Saturday, February 2, 2008

Update on Conductive Education

Many of you have been asking about Conductive Education(CE) and Grace's progress. Thank you so much for your interest and concern. Grace has just finished a 4 week CE camp at A Child Can Do All Things and I'm happy to say that we are seeing some great things happening with her. She seems to be stronger in her trunk and is able to sit in a normal chair now with only wedge seat cushion while reading a book or coloring. This is such an improvement for her as she previously had to sit in a seat with full support. She still tires out but it is so exciting to see her sitting at a table with her brother and sister. She is also sitting in the floor unassisted for longer periods of time. We are working on moving in and out of this position.

We are also seen increased endurance in walking in her walker. She can now also adjust her legs without assistance when she gets in front or behind the walker. That is HUGE. She previously would just get stuck and we would have to adjust the walker for her.

In addition, we are hearing many new words and singing. Her communication skills have taken off. Grace's PT, OT and even her MDO teachers have all commented on Grace's improvements.

Now, I don't think that CE is a miracle cure, because we still have a long way to go but I do have to say that much of my original skepticism about the whole process is gone. I believe that CE along with PT, OT, and ST that Grace has been doing the past 2 years has gotten her this far. To be perfectly honest I think that the 3 hours of concentrated therapy she gets at CE cannot hurt. I, unfortunately, can't do this at home...I have too much help ;) To date Abe and I have bought into the CE idea enough to sign Grace up for at least two more camps...one in April and one in July. Now we just have to come up with the money. If you know of anyone who needs their tax return prepared in exchange for a donation to ACCDAT please let me know.

I wish I had photos to show Grace working at CE but so far I can only observe where she can't see me because if she does see me she starts the fake whining thing(she's really good at it) and just wants me. Hopefully that improves and I can get photos. She's doing great!!

8 comments:

Mel said...

Hey, thanks for the update! The CE camp sounds great. We don't have anything like that here. I wish I could find something for Crew. Are the other kids in the class from around your area or do some travel to come?

It's neat hearing about all the progress Grace is making.

Jacolyn said...

Mel, I know there is one boy who travels about 2 hours each way to get to the class and I met one mom and daughter who had just come to Dallas for the summer camp and decided to move here so she could go every month.

Anonymous said...

PRAISE PRAISE PRAISE!!!! That is such encouraging news Jacolyn. I would love to donate. Would you give more specifics on that.

Love you.
Marcy

Kelly said...

That is a wonderful update! Please tell Grace that she, and her sister, have two great guys from Atlanta that will be knocking on their door very soon...we expect Abe to go easy on them! :)

Seriously, I'm pumped for Grace's progress. You are such a great mom to your kids! Don't ever sell yourself short. :)

xoxo,
kel

Anonymous said...

I'm so proud of Grace, just wish I couls see the progress in person. Miss seeing all those little people.Neville

AZ Chapman said...

wtg Grace

BusyLizzyMom said...

From what I have heard CE can be really helpful and you are right 3hrs of direct therapy is great. It is great to hear that she is doing so well with sitting up. We have signed Elizabeth up for March Break CE and can't wait to see what it can do for her. Too bad we didn't find out about one in our area 2 years earlier. It was because of all the good things you said that made me look for it our area.

Jackie said...

Way to go Grace. And way to go Jacolyn. I hope you can see in all the posts just what a blessing you have been not only to your own children as a great mom (yes - you are!), but to others as you have encouraged them in their journeys. I know God will bless you richly as you continue to pursue His will for your lives. I love you, J