Sensory Friendly Shopping

A big shout out and thank you from our family to Macy's for their sensory friendly shopping event this weekend.  The store opened 90 mins early by invitation only and each child invited received a gift card to spend and was paired with a personal shopper to help with choosing items.

We decided to make this a practice in self-advocacy and self-determination for Little One and did not put any restrictions, other than financial, on what she was allowed to select and purchase for herself.  True to form, she was a very decisive shopper that put her assistant through the wringer with her clear preferences and vision for herself.  Eventually and without a doubt, she ended up with a pair of golden high heels and a white cocktail dress.

We're thankful that our community creates targeted opportunities for our children to safely explore, learn, and grow.

First Week Of School

Last week our sixth graders officially started the new school year.

While Little One remains with the same trusted teacher whom she will see in our home three times a week, she still struggled to leave summer mode and come back to the proverbial school table.  On Friday she finally seemed more balanced and relaxed again which we all were glad to see.  We expect noticeable progress for Little One this school year, especially in areas that may not be traditionally associated with academics.  We're always tweaking what she does and how and always trying to build on her strengths.

Meanwhile Middle Kiddo's team is not yet fully assembled which has been disappointing and stressful.  I don't do well with uncertainty when it's immediately impacting our daily lives and missing ten hours of weekly coverage over three mornings is definitely measurable in its effect on our home and family.  The search for an EA continues.  Let's hope it won't take much longer, so Middle Kiddo can really get rolling again with academics.

Big Girl is well into her 8th grade year with over 100 hours already logged.  Her first day in her home school school will be after Labor Day.  She's earned her high school PE credit through swimming, yoga, and hiking.  She's about 20 hours away from her high school Health credit.

I hope to post one or two photos each month to summarize our home school work with our younger children.  Let's see if it happens.

Picture Of The Day

 Friday morning 18 holes with Dad and Cousin (more like an uncle) B.