Thread: Speech Delay-Therapy for Jillian

Hi y'all! My DH and I have noticed Jillian not talking as well as we think she should be at 3 years of age. She still does alot of pointing and just fussing when she wants something instead of telling us what she's thinking, or what she wants. When she does talk she doesn't pronounce alot of her words so its sometimes frustrating in trying to understand what she is saying. So I called early intervention to have her tested and they confirmed our fears....she has a speech delay. They recommended her start Speech therapy (the lady is coming next week to start...1-2 hours once a week) and they also said she would benefit from Instruction group...which will help her comprehension. For example...the lady had a shoe, ball, car, and a key and told Jill to get the one that belongs on her foot....Jillian picked up the ball and put in on her foot. See....she doesn't seem to understand phrases or instruction well. We have also tried EVERYTHING possible to explain using the potty and potty training her.....all has not worked. Up to this point Bry (my DH) and I were just very frustrated with her....thinking she wasn't listening to us and it was pure defiance. Now we find out that she is actually having difficulting in doing things we ask her to do...or NOT to do. I feel both scared for her/us and also relieved......fear that she will not progress and have a difficult time in school.....and relief that our concerns are finally being addressed and she is getting some help---so there is hope.

Anyone out there have a child with speech problems.....have speech therapy for their child? Did you see progress? The lady assured us that Jillian will be like a totally different child in 6 months and for us to just give her time. Jillian always has done things at her own pace....from rolling over, to crawling...to walking. I did alot of blaming on myself---thinking I did something wrong in raising her....but the lady/therapist told me that I should not feel guilty as this sometimes just happens and that having this delay does not mean she won't do well.

What do you all think? Thanks for all suggestions, feelings on this matter, and any personal experiences you all can share with me.