Ever since my ds4 was 2, I've insisted that he needed help with his speech. He didn't say a single word until he was 3, and now only people who see him daily understand him. Before we moved, I had him in speech therapy through our health clinic, but the cost became too much. Last September, we had him tested through the local ps system. After 3 attempts at "testing" (all while he screamed, threw himself on the floor, and screamed "NOOOOO"), I was told he was borderline normal and didn't qualify for any assistance! After that, we were so disgusted with the system, we quit looking for help. Last week, at his well-child checkup, the doc gave me a referral for speech. He just did two days of testing (all the while, acting out as he always does in unusual situations). She was extremely helpful (and so good with him ) and is confident with twice weekly sessions, he can improve! She also is referring him for OT and something called Neurological Psych. I've always known he had sensory issues; but no one else would listen to me. Finally, someone else did. So now we are waiting to see what insurance will cover and to continue with the other referrals. While I am so glad to finally be getting help; I'm also worried about the juggling act of hs, therapy, and daycare. I just want to do what is best for my kids. I know I'm rambling, so just a bit more info. Zachary is very bright in a concrete way (loves the computer, can disarm the security system, can put together anything), he just can't do any "sit quietly" work. He's either in constant motion or sleeping. He's also my most sensitive and loving child. Quite a riddle. I'm looking for any suggestions from others with "extraordinary" kids. Thanks!
Just wondering, but have you ever looked at his tongue? My nephew is almost 3. He has not said anything. We noticed that he was "tongue-tied". His tongue was connected at the bottom all the way to the edge of his tongue(where most people's are only connected part of the way). This kept his from wanting to talk because it was too hard. When he did say something it was one word and hard to understand. It was a simple fix at the dentist's office. He is now improving, but still shy to get started. Not wanting to worry you, just a thought. As for the not sitting still thing. My ds9 is exactly the same way. He is constantly going. If he doesn't have something to do he causes problems with his siblings. He doesn't have many toys because he breaks everything. Sometimes just out of curiosity as to how it works. It is really frustrating to work with him. Lately he is in the habit of screaming at me. This never happens when dad is around, of course. I find myself really wanting to channel his energy because he is so smart. I guess he is frustrated as well. Not enough going on or too much for everyone else to do and not enough for him. He is a middle child which doesn't help things either. Okay, I think I'm rambling!
Sabrina, Thanks for the tip. Doesn't seem to be "tongue-tied", but I'll have the dr. take another look. We did learn during his evaluation that he is understanding only about half of what he hears. No wonder he is so frustrated!!! I just feel awful about that. Thankfully, he is able to get his needs across, so the hope is that we can improve his understanding. My dh has absolutely put his foot down about seeking anymore assistance from the ps system. He said we'll just have to find a way to pay for help through the private sector. We did change our mind about sending him to a private preschool this year. I just feel he needs more time at home. Perhaps he'll be my first to never set foot in a "school".
