LETTERS: EASTER SEALS CENTER IS APPRECIATED

To the editor:

I am writing to express my appreciation to the special people who work at the Easter Seals Child Development Center here in Cape. I feel they are top-notch. My son, Matthew, who is a special-needs child, has been enrolled in the inclusive program since it opened two years ago. He previously received services at the old Easter Seals center. I feel the staff members at the center are some of the most caring folks I have ever met. They are like family to us. Now only are they special people, they are terrific educators. Matthew has made tremendous gains since he has been involved in this program. He will be starting kindergarten in the fall, and we have been working toward getting him prepared for this transition. His teachers, Sandy Lyke and Candy Birdsong, have been working with Matthew on carrying a lunchroom tray and opening a milk carton. His school has some long hallways, so they've also been having him do some extra walking.

One of the most special aspects of this program for us has been out Matt's normal developing classmates have reacted to him. Matthew did not walk until he was almost 2 years old and is still delayed in his gross and fine motor skills. Initially, some of his classmates wanted to hold his hand while maneuvering steps, help him with his coat etc. Of course, his teachers at the center encouraged Matt to be independent, but it was so sweet to see how compassionate these children are.

One memorable experience happened when I went to pick up Matt one day. Matt does say a few words, but for the most part he uses sign language or gestures to communicate. One of his classmates, Aaron, was sitting on a park bench out on the playground with him. Aaron was telling Matt, "Now, Matthew, say Mom and I'll give you the ball." Matthew would say Mom and Aaron would give him the ball. Then they would go through the routine again.

Recently Matthew's class has been visiting residents of one of the area nursing facilities. This has been a treat for the children and the residents alike. One gentleman wanted to be able to communicate with Matthew, so Matthew's teacher taught the man some basic sign language. The gentleman also read Matthew four books on their first visit.

As you know, the Easter Seals center will close March 10. We may or may not be able to continue with a program like this. We are praying that we will be able to move to another building and keep a program going. It has been a blessing to me to see a group of child-care providers, parents and the surrounding area pull together in an effort to make this work for the children. Also, a special thanks to Nancy from United Way and the group of people working diligently trying to make a go of this.

BARB MOYERS

Cape Girardeau