Julia is going to Preschool

It has been awhile since I have blogged and a lot of things have changed.  On March 15th, Julia turned 2 1/2 and is getting so big.  I took her to the doctor for her well check-up and she is now off the chart for her height. She is out-growing her AFO's that she got in October and will be fitted for new ones in the next few weeks.

Since August 2013, Julia has been in the Early Intervention program.  She currently receives PT, OT, DI and Mommy and Julia receive Family Training each month.  When a child reaches three years, they age out of the program.  On Monday April 14, 2014, we had a TPC meeting at our house.  The TPC meeting includes Julia's case manager, her DI therapist, Occupational Therapist, Physical Therapist and two members of the Child Study Team.  We had a meeting to discuss what the plans with be for Julia in September when she turns three. ( I can't believe my baby will be three.)  Our district does not have a preschool or any programs for disabled children.  Therefore, if a child requires services our district has to find a school that can meet the child's needs.  I was told before the meeting that it was going to be tough and the school child's study team can turn Julia down.  Therefore, I did my homework.  I brought videos, pictures, information about Julia and Dystonia to the meeting.  I am sure most of you reading this blog have never heard of Dystonia before Julia.  Well, Dystonia is real and it effects Julia everyday.  She may look like a normal healthy 2 1/2 year old but looks can be very deceiving.  After, I shared all the videos, pictures and information with the Team they told me that she was APPROVED for Preschool in September.  Well, you may ask what does this mean?  It means that after Julia's third birthday she will be getting on a van or bus everyday and going to preschool for two hours a day.  She will get all her therapy in school, get to met new friends and be in a school environment to learn.  During the Summer, the Child Study Team, Julia and Mommy will go look at a few schools.  I am so happy that Julia got accepted into the program.  Now, I am going to miss her so much.  She is my shadow and it will be so hard not having her with me all day long and having someone else caring for her. However, I know it is best for her.  I am sure the first day of school there will be lots of tears between both of us.