Prince Jonathan

What a lovable goof ball!

I love this kid!  Especially when he gets his hands on my camera.  Ok, maybe I don't love him at that moment, but I love the pics he takes.  

Last fall Jonathan had a rough patch.  You may remember my heartbreak and if not, you can get caught up by reading,  No, I'd Rather Stay In Bed.  After multiple tests, Behavioral Therapy, Social Skills group at school, Title One classes, lots of encouragement, and an abundance of patience, we are proud to say, "We made it to the other side!" 

Jonathan's behaior is leaps and bounds better.  He is demonstrating responsibility and self-control that some adults don't.  He hasn't had a "green ticket" (a negative at school) in nearly 4 months!!!!  That is a great accomplishment for him.  That means, he has listened the first time, not bothered other kids, kept his hands to himself, talked when it was his turn to talk, followed directions, and participated for four months!  I think one of his biggest "hang ups" was the fear of getting a "green ticket."  Which, at home means a privlidge taken away.  Once his wonderful therapist explained the probability of him getting a "green ticket," (she lined up 8 magic markers end to end and then 2  in another row and used them to show how many days he's had great days Vs poor days) something clicked.  The fear, worry, and anxiousness of school disappeared.  Such a simple thing had changed our lives and more importantly his!  We are so proud of him!

During this time, he also has improved his grades (not that it took much, he was at about a B+ and now A's). 

We have come to the conclusion, Jonathan has a hard time adjusting to change.  Now that we are settled in our new home and he's settled into the school year, life is great!  He has one more therapy session and we are  done.  We are hoping at our next session to have things in place for the adjustment to the school year next year.  Praying for smooth transitions. 

In the meantime, we'll enjoy the progress and our goofy lovable kid!