Moe is now in his fourth week of preschool, and we’re pretty thrilled about how it is going. Despite the fact that I have already had to pick him up early from school a few times because of a bloody lip and a bout of, let’s just say a stomach ache, I am for the first time 100% positive that he is in the right program.
There are many, many different programs for kids with autism and they are based on many, many different philosophies, like Floortime, ABA, or PRT. Ours is based on the Competent Learner Model. In practice, most of these programs seem to me to look very similar, and I’m convinced that the success of any given program depends first and foremost on the skill of the teachers involved. And Moe’s teacher, the Magnificent Mrs. M, is the best. There are also two permanent aides in the classroom.
Mrs. M sends home a communication book every day with a quick note about what happened in class that day. I think all of the kids get the same basic summary, but often there will also be a little handwritten note from Mrs. M. Parents are encouraged to write in the book to send messages back as well.
Here is part of the note from the first day of class.
Moe, who barely spoke a word the entire summer, talked in class. This does not seem to be a fluke. From the second day of school:
Check out my mad photo editing skills!
The book is full of notes like this. Every day, Moe has a little bit to say. Even last week, when I picked him up early because of aforementioned stomach issue, Moe’s note said he “did the hand motions for my favorite song…The Monkey!” And this seems to be transferring to home as well. Moe has been using words here and there, and he even spontaneously asked for water – using the sign for “I want” while saying “water.” I didn’t prompt him, he just made a request. This is HUGE. It means he isn’t just labeling things. He is starting to communicate. I’m hopeful it continues.
Here is my favorite note so far. I think you’ll understand why I think there is something very special about this classroom. This is from the day after Moe had fell on the playground.
He’s the light of my day too.
wow!!! i only hope our little one gets to have his very own Mrs.M this year. our iep is on the 27th and we are reviewing schools on the area on the 23rd. i love hearing about all of moe's progress. can't wait for G to do the same. best...
ReplyDeleteThat is so awesome! I am really impressed by teachers who go above and beyond like that. My son is in his 2nd year of preschool and so far I have absolutely loved his teachers!
ReplyDeleteOh. Notebooks are the best! I like your blog. Would you be interested in exchanging links? I blog about disabilities, including autism. Please look at Snippets 'N Stuff and let me know. I think our followers would benefit.
ReplyDeleteDeeAnn
Amazing what difference the right program and teacher makes! Yay Moe.
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ReplyDeleteWoo hoo! Threaded comments!
ReplyDeleteDo you mind telling me which school district you are in? My daughter will turn 2.5 next month and we are actively thinking of moving to a SD that makes sense for her. you can send me an email on my id if you want it to remain personal.
ReplyDeletethanks in advance.
jennie...this is amazing progress. so proud of Moe. LOVE IT.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely comment and super speaking from Moe. You must be a very proud Mummy x
ReplyDeleteFantastic to see such steps in Moe's development. You must be very proud.
ReplyDeleteIt's great to hear Moe's progressing so well with his speech and what a great teacher he has to guide him.
ReplyDeleteWhat a special teacher! I love her wonderful notes.
ReplyDeleteLooks like Moe has the perfect teacher for him. I know you're thrilled.
ReplyDeletegosh, that IS a caring teacher. So happy things are working out for everyone! {:-D
ReplyDeleteI love Mrs. M. She's great! Those notes must have been a hoot to read!
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful to have a teacher who goes the extra mile and is obviously having great success with you son. May it continue!
ReplyDeleteGod Bless the teacher who has a warm heart.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful that you've found this school and Mrs. M. She sounds absolutely magical.
And some of the things Moe is accomplishing now sound magical, too!
Hooray for such a happy story!
Thanks for sharing it!
A+