Hattie's team from the Area Education Agency just left-a physical therapist, occupational therapist and infant special education teacher. They seemed very impressed with Hattie's physical development, including neck stregth, ability to lie on her side without support and how much her legs straighten out of the "froggy" position when she is lying down. A number of our attachment parenting techniques were validated during this visit, which made me feel so good. For example, our PT mentioned that she does great on her side, which is an important position because Hattie can bring her hands together to play with things and see them, work on rolling over, etc. She said "not many kids spend much time on their side these days, but then, I forgot that you breastfeed!" Since Hattie and I lie in bed to breastfeed daily, she gets to spend time on her side and move around more than other babies might. Similar things were mentioned about wearing her in carriers as a form of therapy that we can all enjoy because she is close to our bodies and snuggling while she holds her head up, as well as breastfeeding for stimulating her visually(because of switching sides more frequently).
When we decided to chose the most relationship-focused parenting techniques, it was not as an intervention for a special needs child. It was just a way to be the best parents we can to our very special child. But its nice to know that these techniques are even more important due to Hattie's extra challenges, not less.
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