Isaiah is having a bit of a hard time in school. He's intelligent and talented in his own way, but processes things a little bit differently. I won't get in complete detail because I don't think it's fair to say to the world what I can't really say to my five year old. So, without getting in too far I'd like to share his current story.
Isaiah has been diagnosed with a learning disability. It doesn't affect his IQ, but is affecting his ability to hear sounds and write words. If I can learn to teach him the way he learns best then things will get easier. It will take some time, but I'm watching and we're learning.
I had a parent teacher conference yesterday. I cried. I'm sure I'm not the first mother to cry in a P/T conference. I didn't sob, but I did tear up when I explained that my anger isn't because I'm necessarily angry at a particular person, but because I'm frustrated and though I know it's just business and that it isn't personal, ISAIAH (AND JOSIAH) IS PERSONAL, DEEPLY PERSONAL, TO ME.
Isaiah's entire life has been one small hurdle after another. I strongly use the word "small" here as his conditions aren't extreme by any measure. These issues aren't anything I can not handle. They aren't anything he can't handle.
Though, I can't help but find that I feel rattled right now. I feel a big fight coming on and not one that will end any time soon. I feel like I need, now more than ever, to hone my research skills and sharpen my vocabulary. I'll need to advocate for him and to him about where his education needs to go.
He's personal to me, but he's literally my business. I lack a flashy business card. I lack a formal education. I lack a high-powered career. Isaiah is what I do. Josiah is what I do. They are my business. And, like in The Lorax, BUSINESS IS BUSINESS AND BUSINESS MUST GROW. Yet, I feel the sense that there will be people standing in the way of that. There will be laws standing in the way of that. So yes, he's business, but he is still very personal to me. If I were outside staring in, I'd rather be up against Business Alicia than Mommy Alicia. He'll get what he needs. I'll make sure of it.
Hugs first off! It is hard when teachers don't teach the way your child learns. Connor is learning by moving. He hates to color and will hurry to get it down. When the teacher writes neater writing on his hw, I say to myself he is in kindergarten for silly sake. The way our schools are, they cut out alot and us parents must pick up the slack. You do a wonderful job getting your children any help they need. He is a bright, very likeable, little boy. His struggles do not define who he is. When he is much older he will thank you for fighting for him and getting him the help.
ReplyDeleteWe are in the same place. I know it's hard not to get totally wrapped up in it, but believe me, he will do great! Skylar has made leaps and bounds. I am always amazed at how she keeps on trucking! Just keep learning, and keep pushing for what you know he needs. :)
ReplyDeleteAlicai, brought tears to my eyes, I so know how you inspiration feel! Stay strong, you are my inspiration right now and I couldn't have wrote that better myself; formal education/degree etc. but we are Mom's and that's what will get the job done!!! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteVal
You guys are very sweet. It's just so difficult to deal with. I think we need a support group. I have so many friends who have children who have learning disabilities or are challenged in some other way. I think we could use eachother.
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