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she became quite a conversationalist. This was good
for both children and they seemed to look forward to
seeing each other. The comparison between Keaton’s
monologue and Taylor’s conversation with others was
yet another concern to add to Mark’s growing list. He
shared this concern with me as well as with Pam.
Pam suggested that Mark share all of his doubts with
the pediatrician during Keaton’s four year checkup.
The doctor examined Keaton thoroughly and spoke
afterwards with his parents. His response to Mark’s
concerns was that if Keaton had been a grown-up,
the doctor would say that he resembled an absent
minded professor! Keaton had read aloud the letters
on the wall charts and had made observations about
the pictures while the doctor completed his check-
up. He told Keaton’s parents that Keaton was above
average in height and in weight for his age. His only
negative observation was Keaton’s speech. He said
that Keaton appeared to be a “late bloomer” in his
speech patterns.
Pam was relieved at this report and felt very hopeful;
Mark was not so confident that all was as it should
be with Keaton. Their opinions were shared with me
during our next telephone conversation.
The family enjoyed a good summer. Carl and I had
begun to take trips with Mark, Pam, and Keaton. We
were quite happy to “little boy” sit to give Mark and
Pam an evening out to go to a restaurant or a movie
or some other entertainment. Basketball camps for
Mark usually resulted in Pam and Keaton visiting
with us or just enjoying little outings on their own.
The parents felt ready for a new school experience for