Episode 82: AAC 101—Understanding the Basics

Are we helping Autistic children thrive, or simply teaching them to comply? In this though-provoking solo episode, Cari challenges professionals and caregivers to take a closer look at the goals, expectations, and practices shaping autism services. Are we honoring communication or rewarding obedience? Supporting autonomy or prioritizing adult agendas? Through 10 powerful questions, Cari invites listeners to rethink what progress really looks like when supporting Autistic children. 

Cari and Jim discuss why caregiver coaching is such a challenging component of Early Intervention. They explore the mindset shift from treating children to empowering caregivers, explain the powerful M&M analogy, and share practical insights to help providers build caregiver confidence and create meaningful learning opportunities that extend far beyond the session. Here's the link to learn more about Cari's Coaching with Confidence in Early Intervention course:  https://cariebert.com/coaching_course  

Join Cari and Jim for an in-depth discussion about affirming speech therapy strategies to support children when autism and apraxia co-occur. 

How we understand disability influences every decision we make as providers. In this episode, Cari and Jim unpack four models of disability and discuss how they show up in practice. You’ll walk away with a clearer lens for reflecting on your values and how they align with your work. If you're a parent or caregiver, this conversation is for you too. Understanding these models can help you make sense of the advice you're given and advocate more confidently for your child.

For many Autistic children, big family gatherings can be overwhelming, unpredictable, and absolutely exhausting. But with the right supports, these gatherings can feel more like a celebration and less like a survival mission. 

In Episode 84, Cari and Jim unpack how to support AAC in daily routines, how to build a strong team around the communicator, and why communication is everyone's job—not just the speech therapist's. 

In this episode, Cari and Jim explore what makes an AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) system robust. They discuss how robust AAC goes far beyond requesting, giving users the ability to connect, share emotions, and express their full personalities. 

In this episode, Cari and Jim break down the basics of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)—what it is, who uses it, and why early access matters. They unpack common myths, discuss practical strategies for modeling AAC in daily life, and remind us that every mode of communication deserves equal respect and celebration. Whether you're a seasoned SLP, an educator, a parent, or just AAC-curious, this episode is for you.   Show Notes: Click here to start your ableEXPERIENCE through AbleNet Sign up for Cari's newsletter here

In this episode, Cari and Jim explore what it means to build a true culture of communication—one that values connection over compliance.   Show Notes: Communication Bill of Rights QuickTalker Freestyle Speech Device from AbleNet Subscribe to Cari's Newsletter  

Join Cari and Jim for a lively discussion on the difference between declarative and imperative language in supporting children's communication. They show how constant quizzing with imperatives can feel stressful, while declarative comments create shared attention, spark curiosity, and foster authentic connection.    Click here for "The Declarative Language Handbook" that is reference in this episode.