Tuesday, September 1, 2009

Some Tidbits from "Same Child, Different Day"

A couple of tidbits for this post:
  • I saw this great article in our local news today, and I'm glad the outcome was positive. If anyone finds out who these parents are, I would love to talk with them respectfully about the experience.
  • Our monthly meet-ups for Exceptional Parents of Exceptional Children --- the support group I co-chair --- are back from their summer hiatus. You can read about our group here and about or visit our blog site here.
  • Nolan and I had a wonderful connection recently. As you know, many autistics are not good at communicating affection. Well, the other day as The Boy climbed the steps of the mini-bus, he shrugged off his backpack and headed down the aisle. Then, in an unsolicited, unexpected moment, he turned back up the walkway, murmured "head butt" to me (our 'little thing'), and then put his head on my cheek, grabbed my neck and squeezed. Then just as quickly, he let go and without looking back, sat in his seat for the ride to school. I was speechless and it was awesome!

Just thought I'd share these little bits with you.

Have a great day,

~Jon

11 comments:

Deanna said...

Jon what a wonderful thing to hear, (your moment with Nolan). It's amazing how those "little" things can just make our day, isn't it? Only parents with children on the spectrum can truly know how special that is.
Jimmy had a great moment himself this week. He's been struggling keeping up with his homework, (just started middle school this year). As he held a stack of papers in his hand while I searched for a worksheet he said, "I need to get organized." I was so amazed that he realized what the problem was I was speechless. Then he proceeded to tell me what he needed - a trapper keeper with several different colored folders. I felt so proud that he not only knew what was wrong, but also knew how to fix it. Of course I went straight to the store and bought everything he asked for. And he's been so happy ever since, because it is helping, and it was his idea alone. It's not the "big" breakthroughs that make us smile; it's the "little" moments. Thanks so much for sharing.

Jon G said...

What wonderful things they say. And only WE can appreciate how these little comments can be such MILESTONES!

Liz G said...

That is really wonderful! As a fellow parent of a child on the spectrum (my son is 14, with Aspergers/ADHD) I totally related to your post!

Hugs, Liz

Jon G said...

Liz,

Thanks for your post! Please share a story with us about your own experiences!

~Jon

Amanda said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Amanda said...

Thank You so much for your kind words. They mean so much to us. It is nice to know we have people out there who support us. I wish you and your family the best.
Thanks Again,
Amanda

Jon G said...

Amanda,

Don't be a stranger! Stop by and comment as often as you like.

~Jon

Amanda said...

Hi Jon,
It's Amanda again. I have read your blog more into detail over the last couple hours. I can relate to your posts and what you have to say. A few short months ago I when we started this journey my goal was to get my Son the help he needs and to help anyone who was on the same path. If you find any of our posts useful or helpful please feel free to share with others. I don't mind because if I can help others it is only for the good.
Thank You
Amanda

Jon G said...

Thanks Amanda. Hey, send me an email to jongilbert@rocketmail.com if you'd like to talk about your recent experiences and your ventures out on this new, unknown journey

Corrie Howe said...

Jon, I rejoice with you. As Deanna said, it is only when we have children on the spectrum that we truly understand and appreciate these huge gifts.

Jon G said...

Corrie,
I think that's why I do what I do...I don't want to preach to the people who are already living "it". I want to shar my son with everyone. I want them to understand why Deanna's son does what he does, and to be patient Julie's child is having a 'moment' (whatever that might entail). why my son melts down and why we worry about those things we worry about. Maybe this article can explain better: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1905978/autism_in_public.html?cat=25
~Jon