The Fourth Year

Since Brandon turned 4, things seem to have settled somewhat. Still having disturbed sleep at night waking up once or twice, and eating habits are still very pedantic, with limited choice of diet. Also have had difficulty progressing with toilet training, although at times he does initiate it himself, it is very slow and erratic progress. On the other hand, his use and understanding of language has improved rapidly, still very stereotypical in speech with a residual stutter evident, eye contact has increased and showing a more "natural" range of facial expressions and emotions. His aggressive behaviour has dampened a little although he is still easily triggered into rages. Perhaps developmental maturity, speech therapy, attention to learning opportunities in social settings and reinforcement of "appropriate" behaviour over the past year, have started to sink in.