I spent 20 years working as a speech-language pathologist in New York public schools. My students were challenged in their communication. 

Despite their limitations, however, they found ways to get attention, express their needs, and connect with others.

For example, one boy who couldn’t speak aloud always greeted me with wide, bright eyes, a head nod, and an enormous smile. It was his way of saying hello. Without words, he made it clear he was excited to see me.

These small gestures opened enormous doors in my students’ relationships with others.