Free Webinar | AUT to Know: It's all about communication

For many parents, speech feels like the ultimate goal. But for autistic children, communication often starts well before first words - through eye contact, gestures, play, movement, scripting or behaviour.

In this practical session, Nicole Rogerson sits down with speech pathologists, Sue Marden and Lesley Kanellopoulos, to unpack strategies for recognising early, non-verbal cues and supporting children as they develop their communication skills . They’ll explore when and how to use AAC or PECS tools, why echolalia and scripting can be meaningful, and what extended family or educators can do to help.

You’ll walk away with actionable strategies, expert insight, and a deeper understanding of how autistic children express themselves.

If you’re a parent, carer, or early childhood professional supporting children aged 0–6, we invite you to join us on Thursday 15 May, from 1:00–1:30pm AEST, and share in the conversation.

Registration is free, but places are limited.

Register now!

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Meet our Speakers

Sue Marden is a paediatric speech pathologist and founder of OneOnOne Children’s Therapy, a leading allied health clinic known for its early intervention programs. A Certified ESDM Therapist and Project ImPACT Consultant Trainer, Sue specialises in the early identification of autism and is passionate about empowering parents and training the next generation of practitioners to deliver evidence-based, family-centred support.

Lesley Kanellopoulos is a Certified ESDM Therapist and the ESDM Manager at OneOnOne Children’s Therapy. She has a special interest in Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), play and social skills, and early childhood language. Lesley is passionate about helping children learn the skills to interact with others and their world, and she enjoys working with a multidisciplinary team to improve all areas of a child’s life.

Nicole Rogerson is the founder and CEO of Autism Awareness Australia and a leading voice in autism advocacy. With over two decades of experience, she is dedicated to supporting families and promoting evidence-based practices for autistic individuals.

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‍Proudly supported by:

Leap in! is the proud sponsor of this webinar series and a two-time winner of the ‘Most Outstanding Plan Management Award’ (2023 & 2024). As Australia's leading plan manager, they support thousands of Australians in every state and territory, helping them get the most out of their NDIS Plans. With 60% of their team having lived experience, they truly understand what matters most to their Members. Through partnerships with organisations like Autism Awareness Australia, Leap in! is committed to providing trusted information, expert guidance, and support to help people confidently navigate the NDIS.

About AUT to Know

The AUT to Know webinar series is designed to connect parents, carers, educators and professionals with valuable insights and expertise to support autistic individuals in their early years, school years, and throughout adulthood.