There is so much I want you to know. I'd like to think that we all like the opportunity of not only being a part of our own kids education and experience, but of collectively helping every child in the class reach their full potential, as best we can.
It doesn't matter if you have known someone with a "disability" before, or down syndrome in particular, because Liam is not like any of them. He is just Liam. And as much as he is getting out of the class, a language rich environment and loads of fun playing, your kids also have the opportunity to learn from Liam. They may be only 3 and 4, but they can still practice how to include someone in play.
Have they mentioned Liam to you at home? Have they noticed yet that he is different in any way? I have no idea when that might start, but I am curious. I have assumed they might just think he is younger since his expressive language skills are delayed. He understands though! And he is in the midst of an extraordinary language explosion, though this is shown to us only at home where he feels most comfortable.
Make sure your child knows he is not a baby because he doesn't speak a lot yet. Maybe you can think of some examples of other friends who need "extra help" with something. You can say, "Liam is three like you(or Liam is three, almost four like you). He understands us and loves preschool just like you do, but he needs extra help learning to talk. (Here add in an example: remember so-and- so, it took them a long time to learn to walk. It's taking ____ a while to learn how to share). What is something that you are learning to do? We can help Liam though, he'd love to play with you! Let's make sure he can see us when we are talking with him, it sure can be distracting in our loud class when everyone is playing"
I like to talk about Down syndrome. I like to answer questions. I'm totally cool with that. I love people who feel comfortable asking things in order to educate themselves, expand their world view and open their hearts even more.
Here's an example. Is there a spectrum when it comes to DS? Good question, and the answer is yes and no. I suppose you could say there is a spectrum for everyone. We all have different strengths and weaknesses. Some are good with people, others good with numbers. (Thank god for IT people who are good with computers, cause I'm not one of them!). Some may be doctors, some may work retail, or.......etc etc. I think it's nature/nurture, both. We are born with innate abilities and distinct personalities, but much of our potential and ability Is shaped by our upbringing, education and expectations. (We have high expectations for Liam) Liam is doing pretty well because maybe that's just part of the essence of who he is, what he was born with, but also.....pedro and I work damn hard. We do.
I would love to have your updates after a class that we weren't at. (You can text me!) I know every parents would sometimes like a secret mirror to look through and see how their child does without them, how they interact with others. But with Liam it's different. We are SO attentive to every little stage of his development. Most parents would be receiving services for their child with DS right now through the schools and special ed preschools, but that route isn't for us. We had great therapists the last three years, but most of his growth has come form the work we do with him at home. Pedro and I have been his strongest therapists and his greatest advocates. So send me a quick text if you have something to share or feel so inclined, it would be much appreciated. If you can't, no worries! The time goes by quickly and watching all those kids is exhausting!
Feel free to keep on reading the blog, I have talked a lot about our journey and love to share.
It's now 11:30 and I should have been in bed ages ago. Good night!
