When parents bring their bundle of joy home from the hospital, they have no idea who that little
person will become. The amazing thing about children and young brains is that they are
remarkably resilient. Even when presented with difficulty in learning verbal communication,
many children faced with language delays find their own unique ways of communicating their
wants and needs. As adults, we have the special privilege of helping them decode their
encrypted messages. Turning their head in the direction of their favorite food, pointing to their
cup that is just out of reach, holding out their hand so you will walk with them, and crying when
presented with broccoli. These are all nonverbal ways of children communicating what they
want without having to use a single word. Watch a child’s behavior and see what they might
have been telling you all along.
Communication: It’s More Than Just Words
