Different Isn’t Scary

Parent: I wish my autistic child could talk to me.

Parent: I wish my child with autism could communicate with me.

Parent: I wish I knew what my nonverbal child was thinking.

Parent: I wish I knew what my child loved.

Child: Listen and I will show you in the most mysterious ways. Be prepared to wait. And to listen to more than just words.

My son Cooper has started taking photos with his iPad. Hundreds and hundreds a day.

I know because the iPad is linked to my iPhone and every day I max out my iCloud storage…with 500 plus videos and photos. It partially drives me bonkers. And also makes me smile as I look at his world on my phone.

Cooper just turned ten years old. He has very few words. The ones he does have are hard to understand and reserved for his people.

He’s a pretty great kid. He photographs things he loves. Trains. Tractors. Characters from his favorite shows. Movies he wants to buy.

I used to think communication had to be spoken. That was before my son opened my mind, heart, and world. And taught me to truly listen.

He wants to ride a tractor.

He likes The Wiggles.

His favorite trains are red.

He wants me to order him a TM Catalog.

He took 100 photos of the phone number for me.

Our world is different than most. It’s also amazing. Remember that.

Different isn’t scary. Different isn’t weird. It’s just…different. And it can also be wonderful too.

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, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.