AAC and Autonomous Communication
with Kate McLaughlin

06/16/2021

Kate McLaughlin, M.S., CCC-SLP (“The AAC Coach” on social media) is a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) for individuals with complex communication needs. She believes that autonomous communication, inclusion, and self-determination are fundamental human rights. Listen into this episode as we explore:
- The difference between autonomous and independent communication, and how understanding this distinction can open up new opportunities for our clients
- What it means to be an “emergent communicator” and tons of specific ways we can support them
- 4 concrete strategies we can use to teach robust AAC in a respectful and engaging way (Spoiler: not a single one of these strategies is prompting!)
Listen

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Show Notes

- View links at learnplaythrive.com/podcast
- Grab a free training, 4 Essential Steps Towards a Strengths-Based Approach to Autism
- Take Kate’s 12 contact hour CEU course, Authentic AAC: Implementing Communication Systems for Autonomy & Connection
- Visit Kate’s website, The AAC Coach
- Follow Kate on Instagram and Facebook
- Read Kate’s article, The Role of Meaning Making with Beginning Communicators: Motivating Interactions
- Other resources Kate recommends:
- Linda Burkhart, Kate’s mentor
- Gayle Porter, developer of the PODD system
- Kate Ahern
- Join in the conversation about this episode on Facebook: Learn Play & Thrive: Autism Resources for Professionals