As parents we all have expectation for our children. Big ones (that they will be followers of God), small ones, (that they will eat their green beans), and all the expectations that fall in between. What I have found about expectations and parenting is that they sometimes place limitations OR burdens on my children. For example, when we wanted Bowen to play soccer and although he enjoyed it at the time he wasn't very good and never wanted to play after that one season.
Well, I had expectations about what Kindergarten would be like for Bowen. He would go into class, be great at everything, because guys the boy is seriously SMART and all would be fanflippintastic. Expectations can be a burden. Bowen's K teacher came to me last week and told me she was concerned with the way he gripped his pencil and since the Occupational Therapist was at school she was going to have her pop in and observe him. She did, and later Mrs. OT caught me in the hall and told me Bowen is delayed in his fine and gross motor skills. (did you hear me sigh?) I knew it deep in my heart, I watch him struggle to get both feet off the ground to jump and have a hard time balancing, I've seen him grip and pencil and tried to correct him myself. She wants him to have OT and Physical Therapy. If you're a teacher you know the ropes I am about to have to go over and under and cut though and maybe not even get past to get him therapy in the district. Thank You LORD we have a program at our school that will help him immensely if all else fails. And Thank You LORD the boy is smart and I only have to worry with motor skills. It's changing my expectations of my district, my school, my child, and myself. I've always been my kids' advocate but when you have to step it up a few notches it's like digging your heels in the dirt and getting ready to stand your ground, I just have to find my feet first.
I feel confident he can easily catch up with his peers with the right help, everyone at my school is on Bowen's side, I just have to get the ball rolling. We have a Doctor appointment tomorrow, that is the first step. Laine has her foot check-up tomorrow too, big day for us! Please pray!
3 comments:
You know right where your feet are.....firmly planted and ready to kick *** to do whatever it takes to get Bowen what he needs. Praying for patience and perserverance for you and jw. :)
From the perspective of a teacher, thank you for being willing to do what your child needs to be sucessful. I met with a parent yesterday who REFUSED to see a need her child has, and that can easily be fixed. I know it's not what you wanted to hear about Bowen, but it takes great strength to acknowledge it and do what he needs you to do. From the perspective of a sister-in-law and an aunt who loves you all dearly, kick*** like your mom said. :) You guys will rock this. We're praying for you.
Well I've been in a similar situation. You are the leader in this situation. You find the resources he needs and make sure they are helping Bowen in any way he needs help. And stay on them. And do some reading - there may be some things you can do at home. One of the things they had me do was get a tire swing for vestibular stimulation. Who knew?
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