Supporting Non-Speaking Autism through Communication

hello! i’m Nia

Wife, mother, & caregiver

Hello! I’m Nia. My work and my life currently center on supporting non-speaking autism through connection and communication. I’m an American mom living in Japan, with over 18 years of experience teaching language and literacy in Thailand, China, and Japan. I also hold a master’s degree in education. I’ve spent most of my adult life working with both children and adults to build confidence, communication, and connection through language.

However, everything I thought I knew about literacy and learning changed when my son was diagnosed with nonverbal autism. Specifically, becoming a mom reshaped how I understand learning. I don’t have all the answers. I am a person who can relate.

Supporting Non-Speaking Autism at Home

I spent years thinking of “progress” in terms of curriculum and milestones, but my son has taught me that real progress often looks like a shared glance, a quiet moment of regulated play, or finding a way to bridge the gap between our two worlds. This journey isn’t a straight line, and it’s rarely easy. Actually, I’ve realized that while I was trying to be the teacher, I was the one who had the most to learn. I had to learn what it means to truly listen: not just with my ears, but with my heart.

As I share what has worked for us, I also know that everything must be adapted. After all, no single approach works for every child or family. I want to be supportive while also being honest about the fact that I still struggle. This space is not about having answers. It’s about learning as we go.

I believe that, “If they can’t learn the way we teach, we must teach the way they learn.” — Ignacio Estrada

Learning Our Connection is where I hope to create a welcoming, inclusive space for supporting neurodivergent and diverse learners. I want to share resources, materials, and personal experiences. Truly, they are not solutions, but possibilities.

Please take what helps, leave what doesn’t, and know that you are not alone as we move through this difficult journey with love for the people we care for. Thank you for being here.