Permission to Play

The Only Route: Why Internally Motivated Communication Unlocks Learning for Autistic Students


Listen Later

In this episode, we dive deep into why internally motivated communication is the key to real learning for autistic communicators.


Join Cherie, Alicia, and Jordan as they explore how to move beyond compliance-based strategies like prompting, withholding, and rewards — and instead build authentic connection and communication that lasts.


You’ll learn:

✅ The difference between external vs. internal motivation in autism learning

✅ Why autistic students may appear to “ignore” directions (and what’s really happening)

✅ How to create meaningful communication moments that spark true engagement

✅ Practical ways to help your students or children tune in, connect, and learn naturally

✅ Why connection always comes before compliance


Whether you’re a speech-language pathologist, teacher, paraprofessional, or parent, this episode will help you reframe how you see communication and learning — showing you how meeting autistic learners exactly where they are opens the door to growth, joy, and self-driven learning.


You can find us on Instagram @connectspeech to learn more!


Website: www.connect-speech.com




...more
View all episodesView all episodes
Download on the App Store

Permission to PlayBy Connect-it's not just speech