Connections

Yesterday was a remarkable day at the school, to say the least.

I had an IEP meeting for Austin, to discuss / review his last 3 years of Speech / Language therapy he had been receiving through the state. He was so fortunate to have the same therapist all 3 years. She got to see him grow from that 4 year old child, who could not verbally connect with others, to an outstanding individual, who is now ranked above average with communication skills. I just love our school, the programs available to our kids, and the care that the people involved in our lives, have for my little tribe.

Austin is graduating today from this program, and part of this celebration, he gets to have a party, and invite 2 friends. He’s so excited, he’s been working hard all week, to make sure he’s caught up with his work, and he’s all smiles when we talk about this achievement. I’m so proud of him.

Another thing, I took him off of his medication early last week. This treats ADHD / anxiety issues. Well, his teacher was part of this meeting, and she saw much improvement in his social skills, participation levels, little arguing when asked to perform a task, and he’s smiling more. I loved hearing this!!! We are going to continue this regiment, and see if it continues also. There was one little thing.. He does have some energy, and can’t seem to sit still. But, we would much rather have that, than a child who isn’t engaging, or lacks much emotion.

When I was in the hallway, waiting on copies of the paperwork, the P.E. Teacher saw me, and wanted to speak to me about Autumn. He said he had good & bad to report. She typically participates in all the activities in P.E. without push back. But, this particular day, she was asking if she could just get “written up and sent home” because she didn’t feel like doing it. She also mentioned that she wasn’t good at the activity. The P.E. teacher told me that he told her, he didn’t feel like being at work today either, but sometimes you have to do things you don’t want to do. And, she doesn’t have to be GOOD at this activity, but at least try. It’s just for fun, and no one is REALLY good at it, but we’re just playing. So, she went ahead and tried, and actually did well. So, he pulled her aside afterwards, appreciating her efforts, and complimenting her abilities. She’s definitely having a rough time emotionally lately, but I’m glad to hear that she gave her best when he asked it of her.

After that, I went to meet the counselor and talk about Autumn mainly.. the issue of her being suspended and having major attitude and negative self talk. Quite disturbing..

We talked a lot about family dynamics and the book that I’m reading, how it addresses behaviors from children who have had traumatic experiences. Bottom line, we will be going through the counseling / therapy for a long time, and that’s OK.

With the support of school, family, counseling, and consistency, we will get through this, not only alive, but thriving. I just know it!!!