Language

Matthew is making great strides in his development, but is still most delayed in language development.  We've worried, but Matthew always gives us hope.  Though he's not using words, he is very vocal and he has recently learned a few signs.  Matthew can wave for 'hi' 'goodbye' and 'goodnight', give a high 4, pat his leg for the 'dog' and clap his hands together for 'more'.  I've rejoiced in this small but important movement toward speaking.  The spot in the brain responsible for spoken language is the same spot that is responsible for signs.  If Matthew can sign, I feel like he will talk in time! 

As well, Matthew's cognitive understanding and receptive language is good and improving.  He is able to touch the picture of the dog when you say dog. He knows cause and effect, like if I push this button a song will play.  And though he's more interested in trying to figure out how to stand up and walk, he continues to explore and work to understand his world.

Matthew's early language specialist just got reassigned to another region, and I am not a fan of the new one.  I'm trying to have an open mind, but she rubbed me the wrong way from our first meeting.  But I figure I can suck up any situation for a few hours a month in the best interest of Matthew.  Unfortunately, speech is not a service I think we'll be able to drop anytime soon.