We met up with other parents last night at the J-man’s school. The AU teachers at his school hold get-togethers for us on the same nights as the rest of the school has something parent-related.
You know, it’s good to talk to people who KNOW what we’re dealing with. They don’t feel sorry for us; they don’t blame us; they understand. It’s hard to get that from parents of “normal” kids. We talked about serious things – and we talked about funny things. There was a LOT of laughter, especially with Tim being the only man in the room, as there was a reference to “snipping it off” which sent us into hysterics, but made Tim lock his knees together.
There were 2 other moms from J-man’s class there, and it’s always cool to hear what the kids have been up to, especially since we’ve been on this incredibly long break!!! We’re all quite ready for school to start again next week! We heard such good things from one mom, about how a small addition to their house (a glider ottoman) made a world of difference, and it got me thinking about things that make a world of difference to the Little Man.
The picture boards. The “I want” picture boards. Certain books. SIGNING TIME. Flash cards. The “soft area.” Each of those things are so small on their own, but add up to HUGE sanity savers for us, and for the J-man. They help him communicate some need/want that otherwise we would have to hunt for, trying different things until we hit on that one thing that helped. (Reminds me of the dreaded newborn stage!)
Every one of these parents totally GOT what we talked about. Every one understood that something that works for us may not work for them, and something that works for them may not work for us… but we were ALL willing to share our experiences in a place where there simply was no judgment. None.
Because these people? Are living it too.
Posts that hopefully are similar:
- Holiday School Party – Things Worth a Thousand Words Edition
- Like a candle
- Where Am I?
- Out of the House and Temporarily Back to the ‘Real World’
- If ignorance is wisdom, we’re all gods here
- Teaching the Doctor
- Trying to Get Perspective
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I felt exactly the same way about our parents’ gathering! It’s wonderful to share thoughts and ideas and laugh with other parents who share similar experiences, all of whom know how truly gifted and amazing our children are (in spite of their challenges and eccentricities). I’m going to enjoy keeping up with y’all through your blog too. Thanks for sharing!