Our bubble

We are now nearly three and a half years into our journey with Chloe in the world of Down syndrome and special needs. As time has gone on, our family life is completely normal. Chloe’s annual pediatric and specialist checkups and weekly early intervention are all just part of our routine.  We are in our safe and happy bubble where life is easy and happy and everything works. Progress is being made, fun is being had and there really isn’t much to worry about here in our bubble. If every day is a happy day for Chloe and she has the opportunity to have fun and try new things, then I have done my job as her mum.

We have lots of family and friends who support us and who love and enjoy Chloe for the sweet little girl she is. I know I am biased but she is an absolute treasure and so CUTE! She is also very easy going, curious, independent and determined so I know she will continue to achieve great things.

On a day to day basis, we don’t think or talk about Down syndrome much at all because we are simply too busy getting on with things. Chloe is just Chloe and we shower her with lots of love, encouragement and praise for her achievements each day – big or small. We have enjoyed watching her learn and grow to become the little person she is today.

Chloe’s speech is coming along and she has a lot of words and gestures that increase each day which enable her to get her message across. She has worked out her favourite TV programs, toys and books. She has an incredible bond with her sister, Emma, which has grown even stronger these summer holidays. She has learnt so much from Emma. Her social skills have also improved immensely and I think the school holidays and socialising with other kids has really helped her to enjoy being around other children.

As Chloe gets older, there are times when we have to step out of our bubble and I am reminded of her condition and the challenges she will face in the future. This makes me sad, worried and scared about the future sometimes. In the face of it though, I am determined for Chloe to make the most of her abilities and to reach her full potential.

We stepped out of our bubble last week when Chloe started three year old Kindy. I felt a bit sad that three years have gone by so quickly and also worried about how she will go being there with all the other kids. Chloe on the other hand had no worries at all!  She was so happy and excited and each day we arrived, she said “WOW!” as we walked through the gate.

It has only been a week but I already feel our bubble has grown to include Chloe’s new Kindy. Our family have been made so welcome and the educators and carers are very supportive and enthusiastic to help Chloe achieve her goals and prepare her for school next year. She has been allocated a full-time aid for the whole two days a week she will be there. I am thrilled and thankful to have found this place and I am excited to see Chloe continue to thrive and develop at her new Kindy. It is definitely more than I could have ever hoped for.

Chloe never fails to surprise me. In terms of her development, she has come a very long way already but we still have a long road ahead of us. I know it’s going to be a smoother ride though with all the support and friendship we receive from those who join us in our bubble.

It’s hard letting our little ones spread their wings. Are you sending your child to daycare or to Kindy for the first time this year? If you are, I know exactly how you feel!