A toddler makes great strides in his communication and walking abilities.
At a year old, Diego did not make any sounds, including speaking, and could not walk. He was referred to The Warren Center and started with Sophie, a speech-language pathologist.
Sophie began their therapy visits trying to get Diego to copy the gestures and sounds she made, attempting to get him to make noises. Together, alongside Diego’s mom, they built up Diego’s communication skills by incorporating new sounds and words into his vocabulary. Additionally, they worked to integrate signs into his everyday use. Diego learned hand gestures to familiar songs and worked on hand signs for words such as “more,” “help,” “all done,” “thank you,” etc. Sophie continued to visit with with him four times a month, slowly expanding his communication abilities.
Additionally, as his speech therapy progressed over the year, Diego began walking, but on his tiptoes. Due to his doctor’s and mother’s concern, he began physical therapy. The physical therapist started working with Diego on his walking form and overall strength. Through helpful strategies, they have gotten Diego to walk with his heels on the ground, and he is now going up and down stairs, running without falling, and jumping with both feet!
As for his speaking abilities, Diego now has over 50 words in his vocabulary and can follow two-step commands. He can say phrases such as “thank you” and “all done,” and can even say words and phrases in Spanish such as “mas,” “adios,” and “otra vez.”
Diego has made such tremendous bounds since his first therapy visit. With help from his therapists, his amazing mother, and his own hard work, Diego can now speak words and phrases and walk on his heels!
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