James Robert, 2yrs 10 monthsA friend told me about programs Mesa Public Schools had for preschoolers. I found one online for speech and early childhood development. I figured it was worth a shot. I've been concerned about James' violence around other kids; how he treats Madison and how he communicates with us to get what he wants.
I had a really good conversation about James one day with one of our babysitters and we determined that he needed help communicating. This was the root cause of most of his anger, frustration, yelling, tantrums, etc.
Last month we had a screening and they determined he was borderline for being referred. This week we had the one-on-one with the speech pathologist and early childhood development teachers. The questions they asked me and the assignments they gave him intrigued me. It was cute to see him listen, understand, and perform the tasks they gave him. One example; they instructed James to give the stuffed bear something to eat (spoon and bowl) and something to drink (a small cup).
At the end of the meeting they said they normally tally the scores and call us back in a couple of weeks to see if he was eligible. But she said, it's clear that he would need addition help and they would be recommending him for preschool based on his speech.
It's not that he is slow or doesn't catch on quickly. He's a very smart boy, very agile, and mechanical. James just doesn't say words clearly or understand certain things yet. Like if I gave him 3 unfamiliar things to choose from he wouldn't know to pick out the right one. They did notice he has the ability to repeat words but doesn't initiate the right words. Hence the lack of communication and he cries a lot and points to still get what he wants.
So this is kind of a relief for me. I'm really hoping he can improve on his verbal skills. He has always been one for structure and I think going to school 3 days a week will be great for him. I am excited to keep working with him at home too. We started doing flash cards, story books, picture books, and other learning tools.
By next month James should be in preschool!
4 comments:
Speech is the most common delay in early childhood! You're right... this preschool will be so good! I'm glad he qualified!
YAY!!
Mattson is in the speech program through MPS as well. I felt something wasn't right, over a year ago. We went through the same testing. He passed everything with flying colors...except speech. It has done wonders for him, and he loves it! He has made so many friends, and loves the bus. Best decision I ever made for him.
Good luck!
maybe he is violent because you have not found my net. -ART
Jana didn't tell you, Art? We sold it at the garage sale!
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