I have written many times in the past about Mr. J and his speech issues. For those that haven't read them, a quick recap: Mr. J had a severe speech delay (he didn't really start talking at all until 2.5, but his major word explosions were at 3 and 3.5) and he had major issues with motor planning and articulation.
He had a delay in most things language related because of this, which put him way behind his peers for reading. At the end of SK, he was nowhere near a beginner grade 1 level so we decided to hire a tutor to help (at least to make sure he didn't lose what he had over the summer).
Beth came once a week over last summer, and continued into this year. He still struggled during first term, but had made so much improvement. He had issues with self confidence, he was aware that he was behind his friends and that was pretty hard for him to deal with.
Over the last few weeks, he has come SO SO far. He can now read age appropriate books on his own, with very little help from us. Last week, I put him to bed and went to clean up in the kitchen. When I was coming upstairs just after 9pm, I could hear him talking. I peeked in at him, and he was reading to himself.
He saw me, and asked me to sit with him so I did - how could I be upset he wasn't sleeping when he was READING! He continued reading the story and finished it with me only helping him sound out a few words. I pulled him close and had to wipe away tears because he has just come SO far and overcome so much to get to this point!
I am so proud of him and all the work he has put in. It's pretty hard to describe the overwhelming emotions I felt at that moment - but if you have ever watched your child struggle so greatly with a task and then work through everything to complete it - then you know what I was feeling then.
Children are so different. Our oldest was reading chapter books in grade one. Our youngest is struggling to get through the books she reads in her class. We read with both of them.
ReplyDeletethat is so true - they are so very different
DeleteAshley, how wonderful! I am getting emotional just reading this so you must have been bursting. What a wonderful accomplishment for your little guy. Congrats to him and to his great parents!!
ReplyDeleteI thought so too - thanks for stopping by!
DeleteGood for him for working so far to learn to read and catch up!
ReplyDelete:)
DeleteYour story is giving me hope. And it made me cry a little. :) We are facing similar issues with our son.
ReplyDeleteI certainly hope things look up for your son! I honestly wondered at one point if he would ever get it - it broke my heart to watch him struggle so much....
DeleteGood for him! Reading - especially reading struggles - are near to my heart. Coming by from SITS!
ReplyDelete