We had our Christmas team meeting this week and had such a wonderful time. We all shared some of our favorite stories with Lucas in the playroom and it was just amazing to see a room full of people who really care about our child. Brad and I truly feel like we have extended our family.
Lucas had an off month medically, and in the past, this would’ve been a regression period in all therapies. However, in the Son-Rise Program, Lucas still flourished.
Just a few developments we noted:
There were so many accounts of him really being present in the room, almost as if he is just hanging with his friends. He is so funny. He is now getting jealous when I talk to his playroom friends. When they first walk in the door and I begin to brief them on the goal, Lucas, etc., Lucas many times will interrupt and say, “Time to go to the playroom!” Basically telling me, my friend, my time…..mom! I love it!! Lucas did not have any friends before, and now he has 5! He watches for them in the window and loves his time with them.
Another development is that we again hit our interactive attention span goal of an average of 4 minutes. We started out with 2, moved it up to 4 and are now aiming for 9 minutes. Our longest attention span during a game has been about 20-25 minutes which is so unbelievable to me. Also, overall, Lucas is just more present. He no longer completely checks out the entire session. He is very aware that his buddy his in there and is truly spending time with them.
Something, I’ve also noticed personally is Lucas is now allowing me to touch him outside of the room. He welcomes long hugs, kisses, etc. He used to pull away before I could even get close. His proximity to me when we are together is so much closer and tender. He will gaze in my eyes, often a few inches away, and not look away…with a smile on his face. Eye contact from a distance was nearly impossible before this program, and many times fleeting. He gives it so freely now.
And the biggest and most exciting news of the month…….We are leaving for Massachusetts to attend the Intensive a week from today!!!! We cannot wait to have this experience with Lucas! I’m not sure what day we will make it back so I may not post for a week or so, but stay tuned because when I do, I will have so much to share with you!! We know we will have so much personal growth and of course will be given so many more tools to take this program to the next level with Lucas. Please keep us in your prayers for safe travel and health. <3