When your child is "behind"
Вставка
- Опубліковано 9 лют 2025
- Our son otto had some setbacks early on in his life. This is his story of his 1st steps.
Merch here: www.dudedad.com/
Subscribe Here! bit.ly/DudeDadS...
Check out my TopVideos! bit.ly/DudeDadT...
Instagram - / dudedad
Facebook - / dudedadvlog
TikTok - / dudedadvlog
For Business Inquiries please contact info@dudedad.com
#DudeDad #FirstSteps #Parenting #ParentingAdvice #LearningToWalk #Walking
About Dude Dad:
Hi! I'm Taylor Calmus, a Colorado-based actor/comedian. I started Dude Dad two weeks before my son Theo was born as a way to stay creative while learning to be a father. My wife Heidi and I now have 3 kids and over 300+ videos. My purpose for the channel is to entertain, enlighten and inspire.
In addition to Dude Dad©, I have been in numerous TV shows, commercials, and have regular appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live. I will also be hosting my own TV show called "Super Dad" on the new Magnolia Network / Discovery+. Heidi and the kids will also be a part of the show. I am originally from the rural community of Howard, South Dakota.
Otto's First Steps
• When your child is "be...
Dude Dad
/ dudedad
Heidi and I LOVE all the stories everyone is sharing and the outpouring of support! If you haven't, please SUBSCRIBE to the channel to get more content like this. Thanks all!
My eldest had 3 open heart surgeries, and finally walked at 2 years old. I can understand Heidi's and your your joy at seeing Otto walk. It's an amazing feeling.
@@amygray5654 Wow thanks for sharing!
Don’t blink…. That’s the absolute key word. My baby is in college now. Although I was a stay at home mom until they were both in school full time, and I was very present, and still am, I almost feel like I missed so much. They’re all grown up now, no more babies. I blinked. 🥺❤️
Powerful words that got me teared up! ❤ You guys are amazing parents!
Thank you for putting this video into the world. It just popped up in my feed this morning and it was so genuine and beautiful that it brought a tear to my eyes. I love the channel and respect what you and Heidi do as parents. I'm a father of two amazing kids and definitely fell into the trap of obsessing over development with my first. Parents need messages and examples like yours.
Keep up the great work.
I'm a 35 year old father of three and you've got me chopping onions over here, man. To see the joy on your faces for those steps (and to see how proud Theo was of little brother) was just priceless.
I’m a 36 yr old father of 3 sitting at my kids gymnastics class trying not to chop onions lol. Such a sweet video and great reminder.
34yo mom and same 😂
Same!!!❤
I’m a 37 year old proud father of 3 beautiful boys. Ages- 1, 2, and 4 years. I’m sitting here watching this video with tears streaming down my face. My boys have all been slow with speech and watching you guys celebrate brought back all the memories of “firsts” for my boys. I think this video hit the nail on the head with enjoying the moment and not pushing too hard. This is the best channel on UA-cam.
Thought I was the only one 😢🎉
This video couldn’t have been posted at a better time. As a dad of a 12 day old who has been in the NICU the last five days, it’s been hard. But going from 8 liters of oxygen his first days here to now being off it for over 24 hours, it’s been amazing to watch him progress. Also watched him go from eating 1-2 oz to now up to 4. Little dude is growing too fast already. Can’t wait to have him home with his whole family.
Bless you! That NICU time is so eternal and stressful, but before you know it your newest little family member will be at home showing you how wild, happy, and strong he is!
NICU mom here! Congratulations on 24 hour! My boys spent 10 days in the NICU and are 4 years old now. They're bigger and more energetic than all their friends! I pray you have a similar experience! Here's to baby coming home soon!
NICU Mum too .. my kiddo spent 10 days there with underdeveloped lungs and interventricular hemorrhaging in the brain. Now he's 16, top of his class, straight As, high IQ, planning on going to MIT for computer programming (and he's brilliant at it). Also didn't crawl til 9 months, walked at 15... They grow and develop on their own time! Your baby is getting top notch care intl the NICU and as scary as it is there's no better place to be! They're taking the best care of him ♥️
My 2 pounder spent her first 2 months in the NICU. Now she’s a senior in high school, plays multiple instruments, is deciding between all the schools recruiting her, is an amazing artist, but most of all, she’s been very healthy her whole life. She’s still very petite, but that’s probably more genetics than anything else. Hang in there, it gets easier, and chances are everything will be fine. God bless!
Sending you lots of love & support. Former NICU mom of two daughters born premature in 2020, nine months apart. One spent 120 days in the NICU and the other 44 days. I’m amazed every day at how much this tiny humans can do. Praying for your little warrior!
My son sustained a brain injury at birth resulting in mild cerebral palsy. When you showed your son walking, it took me back to all the times our son met milestones we were told he never would. Watching our kids overcome obstacles is a feeling that simply can’t be described.
how i wish my son also walk somedayhe have celeberal palsy too
Otto is adorable. His big brother's reaction to him standing up 😢 the sweetest thing I've ever seen
I legit started to BAWL at that point
My wife is a teacher and she sees the many struggles families can face with their children. Sometimes, parents push back and refuse to admit that anything is wrong. The fact that you were pro-active and got him the help he needed, really shows just how great you are as parents.
I appreciate this video as a parent and a teacher for several reasons.
Teacher here. Great parenting. Let him develop. Give him help when needed. Celebrate his success!!!!
Absolutely this. Well done, Taylor and Heidi
I think my sons teacher was expecting this when she presented the idea of dyslexia this fall. I was actually really excited to get something diagnose and help started for him cause I suspected it for years but been told he was developmental normal. Unfortunately there's a huge waiting list for intervention now. School tried to make excuses why they could test him so I had to call the state board of education. Got my meeting today tho and he's now finally getting some attention.
@@kateuntamed5058 Awesome! You are a great parent, listening to the info provided by the teacher. Good to hear your son is going to get the attention he needs going forward.
I cannot speak about testing as I am in Canada, but it too can be a long process here while waiting for spots. Sometimes parents choose to pay to get private tests.
But as stated, some parents deny and fight tooth and nail again the teacher and school which is too bad.
I’m so glad you did this story. As a pediatric therapist, I’m very glad you are spreading the word that early intervention is so important for our little ones. I’m thrilled you all had a solid team helping you with Otto and I’m so glad he’s building these skills every day. Thank you for encouraging parents and showing how crucial these therapies are!
I came to say this! I'm an EI SLP and cannot agree more!
As someone with hEDS I’m wondering if he could have this? I certainly don’t want to worry his parents I just know I went through hell for 40 years until they figured it out ( due to all of the comorbidities that they could have figured out sooner if I had the hEDS diagnosis and they had a direction to look in)
But good for Otto and I love how patient and laid back his parents are
Me too! EI SLP/feeding therapy. It warmed my heart! It also taught me that maybe OT does more than I thought lol I would’ve referred for PT but clearly OT was what Otto needed! OT is such a mystery field to me sometimes haha
Our oldest was slow at everything, and did not walk until around the same as Otto. He is now a 44 yo father who teaches high school and has to do some sort of exercise every day. I don’t know if it’s because of his slow start, but he champions all the kids who come through his classes that struggle. He’s a good man and I’m proud of him. ❤️
My niece is 9 months old and still doesn't sit up by herself. I think kids should be allowed to take it easy, you have a whole life ahead of you to walk and talk ☺️
Thanks, this gives me hope.
@@nicotinedealer7653 My niece was the same at 9 months, at 12 months still didn't walk. She started walking properly only at about 18 months. Now she's 3 y.o. and runs everywhere without any problems. So don't worry.
@@linseybrownlie3680 if you have concerns about your child you should mention these concerns to your GP. It may be something that is serious and ignoring the issue isn’t going to solve it.
@@happyhorse1028 hey thanks, yeah we went to GP over a year ago, on various waiting lists.
I'm not a parent, but I worked for four years as a social worker with children and their families. I can easily say your channel has some of the best parenting advice I've ever heard. Not only does all the work you put in with Otto show, but Theo's proud reaction for his brother tells so much as well. Proud of you all!
Thank You for your service. My mom was a social worker for 29 years. The love, kindness and patience that people like you bring to the world is immeasurable. 💜.
I agree. They’re so balanced in their approach. It’s so hard as parents.
Thx for what you do.
I loved this! My daughter was born prematurely after I had a placental abruption and she almost died (22 min of CPR to get her heart rate back- thank God I was under anesthesia for that.) After that she had a LONG LONG road- 4 surgeries to mend her infected intestines, during which time she had to be fed by PICC line, 126 days in the NICU, 6 months of complete hearing loss, can only eat by feeding tube, and diagnosed with cerebral palsy which is lifelong. She is my absolute hero just getting through that alone, and now we have OT and PT and speech therapy and a million doctor appointments. My journey of acceptance involved learning that, even though I was scared as heck about her future- getting made fun of by other kids for her feeding tube and CP, perhaps not getting asked to prom even!- to her, her life was all she knew. And she loves her life no matter what anyone else thinks of it.
Now at almost age 2 she's walking (with a limp, but WOW,) incredibly social and just loving her life. She's quite the entertainer and always makes us laugh.My measure of her life is that SHE loves it and she's making huge progress in exactly her own time. Her siblings are her best occupational therapists and we're all obsessed with our little bean!
My first kiddo was speech delayed and we did therapy and worked so hard. The day he signed for the first time (“more”), I sobbed with joy. He’s a 7yo now, all caught up and even learning a second language through dual immersion with ease. These kids are determined, even when it’s not easy!
You give me hope. My last two are speech delayed and my youngest is still really struggling. It’s very concerning sometimes.
My 18 month old is speech delayed. We’re starting therapy in the new year. He’s babbling a little and few words. We’re really hoping the therapy helps him get started.
I taught my daughter, who also had a severe speech delay, how to sign. It was a lifesaver!!!!!!!!!!!!! I recommend it to anyone who is struggling with a speech delay. I still use the I love you sign to my kids and they use it right back even though they are adults.
We have 3 kids. Our youngest daughter is 2 and is speech delayed, there are some drs that say it’s autism and some that say no way, it’s all very confusing and hard. We have all the services in place and she is doing well. It’s just crazy how once any kind of disability or delay is introduced how no1 wants to get involved and just keeps passing he Buck. We as parents are all our children have.
My youngest now 17 refused to talk even at two . He know is bilingual and doesn’t like talking much but he can . . His brother came out speaking in sentences . Everyone is different hang tight guys .❤
My eldest walked at 9 months. She was a skinny, muscular baby. Our son was chubby and content and never really crawled. He rolled everywhere. He loved being carried, but at 16 months he decided to walk. They are all different. ♥️
It’s exactly the same story as ours! My younger boy was perfectly normal just chose not to walk until 1,5 year old. But even after that, when he needed to get somewhere really fast he opted for crawling 😂
Yeah, I didn’t walk until I was 17 months old. I had to wear sturdy shoes (read ugly saddle shoes) for years. Even still, if I’m really tired I have to remind myself not to walk on the sides of my feet. Not a big deal, except for the saddle shoes.
My daughter was chubby too and rolled everywhere! She didn’t really walk til about 15mo. She’s also a very laid back 13yr old. Maybe laidback dispositions were just more content to relax? 🤣
As a pediatric physical therapist who does early intervention care (which is what it looks like Otto was receiving- in home therapy for babies and toddlers), THANK YOU so much for sharing your story. Sharing your concerns and your fears, but also the successes are so important for encouraging parents to trust their gut and seek help for their child if needed. And by highlighting the team approach (the therapist sitting and working WITH your family) you have shown the success of early intervention. Kudos to you, Heidi, the therapist, and most of all- Otto! Great job on those first steps!!!
Thank you for all you do!!! My son was born at 26 weeks and spent 8 months in the hospital, the day he came home we already had PT and OT set up. He is 3 now, he graduated OT after being home less than a year and I think his only PT goal left is riding his trike 🥰 he has worked very hard to come this far, but I know he wouldn't have achieved as much as he did without amazing professionals like yourself!!!!
@@izzieluv 8 months in the hospital! I'm sure you were so ecstatic to have him home! I'm so glad you had the support you needed. And it sounds like your little guy is very determined to not be held back in any way. Congrats on the amazing progress! Thank you so much for the kind words! I really love what I do- my favorite days are when I can facilitate first steps TOWARDS a family member!
I needed to see this. I can relate wholeheartedly to this video. At age 2 and a half, my son was diagnosed with severe autism. He didn't speak a word until the age of four. We went through PECS and AAC (a communication tablet that the insurance paid for). He also has a feeding tube due to AFRID and his autism. We also had to homeschool as a result of the school shutdowns in 2020. He still goes to feeding, speech, and OT on a weekly basis. I am very excited to report that he has an orange belt in karate and not only can he speak in full sentences, but he can also read!! His one doctor said it beautifully that every kid will get to the finish line, but the journey will look different with speed bumps and detours along the way.
As a very concerned mom of a 19 month old, this is what I needed to read today. Thank you for sharing your story ❤️
I have mild autism and live on my own and finished college. Keep letting him know that I am proud of him too. Use the resources out there. I hate the severity levels because at a younger age it will look worse.
How old is your son now? We’re in the same boat, my 5 year old (autistic too) started talking at 4 and now at 5 is starting to speak full sentences 🙈
@@patrizia_688 He is six years old. He amazes me every day. He loves to study car crashes and watches test car crashes on YT. Last night, he was putting cotton balls in his toy cars and we were talking about airbag deployments. One thing that I learned with my son is that you need to use what he is interested in to encourage more conversation.
I hear ya , I also have a child with severe autism, things that always helped me and my wife, all kids are beautiful , and all kids learn different, we don’t stop loving them regardless
My first son had the same thing but it wasn’t found until he was 4 years old. My baby turns 37 next month, he’s married and has two beautiful babies of his own. No one would ever guess he had a difficult start. Hang in there Dad, the days disappear as quickly as you blink. 😊
I absolutely love the statement about all kids are different. It's society that puts parameters on our children. I'm a mother of six children. They all are completely different. So happy that you guys were able to get him the help he needed.
but those parameters were essential because they helped the parents to get help when he needed it.
But surely benchmarks are relevant and necessary. If kids aren’t walking/talking by a certain time then help can be accessed. Just because kids are different it doesn’t mean it’s normal.
Society doesn’t put parameters on children, doctors do. They are placed with the purpose of monitoring children’s progress. In the event that there is an issue, the problem can be identified and dealt with as soon as possible
All of my kids were late walkers, 15 mos. for 2 of them and my oldest was 18 1/2 months. He went through all of the therapy Otto has for a very similar diagnosis. He is now a 21 year old man at one of the best universities in the country playing any sport that he can. It truly does even out eventually. The approach you are taking is perfect.
God bless your family
Both of my boys walked at 15 months, I didn’t realize that was considered late.
@@ngs5554 In the UK we expect a child to be walking from 1 year - 16 months. I was confused by this too!
I’m a 37 year old proud father of 3 beautiful boys. Ages- 1, 2, and 4 years. I’m sitting here watching this video with tears streaming down my face. My boys have all been slow with speech and watching you guys celebrate brought back all the memories of “firsts” for my boys. I think this video hit the nail on the head with enjoying the moment and not pushing too hard. This is the best channel on UA-cam.
Same here 🤗
Our son was slow to walk and very slow to start talking. As it turned out he was born with a severe auditory disorder so his brain wasn't processing the sounds he would hear when we talked to him. By age 2 he'd only learned 5 out of 26 letter sounds. His doctor put him in an auditory therapy program for toddlers and it took a few years, but he started catching up with the other kids. He was diagnosed with ADHD in second grade which also explained a few things, but once his doctor found the right meds, he started to settle down and was able to focus better and learn more. He did have to take speech therapy from 1st grade to 8th grade to help with slowing down the rate at which he talked as well as enunciating his words so they didn't flow together. Today he's a Junior in college getting his Degree in Education with a focus on Special Education Students in K-8. He turned a rough beginning into a passion to help others who struggled like he did.
My grandmother would tell us how my dad didn’t speak until he was four. He became a successful Navy diver, trained SEALS, and is one of the most intelligent people I’ve met. I think sometimes the super smart ones just don’t feel the need to talk.
@@katiejon17 he just waited, until he had something to say! 🥰
@@katiejon17 my uncle was like that, even to the point of being a sailor when all the other young men (my mother's brothers in law) joined the Army.
@@StillPooh62 that's what my uncle's mother (my grandmother) said. And when he did start talking, he was known for his rare, short, but devastating comments. He is still quoted in the family.
As a kid with a disability who's been discouraged lately, I needed this. Thanks man, and good luck to your kids.
I needed to watch this my son is speech delayed and all I ever wanted was to hear my son speak to me. He said momma for the first time at 17 months he just learned more words including hello. He’s two now I can’t wait to see his progress. Thank you!
Try baby sign language! I did this with my son at 2 years old and it was amazing. He said full sentences that were fully articulate at 2 1/2! There are tons of youtube videos to help you!
I think you guys struck the perfect balance of recognizing when there was a delay and getting medical advice that resulted in Otto getting the support he needs. Sadly, I've encountered parents who refuse to accept their child has a developmental delay and are passive, literally waiting until they fall behind and their school makes the recommendation. Good job! Dude family
My son Hunter was diagnosed with low muscle tone, super flexible and super content kiddo. He didn’t walk till 19 months, even with therapy, and had to wear soft braces to help him out. He is now 18, still super content, no issues, good grades, sweet and polite young man! We all thrive at some things and need help with others. Just keep supporting him and loving him 😍
As a mother of a late walker I couldn’t love this more. Thank you for the reminder that every child’s development timeline is different. It can be really hard not to worry and compare, but eventually every kid gets where they need to go. Congrats to Otto!
I was a late walker, I was born in 1952 with clubbed leg and had to wear cast on my legs for the first two years as my leg were being taught to form with my feet in front of me and not to my side. also I had no arches. I never really walked until I was two and had to wear special shoe until I was 12. my mother and father say each of us as different and treated us as we came to them. and I loved that. so that is great advice to all young parents which he gives.
I love how your whole family is supporting him in his learning. It’s so moving to see how proud of him his big brother is.
“Is that crazy?” What a perfectly wonderful statement from big brother 🎉
You probably won't see this in the sea of comments but, thank you for this video. My son has been on a similar path. Born in May 2021. He didn't crawl until 13 months (army). 4pt crawl at 15 months. Needed PT to learn to go from laying to sitting and finally pull himself up. All they've said is his ankles are super hyperflexed. There was a long waitlist but we finally have an appointment in January to assess his lack of walking! He is almost 19 months. This video gives me so much hope, that with the right help and support (possibly braces) maybe he will learn to walk! 🤞 thank you for posting. This has helped me to feel less alone. That means so much to this worried Mama.
With older siblings, and a chill personality, in addition to the medical discoveries, the kiddo was just taking his own time and didn't need to crawl or walk to get what he needed. You guys are awesome parents, and I'm so glad you guys discovered this balance.
Yes but! First he needed surgery, physical therapy and external supports. Then they could let him take it at his own pace. When kids don’t hit developmental targets it’s not a reason to panic but if the child is getting behind, it’s a good time to get a careful medical assessment. If everything checks out, everyone can chill but missing a diagnosis, then missing treatment the child needs can cause long term issues.
I'm a 32 year old mother of two children watching this was so sweet and seeing that little guy walk brought tears to my eyes and I cried like a baby.
This made me cry… my middle son was born two months early. He was constantly being compared to other kids by doctors and therapists. In the end it turns out he wasn’t behind at all, but all the stress of worrying and trying to make him do things on schedule made me miss some of what was important. You guys are awesome 👏
I’m still crying! I love this so much! My 2nd baby wasn’t talking at 24 months, so he was reffed out to a specialist. After being tested I was told developmentally he was testing at a 6 to 9 month old. I went home that day and cried and cried! I felt broken for 3 days, but as he sat on my lap while I read him a book . . . I literally felt that dark cloud just float away. I could see what they couldn’t see, or what he refused to show them. In the comfort of his home next to me he could put complex puzzles together, point at pictures in books to answer questions asked, he was constantly feeding his brain with information . . . he just didn’t have expressive language skills yet. So I stopped worrying and worked alongside his multiple PT specialist. I learned far more from them then he did. In 12 months he was talking nonstop, but more important he no longer suffered from severe separation anxiety. To everyone’s surprise that year . . . as he learned to talk he showed us that he had taught himself to read! He would point at words everywhere we were and would say the word out loud if he knew how to say it. When he was retested at 36 months he went further in the testing then his PT had every a 3yo do. At 3yo if they need additional PT they are transferred to the school district, so her worked stopped with children at their 3rd birthdays. Her testing could only measure 1 to 7 year olds. She said she only kept going because she was curious how far he could go, and was shocked he tested above what her tests allowed. By that point he was not just reading, but spelling so well that he spell checked me a few times before his 3rd birthday. He is 14yo now, and earning his first college credits while maintaining his weighted 4.0 GPA. I still feel bad for letting someone allow me to doubt him, if even for 3 days. That’s was the last time I ever put a one size fits all mentality on any of my kids. Like all kids they are each uniquely special, and move through life at their own speed.
Having parents that care makes such a difference. He's so lucky to have y'all
As a (new) special education teacher, it makes me cry happy tears to know that there are parents in the world who *get it* - we are all different, we are all capable. Whether it's mobility or cognitive, we all go at our own pace so I am so glad that Otto has you as his parents to guide him, support him and teach him how to live in this world on his own terms!
I must say as a soon to be grandmother we didn’t have these expectations or pressures.
This was put in place by our education system. When kids weren’t at a level the teacher expected or didn’t behave according to the rules they were immediately labeled.
Our kids were free to develop as they did as long as they were respectful to those around them.
I don’t think things have changed for the better. My own bother didn’t say one word until he was 6. Today they would diagnose him as autistic. He’s retired but was a chemical engineer with a MBA who travelled the world professionally and was very successful.
Labeling kids is the worst thing we can do to them.
Yes! I agree. As a mommy to an autistic child I've had to learn this lesson through some tears but I now appreciate every milestone that my daughter makes. She is 4 years old and non verbal but I hear her make new sounds and start to repeat words every week. It's so exciting. It so true that we worry so much about where they "should' be that we forget how far they've come.
I didn't expect to cry right now. Go buddy!!!
Hes on the move!
@@DudeDad
As someone who was in therapy starting at 3 months and wore AFOs until age 10 because of Cerebral Palsy.
Congrats to you both for being great parents and yay Otto. I primarily use my wheelchair now but I do not take for granted the ability to walk.Hugs💜👩🦽
This one hit right hard!! My 3rd was a bit of a late walker too (16 months). By 20 months we were concerned with his speech development. He had less than 5 words and had never said momma. We got him into speech therapy. He has 2 older siblings who are talkers....thus my youngest had no need to. He understands completely the world around him, follows commands, points to everything- just no real verbal language. Today we are 6 months into our speech therapy journey and he makes great progress everyday! (Tried to say his brothers name for the first time!) But I needed this reminder because it's hard watching those other children talk a blue streak and I have to work to get a momma. But my little guy is right where he belongs, getting help but also just being himself! Thank you!
Same thing happened with my youngest brother. My brother and I talked for him, so he never had to. Now at 29, he never shuts up! Lol
sounds somewhat like my 3rd, except he was also slow to read, so watch for that.
Our daughter didn't say more than 3 words until she was 23 months. We were going to talk to the doctor at her 2 year check up but she suddenly started talking, 1 or 2 new words every day. Now at 3 she is very talkative and she is right where she should be. Some kids just need the extra time.
I started crying when your precious little guy walked! We had a delayed kid and it brought back the memories of when he finally walked! You guys did a beautiful job encouraging him and getting him there! ❤
This Dude Dad seems genuinely caring for his kids. I loved seeing him get so excited when his child was succeeding. I give this guy much respect!
You have no idea how badly I needed to see this today. My son is 26 months and has a diagnosed developmental delay. We just started his therapy journey and couldn’t be more happy with the results we are seeing. He is doing things on his own timeline and that’s okay! Thank you for sharing this so us parents don’t feel so alone. I can’t wait to see how he grows! ♥️
My oldest son was born extremely premature. He has autism, cerebral palsy and ADHD. He is six but didn't walk until 2.5....now he runs all over the place! There are still some challenges for him but he also has so many strengths! I felt this video and sentiment so much. They all do things in their own time. Yay Otto!! ❤️❤️❤️
I hope your son and you stay healthy and happy!
This is such a special story. Seeing kids take their first steps is an experience like no other. I work at a daycare and one of my one-year-olds is there all the time. We see her more than mom does. I got to have the privilege of seeing her take her first steps, and although I'm not her mom, I cried.
As a mama to two hyper mobile (EDS) kiddos, I totally get it ❤️ One of our kiddos were behind physically, but boy did they show us how advanced they were mentally! We were so focused on making sure they didn’t fall all the time, we missed the fact that they were absorbing reading so well!!! On top of that, all the extra therapy we did to make sure their hands were strong enough for cutting scissors and building…they ended up in the cursive class a year earlier than the average kid in school! Do what you think is best, at your kids own speed and they will do great❤
Me too mama. My daughter has EDS and POTS.
Yay, Mothers of Zebras!
I am so happy for you guys. My daughter turns 2 in a month, and while her motor skills have been outstanding, her vocal communication has been delayed. But I came to your same conclusion and she is starting to pick up where she is supposed to be. So happy for his growth. Love watching your family do their thing!
I used to be an American Sign Language interpreter & in my personal experience working with delayed children, sign language helps them communicate & it has also proven they vocalize faster with ASL. Just something I thought I’d offer as a thought.
My son, who is almost same age as Otto, is also in Physical Therapy because he is behind in motor skills. He wasn't even getting into a sitting position on his own when he was 9 months. He is 18 months next week and he is also just starting to make real progress in walking. I am so grateful that you posted this. These little victories mean everything and it's amazing to see another family going through the same things. ❤️
Love this! Every child is different and develops in their own time and way. It's super important to give kids supports as needed (OT, speech, PT) and also enjoy where they are and who they are. Far too often everyone wants kids to all be in the same box and will force their kids to fit into it even if it damages the child. You two are a perfect example of supporting your kids while also letting them be unapologetically themselves.
And it stresses out us parents which the kids can feel. Bad all around. So it’s great advice to meet them where they are
This made me cry tears of joy for you. What a special sweet boy!
My son is nonverbal, and autistic. You are so right. I've been so worried about him not talking, and it's taken such precious time away from the things he has accomplished. Thank you. ❤
I’m an RN in a developmental preschool, and I cannot tell you how happy we all get when we have kiddos do their first. They’re all late bloomers, but boy when they figure something out it’s like watching magic. Their achievements make my heart so happy. Now as a mama to my own late bloomer, I’m working with and trying to help him get there. There’s gonna be some magic there soon- I can feel it.
Once more for the people in the back! Thank you so much for sharing Otto's story. And a major shout out to those angels on earth who work with littles and their families to help them along. And FRIGGIN TEARS seeing the pride on big brother's face!
As parents, it's hard to see our kids not in the range of what's considered "normal development". My son had a major verbal delay as a toddler - we saw an audiologist (hearing was "textbook") and a speech pathologist who reassured us that since he was communicating in some way (grunts, some ASL) he was on a good path and for him to say 10 actual words by 2 years was a blessing (he's now 15 and yammers on about whatever he's passionate about). Meanwhile my youngest didn't walk until 16 months because, well, she just didn't want to. She liked being snuggled (still does) and seeing everything up high. Loving and supporting your kids is the best way we can help them.
I'm an occupational therapist so this is super cool to see your family benefit from services and that Otto is getting on track! I also commend you guys and the Drs who took the time to find the reason he wasn't crawling. He's fine developmentally but was avoiding crawling because of being uncomfortable and in pain. What a tough little guy 🤗
I'm an early childhood specialist and you have said, in essence, EVERYONE'S development is along a continuum. Be patient, present supportive and open to however it happens with the children you have in your life and career. Thank you for this simple truth, it goes a loooooong way!
Thank you for being a good dad
Crying - so sweet. My youngest had a severe speech delay and we worked hard to give him the tools and resources he needed to start using his voice. Your message is spot on for parents who find their kiddo isn’t making all the milestones at the “average” age. ❤️❤️❤️
My daughter has a speech delay and this message and video couldn’t have came at a better time ❤
It is so delightful to see his face beaming! So beautiful. Good job parents
My brother was a late walker and talker. Dr. Bailen, our pediatrician, told my mom “He’ll talk when he has something to say.” He also told me that my brother wouldn’t ever want to walk if I kept carrying him everywhere!
Your approach of giving him the tools, then letting him get on with it, is awesome! ❤️
There's a story in my family that my dad and his next youngest brother didn't talk at all until they were three - they managed to get their meanings across with gestures - but one night their mom out was visiting a friend and a huge storm came up and something on the farm got struck by lightning. When she got home they had to tell her all about it and suddenly they were talking up a storm.
@@michellehanson984 My brother got by with pointing too because I knew what he was wanting. Oopsie.
The lightning story would be one worth telling!
Both of my boys started walking at 14 months. Didn’t sit up until 9 months. They’re 19 and 17 now. Played sports ages 4-18 and the oldest is a United States Marine. You are correct. Every human is unique and capable. Keep loving your family and giving God the glory!
Each kid is different hun, don't worry.
My son was WAY developmental behind on all milestones.
Didnt even speak much till around 5.
We were a bit concerned obviously, my Ma, a nurse, said "just give it time, he will catch up,he was a premie"
All I knew is I was gonna love him NO MATTER what!😍
He is 10 now..😀
Still small in stature for his age for a few reasons but growing😎🤛
* oh btw, he ranked 2nd in the NATION on standardized testing( even confirmed on a retesting) Has NO intrest in academics, wants to work with his hands, so we are going to encourage HIS dreams😎
Your your young man will be the AWESOME kid he IS meant to be!
* Especially with GREAT parents like you two!❤
Me bawling my eyes out with joy for your family and so excited to see my son after two months of him being away at college...DON'T BLINK
Some babies wld rather observe the world instead of crawling, my sister was 15 months when she walked. So yes let him observe his world.. Hes such a cute baby.. God bless your family and thank you for sharing..
Thank you!
Except you’re wrong. He actually had a physical problem that the parents realized, and corrected! Dude Dad “thanks” you, but had they done what you implied, that baby would have increased his impairment to walk-forever!
@@HereIsWisdom1318 Smh, I hope DUde Dad and family didnt take my comment in a negative way, I sure didnt mean anything by it. AND I didn't imply anything except letting him, or any child observe their worlds. (Like they do already). Most people know medical issues are a given, and I didn't say anything about not taking care of those. You took an innocent NICE comment about letting this beautiful child chill and observe,( just like they have), and follow his lead on learning etc, and turned it into my being STUPID enough to put my 2 cents worth of parenting advice above theirs or anyone else's. I shared a memory, about my sister, and her observing her world and not making crawling or walking a priority, until WAY AFTER 1. Why is there always someone who has to make a crappy comment???.
BTW Im a mother of 7 children, all over 21 all doing fantastic , and a grandmother of 15.5 children.. I think I know a little bit anyway..
@@Kilee2014 I guess what Im saying is: stop trying to be overly nice, or sweet, or whatever you think it is. A baby was experiencing a clear problem that needed to be resolved, and it seems like your answer is, "let the the baby observe the world and learn to walk in his/her own time" which would be fine if the baby didnt SUFFER a condition that, if gone on long enough, would have been irreparable. Lets stop virtue-signally bullshit and realize when there's a problem, fix it at quickly as possible.
With you and Heidi as parents, how could he be anything but awesome? Parenting done right.
you have no clue how much I needed to hear this. Your baby is precious
This is definitely my favorite video of yours. Went through something similar with my second child but with learning to talk. When she FINALLY started to talk nobody could understand her so more therapy. Once she finally mastered her speech listening to her talk to me was like a concert to my ears. SO very grateful to those Early Intervention therapists. The difference they make is immeasurable. Congratulations Otto!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thank you for sharing! As the mother of a now 19 yr old child that was behind on everything due to a stroke, early intervention, trusting your parental instincts and being a strong advocate for your child is everything. She never crawled, walked at 18 months, started talking at 3 and a million other delays over the years graduated high school, learned to drive and is now on academic scholarship at college. Hugs and much love and appreciation for your family and all others out there on this journey.
Great testimony to share
I'm a parent with a kid thats "behind" at 6, where mentally he's 4.
He's in occupational therapy and speech therapy, and this video definitely makes me feel better about letting him develop at his own pace and not worry about classroom pressure
My daughter is an occupational therapist. As her biggest fan, I am so excited to see someone document what a difference therapies make for kids. Good job you guys on giving him space and the therapies to help him grow. (high five for being your kids' biggest fans)
As a mom of 8 and grandma of 11, you are so right. We had our first one walking at 9 months, our 7th walked at 15 months. Everyone else was around a year. Also, don't blink, it goes so fast..Our oldest is 40 and our youngest is 16. It went by so fast. We were told this, but we were too busy living to appreciate this. You and Heidi are doing a wonderful job at this parenting gig.
This actually made me tear up a bit as I'm holding my infant while shes snoozing. What a great video and message you sent. I'm glad your little one is walking, your a great dad.
YES! My 7 year old doesn't walk and only has a few words in his vocabulary. He's a fighter that has had multiple surgeries and more in the future. He's so smart and loves to make friends with everyone with a wave, smile and a Hi. We live in Corbin time, he does things in his time and we are blessed by the mighty miracle that he is. Thanks for sharing Otto's milestone 🙌
You can tell such a great father by how your kids reacted to the first time he stood up. Keep up the good work man!
Beautiful message and what a beautiful boy. He wasn't developing more slowly, he was just enjoying being pampered and carried around by such wonderful parents.
When big brother was in awe and excitement for his little brother… priceless 🥹 That’s what every parent wants. Seeing their kiddos heart in action!!! 🙌🏼
This father’s joy at the first few steps his child took is one of the most wholesome things I’ve seen. Such a touching video! I am so glad I watched it.
As a mother of two little kids, often reminding myself that I cannot compare the two, they are two completely different people, I still find myself doing that. Great reminder! This made me cry happy tears!!
My baby girl was 17 months when she started walking as well. She was 7 weeks premature and we were at the point that OT was stepping in. Then one day she just walked. Happiest day 💓
Her older brother has developmental delays and crawled later than his older brothers, but still started walking around 13 months of age. They're all grown up now, starting their own families and this video took me back to when they were all Otto's age.
Beautiful video. Thank you. My toddler has only a few words and we finally got him to speech therapy. Pretty sure he's started doing one of the signs he's learning. Super proud of him.
Thank you so much for this video!!! My son was hospitalized at 5 weeks old for multiple issues that caused his brain to “reset”. Essentially at 2 months old, his brain reverted to newborn stage. He went through physical therapy and speech therapy. He was 18 months old when he took his first unassisted steps. He is now 8 years old and just as rambunctious as any other kid his age. Your video reminded me of everything we went through with him at that age. Much love to your family 💜
Kudos to you for recognizing the importance of remaining calm and getting help.
The world needs more people like you guys speaking up about these challenging things in parenthood! Thanks for the reminder of just how precious and special every milestone is regardless of timing. Love this! Go baby Otto!
I cross stitched something for my dad once that said..any many can be a father, but it takes someone special to be a dad. You're a dad. Your whole family is amazing and wonderful, and the world would be better off if there were more families like yours!
You had me in tears! Go, Otto! Thank you for sharing your struggles, but most important, your accomplishments. As a mom of a 27 y-o autistic son, you relish EVERY moment over the years, and shed tears with every victory, small or huge. It’s been a rough ride, but totally worth it! (Our son is the 3rd of 6, btw!)
Way to go, Otto!!! And well done, Taylor and Heidi! You got him the help he needed, being the strongest advocates he has. This was beautiful!
Sobbing. As a mother of a 4 year old with severe juvenile arthritis everywhere in her Itty body, I love that you guys were proactive, and so excited for him to progress!!! It can be hard to not compare our kids with others... but sooo crucial to be proud of them learning and growing and improving...vs them. Sooo happy your darling kids have you and Heidi!
Hi! I’m a preschool teacher and I think that this is beautiful 🤩 I’ve had children who were not crawling even after they turned one the parents were completely terrified that their children would never crawl or walk, but just like you they did everything they could and got help and soon we couldn’t keep up with them! It’s great for you to post a video like this that shows parents that their children aren’t behind and that sometimes kids just need a little help and time to get the hang of it. Big fan of y’all’s! Keep up the amazing work.
I was 26 months old when I finally started walking. My mom was very worried about me to say the least. But I just wanted to watch the world and was super chill about it all…thankfully nothing wrong with me, just didn’t want to walk. 😅
Very touching video. You and Heidi are amazing parents and you can see how proud big brother and sister are of Otto. Parenting is the hardest thing you'll ever do and you've both done a great job with all of your children. Much love from Oregon. 🥰
Really appreciate this. I'm a first time dad to a wonderful 17-month old who has also developed in her own time.
It was extremely hard seeing so many friends children born 3 months younger crawl and walk by there first year.
Although we didn't have the added complexity of surgery, my wife and I know first hand the gratitude and struggle of physiotherapy and OT's to help us skill up and provide the extra support our daughter needed.
Like you, with patience and support, she walked for the first time a couple weeks ago and has since grown in her confidence every day.
From one dad to another, thank you. Before hearing such a similar story, I felt alone.
The days are long, but the years are short! 😭 Our 4th son just started crawling at 10.5 months old. He was "behind", but knew he'd get there. Y'all are great parents for getting your son the help he needs to encourage those milestones. Otto is adorable!
Can't tell you how much I appreciate your videos. As a new father of a 7 month old boy, we are going through all the phases. Being reminded to stay present is extremely helpful! Thank you for the positivity and encouragement you provide to so many people! Dude Dads for life - Cheers!
Grow Otto, GROW! It's so cool that you were there for his first steps. So many parents miss those big milestones because of work obligations. I cried watching this touching video. Congratulations to Otto and big props to you and Heidi for recognizing that he needed a little extra help.❤️
39 year old father of 4, youngest is Otto's age. All our kids were late crawlers and walkers (I'm talking 14 months). You're right on point about giving them each time, but also the tools to succeed. And definitely don't show any stress/concern for their development. Kids can tell when us grown ups are worried. You guys are the best, and our whole family loves your wholesome channel and heart-warming content.
I think every parent everywhere cheered and rejoiced with you all as he took those steps.
Otto is adorable. The love in this household is so great to see and feel through the video.
Theo's excitement is adorable. I love love love when siblings support each other and get excited over each other's milestones! ❤️
Thank you all so much for sharing …. My boy is 17 months old and in therapy because his tone is too high in his legs so he doesn’t want to stand. It’s so hard. And to hear y’all know and understand helps me so much. I’m an older first time mom and it’s so hard. Thanks for making me feel better ♥️ also, my boy is so so happy and calm always so that’s another relatable trait 💙💙💙💙
Kudos to you for recognizing that he needed some assistance while simultaneously giving him room to grow 👏 all while not stressing about it! All babies hit the "developmental milestones" at different times and it also is different based on their birth order and what they choose to focus on. My third daughter was an early mover but was "behind" in speech, having hardly uttered a word at 18 months. Of course we watched, waited a bit (and yes fretted some!) and got her some help in this area. In the end, though, it didn't really matter... by two, she was talking like there was never a delay and she's still our best (and constant!) speaker at 4 years. Great work you two! He's beautiful 🥰
This got me teary eyed and I thank you for sharing this wisdom from your heart. We discovered our son has Down syndrome when he was a few months old and had been going thru similar confusion and worry as you and Heidi. We do therapy with him and celebrate his inch stones. We feel so blessed to have this joyful little angel in our family. You are good parents!
His proud big brother made me cry very happy tears! God bless your family!!!!
This touches my heart in so many ways! I was shamed not to long ago by a family member because I allowed my daughters to develop at their own pace, they are all teenagers now and are so well at speaking to me and their dad about what they need and are ready for, but having a family member speak ill of my kids just crushed me, because I knew if they found out it would kill them. Seeing other parents say that each child develops at different stages means so much, and I'm so happy to see your family so happy. Thank you so much for sharing, it means so much and I wish your family nothing but love and happiness ❣❣ I look forward to your next post 😊❣😊❣
Had me in tears 😭 I miss my son being a baby. He is now 13 and is a typical touch me not teenager. I still make him let me hug him haha he likes it. He’s just “too cool” to show it 😂 God is good! So glad Otto is walking and healthy. Such a sweet baby. You guys are amazing parents!
My son is 7 and he’s almost too cool for me! 😩 where does the time go
As a K teacher, I am such a fan of OT. I wish more families would do it. It is becoming more and more commonplace, but I still see parents who are hesitant. It covers so many different areas and every child could benefit from a little extra practice at certain developmental skills. I also think it helps lessen stress and pressure on parents about doing the "right thing" or what is actually developmentally appropriate.
I couldn't help but cry happy tears when he started walking. Thank you for sharing this
I needed to see this. My daughter turned 1 on the 24th. She’s been a little ‘behind’, as you say, for her whole little life. She lifted herself up on her hands a little late, was interested in eating a little late, sat up late, crawled late, she isn’t saying words or wAlking. I know she’s only 1, but I’m still worried. She’s so small too. She just started daycare at the beginning of November and she’s smaller than even babies younger than her. I worry so much. She’s happy and curious and wants to look and explore and play. But I worry every day. I’m trying to convince myself to just back off a bit and let her do things in her time and that it’s all gonna be okay.
Sounds like she just needs some extra time. Compare her not with kids her same age but maybe kids the same size - and remember that she’s going to get where she’s going, with your patient loving support😊 My youngest sister is brilliant, with amazing abilities in every area, but she was a year older than her average classmate when she started school. If she’d been forced to start on an arbitrary schedule, she might have been behind, struggling and developing low self-esteem. Instead she was always doing very well and blossomed into an amazing woman who can do - it seems like anything she decides to put her energy into 🥰
She's gonna be totally okay💚 She has a mama who loves her! The only reason we worry about these things is because of comparison, which is the theft of joy. Enjoy each moment with her, she is lucky to have you and you are lucky to have her. 💚