A friend made me aware of this story yesterday. I can't remember how many times I have told people, that my son, Paul, who was considered non-verbal before 5 years of age, really DOES know what is going on around him. It has been documented in many cases, how autistic people who are able to communicate later in life, remember and comment on things that happened many years before.
In my family, Paul, who would not talk in front of people when he knew they were around, I saw talk in the mirror and comment on things that happened earlier. Even now, at age 33, he will run into people he hasn't seen in over 25 years, and ask how their family is, and where is the car they were driving at the time (he likes cars)! Usually his comments are followed by shock and stares from the person, who is shock just as much by the fact he was talking, as my his memory. I often refer to Paul to help me remember people's names, and where we saw them.
Please know, that although someone does not react in the manner you expected, it does NOT MEAN that they don't understand what was said, or what happened, it just means they can't communicate the way you do. It is my belief that the truth always comes out. Praise God, that the father in this story was able to get recordings of what was happening in his son's classroom.
I listen to my son. When he says he doesn't like someone, and I ask why, quite often he can't tell me why, he just says "Because I don't want to." That has to be enough for me. I know it will only hold up in the court that "mommy" keeps!
It doesn't matter if your child is considered 'special needs', or not, you have to listen, with wisdom and reason to not only what they say, but the behaviors they manifest.
"Every child born into this world is a new thought of God an ever-fresh and radiant possibility." (Kate Douglas Wiggin)
As parents, we are given this responsibility by God, to make the most of this blessing, and help them to be best person they can be.
Have a great day, and God bless,
Phoebe.
