Samantha began ABA with a different provider last week and I am very pleased with the structure of the sessions. Her last ABA was wonderful, however, I really felt Samantha needed more challenging. She has welcomed the new provider into her world and I think for us this will be a good fit. I am learning that every kid learns differently and I have to be aware of the ways that Sam can learn with the most success.
The new provider's methods are very different from what I have been doing with Sam during her meltdowns, and while they are very hard to adhere to, they are working! It is no doubt much harder on me as the mother to stick with them. However, I know that I have to keep my eyes on the prize and not focus on the current desire to appease.
Sam's great grandpa passed this weekend and while I know she will have no memory of him, I am glad we went to visit him not too long ago. Spending that time together was very important and I am thankful we had that.
Sam's great aunt was also here this last week and Sam had a blast! Some of my favorite memories are my times with Aunt J. and I know Sam's will be too. They played, read stories, laughed, cuddled, and just generally had a good time together. It was nice to have her here to witness 1st hand what we are talking about in these blogs and our emails. She was very supportive, sympathetic, and reassuring about it all. We hope she comes back soon!
As "Aunt J" I was was able to witness Sam and Connie working with the new provider and putting new methods to work. Watching Connie was amazing. We both wanted to do the same thing -- Connie wanted to take Sam into her arms and comfort her, and I wanted to hug Connie like I did when she was a litte girl and had skinned her knee. But as I watched "my little Connie", doing what was best for her child, I realized she has grown into an adult with strength,compassion, and the ability to do what is best for Miss Sam, no matter what has to be done or how hard it might be.
ReplyDeleteAnd then there is Samantha. WHAT A TREASURE! Watching her was like watching a video of the past. She is a joy to be around. I loved her morning kisses, reading to her, and just watching her. As a teacher for 35 years I've worked with children with all kinds of challenges. Some parents and children meet them head on and excel. I can already tell that Samantha is going to be one of the ones who succeeds-- and not just because she's my family. I can tell in her eyes. She has that spark that says, "I'm here world, and you are going to be a much better place because I am!" I can't wait to see her future.
Connie and Matt -- hang in there. You'll never regret a single day.