Finding Megan's Voice

I've debated about writing a post on this because I think it is very dangerous to label a child but, I've had a lot of people ask me about Megan and I think it might help people understand her better and know how to interact with her.

We believe that Megan has what they call "Selective Mutism" which is an anxiety disorder where the child is so afraid of social situations that she can't physically speak. She talks up a storm at home and with her close (little) friends but as soon as someone out of that circle (even her friend's parents and some relatives) approaches her and tries to engage in conversation ("Hi Megan, how are you?") she freezes and won't say a word. When we are in public places she will talk to me if she believes no one else is listening/ paying attention to her but as soon as someone smiles at her or says hi she goes silent.

Basically is boils down to social anxiety and a big part of the treatment is to try to take the anxiety out of social situations and take the pressure away from Megan to speak as much as possible. They say to tell people to talk to Megan but not ask her direct questions ("Hi Megan, it is so nice to see you today."). Smile at her and show love and acceptance for her and not pressure her to respond to you. The idea is that if she feels safe (loved and accepted without needing to speak) that the anxiety will eventually go away and she will speak in those "safe" environments. I'm also learning that she needs to have more social experiences (anyone up for a playdate?). So, I guess that means we need to get out more. ;)

I signed her up for kindergarten this week and I am nervous but I feel like the Lord will guide us to the right people. She needs a teacher who will just love her into talking and not pressure her to perform or put her on the spot. I think if she has a great teacher and just one great friend in her class she will be okay.

I'm understanding more the depths of love a mother has for her children with this experience with Megan. I'm so worried but at the same time I have a feeling of strength and courage when it comes to fighting for what is best for Megan, for all of my children. Megan is such a blessing in our family, she makes us smile.

Random

-Thanks for the tips on cleaning my shirt. I think the stain is gone (it's not completely dry yet so I'm not positive, but it definitely looks better!)

-Hallie's prayer today, "Please help Daddy to do good at work. Please help me to have fun at school. And please help Mommy and Megan and Campbell to find something to do at home." HAHA!!

-Megan got her kindergarten shots Tuesday, all 4 of them. She flexed her muscles so hard when they gave the shots that it hurts to walk now. Her thighs are red and swollen, poor kid ...ouch!

-I've decided I have been blessed with the dearest friends. I've started a type of "gratitude journal" and I have yet to have a day that I haven't felt the Lord's love in my life through the blessing of friends. The good women that have come into my life are proof that my Father in Heaven is aware of me and loves me.

-It's official, Trevor started cutting sheet rock to get above the garage and start the new room. When I look at the big hole in our wall (and another one in our garage!) I feel a little sick but in our 8 years of marriage I've learned that Trevor can accomplish anything he sets his mind to... I just hope he gets it done before residency is over ;)

-If I catch Campbell with dog food in his mouth one more time I'm going to scream. "How many times do I have to tell you guys to shut the door to the laundry room?!?"