We Survived the First Week

We Did It! Week one is under the belt, and our little one seems to be adjusting to the big change. His teacher has provided positive feedback, and he has been in a great mood. I watched him run onto the playground and actively start playing with other kids; a milestone we have been waiting to cross for a long time. I very good start!

As the parents of a neurodivergent child, we are anxious about everything – Will he fit in? Will he be bullied? Will the teachers help him with his language device when he can’t find his own words? Will he remember how to fasten the clip on his new jeans? 

Jesus, we’re a mess, aren’t we?

We also struggle with trauma.  Emergency medical procedures and close calls due to his over-curious mind have carved out their bloody chunks. It’s terrifying to hand him off and pray he will be treated well by strangers he only met a few days ago. 

His school day adventures are just beginning, though, and they are something we will have to help him and ourselves navigate. My memories of school aren’t wonderful, and I fear his fall from innocence will be much more painful for him than they were me. This experience will bring heartache as he is forced into compliance and confronted with social pressures. Despite the apprehension, I understand the importance of the lessons he will have to learn.

The good news is that I can’t wait to hear his stories and to learn more from him.