We had a really good day today.  We spent some time outside the house and everyone did great. Unfortunately,  for reasons beyond my understanding, things went straight to Hell.. Emmett and Elliott were both in rare form.  I'm so tired that I'm going to crash early and I'll explain all about this in the morning.  Let's just say we were meltdown and bouncing off the wall central. Autism and ADHD totally kicked my ass...

One of the most important parenting lessons I've learned so far  In dealing with my kids over the years, I've learned quite a few things. Some are pretty simple and others are more profound.   As much as I think I'm teaching my kids, the truth is that my kids are teaching me as much as I'm teaching them.    

No one wanted to get up this morning. Elliott doesn't want to go to school anymore and I'll explain that later on. Emmett was pretty much super grumpy.  That being said, they did pull it together and we are essentially ready a full 20 minutes before we have to leave. 👍 I know this kinda change isn't easy for my kids and so I try to help them adjust as much as possible.  When dealing with kids on the Autism Spectrum, the things that are the most challenging are the ones most people would take for granted.  Managing changes like the start of a new school year, takes patience, understanding, compassion and did I say patience?   

One of the more challenging aspects of being a special needs parent to three boys with Autism, is meal times.  I haven't been able to get Emmett to eat much lately.   It's really frustrating for me because I want my son to eat and it breaks my heart to know that sometimes, despite my best efforts, he just won't eat.  This morning however, Emmett wanted to try Ritz Crackers and peanut butter.  I made him four little sandwiches or which he actually ate two of them. That's a total of four crackers and bit of peanut butter.  At this point, I'm grateful for this tiny little victory and hope to expand upon it in the future.