By the end of 2017, it was clear that Parth needed extra support to manage school life. The first months had been filled with tears, short separations, and his mother spending long hours in the waiting room. While he had shown some progress, we realized that he still struggled to focus, follow instructions, and stay calm in the classroom.
After many discussions with his teachers and each other, we made the decision to bring in a shadow teacher. This was not an easy choice. Like many parents, we wondered if it would make Parth stand out, or if he would depend too much on constant support. But deep down, we knew he needed someone by his side, someone trained to gently guide him through lessons, activities, and the rhythm of school life.
The arrival of the shadow teacher brought an immediate sense of relief. Parth now had a familiar, steady presence with him in class. When he felt anxious or distracted, she helped him return to the task. When instructions were too fast, she broke them down step by step. Slowly, he began to take part in rhymes, coloring, and playtime with her support, gaining confidence each day.
For us, the shadow teacher was more than just extra help. She became a bridge between Parth and the classroom, allowing him to feel included without being overwhelmed. The decision, though difficult at first, turned out to be one of the most important steps in his early education.
Looking back, hiring a shadow teacher taught us a valuable lesson: every child learns differently, and there is no shame in giving them the support they need. With patience, the right environment, and the right people beside him, Parth could take steps we once thought impossible.