Madison's nurse, Tina, comes once a month to check on her. She checks on how Madison has been doing, helps answer questions, gives advice, and just is a good resource that I have had over this past year.
Another thing that Tina does when she comes is go through a list of things Madison should be doing for her age. There were a couple of months where Madison was a little below where she should be (mostly in communication & gross motor skills). So Tina put in a referral to Tennessee Early Intervention Services (TEIS) to come do an evaluation.
When TEIS did their evaluation of Madison she showed a 25% delay in communication. With another medical condition she has, this qualified her for services. The amazing thing is we are not out any money for these services. Whatever insurance doesn't cover, TEIS does. This is definitely something the state of Tennessee is doing right, and I am so thankful we are able to take advantage of this additional resource.
Madison's therapist, Nicole, came this morning. Madison did great! I think that Nicole is going to be so great for Madison. She got her to eat a graham cracker by herself after only a few tries - something I haven't been able to do. It may seem like something little, but I was so excited! Even after Nicole left she picked up a cracker & started chewing on it without me trying to get her to. She also showed me different exercises / activities I can work with Madison on.
We knew from the beginning that Madison may need some extra help, so I have been open to any resources we have been able to use. I know that sometimes parents don't want to accept that their child may need some extra help, in whatever area it may be. But I would encourage anyone that has some concerns about their toddler being behind or delayed to talk to your pediatrician. They can also request TEIS evaluations, or may have other suggestions. Never be afraid to ask for help because that is what these programs are in place for.
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