Head Start Program Helps Child With Cerebral Palsy
Can Write Words, Basic Addition, And Ahead in Reading
Spokane, Washington
In July 2008, my son Caleb Glen Ross was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy. Within just a few moments our life went from having a son who was a little delayed, to having a son with a lifelong disability. He would turn 2 that September. We left the hospital that day with no information or plan and spent the next 9 months “researching” but feeling LOST, not knowing what life would look like for Caleb. Where and how would he go to school, who would be his friends, what were we going to do? Another agency connected us with the Logan Elementary Head Start, CAPE program.
It was very apparent from the time we walked through the door that this was what I had been searching for. We spent an hour or so in the classroom that day learning what they could do for Caleb, with no mention of what Caleb couldn’t do. Caleb just turned 5 and I am proud to say that when he does begin kindergarten next fall he will be far ahead of his peers who have not had the gift of being in a Head Start program. He is able to phonetically spell 4-5 letter words, knows his numbers and basic addition, and is at the reading level expected beginning first grade. I know this is due to his Head Start education.
A child with a C.P. diagnosis often needs occupational therapy for both small and large motor delays. Thanks to the teaching design of Caleb’s class his small motor tasks such as writing, using scissors, and puzzles have all been addressed and he is on target with his peers. Every Thursday Caleb receives P.T. at school. This is in addition to all of his clinical therapy. This is different though, because all of his classmates participate with him. The therapist also shares information and equipment with his teachers so that his experience at school can be as normal as possible.
Personally, I serve as our Head Start Policy Council President. This has given me a chance to develop self confidence and purpose. By far though the greatest gift we have received from the Head Start program is a blessing shared by us and all of the children in his class. He is being treated as totally equal shows Caleb and his classmate’s acceptance and inclusion. His classmates love the chance to help push him, (if he’s in the mood), don’t think twice about him crawling around the room, and don’t even question why he can’t stand to wash his hands. Even after his time here is finished, I will continue to be involved, though I will never be able to give back all that we have received.
Jen Ross (509)599-5184.
