We're now at SPED School!

I have been away from my computer keyboard for a while because I have been very busy. I know I promised myself to always post an update so that when the time comes I'll be able to read, look back, and remember all the things that Glimmer and I have been through. One other purpose is to somehow give an insight to moms who are new to this type of parenting. Because there is a huge difference in parenting neuro typical children and children with special needs.

So, my daughter Glimmer is now 3 years and 6 months old and our developmental pediatrician recommended us to enroll Glimmer in a SPED school. To be honest I was a bit hesitant, I wanted my daughter to attend regular school (I think all mothers do) but I waved away another emerging hint of denial and just followed the doctor's order. The school offered a 2 week summer class for free if you enroll your kid for the coming school year so we proceeded. On the first day, my daughter cried for a whole hour (the class was 4 hours in total) She was pulled out from the classroom and was catered to a one-on-one session with the school's director. When we went home I was a bit disappointed, I thought we already managed our separation anxiety issues but it turned out we haven't quite perfected that part just yet. I wasn't that down hearted, after all it was just out first day and I should give my daughter some time to adjust. The second day was unexpected. She went inside the classroom with no fuss and behaved well the entire time and I thought that her adjustment was kind of fast and I was proud of her because of that. Fast forward to today, we are now in the middle of the school year and she is doing great! The school has monthly activities that I personally look forward to at the end of the month where students' learning and talents are showcased and exposure to socialization is being practiced. I also like the fact that each student have their Individualized Education Program where students are assessed according to their own capacity so they learn at their own pace. It gives no pressure to each student to keep up with the others. When Glimmer attends class, I wait at the canteen with the other parents and guardians that also wait for their kids. I met new friends, gathered new ideas and techniques that helped the other parents with their kids. More importantly, I met people who I can relate to, I realized that their struggles are no different with mine. We share the same pain and we have the same goal. I am certain that Glimmer enjoys going to school everyday as much as I do. On weekends, she often says 'kool' 'kool' (school) when she wakes up in the morning. I explain to her that there is no school on weekends and she will oblige until we get to the car (going somewhere else) then she starts saying 'kool' again.

Glimmer at the school grounds with Matty boy

I appreciate the teachers who are very patient and are very passionate with what they do. I can see their love towards their work and dedication to their students. They seem tireless and uses their skills in making sure that they spend ample and equal time with each student (student teacher ratio is 1 teacher:2 students).

We have been into therapy for 10 months already after her diagnosis and she might be accomplishing little things but those accomplishments are already a big deal to me. I give high credit to her Occupational therapists, Speech therapist, SPED teachers, ABA therapist and swimming coach for the improvements that she has now. To these amazing people, they might think that they are just doing their job, but to me they are creating a brighter and clearer future for my child. God bless these people!

To God be the Glory!