Forgive me Internet, for I have sinned. It has been 5 days since my last posting.
This week has been full of craziness.
The Little had a speech assessment with Early Intervention. He's been referred for a full evaluation to see if he'll qualify for speech therapy. One-on-one, he's not terribly difficult to understand. Single words are fairly clear, especially if they are in context with surroundings. I'm quite certain that because I spend the most time with him that I understand him better than most. But for sometime now I've been concerned that he's not quite on target with his speech development. We use a combination of gestures, showing, hoping and guessing what he's talking about when he really gets going. It's frustrating for me at times, and it's definitely frustrating for him. Because we have a family history of dyslexia, speech impediments and stuttering on both sides of the family, I decided to have him screened.
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't concerned. I feel like I've somehow failed my son. Like I didn't provide proper direction in the development of his language and speech skills. I know on an intellectual level that this isn't true. I know that lots of children have mild to moderate speech difficulties and come out fine - but I think we all want our children to go through life as unscathed as possible. And this journey that we're currently on feels a bit like the first notch on the belt of difficulties he'll inevitably face in life.
Today though, it was bright and beautiful. I embraced the moment to stop worrying about something I have absolutely no control over and spent it outside with my very naked toddler giggling and playing in the sun. Tomorrow will come soon enough, and I'm not looking to borrow trouble. I have hope that everything will work out - that his speech issues will resolve with help and time.
With hope,
Simple Mama
Such beautiful blossoms. My second son, nearly 5, is having speech therapy and it seems to be helping. He really enjoys the sessions. I can really relate to all your feelings on the matter. At nearly 5 his speech is not so clear but he is getting there slowly, slowly. It is hard having two brothers who speak very clearly and articulately.
ReplyDeleteWe had our older daughter tested a few times. She was a late talker and wouldn't put words together. I think it's good to be proactive. It turns out she was just on the slow end. But I totally get what you mean about wanting them to have an easy life. Best wishes to your family as you begin this new journey.
ReplyDeleteA lovely post i just stumbled over...hoping all went well, and a welcome reminder of just 'allowing'. Well done x
ReplyDelete