Lydia was officially evaluated by a state child intervention services program today (Child Link). She was evaluated in all areas of development. All areas proved to be remarkably advanced except for her speech. "Let's not get this confused with her understanding," said the Therapist, "Lydia understands very well and executes a task on demand. She is simply not verbalizing clearly although she is babbling and communicating enough physically."
That's about it. They are sending out a Speech Therapist on a weekly basis as I understand and I will also be learning ways to help Lydia orate, and we will learn together how to most effectively communicate when words become a barrier. We will still be seeking medical advice from CHOP as well. Child Link encouraged that I continue with the medical profession as well as the social/therapist as well. I have so much to say, but that sums up the big picture.
I am satisfied with the results. Robbie is right: Lydia is one smart little cookie. She did so well they tested her on some higher-level development skills (3-4yr) and she even passed those. All these days of singing and dancing and repeating the repetative glimmered through today, and to see her respond so acutely and with "style" made me...well, just happy.
Now we just have to get her to smile for the camera, haha.
Just a few tips for some parents who might have a delayed talker.
1. They suggested that I continue with signing, it helps her to commun. and when she learns orate the word she will know how to identify it.
2. Continue getting down on her level physically. I make sure Lydia can see my eyes when we are talking so I know she is paying attention. They also said it will help her read my lips and move her mouth.
3. Tell her everything that we are doing. That's not hard since I chat all the time anyway. Although, I admit, being an adult it's hard because we get in our own little world.
I'm glad her evaluation went well. I hope it all keeps working out!! What a cute kid.
ReplyDeleteWhat a relief! She is adorable, and has got to have a way fun personality (she is your child after all) but she's just on her own timeline.
ReplyDeletehey thanks for the update and the tips. It has got to be a relief to know it is just speech and not anything else. When they did Olivia's eval at 18 months she was the same way advanced in everything but speach. anyways we are getting her tested again now that she is 2 but I will definitely use your tips they sound smart at least and honestly can't hurt right?
ReplyDeleteThere is no doubt that she is a smart cookie, but I know it can be so stressful. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteI had to get James' hearing tested the other day because of some speech issues. He is so stubborn about being shy that even though he could hear just fine, he wouldn't respond to the tester, he would just look at me. Ugh!