People told us that our son was just being a boy, that he’d outgrow his immaturity. I asked, “If he’s going to outgrow it, why is it getting progressively worse?” No one knew what to do. Hugs more like body slams. Homework & mealtimes were a constant struggle. Notes from teachers & principal about his behavior. He started describing himself as “stupid” and his self-esteem plummeted. No one had a solution that worked. I brought home books to get him interested in anything besides Minecraft.
Then I started working as Assistant Director at an Achievement Center working with kids who struggle with behaviors, academics or social skills. I learned about the methods and goal of the program. Then I started to notice how much in common my son’s behavior was in line with kids who come to the center. It all clicked, and it took me seeing both sides--knowing my son and the information gained from working there-- to put it together. I brought our son in for the sensory motor and cognitive assessment and it showed that he'd been struggling with ADHD and ASD. I was shocked and encouraged at the same time because I finally had real answers. It all made sense. Finally!
Blessedly, my initially skeptical husband followed my lead. During the program, our son started showing empathy. Toward the end of the "boot camp for the brain" program, he stayed seated for meals. His became less argumentative, he simply became a happier kid! And he started reading above his grade level... simply because he enjoyed it! His progress astonished us. He was voted Assistant Patrol Leader by his boy scout troop, he earned a spot in his school’s spelling bee the following year and now asks to go to the library, which makes my heart soar. His maturity and self-confidence are up. His grades are way up. He makes an effort to keep friendships. It gives me goosebumps thinking how much this program creating permanent, lasting change has impacted our family and I talk about it any chance I get. God is so good!
Cary, NC
