At Ryder's two year Doctor's appointment, our pediatrician felt that he was slightly delayed in his language expression. At two, kids generally will have 30 words and Ryder had about 15. We spent the month of April and most of May getting him evaluated by our Regional Center. After all evaluations were made, it was found that Ryder is more than 50% delayed for his speech and language expression. It was recommended that he have an hour a week therapy with a speech therapist.
So on friday the 25th, we started with our speech therapist Stephanie. She came to our house to work with Ryder and at this point, it looks like we have the clearance to have all sessions in home, rather than going to an office. She brought all sorts of toys that focused on specific words. Like they played with a Thomas the Train set while working on the words STOP and GO. He colored while using words like ON and OPEN and CLOSE with the markers. We played with a Mr Potato Head while working on things like EYES, EARS, NOSE. He colored while working on animal sounds and names. There are words that he already uses but it's how he forms the words with his mouth and the clarity of the words. He had a blast! I was so thankful! We look forward to growing his vocabulary with tools and exercises that will help him to communicate with us better.
(Seriously, how creepy is this baby potato head...)
I am so thankful to be getting help. Kit and I have been noticing that Ryder's frustrations with not being able to communicate with us has increased significantly over the last few weeks (Also, he is two...). He doesn't do it with anyone else, but when we tell him no or if we don't understand what he wants right away, he has gotten into hitting (It's not hard or hurtful, but it's hitting nonetheless and also, he's two...) I have been so frustrated for him AND with him. The days have been very long and I have really been discouraged with my parenting. But now, I am so excited that Ryder will increase his ability to talk with us and I think that the tension will decrease (Also, he's two...) I know, she's a speech therapist, not a miracle worker ♥
we are so proud of our little man!
we are so proud of our little man!
jackson began receiving services when he turned two, and it is incredible to see the progress he made. when he turned two, he couldn't even say mommy yet. now my little boy is reading chapter books. i am so proud of you guys for getting him the help... you will be so thankful.
ReplyDeletebeing a parent is so hard. and recognizing the challenges our kiddos face can be difficult... but you are doing amazing things for ryder. god is writing such a beautiful story for his life.
two year olds are definitely a challenge, but the communication will help! jackson was so frustrated when he couldn't tell us what he wanted, but that area got so much better as his language improved. as for the rest of the twos....it is quite spunky age ;)
you are an awesome mommy. ryder and eden are so lucky to have you!
Thanks Shara! What an encouragement your words are=) I appreciate your friendship!
ReplyDeleteGina,
ReplyDeleteAfter visiting you in April, I told my speech therapist friend how you had communicated to me that Ryder was a bit behind in language. She encouraged me to tell you (which I never did, sorry) to get him help ASAP because he would just continue to get frustrated that he couldn't communicate. I am so glad to see that you are doing this. I had to go to speech therapy when I was younger and am so glad I did. Also, as a teacher, it is hard to see when parents just wait it out because it just gets worse as they get older. I am proud of you and for sharing this here too. One step at a time, huh!
Gina,
ReplyDeleteNot really the same thing, but I would with Autistic kiddos, 2 of which are speech delayed. Way to go for Early Intervention, and that's awesome he'll get to get his therapy at home. He will do so well!! Good Luck Ryder!!