* This video is not totally safe for work (nsfw)!*
Our assumptions can shape lives.
If we assume a child cannot do something, we rob them of chances to practice and grow that skill. I work with many children who do not speak and who may never speak. But I do not know what the future has in store for these children.
What happens if I equate a lack of verbal speech to a lack of communication? What happens if I stop trying to communicate? Stop giving that child chances and tools to communicate with me? Every time I make that assumption that child loses another chance to show me they can.
Assume that they can, and maybe they will.
