Speech Evaluation for Ian

This morning ECI came out to evaluate Ian for speech therapy. Most of it was questions to both myself & his ECI coordinator, Melissa, but some of it was also seeing what he would "say". His comprehension skills are on target. This means that he follows simple commands, can pick out an object when told to, eats well, & a few other things. He isn't pointing to pictures like they want him to but the fault lays on me there. I am going to pick up the slack & try working w/ all of them in that area b/c he isn't the only one that doesn't do that so much.

On the flip side, he was assessed at about 9-12 months in verbal skills. I knew that was coming. He vocalizes & says a couple of words but he doesn't make animal sounds & he isn't saying enough words to meet his milestones.

What was said is that we all believe he has the ABILITY to do it, he just doesn't have the NEED or the OPPORTUNITY to really vocalize as much. This is something we have all been talking about for some time. Gabi is our verbal baby. She is the spokesperson for the group. Another interesting piece of information is we think he is concentrating so much on developing his motor skills that this is where he is falling behind, verbal skills. Melissa said she will be curious to see what happens when he is finally comfortable w/ walking. I think she has a good point.

Anyway, Ian will get speech twice a month for 45 minutes at a time. I'm happy to get the service but wishing we didn't really need it. No shame in getting help though. No shame at all!

Their cousin Marie gave them these shirts & the kids are finally big enough to wear them! Super cute!