Busy November

Opening and closing kitchen cabinets is fun!

Hi! It's been a while since I posted. That's because I started working again (part-time) and I can't stay up until 2:00 a.m. writing posts any more. But I'll be trying to fit in some posts this week because there's lots to say.

You are probably more interested in what Tommy has been up to! Well all he wants to do is dance to music and explore the house. He loves to open up the cabinets in the kitchen- especially the squeaky cabinets doors! He thinks that is hilarious. But it's actually good for developing his balance because he has to move to get out of the way of the swinging cabinet door. Last week his physical therapist worked this new interest into his exercise for the day and he had so much fun.

Happy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving isn't as enticing for a little boy that doesn't eat, but he still gets to enjoy the holiday atmosphere of a big family get together. He can taste many of the items easily like the gravy and mashed potatoes, and sweet potatoes. We will just have to see what's on the table this year that he can try. It doesn't really matter if he actually eats any Thanksgiving dinner. It's enough for him to be at the table with everyone and enjoying tastes with us.

But recently we has seen some progress with Tom's eating. Tom allowed a lollipop to go in his mouth and then closed his mouth around it! This is a big deal for someone that is very averse to allowing anything in his mouth. Usually his tongue comes out for tastes and he will not allow you to put a spoon in his mouth. If we can get him to begin to accept a spoon in his mouth we will really have something to build on.

Go outside and enjoy the weather while you can!

Our APH order came in!
We got a calendar with ideas and activities for every day of the year. Each day has a simple suggestion that is appropriate to the time of year and teaches basic concepts in a real life way. Like in November they suggest you go outside in your neighborhood and find some evergreen trees and shrubs. Another day says to rake a big pile of leaves and play with them. All the ideas are easy, and cheap or free!

We also got a big play tray in black that helps provide good contrast when exploring items. It also has a yellow liner for when you want to play with dark items and need a light background. As a bonus, we found that the yellow liner makes a great sound when you shake it!