Unveiling the Power of Non-Speaking Communication

In a world that often prioritises verbal expression, there exists a rich and diverse mode of communication that extends beyond the spoken word. I interviewed Chitra Paul, a dedicated advocate and parent of a non-speaking autistic individual named Tarun. We discuss their journey, challenges, triumphs, and the work they're doing to redefine how society views non-speaking communication.

Tarun’s Journey

Tarun was diagnosed as autistic at three (3) years old, in India. The initial medical prognosis was far from optimistic, but Chitra and her husband were fuelled by determination and love, refusing to accept the deficit-based diagnosis they were provided. Tarun faced numerous challenges – from limited fine and gross motor skills to difficulty in expressing himself verbally. Chitra emphasised the importance of early interventions, shedding light on the proactive steps they took to expose Tarun to daily experiences such as shopping and family outings.

As Chitra navigated the early days, it became evident that the love for Tarun and the unwavering belief in his potential were catalysts for overcoming the hurdles. While Tarun wasn't speaking in the conventional sense, his keen understanding was apparent, hinting at the depth of his comprehension.

Communication Breakthrough: Beyond Spoken Words

The turning point in Tarun's communication journey was marked by the introduction of alternative forms of expression. Tarun's non-speaking status didn't equate to a lack of understanding or emotions. Chitra shared how, with the help of a special educator, Tarun started using typing as a means of communication. Tarun began expressing himself in full sentences, demonstrating a remarkable grasp of language through the written word.

Tarun's strengths became increasingly evident as he found his voice through typing. His love for music, displayed through a powerful ear and an ability to convey musical notes through his AAC device, showcased the depth of his talents. He not only cleared basic levels in music exams but also broke new ground by utilising technology to express his knowledge.

In addition to music, Tarun displayed a natural affinity for patterns, whether in mathematics or poetry. Chitra illuminated how Tarun's unique way of seeing the world, through patterns and rhythm, became a strength that set him apart.

Tarun's Unique Strengths

?Musical Aptitude: Tarun possesses an extraordinary ear for music. He has cleared basic levels in music exams and uses his AAC device to convey intricate musical notes.

?Pattern Recognition: A natural pattern recogniser, Tarun excels in identifying patterns not just in music but also in mathematics and poetry. This unique strength contributes to his ability to see connections that others might overlook.

?Mathematical Prowess: Tarun's love for math extends beyond conventional expectations. He has effortlessly delved into higher-grade mathematics, surprising those around him with his innate mathematical aptitude.

?Poetry and Lyricism: Tarun infuses his writing with a touch of lyricism, bringing a poetic dimension to his expressions.

Despite excelling in certain areas, Tarun encounters challenges related to spatial awareness and the visual aspects of writing. These challenges, however, don't diminish his capabilities; instead, they underscore the need for understanding and accommodation in various facets of life.

The Empowering Book: "Talking Fingers: Voices of Indian Non-Speaking Autistics"

To amplify the voices of non-speaking individuals and share the experiences of these individuals on similar journeys, Chitra, along with another parent, Padma, brought out the book titled "Talking Fingers." This collaborative effort serves as a testament to the resilience and strength of the non-speaking community. The authors, all non-speaking individuals, aimed to bridge the gap in understanding by sharing their stories.

The motivation behind the book was to kickstart a mindset change in India, where awareness about neurodiversity, especially in the context of non-speaking individuals, is still in its nascent stages. The authors intended to inspire a shift in perspective, urging society to recognise the cognitive abilities and unique communication methods of non-speaking individuals.

The Power of Community

The transformative journey of Tarun wouldn't have been possible without the unwavering support of dedicated parents and educators who saw beyond the limitations that medical professionals might have perceived. Chitra and her husband, driven by love and a belief in Tarun's potential, took proactive steps to expose him to various experiences.

The special educator who believed in Tarun's ability to understand beyond what was conventionally perceived played a pivotal role. By introducing typing as a mode of communication, she opened a gateway for Tarun to express himself fully. The initial scepticism gave way to an acknowledgment of Tarun's profound understanding and intelligence.

The inclusive schooling experience, made possible by teachers who embraced the concept of neurodiversity, further contributed to Tarun's growth.

His classmates became natural peer buddies, and the support extended by the school community showcased the power of inclusive education.

Redefining Communication: Beyond Verbal Expression

While verbal communication is the primary form of communication across the globe, Chitra emphasises that it is merely one form of expression. Tarun's story challenges the prevailing notion that speech is the sole indicator of intelligence or emotional depth. Through typing and other modes of non-speaking communication, Tarun illuminates the vast spectrum of ways individuals can convey thoughts, feelings, and ideas.

Non-speaking communication isn't a limitation; it's a rich tapestry of gestures, facial expressions, written words, and other forms that together form a comprehensive language. Recognizing and appreciating this diversity is crucial in fostering inclusive societies that accommodate and celebrate the unique ways individuals communicate.