When Isaac was 18 months old, we began to notice something was wrong with him developmentally that we had not noticed in the past. Isaac’s first words “mama” and “dada” were suddenly gone. He had no verbal communication except for crying or screaming. What was happening?
Isaac continued to become more aggressive and search for a physical outlet by pushing and hitting. Isaac was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 2 and began speech therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy. We continued to seek treatment for Isaac as we noticed more struggles.
Because of Isaac’s sensory disorder, he is in food therapy to try to help him learn to eat. Food is a daily struggle, as well as self care (washing hands & baths) and dressing. Being Autistic, Isaac works daily on his personal relationships as well. He loves kids and adults and works hard at making friends and playing with other kids.
Isaac loves animals. His grandparents have sheep, cows, chickens and turkeys. We always knew Isaac loved horses and we were very excited to join Freedom Farm for therapy. The highlight of his week is to see his horse and his friends.
Isaac is working on focusing and listening to directions. He is learning how to be a friend, to take turns and to share. Isaac is learning how to stay calm when upset because, on his friend Echo, we need to be nice. Isaac loves horse therapy and it really calms his sensory system.
Freedom Farm is such a positive experience for our family. We had tried to let Isaac play soccer because he really wanted to run around with the other kids. Even though Isaac wants to just be like everyone else, it is hard. It is a sensory overload and he cries the whole time trying to participate with other kids.
At Freedom Farm, he is SUCCESSFUL. This is a big thing. He doesn’t feel like a failure. He is participating in an activity with kids which staff and volunteers make sure he is successful at and he has JOY and PRIDE in himself. I have so much joy in my heart watching my child be successful at something and developing self-esteem.
As a parent, you want your child to be able to participate in activities with other kids. At Freedom Farm ~ all the kids, no matter the age or disability, befriend and include each other.
by Nicole, Isaac’s mom