Please let it be a hearing problem….

As my child grew older and still wasn’t talking, our first step was to get a hearing test. I remember thinking, “Please let it be a hearing problem.” Hearing problems can be fixed. Autism, on the other hand, requires a completely different approach.

I vividly remember going to the doctor’s office, where they had a special room designed for testing children’s hearing. We settled in, and as the first sound was made, my child looked right towards it. My heart sank because I knew then that he could hear just fine. Test after test, he responded to every pitch, sound, and volume. It still brings tears to my eyes when I think back on it.

This moment marked the beginning of our medical journey, which included occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), a speaking tablet, and so much more. However, once the hearing test was done, the doctors and their team wasted no time getting my son the help he needed. It involved countless doctor appointments and a lot of new experiences.

Here are two important topics I want to highlight for parents navigating this journey:

1. Insurance: Once your child is legally recognized as disabled, insurance often works in your favor. This can be a significant relief as it opens up access to necessary therapies and services.
2. Navigating OT, PT, and Speech Therapy: It’s crucial to get this part right. Occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy can make a world of difference in your child’s development. Having a good team of doctors and therapists is essential to ensure your child receives the best possible care.

Understanding and dealing with autism is a unique journey. Each step, from the initial diagnosis to ongoing therapies, plays a crucial role in helping your child thrive.