Belle turned 2 years old this month! How is it possible? She is full of life and joy. I am so proud of this little gal. She celebrated her birthday with family and friends and even blew out her own birthday candles! I know this wouldn't have been possible for her without TalkTools. She has had a lot of practice blowing bubbles so she knew how to carry that skill over to her candles. Belle has more than 45 words now and is even starting to name a few colors. Her favorites are blue and purple! She loves to try to sing along to kids songs on the piano and wants to be heard in all social interactions.

As Belle strives to make more of her own decisions and become more independent, she pushes back on some of her daily therapy exercises. Through working with Whitney, we have altered our oral motor placement routine a little in order for Belle to have more of a role in the decision making process. I try to make our sessions shorter and also reward with reading books. Reading is absolutely Belle's favorite thing to do. We are welcoming the 2's with open arms and look forward to another year of great progress, fun, and learning.  

Belle Repeating Words She Commonly Says on Her Own

-Lanie Beetsma

Annabelle has Down Syndrome and has been using TalkTools Therapy since she was born. Her story is a great inspiration for parents seeking help for a child with Down Syndrome. Follow Miss Annabelle’s journey from the beginning here.