Look Beyond Severe Autism to Presume Competence

Back in 2020, during the height of the pandemic, I immersed myself in every virtual roundtable I could find featuring nonspeaking adults with open communication. My goal was simple but ambitious: to learn how their parents helped them overcome severe autism. I believed that if only my bright student could control his impulses, the sky would truly be the limit.

One roundtable stood out. It featured a nonspeaker renowned for his academic achievements. This individual, currently pursuing a PhD in a medical field at an elite university, embodied everything we hope our children can achieve.

As I watched, the nonspeaker amazed me. He rapidly typed insightful, brilliant responses to audience questions, each one more thoughtful than the last. I felt a wave of excitement and possibility.

Then, something happened that changed me forever. Without warning, he stood up, took off his shirt, and walked out of the room. His mother quickly followed, and a minute later, he returned with her help, fully clothed.

That moment was transformative. For the first time, I saw severe autism behaviors coexisting with undeniable brilliance.

The Key to Presuming Competence

Presuming competence isn’t about choosing the perfect curriculum or managing dysregulation with flawless precision. It’s about letting go of the belief that outward behaviors define intelligence. It’s about seeing beyond what your eyes tell you.

Every one of our students present as intellectually disabled—even those officially recognized as brilliant.

If you've been fortunate enough to experience in-person Spell2Communicate (S2C) lessons, you know exactly what I mean. Watching your student spell out college-level words or articulate complex thoughts changes you. Once you see it, you can’t unsee it—and your student won’t let you forget it, either.

Recognizing Brilliance in Your Student

Until you reach that moment, I encourage you to follow nonspeaking adults on social media. Many share honest accounts of their physical struggles while simultaneously showcasing their talents and achievements. The more examples you see of brilliance alongside severe autism behaviors, the more you’ll learn to recognize it in your own student. The movie SPELLERS, available for free on YouTube, is another great place to begin.

Take the First Step Toward Presuming Competence

Are you ready to unlock your student’s potential and witness their brilliance? At Nonverbal Autism Homeschool, we specialize in equipping parents with the tools and guidance to presume competence, embrace alternative communication methods, and create a path to success. We also meet national education standards so you'll comply with state homeschool regulations.

Sign up today and join a growing community of families who believe in brilliance beyond behaviors. Let’s reimagine what’s possible—together.