Buying Local Podcast · June 12, 2026 · 36 min

The Literacy Breakthroughs Changing Special Education | Buying Local #78

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 Follow Buying Local: Website: buyinglocal.us X (Twitter): x.com/buyinglocalny Facebook: facebook.com/buyinglocalny Instagram: instagram.com/buyinglocalny LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/buyinglocal/