Tag: autism

Autism and the Two of Us: Love, Communication, and Neurodiversity

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Autism and the Two of Us: Love, Communication, and Neurodiversity
July 2, 2026
5 Sensory-Friendly Spots in and Around Roxbury, Massachusetts 
July 1, 2026
5 Sensory-Friendly Spots in and Around Greenfield, Wisconsin 
June 30, 2026
What is the WIBA ABA Conference?
June 12, 2026

In this episode, Dr. Cindy Ariel explores relationships involving autistic and neurodivergent individuals, drawing from her book Autism and the Two of Us. She discusses how differences in communication, social expectations, and processing styles can create challenges and opportunities for deeper understanding. Dr. Ariel shares practical strategies for navigating conflict, fostering vulnerability, and building stronger connections through curiosity, negotiation, and appreciation. This conversation offers insights into creating more compassionate and meaningful partnerships.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/autism-and-the-two-of-us

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

What is Nonverbal Autism? Dispelling the Myths Around Non Speaking Autism

Author: Ronit Molko, Ph.D., BCBA-D | Updated On

Just because someone is nonspeaking, does not mean they’re non-thinking. Around 25 to 30 percent of children with autism spectrum disorder are minimally verbal or do not speak at all. These individuals are referred to as nonverbal or nonspeaking, but even the term nonverbal is a bit of a misnomer. While nonspeaking individuals with autism may not speak words to communicate, many still understand words and even use written words to communicate.

Nonspeaking individuals with autism utilize a variety of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) methods. ABA therapy can help provide communication options. These range from no-tech and low-tech options such as gestures, writing, drawing, spelling words, and pointing to photos or written words, to high-tech options like iPads or speech-generating devices.

There are several reasons that an individual with autism may have difficulty talking or holding conversation that are not related to intellectual disability. The disorder may have prevented the normal development of verbal communication skills. They may also have conditions such as apraxia of speech, which affects specific brain pathways, making it difficult for a person to actually formulate and speak the words they’re intending to say. Some may also have echolalia, which causes a person to repeat words over and over again.

While these conditions prevent many individuals from speaking, it does not mean they cannot learn, understand, or even communicate. There is a pervasive misunderstanding about this among the general population due to a lack of education. It is often wrongly assumed that anyone who has difficulty speaking is intellectually disabled.

This misconception can be particularly harmful when held by medical professionals. In the 1980s, as many as 69 percent of people with an autism diagnosis had a dual diagnosis of mental retardation, which would now be labeled intellectual disability. By 2014, that number had declined to just 30 percent, as researchers improved the diagnostic criteria for autism and a fuller picture of the disorder emerged.

Researchers are still working to try and improve diagnostics and better distinguish nonspeaking autism from intellectual disabilities. As Audrey Thurm, a child clinical psychologist at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bethesda, Maryland says: “We have to figure out who has only autism, who has only intellectual disability and, importantly, who has both intellectual disability and autism. That’s millions of people who could be better served by having an accurate distinction that would put them in the right group and get them the right services.”

It’s important to challenge the perception that those who do not speak cannot think. Not only do we risk failing to give them the proper supports and services, but we also undermine their individuality, ingenuity, creativity, and humanity by failing to see them as they truly are. Just because they are not talking does not mean they do not have much to tell us.

Why Wandering Is a Serious Risk for Kids With Autism, Especially in Summer 

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Clinically Reviewed By: Christine Brody, M.S., BCBA, Director of Training and Development

 For many families raising a child with autism, one of the biggest fears is a child slipping away. That might mean walking out the front door, leaving the playground or disappearing into a crowd. This behavior, often called “wandering” or “elopement,” can happen in a matter of seconds. It’s more than stressful. In some cases, it can be life-threatening. 

Summer brings even more opportunities for this to happen. Routines shift, outings increase, and kids are often near water, one of the biggest safety hazards for children with autism. Understanding why wandering happens and how to prevent it can help families stay prepared and safe. 

What Is Wandering? 

Wandering happens when a child leaves a safe place without permission or supervision. This can include leaving home, school, a playground, or a caregiver in public. 

In children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it’s especially common. A 2012 study in Pediatrics found that nearly half of children with autism had tried to wander or run away at least once after age 4. Of those, 26% were missing long enough to cause concern. 

The reasons vary. Some children may seek out a place they enjoy, such as water. Others may run to escape overwhelming sounds, sights, or situations. But no matter the cause, the risk is high. 

Why Summer Brings Added Risk 

Wandering can happen any time of year, but summer adds new layers of risk. Families are more likely to be out of their routines, exploring new places, or visiting pools, lakes, and beaches. New environments can be exciting, disorienting, or overstimulating for kids with autism. 

Water presents the greatest danger. According to the National Autism Association, accidental drowning accounted for 71% of all deaths resulting from wandering in children with autism under age 15. 

And it can happen fast. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it takes as little as 20 seconds for a child to drown. 

Safety Strategies That Can Help 

Many families aren’t told about wandering risks when their child is first diagnosed. But there are proactive steps that can help reduce danger. 

Swim lessons are one of the most effective strategies. Some insurance plans may cover swim lessons for children with autism as part of behavioral treatment. Read more in Why Swimming and Water Play Benefit Kids with ASD. 

Families can also partner with a board certified behavior analyst (BCBA) to teach safety skills. BCBAs can support children in tolerating wearable tracking devices, reducing bolting behaviors, and recognizing safe adults or “community helpers.” 

Other tools include: 

  • Personal ID wristbands or GPS trackers 
  • Secure fencing or home alarms 
  • Creating emergency plans with neighbors 
  • Registering with local police or Smart911.com, which lets families share medical or behavioral information that pops up for 911 dispatchers 

Planning Ahead Brings Peace of Mind 

Not every child with autism wanders. But for those who do, preparation can save lives. 

Summer outings should be fun, not stressful. These 4 Steps to Swim Safety for Your Child with Autism offer practical tips families can use right away. 

For more information on wandering and autism safety planning, visit the National Autism Association’s Big Red Safety Toolkit. 

Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults

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In this episode, Caroline Maguire explores the nuances of friendship through a neurodivergent lens, drawing from her book Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults. She shares personal insights on social challenges, the difference between belonging and popularity, and the impact of masking and mismatched communication styles. Caroline introduces her “Three P’s” of friendship—Proximity, Practice, and Participation—as a framework for building meaningful connections, while also unpacking how friendships can evolve, from seasonal to lifelong. This conversation offers practical guidance, research-backed insights, and an empowering reminder to honor your own unique path to connection.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/friendship-skills-for-neurodivergent-adults

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

College Accommodations for Autistic Students: What Actually Works

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In this episode, Emilie Brotherton and Darby Schwien take us inside the ASCEND program at Missouri State University, a unique initiative supporting students with autism and other mental health challenges. They share how the program fosters connection through mentorship, social events, and a thoughtfully designed space for neurodivergent students. The conversation highlights the power of community, the impact of inclusive support systems, and offers helpful insight for prospective students exploring programs like ASCEND.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/college-accommodations-for-autistic-students

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

Autistic Voices Inside ABA: The Conversation the Field Needs

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In this episode, Samantha and Reux—autistic adults working in applied behavior analysis—share their personal journeys from diagnosis to professional life. They reflect on early employment challenges, the critical role of workplace support, and why autistic voices matter in the field. Their stories offer hope to families, guidance for new behavior technicians, and a powerful reminder of the independence and success autistic individuals can achieve.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/autistic-voices-in-aba-the-conversation-the-field-needs

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

Cornerstone Autism Learning Center in Indiana is Now BACA – Part of LEARN Behavioral

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LEARN Behavioral, a national leader in autism treatment with a network of ABA providers and Learning Centers across the country, announces the integration and rebrand of Cornerstone Autism Center in Avon, Greenwood, and West Lafayette, Indiana.

Cornerstone Autism Center is now known as the Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) at the following locations:

The new BACA Learning Centers offer center-based ABA therapy in a supportive, learning-rich environment. Families can access compassionate, contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy tailored to their child’s or young adult’s unique needs, interests, and personality.

“Our focus is on providing top-quality care that delivers real results for children and families,” said Stacy Apraez, MA, BCBA, Senior Regional Clinical Director. “We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with families in and around the Avon, Greenwood, and West Lafayette areas to help find success for every child in our care.”

Key Features of BACA Learning Centers in Avon, Greenwood, and West Lafayette:

  • Experienced leadership brings resources and support to children and families with autism in the community.
  • Center-based ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Serving children from early childhood through young adulthood with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located and easily accessible for families in the region.

BACA is now enrolling new clients with no waitlist. For more information or to enroll a child, contact the center directly:

To enroll a child at the Avon Learning Center, call (317) 622-8904 or visit https://thebaca.com/locations/avon

To enroll a child at the Greenwood Learning Center, call (317) 981-3899 or visit https://thebaca.com/locations/greenwood

To enroll a child at the West Lafayette Learning Center, call (765) 222-5893 or visit https://thebaca.com/locations/west-lafayette

About BACA

The Behavior Analysis Center for Autism (BACA) is part of the LEARN Behavioral network, the nation’s leading provider of compassionate autism care. BACA provides evidence-based autism services and is dedicated to delivering personalized ABA therapy, helping children and families find success.

In addition to the Avon, Greenwood, and West Lafayette Learning Centers, BACA has Learning Centers in Crown Point, Elkhart, Fishers, Indianapolis, South Bend, and Zionsville, IN.

For more information, visit https://thebaca.com/locations.

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

Autism, AI, and the Art of Songwriting with Rachel Schaub

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Rachel Schaub is a 16-year-old autistic singer-songwriter who joins us to share stories about her love of singing and songwriting through AI. She shares about the experiences that inspire her and her writing process. Rachel also discusses how technology helps her connect with others and express herself in unique ways. Listeners will hear firsthand how music and AI intersect to open up creative possibilities.

View the transcript, show notes, and previous episodes at: 
https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/autism-ai-and-the-art-of-songwriting-with-rachel-schaub.

All Autism Talk is sponsored by LEARN Behavioral.

How One Mom Built Life-Changing Tools for Her Autistic Son

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Rachel Estes Leyk is a mother, businesswoman, coach, and advocate who delivers heartfelt and highly practical strategies for raising emotionally resilient, self-aware children. In this conversation, she opens up about a moment of crisis in her family that became the catalyst for her advocacy, which has led to helping others to do the same. Her upcoming book, Response-ABILITY: How the Need to Unlock a Child’s Ability to Respond Shapes the Way We Love, Care, Support, and Uplift, is available for pre-order and launches on January 18, 2026.

To view show notes, transcripts, and more visit https://www.allautismtalk.com/episodes/how-one-mom-built-life-changing-tools-for-her-autistic-son

LEARN Behavioral is a sponsor of All Autism Talk.

LEARN Behavioral Opens New Autism Learning Center in Green Bay, WI.

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No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Area Families

GREEN BAY, WI… Wisconsin Early Autism Project (WEAP), provider of LEARN Behavioral, is proud to announce the grand opening of its new Green Bay Learning Center at 3189 Voyager Drive, Green Bay, WI 54311.

WEAP, celebrating its 30th year, has become a world-renowned leader in early diagnosis and treatment for children with autism. Their evidence-based approach to care has helped thousands of children with autism throughout Wisconsin.

WEAP is Wisconsin’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children. The new Green Bay Learning Center provides center-based ABA therapy, in-home ABA therapy, Early Intervention, and school readiness. 

“We are excited to expand our services and have the opportunity to partner with new families throughout greater Green Bay to help find success for every child in our care,” said Kerry Hoops, MA, BCBA, Regional Clinical Director – Green Bay. “At WEAP, we celebrate the successes, big and small, and each child who goes through our program is seen and celebrated for who they truly are.”

With no waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules, the center is now enrolling new clients in Brown County and beyond.

Key Features of the Green Bay Learning Center:

  • Experienced leadership brings resources and support to children and families with autism in the community.
  • ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support.
  • Center-based services in the city of Green Bay.
  • SMART Board room, School Readiness areas, gross motor space, and a large indoor play area. 
  • No waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules.
  • Serving children ages 18 months to 6 years old with personalized therapy plans.
  • Conveniently located off Highway 43 and easily accessible for families in the region.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Green Bay Learning Center, call (920) 338-1610

or visit https://wiautism.com/locations/greenbay

WEAP has center-based ABA therapy Learning Centers in Altoona, Brookfield, De Pere, Glendale, Janesville, Madison, Madison South, Menomonie, Milwaukee (Menomonee Falls),Mount Pleasant, Oak Creek, Oshkosh, Reedsburg, Sun Prairie, and West Bend. WEAP continues to expand and will open the doors of additional Learning Centers in Beloit, Greenfield, Kenosha, Sheboygan, and Stevens Point later this year and early 2026.

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.