A few weeks ago, Mia attended the Tri-County  Developmental Center for an Early Childhood Assessment.  For those that don't speak disability jargon, this is where children in our area go to be evaluated for special assistance through the school system.  In Indiana, after a child turns three, they are processed through the public school system for therapies in a classroom setting, rather than through home-therapy sessions through First Steps.

Mia thoroughly enjoyed getting to go to "school" during the two days of her evaluation.  She was so excited to find her name post on a cubby space.  Her scores from both our written evaluation and the schools' observations showed the same results: Mia is still significantly delayed in Gross Motor skills and Self Help skills, although her Cognitive skills are great.  

On Friday we had our case conference to discuss Mia's results and determine what would be best for Mia at this time.  During this meeting, the school system suggested putting Mia into a developmental preschool one day a week starting December 3rd.  This is a preschool ran just like any other preschool, only Mia will have the benefit of working with a physical therapist while she is there.  The preschool is at her elementary school, so by the time she would enter kindergarten, we hope that she will be familiar with her school and equipped for whatever physical challenges she might encounter in the building or on the playground.  We were quite happy with how our case conference turned out and Mia is very excited she gets to go to school soon. 

During the meeting, the staff suggested that Mia ride the bus.  I immediately said "No thank you, I can take her and pick her up," but after a little discussion I found out that the kids love riding the bus (plus it would be good practice for Mia to try to tackle the steps).  And that those that don't get to ride the bus are upset about it.  I had to laugh.  This is a special bus that will come right to our door, and it is equipped with car seats.  They gave us a book to read to Mia about riding the bus and she is pumped!  Who knew?  I think I am going to compromise and let her ride the bus to school, but still pick her up myself.  It will be so weird to see her off on a school bus. 

And in other news, Mia has been in big girl panties since last Saturday!!!  Yeah, a whole week!  We are still having 1 - 2 accidents a day, but each day seems to get better and better.