After getting thoroughly frustrated with the EI process in my county, I decided to pay out of pocket to a have SLP evaluate my son. After having extensive conversations with me, reviewing the IFSP the county gave us, and observing and playing with Zach for a good period of time this morning, she told us that she thinks he has verbal dyspraxia. I don't think she's ever met a parent who was actually happy to hear that. I've just been pulling out my hair trying to get a straight answer on what is going on with him and what to do about it, which was compounded by the fact that the county didn't send an SLP to evaluate him. It turns out that all the goals the "infant educator" wrote are too advanced for him -- we have to work out the underlying oral motor issues before we can turn to developing 2-word combinations. It makes sense with observations that have been made to me -- how his mouth hangs open and how he tries to talk but just can't sometimes.
The OT the county assigned me still hasn't called to schedule therapy -- so I might have to pay yet again to have private treatment. I'm curious to see if the dyspraxia extends beyond the oral issues.
Re: SLP Eval today -- dyspraxia
What are your son's issues? Apraxia or dyspraxia is a difficult dx to make until much older. Trev. has been dx with Apraxia (which is an oral motor condition); he's been recieving speech services since 2. We've seen 6 different SLPs and none are sure that this truly is the correct dx. Trev's speech wasn't intelligible until 3.5. Check out my blog - it's about our journey. Also, this is a great website :
https://www.apraxia-kids.org/
I'm sure others will give their experiences. I think there are a few moms on here dealing with a similar dx. HTH
So glad you have some answers. No-one knows 100% when it comes to developmental issues in little ones. It is a subjective process & I am so glad that you have something more appropriate to work with now!!! I know that feeling of HAPPINESS after diagnosis b/c you just want to know what to work on!!!
Congrats.
I pray he gets the help he needs!!!