Taking a Look Back

Yesterday was our first day back to therapy after vacation. Many of our therapists were asking us about our trip. It was during that conversation that I really took the time to think about how far we have come since our last big family vacation.

When we went to Disney World two and a half years ago, my son had a handful of words in his vocabulary (most of those words were understood by mommy and daddy only). He also struggled with eye contact, and had us carry him everywhere because he was extremely nervous. He made self soothing noises, and chewed on anything he could get his hands on to calm himself down.

On this trip, he was able to communicate in sentences when he felt uncomfortable or needed his chewy stick. While waiting for one ride he said, “Mommy, I don’t like it. Please go.”I was so proud of him. I wanted to cry happy tears. He also looked more at the camera for pictures, and he handed his disability card to the cast member while making eye contact. He didn’t even feel the need to self sooth because he wasn’t as nervous. He did fine just chewing on gum all day.

Thinking about how far we have come is a huge encouragement. When you are living day to day, you really do not see the huge strides of progress. When you pause to take time to reflect on the past, there is so much to celebrate.

Take time today to celebrate your child as you reflect on their journey. I am sure you also have things to celebrate. And while you are at it, give yourself a big pat on the back. You are doing an amazing job!