My Frankenstein

Good News?  James actively uses his iPad. I have to be alert and charge it every chance I can so it doesn't run out of batteries.  He uses it alone in his room, looking at the images we have added to his communication application (ProLoQuo2Go) or playing with the books or educational games. It is awesome to see. He still listens to music and reads physical books, but has to have this iPad close by.  When we are in "school," James not only responds to my questions, he often offers unsolicited comments, which are my favorite.   Unfortunately, James still holds my pointer finger for support, stabilization, and/or comfort.  A recent push by his therapists and I to break this dependence, was met by an almost week-long, refusal to type.  I think slow and steady pull back is best.  Regardless, this Friday, James' comment was not well-received, especially considering i have to "help" this kid type. . .

Needless to say, this was awful.  After a lengthy time out,  the lovely phrase was repeated a third time.  Now, not only was he in his room but every toy, book, movie, blanket and pillow was removed.  Bizarrely, it was easy.  As he sobbed, I took the opportunity to clean up some dust bunnies I had never seen before.  Then I explained to him why we do school at home, why everything was difficult for him, and why he had to work harder than everyone else.  I reminded him how vitally important communication was for him.   It took an afternoon.  But James got it.  He came back. He told me he was ready to learn.  He apologized and asked me to "forget" what he said, that he was being mean.  Then we re-started school.  His next "spontaneous" comment?  "Math looks hard but is easy once you open up your mind."  Sigh.  He's awesome!

I try and remind myself (as I continually pray for patience and guidance), that I created this monster, both the good and the bad.