The Down Syndrome Family

I'm afraid that I too have to agree that this family may have missed out on some wonderful blessings due to the "fear factor" or possibly misinformation. I homeschooled my 5 children and now as they are in college and high school have returned to the working world as a Speech Therapist. I work for an Early Intervention Agency. I can say that in our state being enrolled in or EI does not "require" any further obligations for services. As a therapist I go into the family's home according to their schedule and seek to help, teach and train everyone in the family according to the goals that they have set for communication for their child. I know from experience that EI has been a tremendous blessing for many families and their children. I agree from this article that God has met this families needs, but wouldn't want others to be misinformed that EI is somehow something "evil" that should be neglected, but from my experience includes many caring, christian, and gifted professionals.
LTWV

Perhaps things have changed since this family was introduced to the public early intervention programs. Now, accepting these therapies does not "lock you in" to going to public preschool. Many families choose to have their child attend a church-based preschool, stay in daycare, or continue to stay in the home. Still, therapies are offered at the public preschools which the parents can access, usually at least speech therapy.

The lesson I take away from this article is how to convert daily tasks into educational opportunities, as demonstrated by the loving way this mother uses grocery shopping to teach concepts. The lesson should not be to avoid early intervention programs, as studies have proven that these therapies improve the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome. Still, though, the ultimate factor is having a devoted and loving family, which this son clearly also has.

I found this fascinating and sorrowful. We are a proud family of 3 children. Our last child, only son, who is now 2, is Down Syndrome. I don't know what I would have done withough Early Intervention. They have been a blessing an life line. Two of my son's therapists are strong christian women who I can openly discuss our family's faith and values. I feel so good with these women and the therapy we receive. My heart goes out to this family for all the trials they have faced, but I pray God would soften their hearts to be open to some of the services that their son could have that might strengthen his skills.

Kristy
Ft.Leavenworth, KS

Another terrible and fearful Christian family.

"We denied $50,000 a year in government support, because we couldn't, just couldn't send our child to a public pre-school. They might teach him about Satan or something.."

I am both a Christian, a behavioral therapist, and an early interventionist. Do not do what this family did!

These pople have let their fear of the world, affect the quality of their child's life.

How early intervention works in most (not all) states:

Diagnosed child is given CHEAP (co-pay only) therapy from age 1-3. It is intensive with therapists coming to your house 25-35 hours a week. It is at your house, and you choose the scheduling. It cost the goverment $40,000+ per child. Why? because it works. At age 3, the child can attend FREE special preschool, where therapy is continued and the government foot's the bill.

THIS FAMILY DENIED THEIR CHILD ALL OF THIS... BECAUSE IT WAS LOOSELY AFFILIATED WITH THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM! WHAT THE HECK?