Warning Signs of Speech Delay & AAC Devices with SLP Mom Deidra Darst

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Increase Talking &
Decrease Tantrums

in Young Children with

Autism &/or Speech Delays

If you’ve listened to my podcast before, you know that I am a huge proponent of autism professionals collaborating for the good of the children and their families. I believe that if we could all work together on cases, our clients would make more progress than ever before. That’s why I’m so excited to introduce Deidra Darst. Not only is Deidra a mother to a child on the spectrum, but she is also a licensed SLP (Speech-Language Pathologist) and has worked with many kids on the spectrum with speech and language development. Her son was diagnosed with severe autism at the age of three after she noticed the warning signs of speech delay. Speech and language delays are a common sign of autism. Some kids may only use single words.

ABA Therapy

Originally, Deidra was not a fan of ABA, although she fully admits that it was because she didn’t have a clear understanding of how it worked. When one of her friends, an OT, suggested that she bring her youngest son to an ABA clinic, Deidra was almost offended. But her friend convinced her to visit the clinic, and what Deidra observed really opened her eyes.

“I told them, I don’t know what kind of magic wand you have, but it’s amazing… after he had just had only 25 hours of ABA, he was already a different kid.”

Collaboration

Now Deidra is a huge proponent not only for ABA but for all autism professionals to collaborate. She makes the point that, if ABA is so effective on its own, how beneficial would it be if everyone was on the same page?

Along with being an SLP and mother of two, Deidra is also a published author. She’s published two books so far, titled Artie is Awesome and “Buy” One Then Get One “Free”: Our Journey from Infertility to Autism.

In this episode, Deidra and I discuss warning signs of speech delay, speech and language problems, and AAC devices. Deidra is a passionate individual who loves her job, her children, and the change she can make in the world. I’m looking forward to many more collaborations with her in the future!

Mentioned In This Episode:

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