Far From the Tree

As I saw another user mention, the inclusion of a story involving rapid prompting method was my only gripe with this otherwise moving documentary. As a speech pathologist, I feel it's important to note that this method and "facilitated communication", which was also pictured, are not evidence based means of communication. The "facilitator" needs to be present- even without physically touching they may prompt the desired answer with eye gaze, as such it may appear the message was generated by the individual when in fact it was the facilitator. This is highly problematic and there are a multitude or other options for augmentative and alternative options that are evidence based. I do respect and empathize that this method was likely introduced to the parents by a speech pathologist and it is a reminder of the importance of best practice and evidence based treatment recommendations.

Other than that I thought this film was lovely and it was interesting to hear both the parents and their children's perspectives.

A thought provoking look into the lives of special needs patients and their families. I cried many times while watching. Highly recommended.

All I can say is I laughed, I cried, I gasped. I was very moved by this documentary and I would recommend it to people who are interested in the human psyche..

Trying reading mr. solomon's book, which lives on my beside table - with one of the most profound and exquisite introductions i've ever read. so glad this film was made; hope a second one comes out with more of the extraordinary histories. and get your kleenex out. thank you, mr. solomon & co.

This was a touching documentary that does a good job giving a voice and empowering those who aren't neurotypical or otherwise. However there is one major flaw with this documentary and that is the representation of RPM (rapid prompting method) as a scientifically valid communication device for individuals who don't speak using vocal method. RPM is pseudoscience and there has been several harmful effects that has come from this, if one does a quick google search they will find several articles where someone using RPM has been taken advantage of or has accused an innocent person of a crime they did not commit. Basically someone using RPM cannot even answer basic questions if their facilitator is not right next to them either holding the device or has their arm on them. There are SEVERAL scientifically validated augmented alternative communication systems out there and I'm highly disappointed the producers did not do their research and are instead promoting an extremely harmful pseudoscience.