For the past three weeks we’ve had a Physical Therapist come as part of an Early Intervention Program to help Mia get caught up in walking and crawling. The first week was almost as painful for me as it was her. She struggled to get up from her belly onto her knees and push up on her arms from her chest. If she did manage to assume the correct crawling position she would soon fall flat and sprattle-legged. Lauren, her therapist, showed me correct ways to help her during the week. The whole crew has been praising her as she stands from a seated position, as she takes a few steps and as she squats to pick things up from the floor. For too long she has been content to let us do things for her. It was apparent that she was not progressing and that she needed to be pushed to do things for herself. During one session, Lauren saw that Mia wanted an object and pushed it further out of her reach, wanting her to go for it. Mia looked to me to help her out, but I was only to cheer her on. She became furious and soon was throwing a tantrum. For ten minutes she raged and I could only sit by and watch. I left the room at one point, frankly to get my composure, and she quieted down. It was obvious a lot of her anger was focused on me. I am her helper, why wasn’t I helping her? Since then I think Mia has begun to see me in a different light and not demand me to do so much for her. I struggle with that. I want to ease her pain, but in so doing I am preventing her from becoming stronger. Therapy is helping me a lot too! We’ve seen Mia progress tremendously in just the past few days even. Lauren came today and was amazed at what she can do. As I was cooking in the kitchen and Mike was watching her, he motioned me into the living room. Mia had cruised around the room and had started climbing the staircase. She was half-way up! This afternoon Michaela wanted to hide Easter eggs (we’d never got around to it yesterday L) and Mia was pulling away from my fingers, which she usually grasps tightly, and walking in the cushy grass long distances. Kitchen cabinets are now of great interest also! Oh my, progress is awesome but are we ever fully prepared for the consequences? I am amazed at the confidence that has come to Mia almost overnight. Maybe, just maybe she’ll want to sleep tonight. Please Mia? Please!
