The Remarkable Abilities of Non-Speaking Autistics

Who are non-speaking autistic students?

Numerous students on the autism spectrum experience a neuro-motor condition known as ‘apraxia,’ which significantly hinders their ability to speak or renders them entirely non-verbal. Additionally, this form of autism impedes their use of conventional keyboards and hampers their performance of basic daily tasks such as buttoning clothes or tying shoelaces. Despite common misconceptions, this manifestation of autism is not indicative of cognitive deficiency; rather, it represents a distinct challenge that requires understanding and support.

We’ve observed that students with this type of autism possess remarkable learning abilities! Their learning style diverges from traditional methods, which unfortunately has led to their neglect in both mainstream and special education environments.  The students of Advancing Life Learners (A.L.L.) have learned to communicate using a special spelling technique, sometimes referred to as RPM for “rapid prompting method.”  At A.L.L. they can learn an incredible amount of information.  They communicate by spelling out words one letter at a time on stencil boards or letter boards. Thus, they are often referred to as “spellers.”  

We have full faith in the learning abilities and spellers’ potential among these students. In collaboration with A.L.L., The Autism Learning Foundation (The Foundation) is dedicated to support and promote the spelling technique that empowers non-speaking autistic individuals to communicate eloquently. We firmly believe that educators and organizations, like A.L.L., will be drawn to Gilbert, Arizona, as they recognize the competency and potential of these spellers. It’s imperative for these young individuals to be included in the community, and for the community to recognize and affirm their competence.

What does “affirming competence” mean?

In various fields of behavioral science, there is a prevailing belief that non-speaking autistics are incapable of learning, leading to the presumption of their incompetence. However, at A.L.L. and within The Foundation, we operate under the presumption of their competence, thus affirming competence. We have absolute certainty in their abilities, having personally witnessed the remarkable intelligence and learning aptitude of these students. We are consistently astonished by their knowledge and continually curious about their methods of learning. They simply require a means to express what they know.

Inspiring Stories

We dive into Braves’ star Matt Olson’s bond with Reece Blankenship, who has nonverbal autism. It’s a friendship that’s making an impact for people on the spectrum.

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