Bad Mom Award

Yes, you read that right. I feel shame, regret, guilt. Remember when I talked about Ivy's speech difficulties? In my attempt at reverse psychology I told her, that if she did not speak clearer, no one at school would be able to understand her; not her teachers or the students. You'd think a red light would have flashed on at the moment for me, but it didn't. Somehow I thought it would motivate her. Yes, she was motivated, but she also became afraid. You see, Ivy just did not talk at school (home school co-op) unless she was spoken to. She just smiled her irresistible smile, and moved throughout the day. When I asked her last Friday if she had spoken to any new friends, she replied in tears, "I'm afraid. I'm afraid no one will understand me." I feel badly, and that is an understatement. I've since encouraged her, telling her she did not need to be afraid because she has improved so much that I'm sure everyone would be able to understand every word she says. But, sadly, I did not realize my mistake until the fear set in. How to I help her not be afraid? Naturally, Ivy is a very timid, quiet girl. She is not one to be loud in a pubic place or make a spectacle of herself (unlike a few of my other children). So, I'm hoping and praying that this Friday will be a better day for Ivy, one without fear. And, I hope I've learned a lesson from his. I am sure I have many more to learn.