I can't believe it has been so long since we have sent an update!
We had an incredible time and a life-changing experience at the Son-Rise program in February. We have met so many people from all over the world and we are keeping in touch via facebook (a black hole that is a blessing and a curse =). We are so blessed to have a family that encouraged us and supported us financially so we could go to the Option Institute to attend the training. We couldn't have done it without you!
The Son-Rise program is a home based, child centered, one on one, parent lead program where the primary focus is social development. Is is based on the attitude of love and acceptance.
It teaches you that no-one can tell you what your whole child's life will be based off of an afternoon of tests. And that your child's potential is limitless.
It lifted a great burden off of both us (and I am sure Aidan has benefited as well)!
We modified our basement into a distraction free playroom complete with an observation room. We removed all electronic toys from the house (we were supposed to remove the TV and computers too, but we need baby steps! =) I took the last 4 weeks off of work to implement the program and get everything in order. Boy have I been busy! It is like setting up a pre-school program (coming up with games, making projects, etc) from scratch! I am also trying to recruit volunteers to come in to work with Aidan. We currently have him in therapy for 10 hours a week, and we need to double that in order to run a successful part-time program. The Son-Rise program takes a lot of energy and in order to keep him engaged at the level he needs, we need some help! (We are old, you know) I am also putting together a tracking system on excel to monitor progress.
We have been requested by some family members for more information about how to interact with Aidan since he is so unique. We are also putting together a presentation for you! We will contact those of you who are interested and will get everyone together sometime soon. (Yes, I promise, sooner rather than later =). For those of you out of state, I can send you the powerpoint and we can answer any questions for you.
But now to the good part - AIDAN!!!
It has been 4 weeks since we started the program, and the change is evident in our beloved boy! Before the program, he would say "DA" for everything. We counted words at the beginning of this week and he is saying or saying approximations of 20 words! It is so exciting and motivating! We were getting discouraged and were really starting to get worried that he would be one of the 40% that never speak. But we are seeing a glimmer now that is giving him confidence and us encouragement to keep going and keep fighting!
He is also interacting with us more, is making requests (like when he is hungry, or wants to go outside), and his personality gets brighter everyday!
We can't say enough about the Son-Rise program. It has given us a whole new lease on life and has painted a bold and bright future for our son.
Thank you to those that helped make it possible!!!
We love you,
Adrienne
