Learning to Listen with More Than my Ears

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Last night my son Cooper was listening to a song on his iPad.

The tune was familiar. In fact, I bet I’ve been hearing the same song on and off for ten plus years.

I was doing something in the kitchen when he came in.

My six-year-old was hungry.
My daughter wanted bubbles.
My kitchen was dirty.
And here comes my son, dancing.

He touched my arm for a second. Then a second longer.

He forced my attention. He smiled. A smirk really.

And he touched my ear.

That means listen in his world.

So, I stopped what I was doing.

I stopped making and cleaning and rushing.

‘Every animal talks in their own special way.’

That’s what the song said.

When the words registered, he touched his own chest. Then lips.
Then my lips.
And smiled.

He was telling me he talks in his own special way.

Nonspeaking autism. Nonverbal autism. Call it what you want.

Then he growled. Like a polar bear in the song.

How’s that for talking in your own special way.

I’m so lucky to have a person in my life who demands that I slow down. And dance in the kitchen. And listen with more than my ears.

Cooper is at adaptive summer camp today. He was so excited to attend. He woke me up at 6 am to tell me.

Can I just say as a mom to a child with a disability, I am so thankful for programs that include our kids. It means the world.

I just added two events to my speaking calendar. I would love for you to come see me if you are able!