Should I Really Wait and See?

What do I do if my pediatrician says to wait and see but I feel like we still need help? 

This is a question we often ask as parents when it comes to concerns we have with our kids.  This is also a question that we as therapists get frequently.  I have had this happen as a parent myself.  With two kids of my own, I have been to many doctor appointments and know that the doctors and pediatricians truly do care about my kids.  I also know that oftentimes, the appointments are short and they are trying got help as many kids as they can.  When it comes to language and speech, these questions are difficult to answer in a short amount of time by the doctors.  There are general guidelines that they follow and if your child meets those, they do not get concerned.  We as therapists are firm believers in early identification and intervention.  We know that early intervention often leads to decreased time in therapy in the long run.   

As parents, we often have a gut feeling when things are not what they should be.  When this happens, it can be confusing and frustrating when we feel like something is being missed or dismissed.  When it comes to speech, language, or feeding concerns, you have a few options for additional support and people to answer your questions.  Here are a few ways to get more answers! 

1. School district: You can reach out to the school district you live in and request a full evaluation for your concerns.  This can happen as early as birth and continues to be an option as your child grows.  This option is free for families. The downside is that it can be difficult to qualify for these services as resources and need is high.  

1. Clinics: There are many clinics that also do evaluations and therapy for kids for speech, language, and feeding. These clinics often take insurance and there are many options.  It is a good idea to call your insurance company and see what your coverage is! Similarly to the school, depending on the insurance, it can be difficult to qualify for services, though not as difficult as in the school.   

1. In home: In home therapy is another option for evaluation and treatment.  This therapy allows the therapist to work directly in the child’s environment and in areas that are the most difficult and cause increased frustration.  In Minnesota, insurance does not cover this type of therapy unless a child is medically homebound, but there are other options.   

These are options that are available for you to get a second opinion and closer look at your concerns as a parent.  As always, if you have questions or concerns, you can always call us and we are happy to help!