Using our words :-)

Today was a watershed moment for Chancely (and for me). Our mornings typically go really smoothly. Molly and Lincoln are definitely "morning people" and Agendo is getting there, but Chancely usually moves a little bit slower and rarely has much to say in the morning. As a result of him not saying what he wants or needs (and my refusal to try to read his mind) there are sometimes a few tears and long periods of silence. A phrase I often use is "Use your words." His response to this can be a 15 minute stare down with some tears, him eventually giving in and speaking after a LONG period of silence OR me making him repeat after me what I think he is wanting.

I realize this all seems really confusing as part of a morning school routine, however this is where we are right now. BUT this morning was different...we made progress!!

Everyone was at the table for devotions but Chancely so I went to check on him and he was in his pouting position with his chin tucked and tears on his cheeks. I said, "Chancely, what's wrong? Everyone is at the table...please finish getting dressed." I helped him put on his pants and he still looked sad. I tapped my lips and said (as usual), "Please use your words and tell me what you need." AND within 30 seconds he looked at me with sad eyes and said so clearly, "I can't find my shoes."

To say that I was shocked and excited is an understatement. He has never offered up information (when he is upset) that quickly. I gave him a big high five and told him how proud I was that he used his words and that I knew exactly where is shoes were. As we went for his shoes he continued to smile because he was so proud of himself.

Tonight, he walked in the kitchen while I was fixing his dinner and said, "Mom...I say...I can't find my shoes." The fact that he was still so proud shows what a big deal it was in the moment. His English is getting much better and he talks all of the time, but he struggles in the morning and when he is upset and today he conquered both!!!