What if every child could learn to read—even those who are nonverbal? In this episode of Buying Local, special education teacher and literacy specialist Lauren Leuzinger shares how structured teaching, communication devices, and a "presume competence" mindset are helping autistic students unlock literacy and independence. Learn why reading is never out of reach, how AAC devices support communication, and what parents and educators can do to create meaningful learning opportunities.

Connect with Lauren by sending her an email at [email protected] and learn more about Nourishing Minds Tutoring at nourishingmindstutoring.com.

00:00 Introduction to Lauren Leuzinger

00:51 Lauren's role as a special education teacher

02:20 Teaching communication and language development

04:29 How Lauren found her calling in special education

06:49 The structured TEACCH teaching approach

08:31 Why literacy became Lauren's passion

09:24 Can nonverbal students learn to read?

11:08 Real-world literacy success stories

13:42 Making reading fun and stress-free

14:35 Understanding AAC communication devices

18:13 How educators assess understanding in nonverbal students

19:19 "Behavior is communication," explained

21:10 Supporting new special education teachers

23:28 The biggest literacy misconception Lauren wants to change

25:29 Resources for teaching literacy at any age

27:30 Literacy opportunities for autistic adults

30:16 Why spelling unlocks communication potential

33:54 "Presume competence" and setting high expectations

34:34 How to connect with Lauren and Nourishing Minds Tutoring

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