If you were non-speaking
I’d really love to hear from any autistic adults who didn't speak as a child or teen (whether you do now or not).
I am an autistic adult myself but was verbal, but I care for a 4 year old autistic little one who is non-speaking nearly 100% of the time (just the odd word a couple times a month). I'd like to gain a greater understanding from those who have maybe been in his shoes of how he might see the world.
• What was that experience was like? • Why didn't you speak (as I assume it can vary which some people it being a choice for comfort, other being unable?) • And what was helpful from your care givers or do you wish they had done?
I hope I have worded everything to not offend. I'm happy to be kindly educated if not so I can learn.
PS we are helping him learn other ways of communication and helping him to know his thoughts and feelings are valuable.