“Communication happens when one person sends a message to another person. You can send the message in a variety of ways, including facial expressions, gestures, or words” Fern Sussman.
Many of our kids on the spectrum are challenged with verbal communication. I know that their inability to verbally communicate their needs, wants, and thoughts can be a huge barrier, and source of frustration for us and for them. Both of my sons have different challenges with verbal communication, but Joaquin is the one that has struggled the most. When he was first diagnosed at age 2 he was completely non-verbal. In the last 3 years he has acquired a lot of language and words. 6 months ago he was primarily communicating with 1 to 2 word phrases, and today he can communicate in up to 5 words. We have come a long way!
Before he could verbally communicate he did attempt to communicate in other ways. His preferred method of communication then, and even today, is to pull and guide us. He will point, and he will hand us the things that he wants. These behaviors and actions are communication. Although, he is able to use these alternative methods of communication, as a parent I have always had a desire to hear him use his voice. I longed for the day, in which I would hear his little voice say “I love you”.
Even when he had no words, I still seemed to know exactly what he wanted. As a mother, my intuition has guided me into knowing his needs and desires. Our intuition allows us to listen to things with more than just our ears, and to see with more than just our eyes. Our intuition allows us to see with our heart and spirit. Through this lens we see the energy and life that flows through our child. Even if your child never learns to speak, and never utters the words “I love you“, you will know they love you through the connection you have built with them. The connection between you allows you to understand that which can not be verbally said, because Love defies normal means of communication.
I know it’s difficult to raise a child with limited to no verbal ability, but just because they can’t speak does not mean they have nothing to say. Remember that there is a form of communication that transcends words, it is called LOVE.
AusomeLife 