Autistic Girl Found Her Eloquence with a Computer

Carly Fleischmann is severely autistic and cannot speak a word to express herself ... until her parents put her in front of a computer:

Two years ago, working with pictures and symbols on a computer keyboard, she started typing and spelling out words. The computer became her voice.

"All of a sudden these words started to pour out of her, and it was an exciting moment because we didn't realize she had all these words," said speech pathologist Barbara Nash. "It was one of those moments in my career that I'll never forget."

Then Carly began opening up, describing what it was like to have autism and why she makes odd noises or why she hits herself.

"It feels like my legs are on fire and a million ants are crawling up my arms," Carly said through the computer.

Link - via Linkbunnies


Newest 5
Newest 5 Comments

Having worked with severely autistic children for nearly 6 years, I'm a little skeptical as well. I've heard some people spin some pretty crazy facilitated comm stories. Amazing if this is true though. I'm surprised that a computer works so well where picture symbols and sign language fails (assuming they tried those paths first).
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
i read about this just a few days ago. it's so sad to think that she was always able to think these thoughts but never able to tell them to other people. it is truly amazing.
Abusive comment hidden. (Show it anyway.)
Login to comment.




Email This Post to a Friend
"Autistic Girl Found Her Eloquence with a Computer"

Separate multiple emails with a comma. Limit 5.

 

Success! Your email has been sent!

close window
X

This website uses cookies.

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using this website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

I agree
 
Learn More