Today is the first time I’ve ever left an IEP meeting without wanting to cry. It’s not that they have ever been that bad, I mean I have heard nightmare stories, it’s just I always second guess things. We thought they were actually going to simply mainstream Deeds into kindergarten next year with no back up services and it had us a bit apprehensive. While our little guy WILL be able to go into a typical classroom (WAHOOOOOO for progress) he is going to get just a little support during the transition. We were thrilled and left feeling really at peace with him going to public school next year. We will miss the amazing teachers, staff and small classrooms at Giant Steps but we are excited for Deeds to get a chance to interact with the other “neuro-typical” children in the neighborhood and start making friends there as well.
While looking over all the testing that’s been done in the past three years since Deeds has been diagnosed with autism it is really shocking how much he has progressed. He is an inspiration to us and it’s amazing to see him now, and to see how far he has come. Our little man is a true success story, showing how early intervention, therapy, hard work and supportive family can really change some kids on the spectrum. Change isn’t even a strong enough word, transform is better.
After the IEP Jeremy and I decided to hang out in the classroom and volunteer for a couple of hours. With the last semester of school keeping me busy all the time it was nice to be back in his classroom and seeing him work hard. He was a bit silly since both parents were there but the real treat for him was that Magpie got to come too. She loved it and snoozed in the corner during APE.
It amazes me what a good dog she is. I know that sounds weird but sometimes at home she is like any other pet would be. You catch her snatching toast off the counter, chewing on something she shouldn’t (all our seedlings for the garden) and then in public she is the worlds best behaved service dog. All business, and it shocks people when they see the silly lab at home versus the professional working dog in public. Just like anyone she has days where even in public she isn’t on her game, but even during those days she is typically fantastic and just takes a little longer to pay attention.
I am really hoping this summer we can get some fun blog posts up since I’m not at the school full-time. I know some people still check often to get updates on Magpie and Deeds so I hope to keep you all more informed. Many supporters have turned into extended family for us and we appreciate you all.
OH and one more bit of amazing news for everyone, Deeds has been seizure free since December! We are thrilled, and so is his neurologist. We hope this means we’ve figured out his medication for the time being and it continues for a while.
