So at the advise of our pediatrician and several other individuals that I spoke with, we decided to have Maddyx assessed for early intervention services. I've felt in my gut for some time that his speech was delayed, but I wanted to give him ample time to adjust into his new environment, into his new life, and with his new language. After a little over six months home we had his 18 month check-up and that's when I brought it up to our pediatrician. She recommended we contact Early Start and let them do an assessment. So I did. The assessment concluded that Maddyx was anywhere from 25-50% delayed in almost all of the categories (motor skills and language). Not really a big surprise. He was a really late walker, he's a big boy and seems to really struggle with his balance and the overall control of his body, and we obviously new he wasn't using a lot of words. Not totally sure what any of this means at this point, and only time will tell, but I do know there's no harm in getting him some extra help. I have to be honest though....I did get, and still am, a bit freaked out! The minute you contact anyone about delayed language (even a child who heard another language for the first 13 months of their life, and was uprooted from everything they ever knew) they almost always jump to autism. That scares me. Doesn't make me love him any less. Just scares me. I want him to have every chance at the best life possible. I don't want him to struggle. I want him to be blissfully happy and loved and accepted by all. You know, all of the things us parents wish for, for all of our children. Any thought that our kids will hurt or struggle for just one second, breaks your heart into a million pieces and makes you want to weep.
The good news is, everyone I've spoken to (within *the industry*) has said they don't *think* he's showing any early signs of autism. Outside of a couple small indicators. And I don't think he is, but that doubt was placed in my mind and I'm having a hard time controlling the fear. As much as I know I must not allow it to enter my mind (the fear that is), it's so much easier said then done. You know?
So we start Maddyx's in home speech therapy this week. I'm excited for him. And I'm excited to see his progress. But here's the funny thing..... wouldn't you know, the very next week after getting him assessed he starts copying almost EVERY word we say. Really Maddyx?? Don't get me wrong, these words are by no means *clear* versions of the words, but I know what he's *trying* to say, and this is SERIOUS progress for him. It's almost like something just started clicking with him. Not only is he saying more, he's mimicking more, and he started using signs (sign language) after only one time of seeing them. Like I said, it's just like something clicked. He's coming up on 20 months in a few days, so maybe he just needed a bit more time. Little booger. Just love him to pieces.....more and more every single day.
Thanks for listening, all. This was more of a venting/therapy session for me. My heart feels better after talking with you.
