A note about communication

I just put Charlie's sheets and pillow cases and blue blanket into the washing machine because I just realized, at a quarter after 2am, that they are wet.

I had been wondering why Charlie, who woke at 4am Wednesday morning and had a good day at school, a happy bike ride ('what a difference a day makes' texth Jim), and two family walk-runs in the cool night, was wide awake as midnight approached.

As I carry the heavy wet load down to the basement, I think, we must teach Charlie how to tell us 'wet bed.'

Then I think of how he has been up and awake, standing by his bed with his iPad at times. I think, he has been telling us that his bed is wet, that's why he has not gone to sleep.

Words are only the tip of the iceberg of what needs to get said.

 

Comments

[Ann Bell]

This is such an important revelation! I have a 34 y.o. autistic son living with us. I have learned that his odd behaviors are always his way of communicating with us. He is asking for assistance with something. There is always a logic to it all. We just need to "listen" better.

[Kristina Chew]

@Ann, It's great to hear from you! Yes, there is always a 'logic' -- it does just take some time to figure it out and learn how to listen -- lately it feels like Charlie has been trying to tell us a lot more, in his various ways. Hope things are well with your son and family and thank you again--