Halloween 2011

The Reality Is....

That Darren is still autistic in Florida. Yes, he has had a great start to the year...but as expected he has been testing the ropes lately with the school staff. We have been so impressed with Darren's behavior and learning thus far, that it was almost like...we forgot for a moment.  Well, he was happy to remind us:) Darren is so smart, but this time he made a grave error. He showed the staff at RLC just how smart he really was before acting out. So they have already seen his potential, they already know his tricks...too late to back track now. And honestly, in comparison to the "bad" times that Darren has had over the years, his behaviors are on the lower end of the scale. Yet, he is making everyone earn their Darren stripe. Those who have already earned theirs know exactly what I am talking about. I had an IEP meeting yesterday and continue to be extremely impressed with all that RLC has to offer. Their approach is positive and their will is strong. He has already mastered some of the goals that we just put in place in May. They modified some goals because he was already making significant progress...and they added goals that I never thought I would read on a IEP at this point and time. Here are some more videos of him reading and working on his homework. He is really trying SO hard..he's just making the teachers work just as hard these days.

Trevor continues to well in school and really enjoys 2nd grade. His reading assessment showed improvement from where he left off at the end of last year....and bottom line is...he is happy. The class size is great and his teacher is very caring and kind. Trevor is a mature kid for his age. I love that he loves school and adjusts well to new situations. I think a lot of that comes from having to deal with Darren over the years. Having them a different schools has really turned out to be the better path for them both. I had this vision of them being together...but my vision wasn't a realistic one. Trevor does a great job with Darren, no doubt about it...but he also needs a life of his own..to just be Trevor. I am not trying to paint the perfect picture of him..because Lord knows...this kid is a handful as well. He doesn't miss a thing, he is forever singing and talking, he will battle your will, but ultimately win your heart. Much love to everyone!