Preparing For School

Time to take a breath, sit down for a few moments and share. We've been busy with the usual... school is starting soon routine. So sorry for not writing before now.

With summer break coming to an end, it is... a time of sadness for some children, apprehension for some parents (with kiddos going to school for the first time), and the relief of parents who are seasoned veterans of the whole school routine. Then there are the parents, like us... of kiddos with autism. There are certainly pros and cons to the new school year, beginning a new routine. One pro is, in California (at least), the school system we are in has a great special education program. The con to this, each school has a different type of program(s). They are at a traditional school with special education classes. For example, last year the boys were in the PALS program (Program for the Acquisition of Language and Social skills) at one school. A good program, but only for preschool and kindergarten kiddos.

This year the boys will be in an intensive autism program, at a new school. They will (unfortunately) be going to a new school, with a new teacher, new peers, a new schedule and a longer school day than they've ever had before. The first year they were in an SDC (Special Day Class) which was for 3 hours a day. Then they went into the PALS program which was 5 hours a day. Now they will be going to school for 7 hours 4 days a week and 5 hours 1 day a week. On top of that is the ABA (Autism Behavior Analysis) which goes anywhere from 1-1/2 hours to 3 hours a day, Monday through Friday (depending on what they can handle).

It's going to be a very, very, very busy and long day for the boys. This year will undoubtedly be their biggest challenge so far. The next week will be extremely busy, like many households with kiddos getting ready for school. The last minute appointments for school physicals, medicine follow-ups, school shopping and of course shopping for the school supplies you have to get every year. For us, the one thing we have to add is the "special" food items that the boys "must have" for their snacks and lunches.

The list, like many homes can go on and on, and just when you think you're ready... something else comes up. But, you smile and roll with it because you know it's all to help your little ones grow. It will be interesting to see how things go this year. I'll admit, I am little quite apprehensive about how it will go. Will I get a call because one or both boys have had a meltdown and can't be controlled? Will we have to set up a behavior action plan because the boys have become physical and could hurt themselves, or someone else? What will the ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) reveal to us this year?

The wonderful world of the autism parent. Believe it or not, I say that with very minimal sarcasm. You see, every day is a new learning experience, not only for them but for us too. Our boys have shown us that there are so many new things to learn. Things that we think we already know about, but can now see it in a completely different. We have to learn new ways of doing things, seeing things and new ways of organizing things too.

I LOVE THIS!

The world of those on the spectrum and for those who love them can have a magical and beautiful flow all it's own. Like the tide, the days seconds ebb and flow.  Not always pleasant of course, but if you can be quiet and open - patient -you'll probably learn something. I've learned so many things, but one I'm most thankful for is the gift to see that a lot of things in this life really don't matter. Who likes me, who doesn't - who cares, take it or leave it. When are the bills due, how much housework needs to be done at this moment, though important - not more important that taking the time to try to connect with my babes. Those things will get done, even though sometimes at the last minute.

I totally understand the old statement "Stop and smell the roses" I really get it! It now takes on a whole new meaning. I believe I truly understand what the author meant when he penned the words.

I just wish I could see what he sees.

From a mother's heart - I hope that everyone, everywhere will be ready for this school year. May everyone be safe and learn, learn, learn.
God Bless!