A mother's journey helping her nonverbal son communicate through controversial spelling methods

Summary

Micha Boyett shares her personal experience as the mother of Ace, her 11-year-old son with Down syndrome and autism who is nonspeaking. She discusses the controversial spelling methods used to help nonspeaking individuals communicate by pointing to letters, which require a communication partner. Boyett argues that the debate over whether the words truly belong to the nonspeaker misses the point — what matters is the connection and communication itself. She reflects on the challenges, joys, and societal skepticism surrounding these methods, ultimately advocating for trusting and supporting nonspeaking individuals' ability to communicate.

Source

bskyA mother's journey helping her nonverbal son communicate through controversial spelling methodswbur.org