Neuropsychology

In a continued attempt to support Aiden's growth, the doctor ordered a neuropsychology consult.  

The results were tough to hear.  

After 2 and a half hours of testing, the doctor concluded that Aiden has a "mild cognitive delay" related to anoxia (lack of oxygen) at childbirth.  His medical opinion is that Aiden's struggle to learn and process information is not related to autism, but cognitive delay.  

The 2 are a different diagnosis.  

"Cognitive delay" is the updated medical term for mentally re....I won't even write it.

While these words keep running through my head, I still don't quite agree or believe them.  What we did agree on, Aiden is a visual learner and needs a lot more time to process information.  I was told by the autism specialist that IQ tests are not accurate for autism (Aiden's was below average a year ago).  This man was NOT an autism specialist.  

The positive from this?  Documenting our journey with EVERYTHING has provided Aiden all the services he needs to succeed along the way.  The 3 years of autism therapy wouldn't have happened if I wasn't diligent about seeking help and keeping the documentation.  This new "information" however I take it, will help Aiden receive the support he needs in school.  It was confirmed that Aiden is 2 years behind.  We WILL catch up!  He is a kind, sweet, good-natured kid and he is smart!

Personally, I think Aiden is going to surprise us all one day, and that isn't because I'm his mom.  I just feel it.  There is something beautiful about his spirit that is going to affect many lives for good, and what more can a mother ask for than that?!

ARISE

ARISE Virtual Learning was best for Aiden, but for Mom, it has been tough....

The Pros:

*Aiden was able to complete assignments at his level and in his time.  

*We were able to repeat 3rd grade because of ARISE (a closed door without a fight through the "traditional" school).

*We were blessed to have horseback riding lessons on Thursdays in the Spring and Fall through our former neighbor.

*I had 1 morning a week to spend with just Avery (my 3-year-old) while Aiden worked with an instructor.  We went to the library together :)

*We had 2 tutors who helped me with the constant 1:1 instruction.

*Aiden was able to return to the school of our choice to complete art class with friends.

The Cons:

*I feel burnt out from getting in and out of the van 8-12 times a day (ARISE 2 days a week, Art 2 days a week, karate 1-2 days a week, Scouts on Wednesdays).

*I struggle with patience, and that doesn't lend well to 1:1 instruction for 2+ hours a day.  You have to redirect Aiden often to get him to complete the tasks he is given.  

*I long for a time when I have more than an hour to myself each day.  I love my children, but working 14 hours a day is a lot for anyone (even workaholics like me!)

Ultimately, we decided to keep Aiden in ARISE for 4th grade (technically 5th) because it is what is best for HIM.  What is best for ME?  

A vacation!