We are approximately 2.5 weeks into the trial for the Augmentative & Alternative Communication device (AAC). Brayden has learned to navigate it fairly quickly, much more than what I would have anticipated. I received a message from his SLP at school and my mama heart just sang and danced.
I was amazed that he even knew what a motorcycle was! But the fact that he navigated through the device to find that specific word and then picked out that exact toy just shows how much we assume they don't know when really we should be assuming that they do know and their receptive language is expansive. I am hoping that he continues to grow with the AAC and I feel that if anything, it gives him that reassurance that if he can't verbally express himself, he has a backup way of expressing his needs. The amount this child understands is eye-opening and his ability to adapt and grow amazes me every day. Even his teachers and support people are amazed at his growth over the summer.
The progress Brayden has made with the AAC device is truly remarkable. It goes to show the depth of his understanding and his capabilities that might have been underestimated before. The way he not only recognized the word "motorcycle" but also selected the corresponding toy demonstrates a level of comprehension and communication skills that are truly inspiring. It's a reminder that individuals like Brayden have so much more to share and express than we might initially assume. The AAC device not only serves as a tool for Brayden to communicate his needs effectively but also as a means for him to showcase his knowledge and interests. It provides him with a sense of empowerment and independence, knowing that he can convey his thoughts and desires even when verbal expression is challenging. The support and encouragement he receives from his teachers and caregivers further fuel his growth and development, creating a positive environment for him to thrive. Brayden's journey with the AAC device is a testament to the importance of recognizing and nurturing the abilities of individuals with diverse communication needs. His progress serves as a source of inspiration for everyone involved, highlighting the endless possibilities that unfold when we approach each individual with an open mind and belief in their potential.
This past weekend, my family and I had the wonderful opportunity to attend Dream Night at the Minnesota Zoo. This annual event is a heartwarming occasion where the zoo opens its doors to children and adults with special needs. It was truly a remarkable experience as there was no cost for admission or parking, allowing families to enjoy a memorable night without any financial burden. The event offered a variety of activities, including all-night access to the Sensory Lounge, engaging arts and crafts stations, a lively dance party, and special appearances by beloved characters. One of the highlights of the evening was the chance to explore the zoo without the usual behavior expectations, creating a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere for everyone in attendance. The quieter ambiance added to the charm of the event, making it a truly special outing for families with special needs. However, it was a bit disappointing that the outside exhibits closed early at 7pm, limiting the time to fully explore all the conservation-based exhibits spread throughout the zoo. Despite the challenge of the vast zoo layout, we managed to cover a significant distance, walking 3.5 miles to see as much as we could before the animals were taken in for the night. The boys, especially Brayden, were enthralled by the aquatic animals, with Brayden even mimicking a crab to express his excitement. It was heartwarming to see his enthusiasm, particularly as he emulated characters from the popular movie Moana. Reflecting on the experience, I was struck by the contrast in accessibility and events for children with different abilities between Minnesota and Wisconsin. Living close to the border, I realized the value of such inclusive events and resources for families like ours. Dream Night at the Minnesota Zoo not only provided a magical evening for us but also highlighted the importance of creating opportunities for all individuals to enjoy and explore the wonders of nature in a welcoming environment.
We are currently facing a challenging situation with the school district regarding the medical necessity of certain services for our child. Due to the closure of local resources for kids, we are now required to commute 45 minutes each way for Speech-Language Pathology (SLP), Physical Therapy (PT), and Occupational Therapy (OT). Despite our efforts to adjust the therapy schedules to better align with school hours, the limited availability of resources has made it difficult to find a suitable solution. This has resulted in the therapies being stretched thin, affecting our child's access to the necessary support. Complicating matters further is the school's attendance policy, which considers any time missed during school hours as a full day absence. This policy unfairly penalizes our child, as the actual time missed amounts to only 4% of the total school hours based on minutes, not the 20% indicated by the policy. The misalignment between the school's policies and the child's needs highlights the importance of external therapies that focus on different goals, often with a more medical rather than academically based approach. In light of these challenges, our Mama Bear Advocacy team has stepped in to advocate more assertively for our child's rights and needs. It is crucial to ensure that our child receives the appropriate support and services to thrive academically, physically, and emotionally. By addressing these discrepancies and advocating for the necessary external therapies, we are working towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for our child's holistic development.
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