It has been a while since my last story of Brock Allen's development, socially and academically. We have had a small setback with our youngest child, Eli...and his story will also be making its way to the blog, but for now I want to share more about Brock Allen's story.
As we began to to heavily pursue interventions for Brock Allen's social, emotional, and developmental needs, we started to see him grow mentally. We started to see small glimpses of God's goodness, protection, grace and glory. We started to see our son blossom. We owe much of his victories to Alabama Early Intervtion! He was receiving speech and occupational therapy at our home for FREE. These services provided by the state of Alabama are amazing. (If you have any questions or concerns about your child's development, under the age of 3, please call! They are so helpful and it's all FREE!). Brock Allen began to add more words to his vocabulary, he began requesting items like his juice without screaming. It is truly a blessing to watch a child grow and learn, but when that comes with a cost; a struggle, it's an even greater blessing.
As we approached Brock Allen's 3rd birthday, we knew we had another hurdle to jump...transitioning him from home services to preschool. Federal law requires that once a child turns 3, they are no longer eligible for early intervention with the state, but do become eligible for services with their local school system. Lots of meetings, planning, testing and meeting with preschool service providers has to take place. Since he had mostly been a stay at home child (since Wes worked from home), full time preschool was not on our radar and, frankly, made Wes and I both very nervous. The idea of leaving your child in the care of someone else all day was just not what we had in mind...but once again, God had different plans...and he gently guided us as we navigated the new waters of a child that need preschool special education services.
My sweet, free spirited baby. He loves life, the outdoors and at this stage in his life, loved Peter Pan. He is caring, compassionate and protective in nature. He has never let a disability or diagnosis stop him! October 2012.
I pray our stories of Brock Allen's struggles challenge you to never give up and also show you that life is hard, but worth it. If you have ever questioned or have questions about your child's development, please reach out to us. We know many amazing people in the field of special education that can point you in the right direction. I will say it every time....EARLY INTERVENTION IS KEY!!!!!
Many blessings!
Meg
