Is there anyone out there with a child like mine?????

Katrina - posted on 06/01/2012

Not sure if you're Northside or Southside of Brisbane, but Dr Mark Davoren at North West Private Hosp[ital and also Dr Barry Steinberg (not sure where he's at) are great paediatricians who deal with many issues including behavioural and developmental. They also rush through young kids on a cancellation so they can get a diagnosis asap. Not sure if any of this helps. My son has Aspergers (3 n half yr old) and has some similarities to your daughter but not exactly the same. Hope you get some answers, as I understand how frustrating it is to have no means to help them, as there's no answers. Good luck xxx

Lisa - posted on 09/21/2009

No, I don't have a child like yours and I'm sorry that you have to go through the distress and worry of not knowing what is wrong with your child, since your pediatrician won't/can't pinpoint what is going on with your daughter. I know you already said that your daughter's pediatrician said it wasn't autism, but all the signs/symptoms she's displaying do point in that direction, so maybe you should get a second opinion when your daughter is 3 (the American Academy of Pediatricians say that you can't correctly diagnose a child for autism until they're at least 3 years of age).

Sue - posted on 09/18/2009

(((Katherine & Family))) My son, now 5, had a few problems like you describe, and his teachers at day care suggested ADHD and evaluations. He was not sleeping, had horrible crankiness, sleepiness and would try death defying feats during the day. We went away and I wound up sleeping in the kids' room. He was gasping for air in his sleep (sleep apnea). When we got home, I took him to an ear, nose and throat specialist--his tonsils were 4 times the size they should be--affecting his sleep, his hearing and his personality.



We had his tonsils and adenoids removed, and it took another 6 months for the fluid to drain from his ears. He started speaking clearer and he was sleeping through the night. It was like a light was turned on.



Start from a more basic perspective--once I realized what was wrong, all the pieces fit together--he always had a cold, or a runny nose, he would take hours long naps, would wake up numerous times in the night, and want to stay up once awake. Just like what you're going through...



He is still on hyperdrive, and has his moments, but nothing like he was....



Good luck.

Kristina - posted on 09/18/2009

Like others who have replied, I agree there are mild to severe forms of autism - however I certainly do not want to scare you. Some babies/young children have interrupted sleep due to a damaged nervous system, like that of cerable palsey, or autism. Autistic kids also thrive on routine and restist sudden change to the point of screaming and tears. Then again, don't many 2 year olds do that, too? My own daughter had a limited vocab up until about 3 years of age, and she is currently a typically fantastic, curious 2nd grade student. HAving worked with children, it often helps to announce what is about to happen next, showing a picture may help too. Sometimes this prevents a possible melt down. I hope I helped a little! :)

Kathleen - posted on 09/18/2009

do you think she may have a hearing problem????? it is possable that she is not understanding you because she couldn't hear you rite. and that's probaly why she screams back at you.. if i were you i would take her in to see a ear specialest. asap!! that may be y she dosen't speak very well...also.. have a great day

Paula - posted on 09/14/2009

I have not experienced that but did watch a recent episode of the Nannny and she did not respond to the screaming. Hope that helps.

Karla - posted on 09/12/2009

have you had her hearing checked? Does she get ear infections? My son had alot of ear infections and no tubes were recommended. We finally got tubes put in his ears and got him to a speech therapist, he's now 14 and never stops talking. Good luck with your little girl. Remember, if you're not satisfied with one doctors opinion, it never hurts to seek another's.

Jennifer - posted on 09/12/2009

Heidi, I feel bad that you have had so much to go through. It must be difficult and feel like a roller coaster ride. I have not experienced all of the same situations with my daughter, but some are similar (the ones that sound like Autism) My daughter thrives on routine and does know some right from wrong. She would scream as well because she couldn't understand everything that was being said to her or the world around her.My daughter has classic Autism, but there is a huge spectrum of Autism with similar traits. I know that I am not a doctor but your daughters pediatrician could give a referral to a developmental specialist. Because of your daughters rough start, they may think it is all related to that, when their could be multiple situations. I wish you luck...it must be emotional and a lot of work at times. I know your little girl must be wonderful and rewarding all at the same time. Take care..Jennifer

Amy - posted on 09/11/2009

Quoting Katherine :

Is there anyone out there with a child like mine?????

My daughter Heidi is a bubbly little girl who has had rough start to life... she was meant to be a twin which I micarried at 12 weeks due to me having Chicken Pox, born at 36 wks in Darwin NT but when we moved to Brisbane (age 3 mths) she was always sick but develop like most kids walked at 9 mths the same time she said her 1st word... But her speech never got better after she would get better but would get sick all the time, this has gone on for over 2 yrs she is always picking up a virus always unwell & lots of long nights.... But this is not just the problem with Heidi we need help with: if she dosen't understand something she will scream but not hit, has no sense of danger but cries when hurt... sometimes looks at you when you talk to her, loves routine & cuddles but she is always sleeply & even when tired she can stay up all night... loves being on the move but hates stopping, she can speak a few words but nothing in no more then about 50 words....now before you say Autism is the issue... we have seen a pediatrician she told us isn't as Heidi had shown at 2 that she understands right from wrong which kids with austism don't. However I want to know if anyone out there has a child like mine & can help with any ideas or tips that can help us with Heidi! Thanks :)

my niece has autism and it sounds a lot like your daughter. There are different degrees of autism and many of the children do understand right from wrong.

Kimberly - posted on 09/10/2009

You mentioned that she was sick alot. Did she have ear infections. My daughter had speech problems until she had tubes put in her ears...good luck and god bless

Donna - posted on 09/10/2009

Wanted to post a hug. And say all children learn and talk when they are ready.



Donna

Alyssa - posted on 09/10/2009

Hi,

My daughter did not speak very well until she was around three. The doctor told us this was because my older daughter and I let her point to what she wanted and let her make noises instead of the word. She would get angry if we didn't understand and she would scream at us. The doctor told us to tell her what the word is and not give her it until she tried to say the word. This worked pretty quickly and then she wouldn't stop talking.LOL. You are doing a great job with your beautiful daughter, your family will be in my prayers.

Tracy - posted on 09/10/2009

Hi Katherine,

Where do i start! I have a 3 1/2 year old son who is driving us bonkers! I had no pregnancy problems just a long and stressful labour and emergency c/section. I noticed when he was a baby his disinterest in things compared to other babies his age. He walked at 11months and had his first word around the same time but now he still doesn't speak the best and can maybe say 2 or 3 word sentences. He is full on all day, climbing walls, jumping from heights, irratic behaviour, anger issues, agressive outbursts (he smashes toys against the wall, pushes over his chest of drawers etc...) trantrums where he gets so worked up that he forgets to breathe and then passes out i could go on but i suppose u get the point! We use time out but whereever you put him he finds something to get into, whether it be picking paint off the walls or just bashing the ground or wall. He picks any sore that he has especially on his face so he constantly has a horrible big "hole" on his face! We have had the austistic test done through child health, but they seem to think he is perfectly normal (whenever we go to a child health appointment he is perfectly behaved! They have never seen these voilent outbursts) He just recently had a skin prick test done to see if he was allergic to anything making him reaction in this crazy manner, nothing came up. Now the dietition is about to start us on a elimination diet to see if its the chemicals/food additives. Check out fedupwithfoodadditives.com

He seems get a rash around his face whenever he has any fruit or vegetable that is red. His diet is very strict, water or milk, one piece of fruit a day, crackers or bakery bread, weetbix ect... no lollies or treats only on the odd occasion (if we feel like putting up with the repurcussions later) sp?

He is affectionate and can look at us in the eye when spoken to unless he is in trouble! He socialises ok, but generally would rather play by himself, he likes having friends over to play but i think he just likes the company because he doesnt interact with them as much as they would like! I have recently had to change daycares because he was causing some problems and the teachers were finding it hard to control his behaviour!

He gets obessed with things very easily and it gets very annoying we he lives, breathes and even sleep talks about the particular subject that he is obessed with at the time.



We have a 7month old little girl who is showing alot better developmental milestones than my son was at that age.

We have a paeditrition appoint in 2weeks bc our family gp mentions aspergus syndrome too. We are very confused with lots of conflicting advice. I know what u mean when u just wanted to know if anyone else has a child like this, I DO!!!!

Everyone seems to have their own oppinion but i can't help think that we are missing something.

Hope - posted on 09/10/2009

hi. My son was exactly the same at that age.He has been diagnosed with autisum and lupus( the lupus is what makes him sick with the stress of autisum). There are so many different types of autisum that its not funny. Everyone thinks(even some docters)that one standard lot of symptoms apply, and that is simply not the case.My son has learning disabilities and a social disorder now and sometimes it sounds like he talks with an accent, and he is now 12.Routine is really important for kids like Heidi and my son Ashlee. They need to know what to expect from their day ahead (I am dreading High school)Change in the smallest form is not easy, It even comes down to smalll things like you buy a different shampoo bottle or stop in a different car park at school.Knowing right from wrong dos'nt come into it. their brain dosen't catch up untill after they have already done the deed , that is when they realise what has happened(sometimes).they are also very litteral children. Once when we went to the doctors, the docter said to jump up on the bed so he could examine him. That is just what he did, he climbed up on the bed and started jumping.I honestly think you need to see someone else. It took me 5yrs to get a diagnosis for Ashlee and according to my sister who has 4 kids with autisum, it is harder to get a proper diagnosis on girls(she has 2 girls)Keep your head up because our babies need our love and support because we understand them and love them more than anyone else,society is very hard on kids like our 2 beautiful babies. As difficult as he can be I would never change Ashlee for anything and I am sure you feel the same with your wonderfull little girl. best of luck for the future. Give the little girl all the love you can.

Lynette - posted on 09/10/2009

By the way.....my son also had those tantrums! A child with SPD feels things both physically and emotionally different than you and I. A tickle might feel like a burn, etc. etc. My son couldn't take being touched by anyone but me or his big brother. He'd wail and we didn't know why. Now we know that his brain and nervous system weren't processing those touches correctly. There is an AWESOME book to read called "The Out Of Sync Child" by Carol Stock Kranowitz. It's at the library, too. You might want to pick up a copy and check it out. So many "oh my gosh, that's her!" moments, you just won't believe it.
Best of luck to you. The wait for an OT and/or PT will be well worth it, I'm just sorry you have to wait.

Lynette - posted on 09/10/2009

Hello Katherine! My son also has had similar issues. Have you ever heard of SPD? Sensory Processing Dysfunction or Disorder. I call it the "invisible disorder" because so many prefer to see their actions or reactions as behavioral. My son was diagnosed by Arnold Palmer Pediatric Hospital. His symptoms are very similar to your little girl's. Only a Pediatric Speech and/or Occupational Therapist who has trained with SPD will recognize this. When I went to my son's school guidance counselor to tell her about him and about SPD, she and his pre-k teacher both went to a class on this particular disorder and came back completely amazed. The counselor told me that so many children are misdiagnosed with behavorial problems when really, their actions are a direct result of SPD.
Please see if there are any Pediatricians in your area who know about SPD and get your daughter the therapy she needs. My son still has issues and always will, but he has overcome so many and children like this learn to compensate as they grow into adulthood so that their symptoms are unrecognizable as a "disability" by the time they grow up. God bless.

Lisa - posted on 09/10/2009

I have dealt with many issues since 6 months of age with my child. Never have gotten a significant diagnosis. Early intervention!!! Most states have a program unitl the age of 3 then on to schools for therapies. It's tough, but share with others and you will learn so much.

l.guill@yahoo.com for more more info

Stacy - posted on 09/10/2009

Quoting Katherine :

Hi Jenn,
The pediatrician that we saw was really good & one of the best at diagnosing Autism in Sydney, as this was our first guess with what may been wrong with her but after 3 long days of testing & my check book over worked... She told us Heidi only meet 3 from the whole list used to help diagnose autism (there's about 50 on the list) as Heidi had shown she can look when spoken too but fails to hear & take in what you say,has tantrums for no apparent reason (name one kid that dosen't) & lack of use with speech and language development which could mostly due to her being sick all the time... through the testing she would share toys with the tester & babble as if she was having a conversation & loves being around other people. I am so glad we did spend the money for the testing as I don't think I could have gone through with a 2nd round of testing like you had to with your daughter but we have been left with not quite understanding why she is not speaking like her brother who is 2 (but for the love of God I wish he would shut up at times) & was told about using an occupational/speech therapist but we are waiting for a spot to open up which can be months (both public & private) Thank you, have giving me more insight in understanding this as doctors can sometimes leave you feeling a bit doh! Thank you again from the now very tired mum cause it's 9pm & Heidi is up dancing on the tableand she should be in bed!!!
Thanks Katherine :)

Katherine-

I have a son who is 9 years now but when he was little he had a lot of the behaviors your daughter has. We found that he has ADHD and is behind in his receptive/expressive language skills. Not sure what caused my son to be delayed I just know that we caught it early enough to provide the proper services.  I will pray that a spot opens up quickly for your daughter to see the therapist (I think that would be the best result). I also have a 14 year son who has Aspergers and this does not sound like anything on the Autism spectrum.   Good luck.   My motto at the time of the 9 years diagnosis was  "I do not care what it is just please give me the means to fix it!!"  

Amity - posted on 09/10/2009

I don't have any advice to offer, just a cyber-hug!

I had to post cause our 3rd of 5 kids is also a girl named Heidi! We're military, too.

Hope you can find some answers for your little girl.

Carmen - posted on 09/10/2009

My son is now 24 but there are a lot of similarities in what you describe to what his childhood was like. He was born when I was 32 weeks along. He, also, was a twin that I miscarried at 4 1/2 months along. He actually seemed to be very advanced for his young age and small size. He walked (more often ran) at 9 months, had a good command of language young. BUT he had NO fear of anything, was always into things, didn't sleep from day one. When he DID sleep, he slept with his eyes open. It was creepy. He always got very cranky when there was a change in his routine. He still doesn't handle change very well. He was ALWAYS into things....kept me running constantly. When he was 12 he was diagnosed with ADHD. I kept telling the doctors it was more than that - bigger than that. Finally, about a year ago he was diagnosed with bipolar. Suddenly, things fall into place and it makes sense.

Dawn - posted on 09/10/2009

I didn't read all of the responses to your posts, but I will say this, stay strong! You are an awesome mom for looking to other moms for support and direction! Know that you are in my prayers and you are not facing this alone! Keep looking up!

Alissa - posted on 09/10/2009

Hi Katherine,



I have a cousin who is now 10 and when she was born everything seemed to be perfect. At abouth the age of 2-3 months she like your child began to get sick and always seemed to be ill, weather it was a fever or a cold. Her mother was constintly bringing her to the pediatrician where he just kept saying that ita s cold and she'd be fine. When she was almost 4 months old, my mom who is a nurse was holding herand kept feeling her back and saying that something was wrong because it was crackling and she was weezing and advised my cousin to take her to the childrens hospital here in RI.



Come to find out she had 2 holes in her heart but that wasn't all. After a few rounds of surgery and months of therapy she seemed to be doing better and we all thought she was out if the woods. She was walking and laughing and playing like all other children her age but yet she didn't say much and didn't have much reaction for emotion. They began singing classes and early intervention to help jump start her speach.



Again the doctors visits began. She still was always happy. After all the counseling and blood work and all the fun stuff at the doctors visits we finally found out the problem.



She has what is called Degeorge Syndrome. Its not a bad or worryfull thing but it's not easy to diagnose. After finding out this the doctors started putting in place all the right therapies and classes for her, one did included having to do surgery on her palate in her mouth because that is why she could not speak but now she is just where she should be for a child of 10. Her speach is almost perfect and she does wonders in school, she has over come what seemed to be a disaster.



Now I'm not saying that this is what your child has but I hope that will help you some. Just keep digging, you'll find out the problem. There ia always an answer, you just have to find it.



Good Luck to you and your daughter!

Colette - posted on 09/10/2009

My child is not Autistic either but he IS on the spectrum. I had zero problems after I got pregnant and he was right on target with everything developmentally until he got to school. We had several issues with him at an early age, specifically transition in pre K at age 3. The teachers suggested that he needed special education, so being a first time mother, I had him tested. The special education department rejected him (a good thing) because all of the signs he was exhibiting were normal for his age. However, as time went on, there were "things", he had his quirks. I eventually took him to a neuropsychologist and they have diagnosed him with PDD NOS. PDD NOS is the vaguest disgnosis there is with this so it is really up to you as a parent to put the pieces together. My child is not Autistic and he is not Aspergers, but he has parts of each. Mine understands right from wrong, mine was sick with ear infections until 2 1/2, He potty trained late and spoke sentences just before he turned 3....but all borderline in normal limits. My suggestion is to take her for a neuropsych evaluation...she may be too young to do it though, but wouldn't hurt to consult. One thing I have learned...you know your child best, don't let anyone dismiss your concerns nor convince you that there are things that are not there....I am open to talk if you ever need.

Jessie - posted on 09/10/2009

Are you a stay at home Mom? My middle daughter now 7 didn't like to go a different way home it would freak her out I would just explain things as best as I could like we will be home we are just going a different way. when she was about 1 she didn't talk I got concern so I sat her in my lap and yelled and she didn't move her head or anything. So I thought she was deaf but had her hearing checked and the dr told me she was just ingoring me lol. One thing about the screaming when she don't understand that happens just you stay calm and try to explain and help but then if she contiues to act out like that she needs to be discplined, and take her out of the situation. You have to teach her self-control when she gets upset with something she doesn't understand. To keep trying and take breaks :0) As for the no sense of danger :0) Have a boy my 2 almost 3 year old son jumps off the couch yelling watch me mommy LOL... I am a mother of 4 I hope this helps you. As for the sick thing try lots of orange juice and try to keep her from eating too much not good for you foods. But kids are going to get sick just be careful not to get a antibody unless it is ness.. our bodies fight off stuff by its self if given the chance. Lots of rest when sick helps to make recovery faster. I really hope some of this helps... My kids got sick every time I took them to the Y so we didn'e go back yet.... PS how old is your daughter now?

Karen - posted on 09/10/2009

Do two things,
See a neuropsychologist who specializes in children.
Consult with a very good nutritionist that also specializes in children
Early intervention is crucial, whatever the problem happens to be.
Don't ever forget " different" doesn't have to mean " bad"!

Denise - posted on 09/10/2009

Have you thought about allergies? My child was a little monster and a little bit delayed due to being constantly sick with food allergies. All my children had some sort of trouble with food allergies. When tested and the bad food removed life changed. I had wiggly child stop and focus for the first time, one sick child finally stop throwing up, and a mean, screaming baby finally sweeten up and act human. It might be worth the trouble to deal with special diets if you get good results.

Rebecca - posted on 09/10/2009

Its spelt Aspergers Syndrome, and due to your childs ability to interact socially i'd say that she probably doesnt fall into that catagery either, im sure your peadtrician would have discussed that when you spoke about Autism as its on the same scale.
I wish you all the best, as a mother with 3 children 2 of which have different conditions (one being aspergers), i know it can take alot of time trying to find help when you know something just isnt right, the only advice i have is to find a dr you can trust and keep pushing for answers.

Nicki - posted on 09/10/2009

Hi Katherine,

Did you ask your pediatrician if it's athsburgers (sp?) which is characterized as a very mild form of autism. she would know right from wrong. the main indicators are an interest in one thing day after day and/or socially isolated herself. it might be too early to diagnosis this but i just thought of it.

to be honest, i think sylvia is right, it's more than likely normal, all children develop differently, but it might be worth looking in to.

Katherine - posted on 09/09/2009

Hi Jenn,

The pediatrician that we saw was really good & one of the best at diagnosing Autism in Sydney, as this was our first guess with what may been wrong with her but after 3 long days of testing & my check book over worked... She told us Heidi only meet 3 from the whole list used to help diagnose autism (there's about 50 on the list) as Heidi had shown she can look when spoken too but fails to hear & take in what you say,has tantrums for no apparent reason (name one kid that dosen't) & lack of use with speech and language development which could mostly due to her being sick all the time... through the testing she would share toys with the tester & babble as if she was having a conversation & loves being around other people. I am so glad we did spend the money for the testing as I don't think I could have gone through with a 2nd round of testing like you had to with your daughter but we have been left with not quite understanding why she is not speaking like her brother who is 2 (but for the love of God I wish he would shut up at times) & was told about using an occupational/speech therapist but we are waiting for a spot to open up which can be months (both public & private) Thank you, have giving me more insight in understanding this as doctors can sometimes leave you feeling a bit doh! Thank you again from the now very tired mum cause it's 9pm & Heidi is up dancing on the tableand she should be in bed!!!

Thanks Katherine :)

Jessica - posted on 09/09/2009

I do have the same issues with my son. I had him at 26 weeks. so his speech,motor development everything a delay. I thought it was because he was so early-come to find out he had a bleed in his brain.which causes these kinds of delays. Its to early for your child to be tested for autism-but there would be warning signs-like repetitveness in one particular thing-not connecting with family-not showing any kind of love or empathy. ask dr if you can get referral for neurology they may know what can be going on where her dr doesnt know as much about why she is behind. my son is 2 and only speaks 15 to 20 words.he is not autistic-the bleed is gone but he is still struggling.The best advice I can give you is take her to dr-ask for referral to apeech-insurance will cover,also since my son cant speak as much as other kids his age we started to teach him sign language-but we speak when we do it with him and use his signs and still try to get him to use the word.It has helped 80% with the screaming. he uses his signs to tell us-they scream because its the only way they know how to tell us and they are just as frustrated as we are. If you are like me and low on money-go to library and check out a book on baby signs or get flashcards at walmart-they also have books and flashcards. baby einstein has a video that teaches this too. Hope this helps. As for the staying up all night my son does too. we put him to bed at 7 and screams untill he falls asleep at 8. hes done this as long as i can remember but dr say let him cry himself to sleep. we also read to him right before he goes to bed and give him a camomile bath i noticed it helps a little more.maybe your child needs to be around light or sounds put a nighlight in or some lullaby music on low. as for the sickness some kids just have low immunities-my mom said I was like that. Give her lots of OJ and things that have natural vitamins. Fruits,veggies,juice,etc. keep hand sanitizer on hand and constantly wash your hands and her hands especially after going somewhere-park/store etc.. Best advice I can give is be patient. they know when you are upset/anxious.they can feel it even if you dont show it. I know exactly what you are going through. My son didnt walk till 14 months just started talking at 19 months. just hang in there it will get better-but you have to be proactive in her health you need to ask dr for referrals to speech/neurology or diagnostician-(someone who can figure out why she is so behind/sick all the time). I hope this has helped. I know its hard/upsetting and frustrating all at the same time but I really do believe that we are given what we can handle and it just makes your bond with your daughter that much stronger. are you a stay at home mom? if you are I know some activities that could help at home that therapist have taught us to play with my son.(he sees physical therapy,speech therapy for speech and eating,and occupational therapy for learning how to play) email me if you would like to know or if you need someone to talk to. jessicadavis0408@yahoo.com

Sylvia - posted on 09/09/2009

Oh you are most certainly welcome Katherine, bless your family just filled with lil angels! 5 that's awesome! You know every child will be different and I think Heidi will be just fine within her own time frame. She also could have been effected by your illness while you carried her and her sibling.



But I think you are taking the right steps and continue to do what you all are doing with the cards, one thing about babies. They will tell us what works for them *smile* And all the love you all are giving her will definitely help her.



But I think she will be just finem, she is just taking her time. You continue being patient with her and positive!!! Well, I am going to sit here and wait for hubby to call (he's deployed)



Nite Nite

Angel's Mom-Sylvia

Jenn - posted on 09/09/2009

Hi Katherine,

I've read your story and I kinda remember what it's like when my daughter was when she was 2years old. She also had problems with her speech and she won't socialize with other kids. But she never had that problem with her health. Anyway, we went to see a Developmental Pediatrician to see if there's a problem with her. And she was diagnosed to have a mild autism. Autism has different types, there's mild and severe and some also affects the child's health. The pedia advised us to have her therapy (Occupational and Speech Therapy), and after 3 months, she really improved a lot. After a few more months she was able to converse with us and doesn't look like she have a mild autism. We then go for a second opinion with another Developmental Pedia and she said she could only be delayed in speech, but no signs of autism was diagnosed. Now, she's going to school and we don't see any problems with her at all. I hope you'll find the answers to your child's condition. I'd be praying for her. Take care and don't lose hope. God is with you, just always pray.

Katherine - posted on 09/09/2009

Sylvia, Thank you for your reply & the link... Heidi is our 3rd of 5 children so when it come to her being a little different from her older sisters & younger brothers we were taken back & left in shock.. we have tried many things to help Heidi communicate like sign but she only picked up a few signs but lost interest... now we have tried picture cards which she loves and tries to say what's on the card which as been a great help for her... then there is Nick Jr Heidi has learnt to speck in spanish better then in english but my husband says at least she is talking!!

As for the air issues what had made it worst is we are now living in Sydney (army posting) we have her on a dozon medication but nothing seems to be working so she falls back again, hopefully we get a posting back far north soon to help her out.

Thank you for that information about twin loss I didn't know about that, I see our family doctor on Friday and will speak to him about it then and Thank you for telling me that is normal for some kids to be a bit behind or are just as crazy as Heidi (we have had many trips to the hospital for cuts to the head & face with her being supergirl!) I felt at a lost as my older two were not as crazy as she is (thank god) so it has been hard to tell if it was normal or not. Thank you again for your wonderful help & giving me that reassurance I needed *Heidi's over tired Mum Katherine :)

Sylvia - posted on 09/09/2009

Hello Katherine,

It is nice to meet you and beautiful baby girl Heidi *smile* I am sorry that you are having to deal with this and I admire you for reaching out and sharing your story. I have not experienced these ordeals, however I feel as a mother I can offer some ideas and some medical/psychological things you may or may not want to look into. Now as far as lil Heidi being sick when you moved to Brisbane is there anything in the air or around that would effect lil Heidi's immune system to where she is always sick. My sister is almost 30 and her doctor told her plain she has to move out of Moreno Valley because the heat was almost killing her (asthma, respiratory).



As far as her speech development, in all honesty she seems to be developing at a normal rate just with a couple things your concerned about. Heidi may have to be taught ways to communicate, I don't believe because she screams there is something wrong. My friends son would point, pull her or scream at her when he wanted something until he was 2. She taught him how to verbally communicate, she wouldn't respond to his yelling or pulling, she very patiently taught him words to say and then he eventually caught-on. Lil Heidi may just need you to show her other ways of communicating, and maybe the constant illness has ane effect. But delayed speech development believe it or not is normal in alot of childrenhttp://www.itsamomsworld.com/toddler_dev...



Do you teach her baby sign language? I used that with my little girl and when she couldn't talk much or wanted to say something she would sign to let me know things.

Her having no sense of danger is completely normal, my 14month old will just as easy grab the blinds string and wrap it around her neck or see a car and try to run after it (that is normal). They are not aware of danger and what's safe yet, so that's fine she is like that in that category.



Now I have some some research on twins and their connection, it is amazing and sometimes unbelievable how twins connect in the mother's womb and when seperated one twin can have some medical effects or even experience some anxiety or loss. So maybe your doctor can go deeper into the effects the miscarriage may and could have on lil heidi to see if any of her symptoms are circumstantial from losing her sibling.



I will continue to keep you in my prayers and God Bless You

Angel's Mom-Sylvia