An Autistic Nonspeaking Teen (And How We Became Friends)

Gabe is an autistic teenager who is nonspeaking. As we sat together, I turned on some music since we are both big fans of classic rock. After a few minutes of listening together, Gabe smiled and put his hand on my shoulder. At that point I knew we had formed a friendship through our mutual interest.
Follow Gabe's family at:
/ @fortheloveofgabe
/ nicolegottesmann
Support SBSK at / sbsk
SBSK's Socials:
/ specialbooksbyspecialkids
/ chrisulmer
/ specialbooksbyspecialkids

[@SpecialBooksbySpecialKids]

I hope you enjoy meeting Gabe as much as I did. It was a nice reminder that words are just one of many ways to communicate with others. Anybody who would like to follow this loving family on KZbin can do so at www.youtube.com/@fortheloveofgabe

[@lanaxv]

mhm

[@mybrokenmindddd]

@@lanaxv GABE IS A GOOD FREAKING HUMAN BEING JUST BECAUSE HE CAN'T SPEAK IF YOU HAVE AN ISSUE GO CRY TO YOUR MOM PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AND DISABILITIES ARE IMPORTANT IN THIS WORLD

[@JoeGameVideos]

wish he was allowed to play video games... then i would play along for sure

[@lanaxv]

@@mybrokenmindddd huh....

[@maycasper2661]

What a unique life... Everyone thinks life is about getting married, or having experiences or having children or being successful. In reality the meaning of life is life. I'm glad that some of us can have more unique walks through this bed of strange flowers. Thanks for what you do. Its very important to this world. Thanks for that smile, too. c: May God be with you.

[@nothingposted9056]

You say "cookie" and he becomes alert. That's a teenager right there.

[@Melancholian]

Yes

[@lindalarsson1436]

How are they communicating

[@nothingposted9056]

@@lindalarsson1436 he lifts up his head to let everyone know he is interested in the cookie

[@vomm]

I want a cookie too now

[@BookwormArtistASMR]

@@lindalarsson1436 ever heard of body language?

[@BookwormArtistASMR]

Autism stereotype: hating eye-contact Gabe: communicating through eye-contact proves once more that stereotypes are bs.

[@isaacvoorheis8158]

I'd say it's less of a stereotype and more of a symptom of autism. though it is a symptom of autism, some outliers that don't exhibit this symptom, such as Gabe, exist. Just like some people who have autism are non-verbal, but others are verbal.

[@iamlabyrinthh]

@@isaacvoorheis8158Exactly, as I’m someone who has high-functioning autism, I can say that I have a hard time maintaining secure eye contact when communicating with different groups of people. People forget that’s called a “spectrum” for a reason.

[@peterharrell7305]

​@iamlabyrinthh I remember being young and having extreme problems with holding eye contact with people. I don't know if I'm autistic or not. I learned to force the eye contact and deal with the feelings I got. The feelings have subsided after decades of doing this. But, now people tell me that my gaze is absolutely piercing. Coworkers comment to me that my heavy, sustained eye contact is almost too uncomfortable for them sometimes. I usually say "well, now you know how I felt as a kid."

[@BookwormArtistASMR]

@@peterharrell7305 autism isn't diagnosed just by the way you hold eye-contact. A lot of kids are shy and can't hold eye-contact for long.

[@BookwormArtistASMR]

@@isaacvoorheis8158 i'd say it's both. Stereotypes usually come from symptoms.

[@ItsAboutPeaceBaby]

Gabe needs some musical instruments... a guitar, a synthesizer. Something so he can express himself musically. I bet he would love it.

[@Laura-kl7vi]

How do you know he doesn't have these things? It's impossible they didn't think of this since you, a casual stranger briefly watching him enjoy music, could deduce that this might be a good idea. They see him loving music, dancing to it 24/7/365.

[@melody88_88]

​@Laura-kl7vi you seem angry, chill..

[@mathias_8996]

⁠@@Laura-kl7viwow they were only sharing an idea, no need to unleash your anger onto them

[@GeorgeSantosKR]

That's sad, he's too handsome to be such a ret4rd3d.

[@giovanna722]

​@@Laura-kl7vi Why so edgy? The commenter wasn't.

[@danbull]

Gabe is very present in these conversations, it doesn't matter if his body language is different and he doesn't speak... autistic people are underestimated so much of the time, I'm glad he appears to have a loving family who appreciate him the way he is and allow him to engage with them in the way that works for him

[@-Hari-03]

agreed. just because they may appear "different" in social situations like these doesnt mean theyre not aware and engaged in the conversation

[@massiahgrom]

My autistic cousin was alawys someone I wanted to be around . I was broken hearted when he was instutionlized . He became big and aggressive . I love him . My cousin Marco .

[@-Elsa-MC-]

He’s such a handsome boy but he is on he’s little world 🌎

[@MAnon-sq5nf]

He doesn't speak because hes embarrassed of his lesbian mother

[@azambresonia5056]

Shame on you ! This young boy can be happy not being in your surroundings.​@@MAnon-sq5nf

[@ElvenSailor_Main]

Gabe 100% gives off angelic elf prince vibes

[@salvie777]

RIGHT?!!

[@resilientbeyondwords]

Totally agree

[@_o6629]

Such a pleasant lil boy. Truly previous smile

[@mapletreemeyer6184]

Yesss❤

[@lauranicole3068]

Totally!!! Now that you say it, I see it!

[@pesa9518]

Getting a light tap and small smile from Gabe is so much more meaningful than most conversations ppl have.

[@verahamoen2742]

This it made me cry, I've worked in care with people like Gabe, and when you are able to make contact on a level that they feel safe with, it is the best. Everything could go wrong during a shift, but having a smile from one of the clients who didn't make contact that easely, would allways be the best of the day.

[@livmarlin4259]

How do you know?

[@JustOneMoreVermin]

Exactly

[@JustOneMoreVermin]

@@livmarlin4259 im assuming they meant that as a general statement. I work with kids with ASD that are non speaking and i think once you get a connection with them, it feels more authentic than most interactions with neurotypical people

[@jleos0095]

@@livmarlin4259 your ignorance is amazing.

[@lifesanitch404]

He’s just like the silent protagonist in video games.

[@user-qn3bh4cv8h]

frfrfr

[@rishiranjansingh8754]

Red from Pokemon? 😂

[@kumozumo]

link!

[@balboa9439]

@@rishiranjansingh8754 Claude from GTA3

[@Ligmaarse]

Link

[@NormalHuman1..1]

he's so handsome even the smile is innocently cute

[@GeorgeSantosKR]

That's sad, he's too handsome to be such a ret4rd3d.

[@adasahlin1742]

As a autistic person it’s nice to finally see parents who don’t try to “fix” or “cure” anything. They don’t think he is less than and they don’t think that he is incapable of communication. It’s unfortunately pretty rare to see

[@stanjones2492]

I think most parents are just trying to get their kids to a point where they can take care of themselves

[@PixelTheExtraTerrestrial]

I dont think its rare to see it depends what lense you are looking through one of internilsed abilism tht makes u mad at most things parents of autistic kids do that are just trying the best with no manual or if your looking at the non intenilisef abilism lense cuz theres alot of them out there dude im autistic too

[@user-jh7gy9jj4p]

Какие родители?!

[@user-jh7gy9jj4p]

Какие родители?!

[@lovingmayberry307]

@Cat litter angyl I don't think anyone was parent shaming. Be calm.

[@TravisMcMurray]

There are so many LGBTQIA parents out there raising children with disabilities. Thank you so so so much for featuring this beautiful family.

[@xelith6157]

@@abigailaluebhousele1297 What an insightful comment full of nuance; this was truly a learning experience. Thank you for your life-changing wisdom.

[@TangleHamain]

Probably cus we care.. not like straight parents who are abandoning their children or ab*sing them..

[@HouseOfVirgo]

You mean There are so many humans raising children with disabilities.

[@TravisMcMurray]

@@HouseOfVirgo No, actually. I meant what I said. I have a pretty good handle on the English language.

[@unclesam6386]

@@TravisMcMurray No one cares that your lGbtQiA. Its not about you, narcissist. Its about the children that are being presented here and those like them. The fact that you're LGBTQ is irrelevant. Again, no one cares!

[@dorogy4586]

He's such a handsome boy. Such a beautiful smile. His connection with Chris over the music is so sweet. I love this channel

[@adventuresinsplashmountain6]

Gabe is very sweet

[@pureffm]

Yes, you could tell the gay man was shipping him. Not sure if I find this healthy or not.

[@dorogy4586]

@@pureffm !!!!"d¿

[@jichukittyy]

@@pureffm?

[@kalissaisreallycool]

@@pureffmhelp what 😭

[@maddiesconfusedlife9023]

I love how aware Gabe is even if he is nonverbal. HE’S SO CUTE😩

[@anonymouse2059]

He's a teen

[@liv8095]

@@anonymouse2059she's probably a teen too..

[@paulcox2447]

proof looks matter more than personality lol.

[@chilo8187]

He’s nonverbal, not brain damaged!

[@jenniferleyden6557]

I love that Chris takes the time to sit, observe, leave space, and meet someone where they are. Such an important lesson for all of us.

[@oceaneo4603]

Sure he gave him space. I think we all need that time to time.

[@MamaGator]

When I got a job at a local paper I was slightly overwhelmed because I never went to school. I spent years watching Chris though and began watching him closer and I think I really learned how to be a decent interviewer because of him. He and his partner and this channel is such a treasure to have online, for soOOo many reasons

[@deeanna8448]

He's SO good at it! He can connect with anyone. As a person who has difficulty connecting with people, I envy that skill.

[@JackMiller-lq4qd]

@@MamaGator lol I have coop this summer

[@bendiviolet]

One thing though - when you're talking to an autistic person, don't look at them continuously, like Chris did. Look away from time to time., (this video is great, it's just a minor thing, but don't put someone with autism under continuing eye contact. It can feel challenging)

[@fastnpray4271]

This is legit the most valuable channel on the internet. What a gift. Thank you.

[@scottcadger7103]

SBSK is a treasure. The work he and his partner do is enlightening, interesting, and shows a kindness that is rare to say the least.

[@asuicuneontheobx823]

@@jeffhandley3224 Chomo say what

[@nagromgsemaj]

I'm constantly amazed at what I see on this channel it's hard to put into words, it's pure feeling in a way that I don't experience very often any other way (and I rarely feel moved to express a sentiment anything remotely like this).

[@cloudwalker1976]

yes.

[@amandahankins2731]

Yes it is

[@TheRumourMill]

“Where words fail, music speaks.”

[@sleepygyro]

Gabe’s mothers are so lovely. I’m glad this family exists. ❤❤

[@taopaille-paille4992]

They probably traumatized him in some way

[@user-en8zw6wv9i]

​@@taopaille-paille4992why do you think that? Not discrediting your opinion, truly curious as to how you gather that. Like when he was a baby you think something might have happened to make him that way?

[@seyornamathew4663]

​@@taopaille-paille4992I know you are a very religious person. You know how I know.. because they are the most dump😂

[@taopaille-paille4992]

@@user-en8zw6wv9i Obviouslly, not all children from homosexual parents are autistic, and not all children from heterosexual parents are non-autistic. Life is a matter of statistic, and i do not have any tangible element to sustain my "claim". It is more of a feeling of seeing the two mothers. Sometimes, you can see in indivudual that something is not right / twisted. And obviously, that is a very subjective question and very hard to prove

[@joanna0988]

​@@taopaille-paille4992Gabe had a father who died when his mom was pregnant.

[@meemaw-lao0wk]

im so glad that his parents dont see autism as an inherently bad thing and dont see gabe as a burden, i love this family so much

[@thomasvangompel7211]

Dissabilitie arent supposed to be burdened

[@Ethan-ee8rv]

The thing is… autism itself (as a sufferer) can be really hard to deal with. It’s important that we aren’t viewed as burdens though.

[@meemaw-lao0wk]

@@Ethan-ee8rv oh yeah totally! autism can still affect ur daily life and can be rlly hard to deal w especially if ur undiagnosed, but its not necessarily fatal and shouldnt be treated as smth to be cured yk 😯

[@ShadowIllusions]

why does he have two moms?

[@seoly3883]

@@ShadowIllusions they are a lesbian couple

[@elliganange]

I am a person with low support needs autism, and no one understands how much music means to me, how much I hear in the music the notes I can pick up and replicate with ease and no one ever wants to just enjoy music with me. That would mean a lot to me too and I am so glad Gabe got to enjoy that moment!

[@Heather_Morgan]

Thank you for sharing your personal insight. It's interesting considering we can all be sitting in the same room listening to a song together, but each one of us hears it differently. I've never thought about that before. I would gladly sit quietly and listen to music with you. 🥰 When I was younger, I really listened to music and noticed all the details and individual instruments. I loved and appreciated music so much. But as I've gotten older, music gradually became just background noise to ignore while trying to get work done or something to fill the silence while driving or performing some task. It's been a very long time since I've just sat and listened to music without distractions.

[@joroc]

I didn't know austists had interest in social

[@elliganange]

@@joroc ideally it would be nice to be called a person with autism rather than 'an autistic' it just sounds nicer. I'm a massively social person with autism I have a large group of friends I go to gatherings and parties. We're normal human beings with a brain that just works a little differently so just like there are "normal" people who enjoy being social and some who don't that applies to people with autism as well. I think the confusion can lie in the fact some people with autism have issues identifying social queues. I have no issue identifying social queues and responding to them but it's a constant active effort and it can be honestly exhausting pretending to be the same as a non autistic person.

[@elliganange]

@@Heather_Morgan I often use the KZbin algorithm to just listen to new music, it's amazing at offering things you enjoy. If I'm having a difficult day that's often how I'll spend an evening.

[@MeltedKittKat]

i would listen to music with you anytime

[@teresewecker]

I'm so impressed with that Chris guy.. I'll be so proud to have him as my son.. he exudes compassion, intelligence,, sympathy and empathy.. he will receive compensatory blessings for how he connects with the special children.

[@santosgarza3887]

Such a sweet boy, I have a autistic grandson, and he is nonverbal, but he tries to communicate with us with his hands, he is 16, yrs old and I love him very much, god bless you for being his friend.

[@anac7096]

I love it how Gabe's body language changes from the moment Chris puts on the music. You can see how much more comfortable, interactive and smiley he gets as time goes by. It’s lovely to watch his confidence bloom and his beautiful smile. 🥰

[@Velereonics]

Autistic people can have enhanced pitch processing and ability to identify emotional information in music, which is of course interesting because they do not comprehend emotional information that comes from body language or speaking tone well at all. I'm autistic so I have my theories on why all that is the way it is, but suffices to say that in therapy music is a good tool for autistic people to vent/channel emotions and process them. As long as it's music they like. In essence, guy puts on music Gabe also likes, to him it's like a huge amount of information they can pass back and forth through the experience of listening to the song and knowing they are both having a good experience from the same thing. Neither person has to say anything.

[@crow4936]

Wonder if he like Heavy Metal.....😁

[@crow4936]

​@@Velereonicstrue I'm on the spectrum and I feel more emotion from music than normies. Also I like to send songs to people with lyrics or melody in that communicate how I feel.

[@marianneglinda]

Gabe is a rock star....l hear Freddie, l see Bowie

[@marianneglinda]

Gabe is a rock star....l hear Freddie, l see Bowie

[@pm2886]

This boy is very intelligent. He doesn't miss a thing. He's measuring those around him.

[@Kathy-pr4wu]

I bet he could speak if he wanted to, but why not just let the adults around him make the effort to figure him out instead? If I carried a child all of its life would it ever learn to walk? If I solved a kid's problems every time they met a challenge, would they ever learn to think for themself?

[@datemrzeadatisedive6291]

@@Kathy-pr4wu I don't think autism works that simple

[@pm2886]

@@Kathy-pr4wu You're partially correct, but there's more to it. There is definitely a difference between these individuals and us .. but HOW and WHY that difference originates remains a mystery to science. There is (stastistically and scientifically speaking) a higher likelihood that it results from very early conditioning, than any kind of genetics or accident of birth. We know that from the huge amount of research carried out in the 20thC. For reasons we don't fully understand, this early conditioning (what used to be called 'orphan syndrome') seems to coincide with either limited intelligence, or hyper intelligence. We may never understand the mechanism, but it's crucially important that we keep studying this phenomenon - without impediment from obstructive politico-social ideologies.

[@pm2886]

@@Kathy-pr4wu I also wanted to say that those who would condemn your words, are the obstructors I refer to. Ask yourself whose interests it's in to demonise this very important research. How on earth does it help these kids, to refuse to consider ALL possibilities? It doesn't. It never will. This obstruction is purely for the comfort of the 'healthy' individuals in the autist's orbit. They don't like what it may be saying about their role in the person's condition. Always look for the motive behind the anti-science, and if there's even a trace of self-interest in it, you know it's both unsound, and unkind.

[@cynarancia]

@@Kathy-pr4wu nonspeaking autism isn't a matter of willpower or being coddled

[@ElectricSpokes]

There is something beautiful about him. That smile was so genuine and filled with emotion. He can really express himself in ways most people cannot.

[@tennolife9930]

It's that childlike joy you lose once you become a teenager, yet he still has it, I actually envy him. I wish I could be his friend, trying to see the things he enjoys and doing them with him is something all of us could use every now and then,

[@AmeliaEarhart537]

​@@tennolife9930 My I think second cousin's 18 and he's the same way. He can't say much and they think he's autistic.

[@TheBeezusjones]

Yep cuz you know it's genuine, not second guessed or filtered. Pure.

[@Vikki_G_]

Gabe is beautiful, he could literally be a supermodel. 😍

[@justbinji7718]

I noticed how tall he was. I thought he was 15-16. But man, he sure is a tall for a 13 year old.

[@TheStepmonkey]

Yea he is so tall and handsome, he could easily be a model and make a good career 💗

[@Sherryk546]

I just realized that he did do a runway walk at fashion week if you check out their channel!

[@skypie5374]

I thought the absolute same! He’s tall and such a handsome boy.

[@elissaraptor]

I love that Caroline called herself Gabe's "bonus mom" and how even Nikki at the end discussed the crossover lenses of being a widow, a mother of a child with autism, and being queer were all things that caused her once to shrink, and now... They're all blooming and growing and living openly! It's wonderful

[@shaunalea823]

But it not about them and how they choose to live it’s about this wonderful young man.

[@betha.6279]

She is absolutely beautiful inside and out! Both moms are!

[@deepakmenon6720]

@@shaunalea823 it's about the whole family and their experiences. Why are you triggered

[@elissaraptor]

@@shaunalea823 but my comment was. Why are you mad?

[@betha.6279]

@@shaunalea823 how his mom's met was a part of the story in the video. He clearly loves both of them. He is awesome and it's obvious his mom's have been an amazing support to him. It's ok to connect with everyone in this story.

[@sleepykitty1745]

The moment where Gabe touched your arm and smiled seems so special. Because you said "I enjoy listening to music with you." And it's almost like he reached out to say "Hey, me too!" Maybe almost like a reassurance, because people sometimes can't tell or even just an underlining of something he says through his eyes or his smile otherwise.

[@kylie-anneconnell4350]

I honestly got teary eyed 😢

[@officerjimlahey]

It's also possible that Gabe had no idea what he said.

[@BookwormArtistASMR]

As someone who hates making eye-contact, I'd probably be in a constant state of a social anxiety high with Gabe, but at the same time find it also really cool to have this type of intimate/different (in a good way) communication with someone.

[@AmeliaEarhart537]

Same

[@samillsbeb3878]

Just the way Gabe touched and smiled at Chris while listening to music melted my heart

[@elijahchesterthomas5334]

My daughter has nonverbal autism. To communicate she instead he uses her eyes and body gestures much like this young man here. I have three other children, none of them who have autism and she is probably the funniest of all of them. Once you get to know what they're trying to tell you, in their own way, they actually can have sense of humor just like anyone else. It's been such a joy having my little girl. Really glad to see this video. It made my day. Thank you

[@livmarlin4259]

Is she still alive?

[@charlief3169]

​@@livmarlin4259wtf why are you asking that??

[@Uuser1a2b3c]

@@livmarlin4259 why would you ask that? Autism is not a deadly thing

[@rayc9763]

Thank you for sharing:)

[@WishxFish]

@@livmarlin4259 💀

[@jayfurjill]

Oh wow, when Chris played 'Melancholy Blues' and Gabe turned to sit facing Chris, it gave me happy chills! The way he started making more eye contact with Chris....oh, my heart just warmed...

[@artofaries1113]

Yeah, I got chills too. I saw he was opening up.

[@saritalynnedwinabaker-brow8709]

Yeah he loved it

[@lovinitall6639]

He REALLY enjoyed that guy time.

[@regularly_priced]

This is why, as a verbal autistic person, I enjoy nonverbal communication like that. Nonverbal communication has a much greater capacity to induce strong positive feelings in other people than verbal communication(at least in my personal experience).

[@analuisabrandao95]

Such a beautiful moment

[@hudskito]

i cried so hard while watching this idk why. its just that his family is so sweet, he seems to be such a lovely boy, that just needs to be understood (like everyone does, we all!!). also, the way you sat together and listened to some good music was so so sweet. he liked it, he starter to really enjoyed it with time, and it was adorable to see. so lovely. people really deserve to be seen and loved. i love it!!

[@SG-we1qh]

I don't think I've watched a single one of these videos without crying. It's beautiful to see people love each other so much.

[@PlusVK22]

6:52 this was a very social moment right here and he maintained eye contact very well! ❤

[@mcgoo721]

Yo he was like "Yeah everyone knows Another One Bites The Dust, cool." But you hit him with that melancholy blues and and it really seemed to strike a chord.

[@Boonehams]

I was always partial to Keep Yourself Alive.

[@WhatwouldRoddyPiperdo]

@@Boonehams i

[@jpthescott5793]

I thought it was just the video edit so there is no copyright strike lol

[@emhoj97]

Yeah lol as a fellow autie I felt that. Well known song? Eh ok sure I'll enjoy it. Oh you know more? Now let's engage!

[@mcgoo721]

@@jpthescott5793 oh it certainly was. But he did mention that he put on the song Melancholy Blues and you can tell when the song really drops. He sits up and looks at him like "Oh you know know huh?"

[@MaxineHarmon]

Gabe is the most beautiful boy with the most intense eye contact. There is something magical about him. I've seen him on other social media before.

[@yurikido5732]

does he have Instagram by any chance?

[@longlongshadows392]

THIS!

[@alienbird5624]

He’s so cuteeee

[@shyspeaks9238]

@@yurikido5732 He does actually! I was just on their profile a few days ago

[@milkywave6222]

@@shyspeaks9238 what is it?

[@betbih65]

Gabe has such model like features. He is literally beautiful

[@jamiegoldsby1163]

I absolutely LOVED when you played melancholy blues, he sits up, and looks at the phone for a few seconds. I imagined as he was laying there and it started playing, he thought oh wow this is a good song! And had to sit up and really listen to it. That was a really cool moment. 💕

[@ilariacatini7752]

this guy has a beautiful smile

[@ilariacatini7752]

@h654bx1u8hk What? mine is a serious compliment to this guy what's your problem?

[@_justhaley]

@eun64d525yh5df of course looks are everything

[@leesalt2787]

He's a very handsome young man

[@officerjimlahey]

@@ilariacatini7752 He's pointing out that Gabe isn't that special, and that most people can't think of anything redeeming aboout Gabe's personality, except his looks.

[@sugarzblossom8168]

@@officerjimlahey but they are talking about his smile

[@dennisnolan5095]

Gabe is so lucky to have Nikki & Caroline, two moms who are 100% committed to make his life the best as it can be. Thank you (again), Chris, for introducing the world to another amazing kid with an outstanding family!

[@dannykr1223]

Hello Dennis, Can I ask you a question?

[@repentandbelieveinJesusChrist3]

Repent to Jesus Christ ““You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭5‬:‭14‬ ‭NIV‬‬ J

[@mt_gox]

@@EeeeKEEDYbeeky they're from another planet

[@dennisnolan5095]

@Irina Nadia Really? There are all kinds of ways that a child can be raised by two loving parents of the same gender.

[@dennisnolan5095]

All children deserve to be loved & raised in loving families. Remind me again, what exactly Jesus Christ said about this.

[@vsechtovizhu3]

Gabe is a very handsome guy with a beautiful smile. I am sending him and his mothers the warmest rays of support! You are such wonderful people

[@Carterborchers]

He’s such a handsome young man. I have two autistic sons. They had severe speech delays, but even during their nonverbal years, it was very obvious that receptive language and intellect was fully intact. These young men struggle to find a way to communicate what they think and feel. Some have learned to type, and what they have to say is amazingly profound. Gabe is beautiful!

[@Mrsluckysa]

I think they should give him a guitar. He really looks like he would enjoy learning to play

[@thebuilder5271]

He might, though if he has speech apraxia he may have other types of apraxia that would make it hard to do the fine motor movements required for guitar. There may be other instruments that don’t require that though

[@juliabrenska4925]

apparently, he just received a guitar as a christmas gift!

[@elisagrones2549]

@@juliabrenska4925 i love that! :)

[@d3adr3dhead]

During one of the music bonding clips I actually thought “I wonder if Chris can play guitar? Imagine if he whipped one out and tried to teach Gabe a few of the easy chords like Em, C, D, G, A.” (Standard chords for learners

[@bhwaaaHannah]

@@juliabrenska4925 Thank you for the lovely update, that is so good to hear!

[@Prisoner619B]

Them: "I would like people to understand that he is just like you and I!" Everyone in the comments: "Wow, its like he is from another world!!! 🤩🤭"

[@7kraska]

lol exactly

[@TopOfAllWorlds]

I think people in the comments mean it more like, the way he communicates and interacts is so different. They aren't saying he's not a person. That's what I like to think.

[@Vgp-rp4iu]

@@TopOfAllWorlds agreed. I don't think anyone is trying to be mean or anything but he just gives off that vibe.

[@LimitedEditioneo]

100% people are totally missing the point

[@AsandaMahlangu]

@@TopOfAllWorldsthey’re still missing the point

[@jillryan-fortier639]

Where I work we have a non-verbal person and most ppl don’t talk to the person, they don’t interact. One day I said and started asking the person questions! They answered with eye contact, and hand gestures. To this day when the person sees me, they run up to me and give me the biggest most awesome hug!!! And always walks me out, just to hold the doors open for me. I have to say non-verbal does not mean they can’t communicate, it’s just in a way most of us are not accustomed to

[@haulwen0564]

This is beautiful to read. I'm so pleased you made an effort and you are now friends ❤❤

[@nkemonwumah8241]

“Just because he’s different doesn’t mean he doesn’t understand everything “Treat him with respect,love,and kindness,as the unique individual that he is.❤

[@summermurray8258]

His eyes are SO expressive, it's incredible. It's close to telepathic. He is very ethereal. I wonder if he has synesthesia or something too when he looks around and listens to music.

[@harmony3747]

Ive followered their tiktok for a long time and have also always wondered this

[@bukai_oklm]

what is synesthesia?

[@summermurray8258]

@@jamiegdubois I think it's @fortheloveofgabe

[@summermurray8258]

@@bukai_oklm it's when your senses kind of combine in a way. So synesthesia is seeing shapes/colors when listening to things.

[@bukai_oklm]

@@summermurray8258 like when taking drugs XD

[@ohemdoublegee]

There was a documentary I watched about a girl that was autistic and nonverbal and one day she found a computer and she was able to type out her feelings and thoughts. She was like "I'm a 14 year old girl I want to talk about boys and I'm tired of people treating me like I'm a child". I think she's a writer or reporter now. I'm happy they treat him like he's a 13 year old and they have a system of communication. I love how they were just hanging out vibing through music 🎶

[@ohemdoublegee]

@@paolaamadeo774 I just looked her up and it looks like she's started a podcast on youtube!

[@jlshadday6401]

Do you know the name of her podcast? Would like to check it out

[@loafcat4831]

If you find it could you please also share it to me, it sounds really interesting

[@ohemdoublegee]

@@loafcat4831 posted above!! :)

[@balladofahomeschooledboy0514]

@@ohemdoublegee where :)

[@karliechardi2229]

Really caught Gabe's attention with that second queen song. He has so much expression. And that's an amazingly good communication! Really universal between any different language barrier. GABE! you're awesome. You communicate in wonderful ways. you're clever, witty, and have an infectious smile!❤

[@Nude_Tayne]

What a sweet boy. And what a sweet family.

[@amelia.444]

He’s almost otherworldly to me like he’s just here on earth for a visit. What a unique soul

[@claudiahowick]

i love this comment so so much ! so beautifully expressed

[@ArchAngelManga]

​@@claudiahowick agreed!

[@fohdeesha]

Ever seen the movie k-pax?

[@MM-ty6cu]

That’s what I was thinking!

[@Iluvpie6]

It makes sense that his name is Gabe since that’s the name of an angel

[@antaequeJ]

10:56 his smile… you can tell it meant a lot to him

[@everianneg]

Having an 11 year old brother who has exactly the same condition, this vid just made me teary-eyed. So wholesome!🫶🏻

[@MarkEliasGrant]

I needed this. It reminded me of WHY I became an occupational therapist to help people like Gabe. God bless this man working with him!

[@M_schmitt1]

6:54 My heart melted when Gabe sat up and enjoyed the second song you played and even tapped your arm and fully communicated his appreciation and enjoyment through his eyes and body language! I had a student JUST LIKE Gabe and absolutely loved him and his personality. Gabe’s parents are amazing with him!

[@daviddietrich5104]

Hello Missy how are you doing today?... hope my message found you in a pleasant way?

[@jasminetpf6366]

@@daviddietrich5104 what’s your motive replying to all these women?

[@clararocha1338]

you can tell he was saying “hey I really liked this song”

[@GRRRRAAAAAAHHHH]

@@jasminetpf6366 its a bot

[@thegnome9529]

@@GRRRRAAAAAAHHHH i doubt it, i think its some old man tryna get laid trought youtube comments

[@shjobbi]

His eyes are so communicative and intense, it's like they compensate for the lack of spoken word

[@Pindolene]

I've been following Gabe's journey for some time now, and he's such a great kid. So loving and clearly so well loved, too. Thank you for interviewing him and his family!

[@user-wb8ky5bd9z]

This is so great. You can tell they love each other. So glad to see these videos. Wow, the way he slowly started to trust him. This is amazing. Wow, so sweet

[@yasminx16]

Gabe could be a teen model for a fashion brand! What a fascinating young man. I bet he has an incredibly rich inner life - a lot is going on in his mind, you can tell.

[@duckie4655]

I was thinking the same! He's beautiful, what a loving family

[@an-ic6gs]

The medicine drug mafia make medicine side effects to restrain their tongue muscles not to speak , this boy is a victim of dark side of under world .

[@aprilMichelleXJRL]

Omg yes he's freaking gorgeous..... what a gem ♡

[@myheartwillstopinjoy8142]

I feel like the model life could be overwhelming to him. Idk how he's with sensory overload but photography studios sure have a lot of it... Noise, flashes, and people talking from everywhere :( If he'd accomated to, I'm sure he'd do amazing though!

[@justahuman9273]

Let him have his own instagram and be his own manager 😂 then YES! Otherwise no... We all know the fashion world is evil.

[@BLane-xr1ic]

Dude, she said "I like to think he's saying I love you" then he looks at her so lovingly, I think she got that one right. So beautiful when he touched your arm and started smiling. Looked like he wanted to tell you he feels the same way about whatever you said.

[@mari97216]

He actually did say that in a video on their tiktok, but they didn’t catch it as it was at a restaurant that was noisy. It got caught on film though, very sweet:)

[@user-nm4gj9og2r]

Thank you with all my heart for doing these visits and sharing with all of us. ❤ When you were listening to music and he reached out to you , moved his mouth.........What a beautiful sharing of two perfect souls ! Thank you

[@abbett]

So good to see you do one of these with Gabe and his parents! I've been following their story awhile. I love all the work you all are doing to share these experiences with those of us not so challenged so that we can learn how to better communicate with them out in the world. ❤

[@Krisdogwisperer95]

10:56 “thank you for listening to music with me”. Then he looked up at you! That was so sweet!

[@BridgeFish]

Get this dude a bass!!! Gabe loves music and can clearly keep a good rhythm, I think he'd be sick on an instrument.

[@BallJoinedWing]

I was also thinking drums, but maybe start with frame drum

[@absolince]

At the end of their listening party he made a strumming gesture

[@vero-kd8vg]

he definitely gives off some bassist vibes

[@zad2155]

He needs mirrors around to help with his self awareness

[@walterwallman3566]

I was about to comment that. Give my man a bass and get him a good teacher and he would be insane

[@peterwilson7340]

What a wonderful story. Gabe is such a beautiful young man. Every one working together. Your videos always bring a tear or two. Lots of love from us all in New Zealand.

[@margaretandersen9914]

I love the kindness and effort you put into connecting with every person you meet!

[@kristen1324]

Dude, I love the way Gabe just sat right up, turned toward you, and started engaging with you when you played Melancholy Blues for him. It gave me the biggest smile. A lot of times, you have to do parallel activities, and occasionally, you intersect, and it's beautiful .

[@dannykr1223]

Hello Kristine, Can I ask you a question?

[@yintoons7807]

6:50 bruh I would start crying. He is too sweet.

[@heatherbubke8336]

Agreed! Thank u for noting the time.❤

[@una9121]

@@louisskulnik7390 he says the names. another one bites the dust and melancholy blues

[@karaatter]

@@louisskulnik7390he says when they first start playing

[@EvaLorna]

He is sweet, and handsome😊 His smile is so adorable❤

[@louisskulnik7390]

@@una9121 oh, I skipped around as is my wont.

[@robertyanes4751]

I love how intently he looks in your eyes. You have a wonderful family. I'm a total Gabe fan. Wishing you continued success, and happiness!

[@Acoustin9572]

Gabe is truly blessed with such a beautiful and kind hearted mother and her equally amazing partner. And so or they with Gabe!

[@denise8791]

"You'll never get it because his arms are so long" That made me giggle. They must have so much fun in their home! Gabe is so lucky to have such gentle, loving incredible parents. What a beautiful family. I love seeing the diversity of all families and how love really is the answer. If only every single person could experience this type of love and patience...

[@WorldOfNicky]

This is such a lovely comment, well said Denise ❤ hugs

[@officerjimlahey]

Just wait till they divorce.

[@Arako]

@@officerjimlahey why spread negativity ??

[@officerjimlahey]

@@Arako Better than most of the BS comments on this video.

[@sheo3394]

@@officerjimlahey why would they divorce?

[@lauramarchildon]

He LOVED that second song you played!

[@SpecialBooksbySpecialKids]

Melancholy Blues by Queen!!! Would have loved to include it in the video but had to change it for copyright reasons.

[@yesterdaydream]

@@SpecialBooksbySpecialKids I played it alongside the video anyway! Take that, copyrightists!

[@mariovalenzuela7153]

Why did you chose a song Dave likes?

[@edenmorningstar.7865]

@@mariovalenzuela7153to make him safe and comforting and happy

[@margatoonen8907]

Wat is de derde song you played

[@krnflks]

Really love how he gets so interested when you play him your favorite Queen song. Feel like you two shared a special type of moment there and it was really sweet to be able to see it and in my own way enjoy it with you and Gabe.

[@lisam682]

I love how you bond with each kid. It's really special. Gabe is so awesome, and so are his moms. I hope Gabe meets new friends who see and appreciate how cool he is, and I hope his future is full of happiness, music, and dancing.

[@eleanorlyndon865]

My friends have a mostly Non Verbal Autistic son, and last week for thr first time (he is 8) he gave me a.massive hug and kiss and didn't want me to leave side. I was amazing! I really felt we had a connection.

[@lucerolaura89]

It's because you too are a sweet soul, thank you for sharing your kindness. 😇

[@aakasha2816]

You probably a big softie 😺

[@imacup.2667]

thats really cute actually

[@ashleyrodriguez2050]

That's cute...wish I had an autistic sibling like that..

[@UnsettledSoldier]

@@ashleyrodriguez2050I have an autistic sibling but he isn’t non-verbal. I will say he is really sweet though

[@number1fishinasundress]

bro is gorgeous

[@draqeula]

fr hes so handsome he can be a model

[@bbybanshee539]

it reminds me of speaking to my cat 😂

[@crypticshadows]

he’s really cute :> I’d like to be friends with him

[@heliotype9591]

Homie is a MODEL bro

[@coloopuz]

very gorgeous

[@never_ever_harm]

Gabe is such a sweet soul! I just love him! And the love of 2 wonderful mothers shows! Thank you for sharing your life with us so we can understand and show compassion for the autistic community!❤❤❤

[@kimhisham6033]

OMG Gabe is so cute and handsome. Wish him really good life bless his family for supporting him endlessly

[@shannanigansisme]

For the first several minutes, I thought his "bonus mom" was his birth mom. They not only look alike, they have the same stare when they're listening to others speak. What a perfect family. 🥰

[@fairygrl999]

same! most of the video I was trying to figure out who his birth mom was until I came to the conclusion that it doesn't matter anyway cuz they both clearly love him a lot

[@shannanigansisme]

@@fairygrl999 that's a lovely answer!

[@eggchomp]

I always thought it was the real one, they have the very same gorgeous hair

[@Heather_Morgan]

@@eggchomp Yes, it was the hair that gave it away to me also. Beautiful!

[@Heather_Morgan]

I like that phrase "Bonus Mom". I've never thought of it that way before. Thank you for showing me a new perspective.

[@CaidicusProductions]

I have a whole bunch of synthesizers in my home and the first thing I think, when I see Gabe, is how much fun it would be to introduce him to synthesizers. Just a whole bunch of keys, knobs, and buttons to manipulate, twist, turn, press, and interact with to create new sounds. I imagine how insanely fun it would be to listen to Gabe discover his power over sound. So, yeah! If you (Gabes parents) ever read this, have a look into the world of synthesis. Not all of them cost insane amounts of money, and all of them are an endless amount of sonic exploration. Anyhow, Gabe is a very sweet kid and it seems to me that he has lots of loving support from some amazing people in his life. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

[@brittywren2877]

Amazing idea I agree. I think he would absolutely love it.

[@bodyofhope]

Boost! That sounds amazing

[@federruchi6147]

I also love synths. They are amazing for stimming. Like top tier

[@coreycann6751]

What a fantastic idea. I hope his parents read this

[@jednrrp]

I have a dj friend with a nonverbal son and he LOVES synths. He samples sounds from the neighborhood and from videos he watches throughout the day. It totally occupies him and he is creating something great!!!

[@TeaWithHobbits]

I can tell Gabe is such a sweet person.

[@Rmeyer1226]

I just started watching Gabe and he is incredible. You have such a gift to connect! Thank you.

[@solidxangryjoer4233]

As someone on the spectrum who plays guitar and listens to music almost 24/7, this was very wholesome. I think I might understand Gabe a little, I smiled a lot as well, thanks for introducing Gabe and his parents. :3

[@betha.6279]

Do you ever share your music?

[@jacksondawn5629]

I'm the same (except I can't play guitar, I sing instead) I love music, it's always on at my place, and I love sharing music with people!!

[@solidxangryjoer4233]

@@betha.6279 I do, it's usually jazz and metal genre. Deathcore, Metalcore, Djent stuff.

[@solidxangryjoer4233]

@@jacksondawn5629 I'm interested, any platform where you upload your songs?

[@MrDWide-iq7df]

​@@solidxangryjoer4233 same i play and write alot of metalcore and deathcore songs mostly crabcore stuff and im also on the spectrum

[@carriehiggins876]

I love how you are comfortable just sitting with Gabe. Too many people are uncomfortable with a lack of spoken conversation. As the parent of a child with ASD I find there is much depth and communication just being present together.

[@empress2529]

Yeap, it made me feel uncomfortable and anxious, like I kept waiting from him to say something

[@carriehiggins876]

@@empress2529 you can learn to become comfortable with the silence. It takes work because we've been conditioned to make small talk but it is worth it to learn to be comfortable just being with others.

[@empress2529]

@@carriehiggins876 It reminds me of our son, he has emotional regulating matters, as a baby eh would up crying as crazy, tantrum, we never knew if he is pain or had a bad dream or was annoyed by something? we hoped hat when he will grow older he will explain himself.... but kids with ADD and with emotional regulation issues they also find it hard to convert events and fleeing into words... thus, we kept not receiving answers until he was much older. Having communication problems is a mayor struggle in humans, because communication is everything for humanity. I think they did not explain enough how they really communicate with him. maybe with hand blind signs? with a computer?

[@nicolepoillucci2818]

I LOVE this. Gabe wasn't very sure about this new connection at first. But then he started making direct eye contact, and you can see him really trying to connect here. Beautiful. ❤

[@bettybert9819]

I’ve been following Gabe for a while now, and it makes me so very happy. He’s remarkable.❤

[@NorthernRealmJackal]

Imagine having "Melancholy Blues" as your favorite Queen song. I had no idea Chris was such a connoisseur.

[@christinablair1978]

I love Chris, simply for being such a genuinely caring person.

[@daviddietrich5104]

Hello Christina how are you doing today?... hope my message found you in a pleasant way?

[@myheartwillstopinjoy8142]

@@daviddietrich5104 stop man 💀

[@thegnome9529]

@@myheartwillstopinjoy8142 lol he seems to be doing this to all the girls he finds

[@caitlynnestrada87]

It gives me hope for humanity. About Chris not the thirsty guy

[@myheartwillstopinjoy8142]

@@caitlynnestrada87 "not for the thirsty guy" 😂💀

[@christine8459]

Music is really amazing, it connects people in so many ways. I'm wishing the best for Gabe's future and just like the wish of his lovely Mom, I hope he's always surrounded with loving and caring people.

[@zzzut]

This is one of the most wonderful families I have seen. I hope Chris keeps in touch. I am sure he can help Gabe blossom. ❤

[@gisampaion]

the way he smiled and interacted with chris while listening to music just melted my heart

[@dane2379]

The work SBSK does is not only exceptionally authentic but in this day and age is absolutely invaluable at bettering humanity.

[@byealex7607]

How warm. I feel it. It's so free. I am glad to have come across this video and these light people.

[@Ceci_et_Cela]

You are a special person and I enjoy watching you connect with people. This is probably my favorite connection that I’ve seen you have. Awesome! I especially liked the blues Queen song part. ❤

[@angeleleven7692]

i love how Gabe reacts to Melancholy Blues (definitely an underrated Queen song). he literally bolted upright and engaged so much. music is amazing how it connects people, and his smile at the end of that clip is so genuine and beautiful 🥰

[@officerjimlahey]

He did not "bolt up." He just stares at the guy and has zero expression on his face.

[@seajay632]

@Brice It's such a shame that you and a lot of the people who can communicate are such douches for no reason.

[@officerjimlahey]

@@seajay632 Maybe you should work on that.

[@seajay632]

@@officerjimlahey Lol ratio.

[@jackiealexander92530]

yes true! I love seeing such positivity

[@sarahdavis2159]

I can't be the only one who thinks Gabe is just the cutest thing in the world. He's so adorable and his smile just really hits different.

[@montiemox]

he fine

[@arhanakbarreevan6710]

He's is so cute.

[@livvyyyyyyyyyyy]

Yes but maybe word this differently because it can come across as If your babying him

[@laurapaivab]

He really seems like someone who's fun to be around 😄

[@FloatyyBrain]

@@livvyyyyyyyyyyy I agree, it’s just a tiny bit infantilizing-

[@obi-wankedogi]

Gabe is lucky to have such a beautiful family. And they're lucky to have him. ❤

[@Luna-jk9de]

When you play the second song and he turns around and faces you directly was so cute!!! That was such a cute bonding moment!

[@LitteLoneSparrow]

I adore how direct he is when he looks into their eyes. I would so love to know what he is thinking.

[@lisahughes8779]

I can’t take my eyes off of this young man. There’s something otherworldly about him. Perhaps ethereal is a better term. Just beautiful.

[@sp-1973]

I felt exactly the same, he's such a beautiful person and I was so entranced watching him ❤️❤️

[@lisahughes8779]

@@chiaisannoying Thank you! I sat there for a good 5 minutes trying to figure out what exactly I was trying to convey lol. Ethereal was the closest I could come to saying what I meant. Haha

[@lisahughes8779]

@@sp-1973 I was also entranced watching him. What is this sorcery he seems to be in possession of? Just wow!

[@sp-1973]

@@lisahughes8779 it's just next level communication that many of us will never get to witness. I cried so much ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Christrulesall2]

I look at him and started to cry. I felt as if i was at one with him. I'm an empath and feel his energy. Its so pure. He is in direct connection with the source. Much like the movie 'Powder(1995)' if you've ever seen it. Same energy.

[@LeiaBoo-oo3rk]

Your family is just so beautiful! I bet you all have the best time together. I love Gabe’s eye contact with you too, so very sweet ❤