Episode Summary\nIn this conversation, Rob Gorski speaks with Samantha Fox, a speech language pathologist and founder of Beyond Speech Therapy Center. They discuss non-speaking autism and the challenges related to communication. Samantha shares her journey into speech pathology and how she discovered the importance of motor control in communication. They delve into the concept of apraxia and when parents should be concerned about their non-speaking child. \nHosted by Rob Gorski:\nRob Gorski, a devoted single father to three incredible autistic sons, is the Founder and CEO of The Autism Dad, LLC. As a multi-award-winning blogger, podcaster, content creator, and influential social media figure for over a decade, Rob continues to share his family's journey, providing insights, resources, and support to the autism community.\nConnect with Rob by visiting theautismdad.link\nGuest Expert: \nSamantha Fox, MA, CCC-SLP, S2C Practitioner\nSamantha is a Kent State University alumnus with a Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology. She's dedicated her career to working with non-speaking, minimally speaking, and unreliably speaking individuals on the autism spectrum. As a registered Spelling to Communicate (S2C) Practitioner, she pioneers in tailoring therapy to each individual's needs. Samantha founded Beyond Speech Therapy Center in Munroe Falls, Ohio, envisioning a practice that wholeheartedly presumes competence in all patients, irrespective of their diagnosis or test scores.\nConnect with Samantha Fox:\n\nLearn more about S2C and Samantha\u2019s practice Beyond Speech Therapy Center: https://beyondspeechtherapycenter.com\n\n\nLike our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/beyondspeech\n\n\nInternational Association for Spelling as Communication (IASc): https://www.i-asc.org\n\n\nTakeaways\n\nMotor control plays a crucial role in communication for non-speaking individuals with autism.\n\nApraxia is a disconnect between the brain and the body, resulting in difficulty in coordinating speech movements.\n\nParents should seek early intervention and consult with speech therapists to determine the best approach for their non-speaking child.\n\nPresuming competence is essential in supporting non-speaking individuals and recognizing their capabilities beyond their outward appearance.\n\nMentioned in this episode:\nLearn More: Mightier\nMightier is a biofeedback-based video game platform that teaches kids to self-regulate emotionally. This leads to a significant reduction in meltdowns and parental stress. It's backed by science and has helped over 100,000 kids learn to regulate their emotions. For more information, the latest reviews/updates as well as current discount codes, visit theautismdad.com/mightier.\n\nRead My Mightier Review and the code \u201ctheautismdad22\u201d to save 10% off your order.\nVisit Mightier\nLearn More About Tranquil Path Financial Planning \nBritta Kepf is a dedicated special needs financial planner at Tranquil Path Financial Planning, offering unbiased, tailored advice for families across the U.S. She specializes in retirement and special needs financial planning, helping families navigate government benefits and long-term needs with clarity and peace of mind. For compassionate, personalized financial guidance, contact Britta Kepf at tranquilfp.com.\nVisit Tranquil Path Financial Planning\nLearn More About Wee Meditate\nWee Meditate\u2014the meditation platform for kids of all abilities. Meet characters like Weasel with autism and Fox who helps with anxiety, in meditations that make bedtime a breeze.\n\nSubscribe for $49.99/year and use code "theautismdad" for 10% off.\nVisit Wee Meditate