We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely do we admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. Each of us have different goals-for ourselves, for our children. Whether it be speech, language, feeding, using an AAC device or breastfeeding. We may start with one vision, but our journey may lead us down a different path.
Although no one usually plans on having their child in therapy, why are we sometimes hesitant to start the therapy process? I think one of the answers is-change can be scary. Needing therapy does not mean you have failed as a parent, or that your child is not capable of achieving their goals. I have worked with amazing children and families who have gone through a “transformation” with therapy. It is hard work, there are hard days, and the change doesn’t happen overnight. But being a part of a child’s transformation, as a therapist, is why I love what I do.
Seeing those little changes-the first time a child makes a new sound, says a new word, eats a new food. Getting a baby to latch without pain, using a device to say “mommy” for the first time. Those are the transformational moments I look forward to sharing with families. So don’t give up on your goal. Find someone to help support it. Starting your therapy journey may not be what you planned, but the journey will be worth it.
If you have questions about your child’s speech, please don’t hesitate to reach out me.
