Terrell’s mom Adel knew that her son wasn’t meeting age-related milestones as his siblings did and she needed to learn why.
Doctors suggested early intervention services where Terrell began speech therapy to develop language skills. At 3, he still wasn’t using more than a couple of words, and Adel found out about autism services at Easterseals Crossroads. An autism diagnosis was confirmed and he began ABA services.
Adel didn’t know much about autism because it was new to her family, but she quickly learned. Starting with language development, Terrell began to make progress. Occupational therapy rounded out the program and Terrell continued to advance.
“Since day one, it has always felt like this is the right place for us. I have trusted the process every day for almost four years and every day I have seen change and growth,” said Adel.
Next up for Terrell is first grade. ”I’m a little scared about that, because it’s full days. But I am hopeful because he has the tools that he’s gotten from Easterseals Crossroads. It is so important that he is able to communicate his needs and wants. I think he is prepared and ready,” said Adel.
“With autism, change is not going to happen overnight. It’s going to take time and hard work. But if you work with your child, you will see the benefits. Having this team with you makes it possible,” said Adel.
