First session

Dom had his first speech therapy today. Monica, the therapist, was really good with him. At first, he hid in his play yard, but when she brought out the toys, he came out of hiding. First she had him stack some blocks, then knock them down (as if he needed any urging!) and put them away. Then she gave him a couple of puzzles to work, holding each piece at her mouth to make him watch her as she said the animal's name and sound. He wanted to grab all the pieces on his own, but she made him do it one at a time. They did the same thing with Mr. Potato Head and some picture cards. Eventually, Dom decided he'd rather wander around and play with his own toys.

Until the occupational therapy gets under way (more on that below), we're not going to see major progress in speech, so Monica wants us to work on getting Dominick to imitate sounds. Words can be broken down as much as necessary. For example, if he can't say "moo moo," we can try "mmm-ooo," and then "mmm-ah," because that sound is easier, and then just "mmm." Monica also wants him to do more signing. As it is, he can sign "more" and does so regularly, but he's shown no interest in other signs that I've tried to introduce. Even things like waving, giving high fives and copying finger play are good, if we can get him to do them.

Another idea she mentioned was using an electric toothbrush or vibrating toy to stimulate his mouth and cheeks. He'll love that! Part of the sensory integration issue is that he absolutely hates having anyone mess with his mouth or face, so toothbrushing, nose wiping, face washing, and the like are major ordeals for us.

Also today, I heard from Robin, the occupational therapist. We arranged to have OT sessions on Monday mornings at 8:30, beginning next week. Dom's going to be a busy guy, with therapy twice a week in addition to playgroup. The great thing about First Steps is that everything is done here at our house: the initial meeting with the intake coordinator, both evaluations, the IFSP meeting, and ongoing services.

In closing, I have to share something funny Dominick did at playgroup yesterday. He had gone into a separate playroom off the main space where we were all hanging out, and I went in to check on him and found him sitting in Reilly's Exersaucer. I have no idea how he got in there by himself! He's never had one, and it seems that climbing up into the center and getting your legs through the holes without falling over would be really difficult for a toddler to do, but he did. Quite impressive.