I’m not exactly sure why, but Owen had a rough night. Sleep didn’t happen for hours after our somewhat normal routine. He was very happy all afternoon, but as the night wore on he became more agitated. There are certain steps we do every night. Videos, songs, books, his bath, lights, and I try to keep it all consistent for him. But last night I took away one of his videos and tried to explain it was the consequences of his behavior. Owen does not fully comprehend his actions can get a timeout or a different type of punishment. In the long run, giving him a timeout or taking something away from him can adversely affect our nights and it seems like it makes the situation worse, but I feel like he needs to understand his actions are important. I still played his calming “movie” as he laid there trying to go to sleep, but he kept asking for the videos that I took away from him for his behavior. One step at a time, I remind myself. The learning curve for Owen is long. It can take weeks, months, or even years for him to learn a particular task or action. For months I worked with him to put his shirt on. Every single day we would repeat the same actions, with a shirt that was bigger for him so it would be easier to put his arms in. I would take it off of him and have him try it again. He doesn’t understand how to button a shirt or how to start the zipper process but can pull the zipper up or down. I’m thankful for how far we’ve come and I try not to dwell in the past but reflect on it instead. Looking back through our days I see growth and the possibilities for his future. Owen went through a stage where he couldn’t even look at me except through the corner of his eyes. Now he runs up to me and says, “I wuv ewe”. Always remember there’s hope in our future. Today is one moment in time and tomorrow the possibilities are endless. Reflect, rejoice, and be motivated for what’s yet to come. Smiles to all and donut daze!
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