A Cell Phone Opened Communication for My Nonspeaking Son

To be honest, I questioned myself. But I had a dream laced with hope and determination.

Verbally speaking is not possible for my son right now. He shows no desire. We’ve modeled pretty much every other type of communication you can imagine too.

Sometimes his autism feels like a closed door. Or something just out of reach. I can see but I want more. For him. For me.

We’ve been practicing texting.

Words. Selfies. GIFs of trains.

He sends to me or dad or his brother. And when we receive we make a really big deal about it so he sees and hears.

Cause. Effect. In real time.

Two nights ago he text me for the first time independently.

I was at junior high orientation for my second son.

A ding on my phone.

A message from Cooper Swenson.

The message read…

Train

Train Zoo

And that’s how it started. Him texting me the names of the things he loves.

And me responding with photos and GIFs.

He’s spelling. He’s typing.

I’m in awe honestly. I had no idea this was possible.

This morning I woke up to a text reading….

Big blue train

And then this morning we practiced…

I love you.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook.