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Most Parents Are Listening Wrong (Nonverbal Autism) with Mike Carr
Description
Communication with a nonverbal autistic child can feel overwhelming, confusing, and at times impossible.
In this episode of Autism Labs, Mike Carr shares a powerful and practical framework that shifts the focus from speaking to listening, specifically, how we listen.
Drawing from the concept of adaptive listening, Mike explains how communication in autism extends far beyond words. For individuals with limited or no verbal language, meaning is often expressed through body language, facial expressions, pacing, tone, and behavior.
Mike introduces four distinct listening styles. Support, Immerse, Advance, and Discern and explains how mismatching your listening style with your child’s needs can lead to frustration, escalation, and missed connection.
Through a real-life example with his nonverbal son, Mike illustrates how adjusting his listening approach led to a breakthrough moment of joy, understanding, and connection.
This episode is especially valuable for parents, caregivers, and professionals supporting individuals with profound autism, communication challenges and behavioral needs.
If communication feels stuck, this episode offers a clear and hopeful path forward.
Key Takeaways:
• Why communication is more than words in autism
• How to interpret nonverbal communication signals
• The 4 listening styles and when to use them
• How to reduce anxiety and prevent escalation
• Why parent regulation is critical for connection
Listen now to learn how better listening can create better outcomes.