I've been a bit worried lately. Some of Olivia's sensory issues (especially tactile defensiveness)seem to be getting worse. . .either that or she is just able to communicate her frustration a bit better. While at the Thunder game last week, I saw children about Olivia's age who were getting their faces painted. It seems like a normal childhood thing to do, but it would be devastating for Olivia. Certain things, like face painting, we can just avoid, but others we can't. She can barely stand to have her teeth and hair brushed. I'm scared to death to take her in for another haircut because it was so awful for her. Olivia can't stand to wear certain clothes and some days I change her multiple times to find something that doesn't cause big tears. And, it is hard for her to show physical affection. She is often very resistant to touch. I think this is also contributing to her reluctance to eat many types of food.
I guess I'm worried because I don't know if I'm doing all that I can for her. I don't know everything that I can be doing for her. I worry about how this will affect her as she gets older. . . . especially if I don't get her the treatments that she needs. It's hard to explain my concerns to people. Olivia's doctor acted as if she was just an anxious child and I don't believe that. There is much more to it. If anyone has any resources on this, please let me know. I feel like I need to be doing more to help her.
***To answer some of your questions (and to thank you for all of your comments) Olivia is seen by Rainbows, but her primary teacher is a speech pathologist. She has had an OT eval done which identified her as having some sensory difficulties. I was given a few suggestions, but I'm still unsure of other things to try. She sees a developmental ped, but doesn't go back until summer. I think that there are OT therapists available there. . .maybe I will check into that. I know she is doing fabulously, but I don't want this to be overlooked and I truly appreciate all of your help.
Today, we celebrated my birthday with family. Yes, it's true. . .on Monday I will be a year older. Ugghh. . .
Olivia waiting for her ice cream cake.
My little helpers.
Me and my wrapping paper bonnet. Somewhere there's a picture of Ryan wearing it too. :)
How embarrassing. My mom switched the numbers around. That should say 23. . .yes, I'm only 23. If I say it, it must be true, right? :)
Blowing out the candles.
Playing their rendition of Happy Birthday!
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