Frequently Asked Questions

---

Spelling is a form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) that uses a letterboard or keyboard to support individuals who cannot reliably communicate through speech.

This approach is often used with anyone for whom speech is not an effective form of communication. This includes individuals with autism and whole body apraxia, a motor planning difference that affects the ability to consistently and intentionally produce speech or movement, Down Syndrome and other disabilities or sensory motor difficulties. With guidance from a trained provider, spellers are coached to develop the regulation and intentional motor skills needed to accurately select letters.

At Suncoast Spelling Center, we proudly practice the Spellers Method, which places strong emphasis on understanding and adapting to each individual’s unique sensory motor profile. 

Anyone for whom speech is not a robust form of communication, including individuals with autism, apraxia, Down Syndrome, and other disabilities or sensory and motor difficulties. 

Your trained provider will partner with your speller and yourself (or a caregiver) to help build the regulation and motor skills essential for reliable spelling.

Yes! Spelling helps minimal speakers or unreliable speakers, who are unable to carry on a conversation and/or whose words don’t often reflect what they really mean to say. 

Spellers as young as five or six are often ready to begin the spelling process! Also, it is never too late to learn spelling! Contact us to learn more and to get started on your spelling journey.

Don’t worry! We presume that your nonspeaker already knows how to spell, even if they aren’t able to show it yet. Most cognitive tests depend on motor skills, which can make it hard for individuals with apraxia to demonstrate what they truly know. We highly recommend checking out the Spellers documentary on YouTube and The Spellers Guidebook by Dawnmarie Gaivin and Dana Johnson for more information on presuming competence and Spellers Method.  

 We highly recommend the following resources:

• Spellers Method: https://www.spellers.com/ .
• Dr. Dana Johnson on YouTube:  Learn about how whole-body apraxia affects speech, movement, regulation, and learning on Dr. Dana Johnson’s YouTube channel.
• Book recommendations:
  • The Spellers Guidebook: Practical Advice for Parents and Students by Dawnmarie Gaivin and Dana Johnson
  • Underestimated: An Autism Miracle by J.B. Handley and Jamison Handley 
• Videos recommendations:
  • Spellers documentary
  • Underestimated docuseries
• Free Spellers Webinars: www.spellers.com/free-webinars