Kindergarten update

Monday we finalized Henry's IEP for 2015-16, upon completion of his re-screenings that must be done every 3 years. He does not qualify for speech and occupational therapies, which came as no surprise to anyone. He is also far ahead of all academic benchmarks. What we have in his IEP, then, are goals for helping Henry cope with sensory overload, routine changes, or anything else that may cause him enough discomfort to negatively influence his or his classmates' learning. Lately, for example, he has been speaking sharply to and even hitting classmates who, in his eyes, aren't following directions. We are reinforcing the idea that his only job is to be in charge of Henry and continuing to remind him of his resources and strategies for dealing with frustration.

Keith and I left the meeting with huge smiles on our faces. We heard encouraging and funny stories about our precious son with the kind heart and eager mind. We had all our efforts at home and in private therapy affirmed by teachers and school therapists. Who wouldn't be happy about that? The truth is, parents are never at rest. We are always evaluating our choices and everyone could stand a little affirmation when they're getting it right. At the same time, we need to surround ourselves with people whose knowledge, skill, and heart we trust when we're getting it wrong - or, at the least, when we're unsure of where to turn. Keith and I have been fortunate from the beginning of our journey as autism parents to find these people.

When an insurance snafus forced us to leave Duke and begin therapy at Emerge, it was the best "accident" God could have given us. Since the day we sank our heels deep into the ground and began advocating for Henry, we have benefited. Every therapy session, every TEACCH meeting, every encounter with a fellow parent, every ninjutsu lesson, every book, every article, every parent workshop, every classroom teacher... these people and experiences have benefited us. And not only have they benefited our threesome, but every person who has ever spent time with Henry.

Sometimes the moments aren't easy, but they are easier when we remind ourselves of God's faithfulness in the past. We look over our shoulders and see how God was always on the path with us. I picture his hands on the small of my back, gently guiding me this way and that way, ensuring I see what and who I need to see.

So, today, we are grateful for the past and content with the present, thankful for the many people surrounding us to help us be better parents and help Henry achieve his potential and God-sized dreams.