or VSDs that incorporate literacy.
VSDs can be used for shared storybook reading, setting/environment photos, culturally responsive elements, and more! David and Dana do a great job of breaking down this comprehensive research and explaining how effective VSDs can be across various settings. Be sure to check out the links provided to access this open article and find resources on getting started with VSD apps.
#autism #speectherapy
What are VSDs?How can VSDs be used alongside AAC?How to engage in shared storybook reading with VSDs?How to create culturally responsive and individualized Visual Scene Displays?
Whatâs Inside:
Mentioned In This Episode:
Patenaude, D., McNaughton, D., & Liang, Z. (2024). Using Visual Scene Displays With Young Children: An Evidence-Based Practice Synthesis. Journal of Special Education Technology, 01626434241263061.
Video Visual Scene Displays (provides information on other studies that used video visual scene displays, including links to videos of research participants and links to apps that support VSDs and video VSDs)
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Approximately 25â30% of autistic children are minimally verbal, often requiring alternative communication methods like Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Jean Jarrett, SLP-BCBA, joins us to continue highlighting AAC during the month of October. Selecting the right AAC system can be overwhelming due to the many factors involved: communication partners, environments, and caregiver involvement. The process requires input from various disciplines, careful planning, and individualized support.
A common misconception is that children need to reach certain milestones before starting AAC, but there are no prerequisites. There is no need to wait or delay getting started with AAC to meet certain skills, but a learnerâs skillset does play a critical part in the device chosen. When choosing an AAC system, factors to guide decision-making include device programming, environments in which it will be used, and potential insurance reimbursement.
Providers must be equipped to handle pseudoscientific approaches, such as Rapid Prompting or Spelling to Communicate, and focus on evidence-based practices like AAC, which can make a profound difference when used effectively. The journey with AAC doesn't end when the device is received; that's just the beginning.
#autism #speectherapy
How to handle an overwhelming AAC assessment?Are there prerequisites for AAC?Questions and factors to consider when choosing an AAC device.Being equipped to handle pseudoscience.
Whatâs Inside:
Mentioned In This Episode:Jean Jarrett on LinkedIn
[email protected]
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
October is AAC Awareness Month! Todayâs guest, Chris Bugaj, is the co-host of the *Talking with Tech* podcast, which explores the world of AAC, inclusive design, and the creators, providers, and users behind these systems. As an SLP, Chris realized early in his career that he had a knack for technology, which led to his role on his district's Assistive Technology Team for Inclusive Learning.
During our chat, we discussed the history of early AAC devices, their flaws, and how these limitations impacted our ability to set effective goals. Weâre so fortunate that technology and access to it have improved dramatically for our learners over the past two decades. We also touched on the concept of a growth mindsetâa philosophy focused on breaking free from fixed ideas about abilities and embracing the "power of yet," ensuring we don't limit any learners in any way.
Chris has his formula for professional development in AAC down to a science. It begins with a facilitation meeting to assess training needs, followed by teaching sessions where communication partners join in-person or online courses focused on modeling through a unique training and coaching format. Finally, there are follow-up practice sessions and feedback to reinforce learning.
When AAC training and coaching are effective, they impact not just one learner but every learner that provider or teacher will work with in the future. We offer many AAC courses at ABA Speech Connection, so donât forget to check them out and join us!
#autism #speectherapy
Whatâs Inside:
October is AAC Awareness Month.The history of AAC.A clear plan for professional development and training for AAC.Find more info through AAC course on ABA Speech Connection.
Mentioned In This Episode:
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin-Autism Speech Therapy Tips (@abaspeechbyrose) âą Instagram -
Are you ready to transform your approach to autism therapy with naturalistic interventions?
Introducing my new self-paced CEU course, Naturalistic Interventions for Autistic Learners â Next Steps. This 5-hour course is divided into 7 bite-sized modules covering essential topics like play, social skills, joint attention, parent support, and more!
Natural Environment Teaching (NET) is quickly becoming the standard in our field, but how do you get started? Play-based therapy is rich with nuance, and this course offers clear, practical guidance to help you create meaningful, functional, and evidence-based child-led therapy.
My life's work has been dedicated to reaching learners who are traditionally harder to engage and helping them find the best ways to learn and communicate. Iâm passionate about bridging the gap between research and therapy, ensuring that effective strategies reach the therapy room.
Donât miss outâsign up now for Naturalistic Interventions for Autistic LearnersâNext Steps, available for a limited time. And while you're at it, explore my membership program, ABA Speech Connection!
#autism #speectherapy
Whatâs Inside:
A BRAND NEW course at ABA Speech. What is Naturalistic Intervention?Building a bridge between research and therapy.Resources and information for evidence-based, child-led therapy.
Mentioned In This Episode:
Naturalistic Interventions For Autistic Learners â Get the Course for A Limited Time
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Dr. Rick Kubina, a distinguished Professor of Special Education at The Pennsylvania State University, has had a dynamic career, collaborating with prominent figures in the fields of special education and applied behavior analysis (ABA). In our discussion, we delve into a topic that is close to my heart as both a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA): the critical role of data in effective decision-making. Dr. Kubina emphasizes that the foundation of quality decision-making lies in the integrity of the data collected. Without accurate baseline data, it's impossible to chart a meaningful course toward improvement. He advocates for standardized measurement tools, arguing that consistent data collection is key to achieving standardized outcomes, which are crucial for comparing and understanding progress across diverse populations.
In addition to his academic work, Dr. Kubina serves as the research director for CentralReach LLC, a company that provides innovative practice management and clinical solutions for therapy service organizations, particularly those focused on ABA, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. CentralReach's platform offers a comprehensive suite of tools for data collection, billing, scheduling, and staff management, all designed to streamline operations and enhance outcomes for clients, especially those with developmental disabilities like autism. As the field evolves, Dr. Kubina is keenly aware of the potential and challenges posed by artificial intelligence (AI). CentralReach is committed to harnessing the power of AI to improve data-driven decision-making while addressing concerns about its integration, ensuring that AI serves as a powerful, supportive tool for practitioners in the future of therapy and education.
#autism #speectherapyWhatâs Inside:
Why quality decision-making is critical to data.Streamlining the data process and creating standardized outcomes.How AI can serve as a powerful, supportive tool for the field of ABA.Mentioned In This Episode:
Rick Kubina - CentralReach, LLC | LinkedIn
CentralReach
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Register for our Naturalistic Interventions Course
Rose Griffin-Autism Speech Therapy Tips (@abaspeechbyrose) âą Instagram -
Linda Thoresen joins me today for a special Member Spotlight. She is an SLP and a member of ABA Speech Connection, and I first met her in her onboarding meeting. During this conversation, Linda shares about her journey from medical therapy to teletherapy.
Membership Spotlight, SLP JourneyMedical therapy vs teletherapyChanges in the field ABA Speech Connection Membership
As a seasoned therapist, Linda has been in the field for 20+ years. We discuss the changes in course work from her training to the present day, as well as the change in working with adults to now school-age and autistic learners. She has a great perspective to share on her membership with ABA Speech about her ASHA course library access and the comprehensive education available.
#autism #speectherapy
Whatâs Inside:Mentioned In This Episode:
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection Membership
Register for our Naturalistic Interventions Course
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Thereâs been a noticeable shift in the field of behavior analysis, with more BCBAs being hired as full-time employees in public schools. This is a big change from the past, when BCBAs were typically brought in as outside consultants. Schools are now seeing the benefits of having these experts on staff to support students with specialized needs directly in their school environment, rather than sending them out of the district. Today, I spoke with Melissa Connor-Santos, someone I connected with on LinkedIn who is deeply passionate about improving behavior-analytic services for children in public schools. Melissa and I both believe in the power of public schools to provide the least restrictive environment for our learners, and she shared some valuable insights on how BCBAs can make the most impact in these settings.
Working as a BCBA in a public school comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Public schools are large systems where you might not have much control over certain decisions, so itâs crucial to focus on collaboration and relationship-building across the entire school team, from administrators to teachers and support staff. To thrive in this environment, BCBAs need to refine their skills to fit this setting. Melissa emphasized the importance of finding a mentor, even if theyâre not a BCBA, but someone with experience in public schools who can provide guidance. She also warns that while public forums and online (Facebook) groups can be helpful, they need to be used wisely and carefully. And above all, sticking to the ethics code is non-negotiableâitâs the foundation of our work and crucial for maintaining trust and effectiveness in the school community.
#autism #speectherapy
Why are more BCBAs being employed in public schools?How to navigate ethics as a BCBA in a public school setting.The most important skill for BCBAs is collaboration.Tips for BCBAs in public schools.
Whatâs Inside:
Mentioned In This Episode:
Oceanview Behavior Solutions
[email protected]
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection for Parents
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection for Professionals
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Today we welcome returning guest, Cindy Watson. Be sure to check out episode 115, where we discuss Early Intervention Speech Therapy. Along with Cindy, we are joined by MC, Cindyâs youngest daughter. MC shares about her story, autism diagnosis, and her perspective as a middle schooler.
Autism in girls, what does it mean to be âthe easy kidâ?Middle school therapy: What works? What doesnât?Helping older learners with the stigma of therapy and services.Using likes and interests to create motivating, engaging therapy.
Cindy shares about MCâs life pre-diagnosis and the concerns she noticed along the way. Labeled often as âthe easy kidâ, MC shied away from social settings and talking with peers. And her mom fought judgment as a provider; everyone saw her as a mom and thought âeveryone has autismâ. But parents should trust their instincts!
We hear straight from MC about her preferences in therapy, like focusing on topics that highlight her interests. As well as her struggles and dislikes from group therapy to handling unkind words from kids her age. An important piece of therapy for older learners is to emphasize naturalistic and discrete therapy styles. Therapy is nothing to be ashamed of, but the reality is that middle and high schoolers do face a stigma when it comes to their peers.
This is a great chat opening up about autism in girls, therapy for older learners, and how we can best serve our middle schoolers in therapy!
#autism #speectherapy
Whatâs Inside:Mentioned In This Episode:
Episode #115: Early Intervention Speech Therapy Services - A Talk With Cindy Watson
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection for Parents
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Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
I love hearing from Autistic Adults, and Paige Layle has garnered quite a following on TikTok and Instagram, sharing her story and creating resonating content for her viewers traveling similar journeys.
Who is Paige Layle?Using social media to share the autistic voice.What it's like to receive an autism diagnosis as a teen.
Paigeâs recently published memoir, But Everyone Feels This Way: How an Autism Diagnosis Saved My Life, has been an opportunity to reach her followers on a deeper level, connect beyond the internet, and create a resource for those that relate to her story. Just two weeks before her 15th birthday, Paige received her diagnosis. It was what she calls âLife Shatteringâ. She describes that she had been internally begging and pleading for an explanation of why life is so hard for her; the diagnosis was just that.
She took to social media after becoming comfortable with these platforms across her life, in her second year of university. Paige made her first autism-focused video discussing her anger about âtrending soundsâ insulting autistic individuals, which pushed her to start educating and sharing the autistic voice. She now creates content full-time, with the bulk of her income coming from public speaking events and consulting with schools and other organizations.
Paige reminds parents not to be scared. If you have concerns about delays or other symptoms in your child, just know that whatever information you collect will help you, she says. And for those of us out there consuming content, she informs us that not all autistic people want to be advocates, so be respectful, as well as diversify your resources so that you may hear a variety of voices. You can find Paige on Instagram and TikTok at @PaigeLayle.
#autism #speectherapy
Whatâs Inside:Mentioned In This Episode:
Paige Layle
Paige on TikTok
Paige on Instagram
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection for Parents
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection for Professionals
Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram -
Lisa is a BCBA and the mom of 3 boys, including Kruz. He is Lisaâs youngest child and has Autism Spectrum Disorder. You may be familiar with their journey as they share it with you through @CruisingWithKruz on Instagram.
Kruz and family, their autism journey.Understanding what it takes to advocate and begin services and support.An update on progress January 2023 to June 2024.Parent Support: Join our parent portal!
During our conversation, Lisa dives into the struggles that take place when it comes to advocating for a diagnosis and the other ones that pile on once you do get it! Waitlists can be excruciatingly long, not only for evaluations but for services too. Thatâs why itâs key to stay in communication with your team. Itâs not easy once you enter services either. Lisa talks about the financial weight of high insurance premiums as well as high maximum out of pocket costs.
Lisa shares Kruzâs progress in the last year and a half. He has participated in 25 hours a week of ABA, weekly speeches, and been involved with his family, friends, and community. A look at Kruzâs skills in January 2023 would show nonverbal communication and dangerous self-injurious behavior. Now his progress, reflected in June 2024, reveals conversational communication, a blossoming sense of humor, and critically reduced self-injurious behavior. With this great news, they are able to target other needs and reduce the intensity of services.
Parent education and training is something Lisa is very passionate about, as she heeds other parents advice to advocate, advocate, advocate. If youâre noticing a delay or have heightened concerns, do not wait! You will NEVER regret providing support and intervention. But you will regret losing time. Lisa is heading up our brand new parent portal that you can access with an ABA Speech Connection Membershi
#autism #speectherapy
Whatâs Inside:Mentioned In This Episode:
CruisingWithKruz (@cruisingwithkruz) on Instagram
Cruising With Kruz
Join us in the ABA SPEECH Connection for Parents
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Rose Griffin (@abaspeechbyrose) on Instagram - Laat meer zien
