# @iamdevale on Instagram

- **Type:** Video
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/DV6mp-Eka18
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/60087225-iamdevale-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/3c232492cf.jpg
- **Posted:** 2026-03-15T18:51:30.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Devale Ellis (@iamdevale) — https://gondola.cc/iamdevale

## Caption

These conversations have become so fulfilling for Kay Kay & I as parents. I remember when Kota was turning 2 and not saying many words. Took him to a speech therapist to have him tested. He was a little behind. We made a decision as a family that some lifestyle changes were needed.

First, them iPads are finished. We are prioritizing play outside. Second, we off that sugar. Pantry overhaul. Third, make Kota use his words when asking for things instead of pointing. Can’t give in to the frustration, we all must be patient. Fourth, LETS HAVE MORE CONVERSATIONS!!!

This may not be the case for every child but I did take inventory, and I realized that we weren’t engaging him enough. As parents we were busy working, grandma was taking care of the house, his brothers were older and he ended up on that iPad watching short videos with too much stimulation. The minute we ALL AS A FAMILY chose to include him, he started saying more words and building his own voice. 

Six months later after all the changes and 30 minutes of speech therapy once a week, Kota wouldn’t stop talking. Now at 4 years old these conversations mean so much more. 

As a parent I can honestly say that most times any deficiencies we see in our children can be tracked back to us. Our lifestyles become their routine which mean we have the power to make a change. 

The crazy part is, the change ends up benefiting you in the long run as well. I’ve lost 20lbs by cutting the sugar the dairy and prioritizing play outside.

THANKS KOTA! LOVE YA! 💪🏾

#DevalesTruth #KotaGonKota #HouseOfEllis #RaisingKings #EllisEverAfterPodcast

## Stats

- **Views:** 156,739
- **Likes:** 38,810
- **Shares:** 0
- **Comments:** 761

## Tags

devalestruth, houseofellis, kotagonkota, raisingkings, elliseverafterpodcast

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