Firstly, I must apologise for the break in posts. It's been a really full on, challenging few weeks. School holidays still mean transitions for us as all our regular clubs and meets break for the holidays and DH is a teacher, so it re-introduces him in to our schedule which can be hard for the kids to cope with as it is a change in routine. We've had lots of tears and anxiety, and a wonderful Big Talk about the issues the kids face :-)
The Big Talk was prompted by a tearful meltdown from DD, who declared "I wish I didn't have difficulties!" Time to face the beast, I thought...... So I sat them both down and explained there are two ways to view 'difficulties' and that they must learn to see themselves as Zoo's. The analogy being that Zoo's are super exciting places to be - there is loads to see and do and they are packed with exciting and interesting experiences. But in the Zoo are a whole variety of different animals that require different care - and they can view their 'difficulties' in the same way. For example, every-one wants to see the majestic lion, the King of all the animals. And sometimes we want the lion to come out an roar in all his glory, but sometimes we need to put the lion away for a while, as he may scare some of the other animals, or he may be tired and need a rest. Similarly, it's super fun to see the penguins - they are so cute, and lively, and funny. But their enclosure is definitely on the smelly side, there's no denying it, but it doesn't stop people queuing to see the penguins :-) So we talked about all these things, and how they can view their difficulties in the same way. But ultimately to remember that, although running a Zoo is a lot of work, it is also the most wonderful, magical place to visit or be around. It helped me too, to think of it this way. Now I am not a frazzled, put upon, out of her depth Mum. I am a CEO of two fabulous Zoo's :-) :-) :-)
And, in other news, I'm posting a link here of a friend's 8 year old daughter's recent article featured in The Guardian. Bea is 8 years old and has Apergers. She writes a beautiful account of what this feels like, on a day-to-day basis. It's a truly moving, captivating account and I am so proud to share it, as I truly believe she will help so many friends & family of ASD children (and adults) through her wonderful insight -
Too Much Information by Beatrix Aged 8 (dirtynakedandhappy.wordpress.com)
Read it, share it, big up her awesome Mum with your support. Way to go Bea, you are gonna help change the world xxx
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