After Alexander was in therapy for awhile and it was suggested that he might be autistic, I started to do more research. I was determined to have the best help he could receive. I contacted the school district and applied for an Early On Program for developmental delayed children. After Tests done by the school district the coordinator arrived at our home a few days ago with the results. Alexander is 30 months old now and, mostly scored in the 13-15 month range. He is approved for the program! I'm glad that he can receive more assistance, but at the same time this is very emotional to hear that he scored at that level. The next step is a meeting at the GISD for and IEP. I know very confusing!
Alexander was also tested at the GISD (Genesee Intermediate School District). They will have their results on the 13th of October. When they give you the results they call the meeting an IEP (Individualized Education Plan). At this meeting we will find out if he is approved for a school based program. Can you imagine sending your two year old to school? This thought stresses me out, but I know that it could be the best help there is. They will also be able to tell us if Alexander is on the spectrum. This is a rainbow spectrum of autism. They call it that because there are so many different ranges and areas of autism. Every child is different. This whole process is exhausting , and I wish that no one else had to go through it. As we wait for the IEP meeting, we are open to any suggestions or support.
It feels really good to write out my feelings on this subject. Thanks for listening! I mean reading.
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=6&ved=0CEAQFjAF&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.autism-society.org%2Fsite%2FPageServer%3Fpagename%3Dlife_lifespan_early&ei=SRemTPenKYzanAeN_diPAQ&usg=AFQjCNEz-RssMve_MzivmyAVfi-O-VM_hw
As much as your stressed and and worring sounds like your doing an awesome job! Of course you have every right to worry, I couldn't imagine being a parent and having to worry about my child like that, but cootoes to you!! For sure, diffently the mom award. My moms a teacher and there are so many programs and help they can get for your son, so as you said...you know if could be the best help, and it really is! Keep your head up and always here to listen!
ReplyDeleteEvery time I read your post it makes me feel more and more for what you have done with your child. Having the patience shows just how much of an amazing mother you truly are. I can not believe such a small thing has to go through so much but knowing she is still going makes her that much stronger. I love reading your posts!
ReplyDeleteThe initial diagnosis is always the most difficult time to endure as a parent. The process is often compared to the grieving process and is separated into stages. As a special education teacher, I will tell you, that you are making the best decision by finding out about your child's learning and developmental needs early. With autism, the earlier the intervention, the better quality of life a child will have. Often, when you see children in public who act out because of mental limitations, they have not had the opportunity to learn appropriate behaviors that could have been taught at much younger ages. I would also suggest that if you don't already have an advocate, you can contact CAUSE to send an advocate to attend your child's Initial IEP if there is one to explain the terminology and rights to you and your family. Its a free service and you should be able to find them on the web. You need someone with you who is familiar with the terminology and process.
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