Meet Reyden
Meet Reyden – Reyden is an 8-year-old boy who attends elementary school, has improved in his communication from nonverbal to speaking in simple sentences, and enjoys indoor rock climbing.
As a toddler, Reyden was not yet using words and communicated using gestures and sign language. He was an active toddler who enjoyed climbing and jumping. He socialized with his family, including his two older brothers. He received speech therapy to address language delays. Reyden was always a happy child, who loved to laugh, play, smile, and hug.
Reyden used picture cards to communicate and developed single words. His parents enrolled him in swimming and he socialized at school and at parks as well as with family. He continued to enjoy climbing. He was enrolled in a special education preschool program and received occupational therapy through the school system, continued with speech therapy, and attended weekly sessions through The UNC TEACCH Program. He was potty trained at this age as well.
Reyden is now 8 years old and has made progress in communication and play skills. He now communicates using simple sentences. He is beginning to engage in pretend play with his favorite stuffed characters. He socializes in school, with his brothers and family friends. His parents recognized his love of climbing and he is now involved in indoor rock climbing. He continues to receive special education services through the school system as well as speech therapy and ABA intervention. He now brushes his teeth and showers independently.