Spring is in the air

An up-and-down week. On the upside, we had Isaac's IEP (did you ever think you'd hear me say that?!?) The truth is, he's growing in so many areas: interpersonally, communicatively, intellectually. He can sight-read simple words and sound out longer phonetic ones. He's big on kissing lately, loves stories, and is a world-class ham: he knows when he's said something funny, to the extent that he repeats it until the last laugh is squeezed out of the room. But the "stereotypical" behavior continues: we continue to see flapping, perseveration (around buses and elevators, most particularly), and a lot of anxiety about noises.

But oh the moods on that kid. I see him starting to try out ways to cope: today, for example, my Dad was here and so we went to the Farmer's Market while J. took a much-deserved break. Isaac was a bit edgy, wanting to ride the streetcar, so I tried out my new gambit. "Okay, pal," I said, "Here's the plan. First we go to the Farmer's Market, then we get you some bread, then we buy some food, then we go home, and you can ride buses with Daddy."

He considered it for a while, repeated it to himself a few times, and was fine. Absolutely fine. It seems that I got the better part of the deal today, since J. and later Beata weren't so lucky. But what makes me optimistic is that I see him trying to find a way to cope with unexpected or difficult situations. As they said in his IEP, his tolerance for frustration is increasing. Now if I can keep mine from eroding, we'll be in business.

Sort of as a PS, you have to read this post by MOM-NOS. To me, it's a sign that Spring is on its way.

Comments

[kristen]

I think Isaac will continue to surprise you, and you will continue to be surprised by how much frustration--not only he--but you can cope with. We grow right alongside these special children of ours. And it's a very good thing, don't you think?

[Niksmom]

Yes, what Kristen said! And the inverse tolerance ratios? I totally get it!