Spelled communication (aka spelling) is a motor-based approach to communication for non-speaking, minimally speaking and unreliably speaking children and adults (referred to collectively as non-speakers throughout this website), where individuals poke or point to letters on a letterboard or keyboard to spell out what they want to say.
The Spellers Method approach to spelled communication is based on the understanding that speech is a complex motor act, and that non-speakers have cognitive capacity for language but experience significant motor planning challenges that make speech unreliable or unavailable.
Spellers Method recognises that most non-speakers experience whole body apraxia, which is a difficulty with planning and executing intentional motor movements. The approach therefore shifts communication from speech (fine motor output) to larger gross motor movements (hinging from the shoulder) to poke or point to letters on a low-tech letterboard. This shift offers non-speakers an achievable means of robust, reliable communication.
For many non-speakers, minimal speakers, and unreliable speakers, spelled communication has opened the door to fully express their unique thoughts, feelings and wishes for the first time.
As a certified Spellers Method Provider, my practice is rooted in presuming competence, which means I approach each individual as capable of learning and understanding, while recognising that motor challenges may impact on their expressive demonstration of understanding.
Sessions are therefore age-appropriate and person-centred and I speak directly to each speller about session goals and progress.
Through structured motor coaching to support the development of intentional, purposeful motor planning for communication, and a carefully sequenced motor-cognitive progression, individuals are supported to develop increasing independence in spelled communication.
As motor planning becomes practiced and consistent, individuals progress toward open communication (i.e., expressing complex thoughts, feelings, views and wishes) and, in some cases, move from low-tech letter boards to keyboards with voice output.
As a Spellers Method Provider, I recognise that many non-speakers experience sensory processing differences and ocular motor challenges that can impact regulation and engagement. Sessions are therefore tailored to each individual’s unique sensory-motor profile and vision needs.
Co-regulation strategies to support engagement and reduce distress are incorporated and where necessary, referrals are made to other trained professionals for specialist assessment and guidance.
A core component of Spellers Method is parent/carer coaching and empowerment. In my sessions, I support family members to develop skills as communication partners, with the long-term goal of increasing independence and reducing reliance on professional input.
Spellers Method works best for individuals and families who are well prepared and understand what’s involved.
I recommend arranging a free 20 minute call with me to ask any questions you may have and to discuss your individual needs and what’s required to maximise success.
You can email me on hello@becfowler.co.uk or click the link below to send me a message.
It’s recommended to start spelling with a trained provider who can assess your family member’s individual needs and tailor an approach to support you and them to succeed.
Most families aim for one session per week with a provider and practice for 15+ minutes x 3+ times per week at home.
If you’re new to spelled communication, I recommend checking out the following resources to learn more about whole body apraxia, and presuming competence and to prepare yourself for the commitment and process of learning to spell:
Watch Spellers free on YouTube,
Read The Spellers Guidebook: Practical Advice for Parents and Students by DawnMarie Gaivin and Dana Johnson.
Join Spellers Community on Facebook
I offer in-person spelled communication sessions for children and adults, in Worcester, UK.
Sessions are typically 55 minutes long, incorporating 45+ minutes spelling and time for questions and discussion.
Sessions are rooted in presuming competence and focus on co-regulation and developing foundational motor skills required to spell to communicate.
Initial sessions involve overall assessment and vision screening to determine board selection and any accommodations required to tailor my approach to individual needs.
Parents/communication partners are coached from early on to support parallel progress and replicating skills at home.
The current cost per session is £75. Some families seek funding from their local authority. Please reach out if this is something you’d like more information about.
Roselyne Crabtree