A communication method that remains controversial among researchers is gaining visibility in federal autism policy discussions after HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. appointed advocates of assisted spelling to a federal autism panel, KFF reported June 8.
Assisted spelling is a communication method used by some nonspeaking people with autism. Participants communicate by pointing to letters on a letter board or typing on a keyboard, often with support from another person who holds the board, keyboard or provides prompts.
Here are five things to know:
- Assisted spelling gained a seat in federal autism discussions. Elizabeth Bonker, a 28-year-old nonspeaking autistic advocate, is urging federal agencies to cover the costs of training in assisted spelling. Ms. Bonker and another autistic speller advocate were appointed to a 21-member federal autism panel, which issued a resolution stating that robust communication programs are essential for autistic people.
- Major professional organizations remain skeptical of the practice. Leading autism, psychology and speech pathology groups cite research suggesting assisted spelling and similar methods may not represent independent communication. Critics argue facilitators can unintentionally influence or generate the messages being spelled.
- Supporters say the method has transformed lives. Ms. Bonker and other advocates contend assisted spelling gives nonspeaking autistic people a way to express themselves. Noah Simmons, a 17-year-old autistic speller, described the method as opening new opportunities for conversation, friendships and self-expression.
- Research findings remain a central point of contention. The article cites decades of studies, including a 2018 review that found no evidence spellers could identify words or objects without facilitators. Critics point to those findings as evidence against the method, while supporters argue more research is needed and that existing studies do not reflect current approaches.
- The issue is increasingly influencing policy discussions. The debate is expanding beyond clinical settings into government panels, school systems and state legislatures. Advocates are seeking public funding and broader recognition of assisted spelling, while opponents argue limited disability resources should be directed toward communication methods with stronger evidence of effectiveness.
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