Working with Speech during a Movement Lesson

Family & Friends,

I can hear the sighs and lectures about my lack of commitment to Aaliyah's website. For the record, let it be known that ALL of you are RIGHT....I am a slacker in this area.

Now...moving on to the most important part, Aaliyah. She is now 2 1/2, around 18 lbs, 31 inches and has 16 teeth. She has grown in size, developmentally and in attitude.

Aaliyah has found a way to get what she needs and it's by rolling. She rolls around the family room to her toys and to us. She has a few words: hi, hey, yeah, ok (at least that's what it sounds like to us). She can also sign: more and all-done.

About 6 months ago, Aaliyah started a new therapy called Movement (www.movementlesson.com click on clients to see Aaliyah's name). Michelle (movement specialist) is great with her and the therapy has helped Aaliyah tremendously. She has more body awareness and control. Since she has more control, her motor skills and vision have improved. I also think it's contributing to her being more mobile (with the rolling). Her attitude, although very much two at times, is even more loving and fun (we didn't think that was possible).

The best thing she does is give us really tight hugs, which she also started about 6 months ago. She gets so excited to see Charles and me. She laughs and kicks until we pick her up and then gives the BEST hugs. She also gives us open mouth kisses on the cheek, which is still cute when you are two :)

Aaliyah still LOVES yogurt. However, she'll try just about anything. She'll eat fish or chicken; still loves cheese and crunchy snacks. She just started eating scrambled eggs about 2 weeks ago. On Christmas she ate baked salmon and acorn squash. She also drinks water from a bottle and sippy cup. She is still stuck on the bottle (for her formula) and her pacifier is her VERY BEST friend.

In January, we will begin the process of Special Needs pre-school. It's bitter-sweet for us. We are so proud of Aaliyah; she is such a great little person and daughter. She has a gait trainer (developmental walker) and is moving backwards. If I lock the wheels, she'll take a few steps forward on her own. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but it can't be any more than what we have already been through.

Take a look at her pictures. They are marked with an (*).

Thanks and we look forward to sharing more.

2011 Foundation for Blind Children Night for Sight Vignette - Aaliyah