Amina Grace 1:1 Speech and Language Highlight – Stephen

“Stephen has participated in the Amina Grace Speech and Language Program since it began at GiGi’s Playhouse McHenry County two years ago. Prior to the program, Stephen struggled to be able to articulate some of his words, which was very frustrating for him and would cause him to stutter. I watched my very social son become quieter and quieter.

Since he started in the program, he has become so much more confident and talkative. Last summer, Stephen was asked to do a Gospel reading at the special needs mass at our church. I was nervous. We practiced it for 3 days going over and over it to make sure he knew it well. When it came time for him to do the reading, Stephen stood up, and as I started to stand up to accompany him to provide support if needed, Stephen proclaimed “Sit down, I do it myself”.

Stephen stood in front of over 150 people in the church and proudly completed the whole reading without any mistakes or any assistance. He read it with his heart and soul. Stephen was so confident and proud of himself. He had done a great job. There were tears of joy in everyone’s eyes. I was so proud, but not as proud as he was of himself.  It has changed Stephen’s way of life. He now tells us stories all the time and can self-correct himself. We find we ask him less and less to repeat himself as he is clearer and easy to understan

That is the power of the Amina Grace Speech and Language program. It helps build pride, confidence and a positive attitude.  I can’t thank this program enough for helping Stephen to start to overcome his struggles of articulating his words.“ –  Laura, Stephen’s mom. (Stephen, age 17)