The Lasting Impact – By Amy Johnson

I am the parent of six children, four of whom participated in the Birth to 3 program. Unfortunately, due to illness and the COVID-19 pandemic, my two youngest children were unable to participate. However, guidance from Kelly Melton (a speech language pathologist with Kaskaskia Workshop out of Centralia, Illinois) enabled me to teach them crucial communication skills, underscoring the significance of Early Intervention.  

My 19-year-old child was diagnosed with pervasive developmental delays at age four, later revised to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This diagnosis presented challenges, such as texture aversion and restlessness. Kelly's expertise was instrumental in securing a comprehensive Individualized Education Program (IEP) for Early Childhood Education.  

Over the last 15 years, the understanding of ASD has evolved significantly. Kelly's instruction empowered me to support my daughter's needs effectively. Early Intervention facilitated access to ABA-type therapy.  

My daughter is now poised to graduate with a degree in criminal justice and is interning at Bridges, working with children who are experiencing learning challenges. I am grateful for the knowledge Kelly has shared with me, which provided me with skills to teach my seven-year-old daughter with ASD to communicate during the pandemic.