The last few weeks have been quite interesting as we prepare for Maxwell's transition to developmental preschool. Lots and lots of assessments and even more conversations with his many providers on what exactly Max needs to thrive at school. I know he will "survive" school, but he needs to thrive if we truly want him to reach his potential.
For the past 2 1/2 years, he has received intensive one on one support at home...in a quiet and consistent environment. And as much as he blows me away with his progress, I also know how much work went into reaching every single milestone. A LOT.
Our #1 school concern is his communication skills. (Well, actually keeping him healthy enough to actually attend school is by far the highest priority! That may very well prove to be a major stumbling block...but we will just have to wait and see. I have been working with the school nurse on those issues and we are doing everything we can.)
For communication, we are concerned that the school may not truly understand his need for sign language as his expressive language. He will have an FM system to help give him better access to sound, however that doesn't address his actual expressive language skills. Between his hearing loss, speech apraxia, developmental delay and cranial nerve issues, verbal expression is VERY difficult for him. He may always use sign language as his primary expressive language, therefore he needs to be exposed to that as an alternative.
We have chosen this school for him because they do use a lot of sign...but is it enough? That will be the big question today. Additionally, the evaluations showed that Max needs a lot of "focus" because he gets distracted easily.
Three of Max's wonderful therapists (who all work with him on speech and sign language) are joining us to help on this very important issue. (Yep, three therapists just for communication...and this summer we are probably adding another program. Can you tell we are a little determined to help him communicate?)
I feel blessed that we have such a supportive team and that they are willing to help us in this transition. Each has prepared a report and have helped me assemble information as well.
Today's meeting should be interesting! :)
3 comments:
I'm hoping that he stays healthy enough to stay in school, too! I think he will thrive at school, it's amazing what our kids do when we aren't there (Brady always does better at school when I'm not around. Little stinker).
Good luck with the meeting(s)!
he's going to do wonderful in school, you'll see!!
wow im wondering wat ull do when hes nto around
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