Advocates work with clients who often find communicationg difficult. This story recount the experience one of our advocates had working with a non-verbal client.
My first visit to a home in my area was the day I realized that advocacy was for me.
I met a person who was non-verbal, appeared very sad, and cried continuously throughout the day. We sat down for a one-to-one session, and I spread out my emotion cards to see what reaction I might get. Their eyes widened, and they stopped crying. With a gentle touch of their hands, I helped guide them to the cards.
Their face became excited, and we began to work through some simple things, like favourite colours— ‘Pink and Purple’ were their choices. Next, we explored what they liked to do. Water seemed to bring them great excitement. We explored everything from baths to swimming pools. Using a version of a talking mat, it became clear that this person was very sensory, and the idea of water made them happy.
At first, the staff were a little apprehensive, but I suggested a swimming session just to see how they would react. Water play was also introduced, and the expressions on the person’s face made my heart melt. No frowns or tears, just genuine smiles of joy.
On my following visit, the client’s face was joyful, with a smile from ear to ear. I asked, “Are you happy?” and the sound and excitement said it all. The staff couldn’t express enough how successful swimming had been. The person had chosen their swimsuit colour the week before and had been introduced to the pool. Staff said they were so happy and would be going again.
They continue with the swimming sessions, and staff have reported that sadness is not as frequent. Every visit, we sit and explore more, finding new and exciting things this person can try.
No words have been exchanged, but body language, talking mats, and emotion cards have worked wonders for this person that no one was listening to before.