At Fairfield DD, Early Intervention services support children from birth through age 2, helping families build the skills and confidence their children need to thrive.
For Marjorie and her nearly 3-year-old son, Jackson, the journey began just over a year ago with a focus on communication. At first, Jackson was hesitant and unsure around his Developmental Specialist, Marla. Today, Marjorie says he runs to greet her whenever she visits.
Since starting Early Intervention, Jackson has made remarkable progress in communication. He has always made sounds, and Marjorie began noticing him using them to communicate and becoming more engaged with the people around him.
"He is comfortable with more people now," she said. "He plays with family members, looks at books with us, and enjoys interacting. He never really wanted to do that before. It's been amazing, and I'm so thankful for Marla and the Early Intervention team."
One of the biggest changes has been Jackson's increased eye contact and attentiveness.
"It was hard because he wouldn't look at me, and I didn't feel like he was really listening," Marjorie said. "Now he listens more, and when I call for him, he comes running out of his room."
As Jackson continues to grow, Marjorie is excited to see him communicate in whatever way works best for him.
"I'm looking forward to him talking or using sign language, however he learns to communicate," she said. "I just want him to be able to tell us what he wants and have the opportunity to do the things other kids can do."
Marjorie says the coaching and practical strategies she receives from Marla, and the Early Intervention team have made all the difference, giving her confidence to continue supporting Jackson's development at home.
"It's amazing," she said. "I feel like eventually he can do the things we hope for. He has opened up so much. He used to be in his own little world, and now he is so vibrant."
For Marjorie, Jackson's progress is more than a series of milestones; it's a glimpse of the bright future ahead.