FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is spelling on the boards?

Spelling on the boards is a method of communication for non-speaking, minimally speaking, or unreliably speaking individuals. It uses gross motor skills to point to letters on a letter board or keyboard, enabling individuals to express their thoughts, feelings, and dreams.

This method is suitable for individuals with conditions like autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or whole body apraxia. It is never too early or too late to begin; children can start as early as age 5.

  1. Non-Speakers

    Many of my clients have very limited or no speech. By learning the motor skills necessary to poke letters on a board, they are able to communicate their ideas, thoughts, and knowledge to the world.

  2. Minimal-Speakers

    This is someone who has some speech, but it is not robust enough to fully communicate their feelings and experiences.

  3. Unreliable Speakers

    This is someone who has speech, however what they say may not be what they want to say. Verbal loops (repeating the same word/question/phrase often), scripting from movies, and or echolalia (repeating back words from another person) are some of the examples of unreliable speech.

The Spellers Method focuses on developing communication skills through motor control and regulation. Sessions include practicing gross motor movements to point to letters while using lessons to keep the process engaging and stimulating. For more FAQs about Spellers Method specifically visit: https://www.spellers.com/faqs

While AAC devices use symbols or pre-programmed words, Spelling for Communication enables individuals to spell out their exact thoughts, word for word. This method focuses on motor learning rather than word selection to give individuals full control over their own communication and infinite possibilities.

No prior experience is needed! Spelling for communication meets each individual where they are and builds skills step by step.

Sessions typically last 45–50 minutes and involve lessons – as a way to provide educational content while practicing the motor skills for spelling. I will use a variety of prompts that will fade over time with practice while maintaining the speller’s regulation throughout the session. Parents are encouraged to participate actively to support their speller’s progress with practice at home.

Each individual learns at their own pace. Progress depends on the complexity of their sensory-motor profile, the amount of consistent practice in sessions and at home, and the support they receive from trained communication partners. Some individuals are able to be open within a few months, while others may take much longer. The goal is consistent growth and communication success.

  • Practice regularly with a letterboard or keyboard
  • Be patient and encouraging – learning intentional movement takes time
  • Read aloud age-appropriate, content-rich material to engage their thinking
  • Work with a trained provider to ensure proper technique and progress

Your child probably does know how to spell. They just haven’t had a reliable way to show it yet. Many non-speakers and minimal speakers have been absorbing language and literacy for years but have lacked the motor control to demonstrate their knowledge. So no worries there!

Unfortunately, spelling on the boards is not covered by insurance. For children under 18, exploring programs like Katie Beckett may help with costs. Also, inquire about grants and scholarship programs available through multiple organizations.

The Spellers Method incorporates research and expertise from the fields of assistive technology, developmental optometry, and occupational therapy to guide each student’s unique path to fluency, from their very first spelling session through their self-determined ultimate goal. For some that means open communication on a stencil, for others it means pursuit of autonomous typing skills i.e., the goal of spelling without a trained communication partner holding their keyboard.