Feb 25, 2011

We have made progress


The title is a bit of an understatement. There are so many things that we have accomplished since our last post! First off we began potty training in November. Logan is now successfully using the facilities to go #1. #2 on the other hand has been hit and miss. We have now resorted to bribing him. We are using Hot Chocolate and the Guardian Project (an NHL comic book). Both are favorites to Logan and very motivational. I thought we were done with 'training' before Christmas but after the flu, colds and some other setbacks, we had to start again. I am looking forward to the day when #2 is always deposited in the toilet but we are not there yet!
Next on our list of accomplishments was a successful roadtrip to Edmonton. Until now, we have only stayed with Nana and Pop, Aunt B, Aunt G and of course camped in our trailer. On this most recent roadtrip, we ventured into new territory and stayed with friends. It was awesome and Logan did great. Ruby and Logan got in lots of playtime with their good friend Erin and we got in a great visit with friends. We were so happy Logan did well and thankful our friends were so understanding and supportive. During this trip we went bowling (disco style). The combination of bowling, flashing lights and loud music were all new experiences to Logan. There was some stimming and impatience from Logan but all things considered, the outing a success. I should also mention Logan won! He bowled a 96 (highest). I, on the other hand, bowled a 74 (lowest).
Now onto our best news. The Executive Director of Logan's specialized preschool has recommended that Logan might be ready in September to begin integrating into a regular preschool. This year, Logan's days are divided between one-on-one with an aide at home and half days at BTLC (a specialized preschool). In September, Logan's preschool half days would be split between time in the new regular preschool program and BTLC. Logan would have an aide in the 'regular' classroom to support him in following direction and interacting appropriately with the teacher and other children. In addition to the half days in preschool, Logan would continue his one-on-one work with an aide in our home. Although it is not a change in the amount of time Logan spents in school, integration will bring a host of changes for Logan. Fortunately Logan loves the structure of his programming and works very hard both in his class and in one-on-one time.
Beginning with the next post, Logan's dad will be adding his perspective to the blog. Two bloggers will mean more frequent posts (hopefully!).
We hope that you will consider becoming a follower on our blog so that you will receive notification of new posts. As always, we welcome your comments and questions. The whole reason for this blog is to get the word of autism out there and for people to see what life is like on our journey. We want to share what we have learned and are learning! One thing we will not do is pass judgement. Thanks for joining us on this journey.