My little silent man.

A lot of people are not aware of Speech Apraxia. 

What is childhood apraxia of speech?

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder. Children with CAS have problems saying sounds, syllables, and words. This is not because of muscle weakness or paralysis. The brain has problems planning to move the body parts (e.g., lips, jaw, tongue) needed for speech. The child knows what he or she wants to say, but his/her brain has difficulty coordinating the muscle movements necessary to say those words.

{ Definition from http://www.asha.org/public/speech/disorders/childhoodapraxia.htm }

My eldest son have been undergoing speech therapy since he was 2. I'm sure a number of parents can identify with our situation because this disorder requires a lot of hard work and patience. These children makes inconsistent sound errors that are not the result of immaturity. Hence, this is just a result of a slight deficiency that is inborn and cannot be cured by any medicine. Proper practice and speech therapy is needed to overcome this state.

My son is a very sweet and caring boy. He is very smart and loves to dance and perform on stage. He is loved by many because of his thoughtfulness and charm. He is a NORMAL little boy. And we give him as much love and attention as his younger sibling. 

This post is to let people understand and accept that not all children are born the same. Some may be very well articulate in uttering words, but have difficulties comprehending. Some are very well understood but was never happy with what their parents' choices were. One thing that I am very proud of is that our son knows very well that we are proud of him. He was never scared to try to speak infront of many people. He was never discouraged by his deficiency because he knew that he understands his school lessons just like how normal speaking kids do. But one thing that makes him unique is that he can relay and make people feel what he wanted to express even with less words. He can work on his own, and he can understand other people's difficulties. He is more sensitive than other kids are.

This made us stronger. This made us fight the sadness that was felt the first time we found out about Speech Apraxia. We did not understand it, not until we started fighting it. We cannot erase the fact that the deficiency is there, but we were never discouraged that we had to face it. 

I have always wanted to create a support group for other parents who are having the same fight as ours. We had difficulties of finding other people who would understand us but we were lucky to be surrounded by great friends, relatives, teachers and children. They all made my little quiet man feel that he was not even less of the normal child that he is.

For other parents who needs information, doctor's referrals or even having difficulties finding therapists, we would be more than happy to give information or suggestions to lighten your burden. We are always ready to help and support parents like us, who wanted the best for our children.

My little man is turning 7 in June. 5 years and still counting, under speech therapy. But now can speak confidently and communicate well. He is a work in progress, but we are proud of him. His determination and eagerness to speak well is our strength.

Just shoot us a comments if you need help with the same situation, we would love to help and listen.

To my little quiet man (who is not so quiet anymore)...we're going on 7 years of working together! You'll make it, and Mommy is sure you'll make it big! You'll be a teacher someday, like what you always tell us. You'll be a good teacher and will help children in the future. Just like how your teachers have inspired you to be like them. We are so proud of you!

My little man's 1st ever Recognition Day from Speech Therapy 2007.

 

He made it! - 1st year in Speech Therapy

Here he is now during his Xmas presentation 2010.

He's not so little anymore. 2011

Ciao,

Joyce

P.S. My biggest dream was to be called upon by the teacher to inform me that my son was talkative and noisy in class. And last school year, she did! Though I promised I'll talk to him, deep inside, knowing that he was talking more than he should made me the happiest mother on Earth! ;)

S C H O O L S !

This school year, we decided to move our eldest son to another school. We are not sure yet if this is a good step to take, but cost-wise, we are sure it is.

I listed a few Pro's & Con's for the move, parents like us might want to consider these points in decision making regarding moving schools.

OLD SCHOOL PRO'S:

-Progressive, gives importance to self-confidence.

-Secured, children are safe within the premises.

-Small community, kids and parents know each other.

-Supportive, well trained and kind staff and faculty.

-Kuya (elder brother in Filipino), is already at home in this school. He had been attending Pre-school here for 3 School Years now.

OLD SCHOOL CON'S:

-Limited facilities, less books, less space. Not even a waiting area for parents and caregivers.

-Basic skills such as writing, reading and counting were taken for granted. Though school is progressive, it is still their duty to teach the basics.

-High tuition fee. Same facilities but we pay more.

-More misc payments almost each month.

-Unnecessary activities involving the children that are not part of the School's curriculum.

-Due to these unwanted activities, days of classes are lessened to give way for the said events. Yet, less time to study for the SY.

-None of the extra curricular activities were ever included either in the tuition or misc fees upon enrollment. So extra money should always be shelled out.

-The list can go on and on, but these are enough.

As for the new school, I cannot give a concrete comparison yet. But there are certain points that made us decide for the big move.

1. Cheaper. From 67k php it is now narrowed down to 25k php. We can now send 2 boys on the same school, less cost for both.

2. More accessible. Just a 10min drive or trike ride from home.

3. Traditional teaching approach. It is always best to explore new teaching approaches, but in a country with a very competitive educational environment, our kids need to know the basics in time.

4. School supplies included in the enrollment fees. Do I hear less stress come June? Happy mom!

5. Uniforms in the said new school is supplied by a family friend. Hassle free!

6. Children within the same community, children of past neighbors or grandchildren of our parents' friends, share the same school. Familiar faces, less anxiety.

We are still to find out what the new school offers. But we need to grow and explore better options for our children. We will forever be grateful to Kuya's old school. They brought my little shy boy out of his shell. He is now a well-rounded person and the old school is to praise for for this great improvement.

We are parents. We only seek what will be best for our children. May it be this school, the old one or perhaps a new one in the future, we, as parents, should work hand in hand not just with our children but with the school community. Together, we will shape our kids to be better and successful individuals.

Happy school hopping parents!

Ciao, 

Joyce

Celebration in the Air 2011: A tour of the wonderful world of Disney! (The Disneyland Theme Park)

This is the highlight of the trip!

Even I, myself, is so excited. The last time I visited Disneyland was 1995 and that was the one in LA. I did not enjoy much at that time since I was with my parents and they don't really care about the rides. This time I am with my whole family, with the people I loved the most...so I'm 101% sure that this will be the best Disneyland trip ever!

Though we were very tired with the long trip and the wait time to check in the hotel room, we decided that we need to go to the theme park because we do not want to waste our 2-day pass. We took maps earlier from the hotel lobby and we were already planning which route to follow to see all the attractions. This plan...we never followed! haha

Once you're there, you just get amazed with the attractions, you tend to run towards the first ones you see. And since we came with the kids, it's a never ending stop to fall in line for picture taking sessions. 

We arrived at the park at around 4pm. From the Disney Hollywood Hotel is a shuttle (one arrives every 10-15 mins) to take you back and forth the theme park. After getting off the shuttle is a loooong walk from the terminal to the actual entrance gates. For 2-day pass holders, you can either register your pass by using your thumb print or have your picture taken by the office. We chose the thumb print since it will take time ( and another long walk ) to get your picture taken.

This was just a part of the long walk from the shuttle station.

Baby J still hiding from the camera!

Finally!

Surfin Mickey!

E & J with Lola.

The City Hall. Remember this because this is where the ONLY money changer is!

  As we entered the park, we decided to take the train ride that tours you around. It has 2 stops, first station is on Main Street & the second one in Fantasyland. We had an idea of how the route will be...but then again, we were not able to follow the plan! haha

Since this is the first day, and we were already tired, we decided to just try the rides with no long lines. But we ended up eating up all of the afternoon time by falling in line to each hut where the characters were. Hubby said that it's better to take the pictures now, then enjoy the entire park tomorrow. So that's what we did. Fall in line, picture. Fall in line, picture. Till we were able to gather enough souvenir snaps to finally ride, It's a Small World.

This was my mom's favorite ride in Disney LA. She would repeat the ride numerous times. And this is the first one she looked for on this visit. They came here last year too, and rode repeatedly. She just loves the dolls!

Riding the train around the park.

A glimpse of Tomorrowland.

Goofy in his Chinese New Year costume. Papa did not come and chose to sleep in the hotel room instead.

Pluto loves me! ~ Kuya E

I'm Tigger's super hero! ~ Baby J

It was already dark when we went to our first ride, It's a Small World!

The cute dolls dancing to the same tune over and over again.

Next stop was Autopia, with my driver Baby J.

The Celebration in the Air at 8pm. We were far because Kuya E is scared of fireworks.

Good thing, as we were buying dinner, the Celebration in the Air started. This shot was taken from Tomorrowland. We were unable to watch near the castle because Kuya E is scared of fireworks. We waited for a few mins and walked our way out back to the shuttle station.

We had our dinner at the hotel. But please be reminded that none of the restos in the theme park have take out bags. We had to carry our food using our shopping bags. So if you are planning to have dinner take out, forget it. We had a hard time taking the food to the hotel. But we had no choice because Papa was alone and sleeping in the room. We had to bring dinner.

This was a tiring but very memorable day for us, specially the kids. It was a time in their lives that I know they will forever treasure. Thanks to Mama and Papa for bringing us here. Tomorrow will be packed with Disney fun again.

Ciao,

Joyce

Celebration in the Air 2011: A tour of the wonderful world of Disney! (Part 2)

This is DAY 1 of the Disney bliss.

We arrived in the hotel around lunch time. Thanks to my favorite tour guide who I don't want to see again (bitterness in the air). 

I was prepared that we will not be able to check in the hotel room right away since I read from a few blogs that check in time is at 2pm. But I was not prepared to see a big crowd on a Monday in the Disney Hollywood hotel. Most of the people were Chinese nationals and we were like the only Filipino family waiting at the lobby. 

Behind the kids is the crowded lobby of the Disney Hollywood Hotel.

We had to leave our luggages at an area near the entrance. Since the lobby is crowded with guests, all the luggages are deposited in the entrance. It won't fit the luggage counter anymore so they had to tie up the suitcses and cover it with a net blanket to keep it safe.

We decided to stay outside, at a mini park at the back of the hotel. There were benches and we chose to stay away from the crowd. After getting our room cards (which serves as the key and later on a souvenir), we relaxed outside. Only thing is...it was very cold!

Though it's cold, we chose to stay outside than in the crowded lobby. The kids were enjoying anyway.

Once the room cards were given, we decided that its time for a hearthy lunch. After all the stress of the trip, where else will we eat? Chef Mickey's! =)

The menu booklet was all about Mickey!

Big brother E showing off his menu.

Baby J, thinking of a good food to order.

He's excited to capture every moment.

Everyone's looking for something good to eat. (specailly if the meanu is mostly Chinese food)

Kids were given their own dining sets. And a couple of stickers as they sit by the table.

We decided on ordering Sweet and Sour Pork (mine), Stewed beef (hubby's), Sweet and Sour Fish (shared by Grandma & Kuya E) and Grandpa had the same. The little kiddo opted to eat the bread from the complimentary basket given by the resto. Water is flavored with lime, so if you are not into flavored water, get a couple of bottled ones. Later on, once you enter the hotel room, you will be given 3 bottled water as compliments from the hotel. So there's no need to stock bottled water. They give replenishments each day for free. We paid about $500++HK. Fair enough for a lunch for 6.

The kids decided to roam around the hotel's premises while killing time. The hotel's pool was closed since it's winter season. It will reopen on summer. Strolling the back of the hotel will take an hour's walk back and forth. There's a playground after the pool area where kids can slide and play monkey bars. Picture taking is a must because of the blossoming flowers and oranges around. Birds are very friendly too!

Father and son posing before the vintage cars.

I initially thought those oranges were fake...not until the little one picked one and threw it away. They were real!

Enjoying the playground with Little J

The huge hotel lawn.

A view of the hotel bldg.

The welcome arch of the Disney Hollywood Hotel

Need I say more?

The star of the day!

After a couple of hours loitering around, it's time to go up the hotel rooms. We got connecting rooms, 2 twin rooms for the 6 of us. We rested for an hour to prepare for another part of the trip. I was not able to take shots of the room itself since we were all tired and we need to rest to have energy to visit the Disney Park. 

In a few hours, we will finally see what the kids only watch in You Tube. This is just the start of a dream come true for our kids. More to come on the next posts!

Ciao,

Joyce

Celebration in the Air 2011: A tour of the wonderful world of Disney! (Part 1)

This marked a lot of firsts for the kids, an experience that they will carry on for life.

Our flight was early Monday morning on the last week of Feb. We woke the kids up at 3am to get ready. Cab is already waiting, we're all packed! 

An hour and a half later, we found ourselves in a long line of passengers checking in for Flight 101. Too bad, it seems like we're not going to get seats close to each other. We had to plan a seating arrangement, separate the rascals apart and have a parent with each. We ended up with Team A ( Grandma, Daddy & J ) and Team B ( Grandpa, Mommy & E ). Well enough, I'm grateful my Team got the most number of zzzzz's and Mommy was able to watch a handful of short videos from the personal monitors in the plane. I had an overdose of  'Just for Laughs' the whole flight.

Little E sharing the plane ride with Big E

The baggage-cart-Rascals!

The long line of people checking in for our flight. Goodbye available seats!

Waiting for the pack to board.

The leader (and manager!) of the pack.

Baby J, sorting the headphones he'll use to play games on-board.

Baby J, pretending to be asleep just because he don't want his picture taken!

The congested plane bound to HK.

 After nearly 2 hrs (because of the delay caused by Filipinos held by the immigration), we finally arrived to our destination...Hello Hongkong!!!

We finally landed...

Hello shopping!

Me and my Superhero!

Waiting for the 'always' late tour guide.

My Knight with the guards! ( After this pic was taken, the HK Immigration officers just pointed out to a sign just infront of us: NO PICTURE TAKING IN THE AIRPORT). Sorry, damage has been done! haha

We got a bit frustrated about the tour guide because we waited 45 freaking minutes before he finally asked everyone to get in the shuttle. After being excited all along, now the kiddos are dead hungry! The ride was for about 45 minutes from the HK Airport to the Disney Hollywood Hotel. FYI: This is a pure Disney adventure which means we will be staying within the Disneyland grounds for 3 days. Bliss for the kids! Unfortunately, we'll have to save all our shopping energy up till the next HK trip. Tsk.

Still finding a way to hide from the camera.

HK freeway to Disneyland.

Our busmates enjoying the scenery consisting of roads, a few cars and a lot of hills.

This is just the start of a long 3-day hyperactivity!

The most excited member of the pack is so glad to be here!

A glimpse of heaven for the kiddos!

It was tiring but the actual travel time is only for a grand total of 8 hours including the wait time. That's 4.5 hours from our home to the airport plus checking in, bag inspections, paying airport fees, and quick breakfast. Then 1.something-hours plane ride including the delay. Then about 2 hours from the plane, wait time for the freaking late tour guide and shuttle travel. 

This will be a start of a 3-day adventure and I will share them by bits and pieces because telling the entire story might require me to look for a publisher. 

More pictures and lots of stories to come. Remember: WE JUST ARRIVED. So expect more stories on the next Parts of this trip.

Ciao,

Joyce