Presuming Competence: Believe in Your Child’s Abilities

Your child understands more than you think — and deserves the chance to show it.

Children often can’t express all they know. By presuming competence, we approach them as capable learners who simply need the right tools, time, and support to communicate what’s inside. This mindset shifts the focus from what a child can’t do to what they might do when given the opportunity. When we presume competence, we start from a place of belief — belief that every child has thoughts, feelings, and ideas worth hearing.

Presuming competence means talking to your child, not about them. It means offering real choices, using age-appropriate language, and avoiding assumptions based on speech or diagnosis. For example, rather than simplifying everything, we model rich language and provide access to words that go beyond basic wants and needs — words for feelings, ideas, and humour. It’s about giving your child consistent access to communication tools like AAC and showing them that their opinions matter, even if they express them differently.

At Serennu Therapies, we help families and schools put this belief into practice. We focus on recognising each child’s strengths, building communication systems that reflect their personality and interests, and supporting the adults around them to notice and respond to every form of communication. Through modelling, coaching, and collaborative planning, we create an environment where children are seen as thinkers, not just responders — because when children are trusted to lead, they show us just how much they understand.

See what your child can really say

Book a FREE consultation call with us today, or explore our on-demand training and digital projects to start making a difference from home.

Supporting you always,

Sara & Rebecca