“Babies love their mommas,” said Tia. “I used to think I wasn’t holding them right or they just didn’t like me, then I learned about the bond between a mother and her child when my son Archer was born.”
Archer came into the world 6 weeks early and spent 10 days in the hospital before his mother, Tia was able to bring him home. “As a first-time mom, I really didn’t know what to do,” said Teah. When Archer had trouble turning his head due to torticollis, his pediatrician suggested Tia reach out to Rainbows.
“I learned so much from the wonderful therapists who came to our home,” said Tia. She remembers learning how to help Archer turn his head and not to always hold him on the same side. When Archer was fussy at tummy time, it was his early intervention therapist who suggested he get checked out for acid reflux. Once he got his digestion regulated, he became a different baby and enjoyed being on his tummy and doing other activities.
“Archer’s mother, Tia, worked hard to create an environment to support his development,” said Beth Watkins, Speech Language Pathologist who worked with the family in their home. “She grew as his advocate and helped him increase his ability to communicate. I’m so proud of how she embraced her role as Archer’s mom.”
When Archer’s pediatrician suggested he have his hearing checked, the family went to Rainbows’ Kids’ Point where Ellen, the audiologist, performed the test. She did it again after he turned 2; he passed with flying colors.
Late to crawl, walk, and talk. “He really responded to the therapists who came to our home,” said Tia. “I think he had his first crush on one of the therapists.” She appreciates the time each therapist spent with her son and helping her learn to be the mother she wants to be. She learned to be patient as her son eats and now that he understands more, give him a heads up about what they are going to do next.
After 3 years, Archer is reaching his developmental milestones and no longer needs services. “Early intervention really works,” said Tia. “I tell everyone Rainbows is amazing!”
