Cheri Dodge Chin
ClinScD, CCC-SLP
Cheri Dodge Chin is an Assistive Technology consultant, adjunct professor, doctoral-level mentor, and published researcher. With over 20 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist, she has worked across pediatric private practice, rehabilitation, clinics, and schools. She holds doctoral degrees in both Education and Speech Pathology and a master's degree in Speech Pathology.
A pioneer in SLP blogging and social media, Dr. Dodge was among the first SLP bloggers. Her blog, Super Power Speech, features over 700 posts, and she has developed more than 300 resources to support AAC, language, articulation, and social skills. She has delivered presentations at local, state, and national conferences.
Dr. Dodge is a full-time David Douglas School District employee and a part-time Pacific University faculty member.
SESSION DESCRIPTION co-presenting with Shani Bender
Bridging the Gap: Leveraging AAC to Support Children with Echolalia
This presentation explores the intersection of echolalia and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). We will define echolalia (immediate and delayed) and "gestalt language processing" examining both its neurodiversity-affirming aspects and current research considerations. Participants will learn practical, evidence-based strategies for customizing robust AAC systems to honor a child's unique communication style while fostering the development of flexible, generative language. The session also includes guidance on respectfully navigating conversations with parents regarding evidence-based practices.
Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Define immediate and delayed echolalia.
- Identify at least three evidence-based strategies to support language development in children who use echolalia.
- Demonstrate how to customize robust AAC systems with scripts or phrases without compromising access to core vocabulary.
- Communicate the importance of free exploration and large vocabulary sizes for children with auditory processing differences.
- Formulate a therapeutic rationale for programming specific phrases into an individual's AAC device to support regulation, safety, or social engagement.
Summary
This session provides a comprehensive look at supporting children who communicate through echolalia using AAC. It balances the intuitive appeal of the popular "gestalt language processing" framework with a critical look at the current research base, emphasizing the use of evidence-based practices (EBPs). Key topics include honoring all forms of communication, the role of AAC in supporting receptive speech sound discrimination, and technical tips for device customization like text enlargement and auditory modeling. The presentation concludes with strategies for collaborating with families to set meaningful communication goals that respect the child's natural language development and personal interests.
Target audience and experience level: Intermediate - Speech Language Pathologists (SLPs),
AAC Coaches
AAC Coaches
*Sessions are open to all registrants regardless of experience level or roles.
Primary Life Cycle: All ages