Tuesday, May 30, 2006

Nathan update

I just wanted to share some news on Nathan and his possible Autism diagnosis. After visiting the Neurologist, and his initial speech/language evaluation at Kaufman Children's Center (where Nate will receive his therapy), we have decided not to pursue a diagnosis. Both the neurologist and the therapist advised that they did not believe he was autistic, and if he is, it's only slightly. What we do know is that he has auditory processing disorder, which means that he can speak, and wants to, but he cannot understand most words. This makes it hard for him to follow directions and communicate like typical children his age. I am told that he can be treated through private therapy over time, and will possibly be able to attend Kindergarten with typical children his age when the time comes (fall 2007). This is a huge relief to us. All I want is for him to lead the life of a typical child. So, I have enrolled him in a child care facility for two days a week for the summer (the same facility that his older brother grew up in, with typical children his age so he can get the social interaction and structure he needs to stay on track until school starts again in the fall), and we will be attending speech/language and some occupational therapy over the summer (and beyond). So things are looking good. I am so relieved to get started. Thanks to everyone who kept Nate in their thoughts and prayers. It musta worked!:)
I am amazed at the outpouring of love and offers of help from my friends and family. Yer the greatest!

Now that Nate is down for his nap, I'm gonna sneak some scrap time in. Have a great day!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Stacey-I am so happy for your family. This is great news and you are on the right track. Yeah for Nathan!! He will have a great summer playing and growing with his friends and family.

Unknown said...

Oh Stacey I am so glad for you guys! I know he will enjoy all the extra stuff he gets to do in the name of 'therapy'.
Awesome!!

Emily said...

what wonderful news, Stacey!! Good luck this summer with the therapy...He will probably LOVE his OT. It's usually fun stuff with kids. My adult patients don't have much fun ;)

Kache said...

I'm glad to hear that it was a positive prognosis! And that he'll be able to go to kindergarten too. That's great!