#133-Communication? Literacy? Or Both?

Literacy instruction has historically used mostly verbal strategies so when learners are non speaking how is literacy supposed to be taught? This episode addresses a common literacy instruction mistake used on learners utilizing speech generating devices. About the Guest: Tina Moreno, M.A. CCC-SLP is a speech-language pathologist with the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities in Cleveland, Ohio. She earned her undergraduate degree from Kent State University and attained her Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Cleveland State University. At the CCBDD, Tina serves individuals 3 and up in a continuum of settings, including homes, schools, workplaces, community residences and day programs. She evaluates the communication needs of students from preschool through transition years with an emphasis on AAC assessment and implementation, training, and collaborating with educational teams and families. She presents on the topics of AAC and literacy at national conferences. She is inspired to help ensure everyone can communicate, read and write. Tina is mom to Mateo, a 21 year-old AAC user. With her friend Gina Cunningham, she is Co-Director of Camp ALEC, a weeklong, overnight summer camp that focuses on literacy and AAC designed for children with complex communication needs offered in Grand Rapids, MI each summer. There, educators receive intensive training under the direction of Drs. Karen Erickson and David Koppenhaver in evidence-based assessment and instructional strategies in literacy for children with complex communication needs. Links to Mentioned Content: Camp ALEC Comprehensive Literacy for All This show is part of 12 episodes in season 5 focusing on literacy instruction for students with significant disabilities