Communication Is Always Possible

Nine lessons from raising my nonspeaking autistic son—practical routines families and schools can use tomorrow.

About Pete

Pete Schneider is the father of a nonspeaking autistic adult and a coach who helps families and schools build dignity-first supports. Over two decades, he developed simple, repeatable routines—visuals, scripts, and safety systems—that reduce distress and make communication possible without words. His talks blend story with step-by-step “what to do Monday,” giving audiences tools they can use the very next day at home, in classrooms, and in the community.

Talk / Workshop

As the father of a nonspeaking autistic son, Pete shares nine field-tested lessons: meet people where they are, be present, pay attention, create and test theories, know what to hold (and let go), and more. Through vivid, practical stories—simplifying language so instructions land, building safety routines, using visuals/AAC, and reframing hard days—he offers simple routines audiences can use the next morning. Attendees leave with a starter toolkit for partnering with nonspeaking communicators, reducing distress in tough moments, and building dignity-first supports at home, school, and in the community. Works as a keynote or an interactive workshop with actionable takeaways and handouts.

Formats & audiences

Keynote (30–45m) • Workshop (60–90m) • Families • Educators • Paras • SLP/OT students • ERGs

Five concrete takeaways

• A three-step “say less, stress key words” script for communication without speech.
• First-Then & Choice tools that improve follow-through in minutes.
• A Distress Containment Routine any adult can run under stress.
• A lightweight Experiment Loop to test what helps (and keep what works).
• Hold vs. Let Go: a decision lens for everyday battles.

Suggested titles

• Communication Is Always Possible: Nine Lessons from a Nonspeaking Son
• Calm in the Chaos: Practical Routines for High-Support Families
• Meet People Where They Are: A Parent’s Playbook for Dignity-First Support