Rolling, Rolling, Rolling...

Things are moving along in our neck of the woods. I met with CJ's pediatrician Friday morning to go over his evaluations and talk about next steps. She had some good input for us and is going to think about a recommendation for the neuro-psychological evaluation to see if there is an organic cause for his disability. All in all, it was a helpful conversation.

I also left with the name of a psychologist for CJ. When I spoke with her that afternoon she already had his file from the doctor and we had a good conversation. We'll meet with her on the 21st without CJ and if all goes well then she will meet with him once a week for play therapy. She'll update us on how he is doing and will also go to his school to observe him there and provide them with input on how to handle him in class, as well as to take away things she can be working on during their sessions.

I'm particularly excited about finding a psychologist since it will give us another way to help him process what is happening in his life and learn how to compensate for his disability. In play therapy, he'll work on his social skills and understanding how his actions impact those around him. It will also help support him as the adults around him figure out how to structure his world. I know he feels badly when he makes a mistake or acts out and having an outlet for that will help to make sure his self-esteem doesn't suffer.

Of course, it doesn't look like our insurance will cover it so we'll be paying out of pocket, but it's worth it and we're lucky that we can figure out how to pull together the $150 a week. Other families don't even have the option. (Insert strong language supporting health care reform here.)

This is all well timed since CJ and AJ are heading to a summer program at a possible school tomorrow. AJ has moved off the waitlist at a charter school that offers Chinese immersion and an International Baccalaureate program, which moves CJ to the top of the list. The school is offering a two week Chinese boot camp to new students and both boys are going to attend. It will help them be prepared for school should we send them and also provide us with some data on which to base our decision. We are lucky to have the possibility of choosing from two really good programs, although actually deciding might be hard.

I have to admit that I'm really nervous about CJ heading back to school. We had a long talk with the school administrators on Friday and they are incredibly open to his issues and willing to work with us in whatever way possible (their amazing Special Ed program is one of the big draws for the school). I really just want him to be someplace where all his wonderful qualities shine through and he is able to feel successful.

So we're keeping our fingers crossed that the next two weeks go well. All positive thoughts are appreciated!