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Jaxon's Journey

Initial Challenges and Diagnosis

At 26 months old, Jaxon began his developmental therapy at the CDI, presenting skills within the 9-18 month developmental range, across all areas. He came to us with a diagnosis of ASD Level 3, Fragile X Syndrome, intellectual disability, ADHD, and generalised anxiety disorder, illustrating the complexity of his needs.

Skills on enrolment (aged 2yrs, 2 months)

  • Did not follow one-step routine instructions
  • Did not point to request or make choice
  • Did not babble
  • Did not engage in / copy actions to songs and games
  • Only played with 2-step toys (e.g., put in, take out)
  • Could not get on and off equipment or protect self when off balance

Tailored Therapy Approach

Over a period of 2 years and 8 months, Jaxon participated in a structured therapy program designed to address his specific developmental challenges. His therapy journey included:

  • Year 1: He was part of the Early Childhood Social Therapy Group with a 1:1.6 ratio, attending two mornings per week. Additionally, Jaxon attended weekly 1:1 ESDM Clinics, participated in a 10-week Parent Coaching Program, and was involved in the ESDM in Mainstream Program for 20 weeks.
  • Year 2: Jaxon continued with the 1:1 ESDM Clinics and remained in the Social Therapy Group for nine months before transitioning to the School Readiness Program with a 1:3 ratio.
  • Current Phase: Continuing his progress, Jaxon still participates in the 1:1 ESDM Clinics and the School Readiness Program one afternoon per week.

Inspiring Outcomes

Skills now (aged 4yrs 10 mths)

  • Follows 2-step instruction routines in novel contexts
  • Speaks in 3-to-4-word utterances
  • Uses people’s names to get their attention
  • Takes turns with peers in social play
  • Participates in songs, games and play activities with peers
  • Plays out several life events in play (e.g., doctor, going to a party)
  • Uses age-appropriate playground equipment independently

“When Jaxon started at the CDI he wasn’t talking, wasn’t really playing or interacting with anyone and he was having a lot of meltdowns. Fast forward to today, Jaxon can easily separate from me now at drop off time. He can put 2-3 words together and can verbally express his needs and wants. He engages in play with both adults and his peers. He is developing his pretend play skills and initiates play with others. Jaxon has always been a sweet little petal but CDI has really allowed him to blossom.” 

– Belinda, mother of Jaxon