Laura Prestia is a Speech-Language Pathologist working in pediatrics, focusing on children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She is ASHA certified, New York State licensed, and registered with CASLPO and SAC. Laura has worked in the areas of speech and language which include receptive and expressive language skills, speech production, oral-sensory-motor skills, feeding skills, social skills, pragmatic language, and play. She has experience with Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems such as PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), static boards, voice output buttons, and sign language, as well as both low- and high-tech devices, including iPad communication apps. She is trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques including oral-motor therapy, feeding therapy, apraxia, AAC, and PROMPT (Prompts For Restructuring Oral Muscular Phonetic Targets). Laura also has extensive training in behavioral techniques, which help promote appropriate and/or alternative behaviors while teaching skills. She understands how to break skills down into hierarchical parts while using cues to promote efficient learning. Laura has shared her expertise on using AAC at various workshops, including RESNA (Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America), as well as colleges such as Pace University and NYU. Additionally, she has presented findings in oral-motor research at annual conventions held by YAI (Young Adult Institute) and ABAI (Association for Behavioral Analysis International).

Over the years, Laura has created a plethora of activities…….visual supports, schedules, adapted books, modified games, and so on and so on. With each brainstorm of an idea came an avalanche of more ideas. And so came the beginnings of LANGUAGE WITH LAURA, a public outlet for her to share her most favorite and innovative creations, and to help make learning language fun!