The Unevaluated Child

Hey Bloggy, I have been wondering what to DO with you lately, and I have come up with a few ideas.  But I have an interesting post for you today about my third child, the infamous Eleanor and how she fits into the whole Autistic/Special needs la dee da.

So for those who have stuck with us we had Helen (age 9 now), the no talker until age three when she was evaluated with speech delay and then eventually PDD NOS and had the cadillac of birth to three services, Extended Day Kindergarten with full Autistic support that at that point her teacher was vehemently denying she needed.  I fought for her services until it was clear as day she didn't need them any more just because the no speaking, space angel thing was a bit scary in the beginning.  Now she is the highest achiever in fourth grade with no services.

Then there is Ted (almost 8) who got evaluated as pretty much a piggyback deal.  His speech and academics were always off the charts but the behavior was rigid and rage.  He was immediately diagnosed PDD NOS because of those symptoms and his sister but never had real supports until last year when he came home with a full Autistic diagnosis and a bunch of teachers who wanted to pull their hair out because of his inability to sit still or stay quiet.  His academics are still off the charts which is saying something since I think he pays attention about 4% of the time his brain is not inundated with Super Smash Bros.

And now we have the illustrious Eleanor (3 and a half).  And of course E is different.  She doesn't have a sib abutting her left or right by a year and a bit.  So she gets more attention that way.  She also is not a victim of the big D (divorce) so she has the two parents all the time who adore her.  And I was fortunate enough to stay at home with her for most of her tiny little life.  But she has missed some milestones, I have to say,  So now she is in daycare where they teach you all the live long day.  I was teaching her at home but she had some issues with mommy as the teacher.  She also has some issues with behavior ala Ted.  Her speech is perfect, and of course I am keeping my eye on it.  But there is no real reason to evaluate her right now, and I'd like to let one child be free from all the pencil pushers.  Kindergarten may be a different story.

But it is interesting to see if the services are helping or hindering and what to agree with and to stand up for.

Next up, and update on Ted's medication.....