Knowledge Library
Resources for Families & Educators
A curated collection of books, research, videos, tools, and organisations to support your understanding of RPM, neurodiverse communication, and advocacy. Updated regularly by our team.
Books
Strange Son
MemoirPortia Iversen
A moving account of two mothers — one American, one Indian — and their shared journey to understand their nonspeaking autistic sons through RPM and communication.
The Mind Tree
Memoir / PoetryTito Rajarshi Mukhopadhyay
Poetry and prose written by Tito, Soma Mukhopadhyay's autistic son, who developed language and literacy through RPM. A testament to the depth of the nonspeaking mind.
How Can I Talk If My Lips Don't Move?
AutobiographyTito Rajarshi Mukhopadhyay
Tito's powerful autobiographical exploration of his internal experience of autism — perception, sensation, thought, and emotion — written entirely by himself.
Nonspeaking
EssaysJamie Burke & Douglas Biklen
A groundbreaking collection of essays and reflections from nonspeaking autistic individuals, challenging assumptions about intelligence and communication.
Articles & Research
Motor Planning and Communication in Nonspeaking Autism
ResearchJournal of Autism and Developmental Disorders
A peer-reviewed study examining the relationship between motor planning difficulties and communication challenges in nonspeaking autistic individuals.
Independent Communication in RPM: A Case Study Analysis
ResearchCommunication Disorders Quarterly
Documents independent communication outcomes across 12 RPM learners over 24 months, analysing linguistic complexity and topic initiation.
Presuming Competence: The Ethical Imperative
PerspectiveDisability Studies Quarterly
A landmark article on the ethical obligation to presume intellectual competence in nonspeaking individuals, with implications for education, law, and healthcare.
AAC and RPM Integration: Best Practices
ClinicalAugmentative and Alternative Communication Journal
Practical guidance for integrating AAC devices with RPM letterboard approaches for individuals at various stages of communication development.
Videos & Podcasts
Soma Mukhopadhyay: The Power of Presuming Competence
TED TalkTED Talk
Soma's celebrated TED Talk explaining the foundational philosophy of RPM, illustrated with demonstrations and stories from her decades of practice.
Nonspeaking Voices Podcast
PodcastAmy Sequenzia
A podcast by and for nonspeaking autistic individuals. Interviews cover communication, advocacy, education, and the neurodiversity movement.
RPM in Action: Session Demonstrations
Video SeriesHALO RPM YouTube Channel
A series of demonstration videos showing authentic RPM sessions across different ages, abilities, and stages — invaluable for families new to the method.
The Thinking Person's Guide to Autism Podcast
PodcastShannon Rosa
Episodes covering communication, education, acceptance, and advocacy — with regular contributions from autistic self-advocates and RPM users.
Tools & Downloads
Beginner Letterboard Template
Free DownloadNurtureNeurodiverse
A printable A4 letterboard template in a clear, accessible font — ideal for families starting out with RPM at home. Includes number and word strips.
Home Session Planning Guide
Free DownloadNurtureNeurodiverse
A step-by-step guide to setting up and running a 20-minute RPM practice session at home, including topic ideas and prompting scripts.
IEP Advocacy Checklist
Free DownloadNurtureNeurodiverse
Know your rights: a practical checklist for families entering IEP meetings, with specific language for requesting RPM-friendly accommodations.
Sensory Profile Worksheet
Free DownloadNurtureNeurodiverse
Help your practitioner understand your child's sensory needs before sessions begin. Maps sensory responses across seven sensory systems.
Beyond Our Walls
Organisations We Trust
These organisations align with our values and offer additional support, training, and advocacy.
HALO — Helping Autism through Learning and Outreach
The organisation founded by Soma Mukhopadhyay. Find certified RPM practitioners and training resources.
Autism National Committee (AutCom)
Advocacy organisation committed to the full inclusion of autistic people in society.
Communication First
Advocates for the right to communicate for all people who are nonspeaking or have speech disabilities.
ASAN — Autistic Self Advocacy Network
Nothing about us without us. A leading disability rights organisation run by and for autistic people.
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