Speech Therapy.

Doesn't he just look like he's got plenty to say? Tooter does for sure, and he will say those things when he's ready. I'm sure of it. In the past month to six weeks or so, he has finally become willing to attempt to say words when prompted. His speech is progressing.

BUT. He is still behind the average developmentally. And, he is enough behind the average that he qualifies for our state's early intervention program - specifically their speech therapy program.

We went yesterday to fill out paperwork, and the team of people came today to evaluate his development level - both speech and motor skills. I will admit to feeling somewhat chaotic during the visit - the kids were on high performance alert (i.e. all keyed up because 5 new people walked into the house), and I also had Audrey with me. So I probably caught about 1 word out of 5 that was said to me. Thank goodness I will be getting a copy of their paperwork in a week or so.

But the gist of it is - Toot is fine with his motor skills. He's either on target or in some cases "advanced". He scored fine with his receptive communication (I think that's what it was), in that he can listen to and follow commands and name things when prompted, etc. I don't remember if that was actually at a 28 month level, but it was within at least 4 months of the desired level. His expressive communication development level is what, of course, is the concern. His overall score was actually above the recommended level for qualifying for the therapy. (Because of taking the average of his individual scores). But, because of something or other that I really wasn't able to listen to, he can still have access to a therapist.

So. That will start within a few weeks. They come to our house once a week until he meets a certain goal.

Here's my thought - Toot would probably be fine without the therapy. He is progressing, and he'll speak when he's ready. All true. BUT, since this program won't cost us anything, and because it may very well help me to recognize areas where I can be more helpful to him, and because it can't hurt - we're going to take advantage of it. Plus, these therapists have seen all sorts of issues. Tooter's situation will certainly be nothing new, and even if this only plays a small role in his progress, then it's worth it! I don't want to miss an opportunity to help, you know? Granted, there are moments that I feel like I'm being an alarmist about it all or am too focused on it. I'll have to work thru those thoughts.

Hey, maybe the speech therapy will end up being more useful for my peace of mind than anything else. That's not a bad thing. :-)