So yesterday Drew and I found out we are having a boy!
And as I sit and day dream about boy colour schemes, boisterous games, play fighting, naughty “bum bum” jokes and complaining even more about the toilet seat staying up…
I’m holding back the overwhelming urge to do that impulsive bank account crippling habit of mine that is…
Online shopping!
Yep, I’ve held back long enough and I feel like I NEED to buy 250 boy baby grows, hats, socks and blankets right…this…minute!
Seriously someone needs to physically hold me back from googling the words “Next Baby”…
Speaking of “holding back”…
It’s a touchy subject this one, but I’ve decided I’m going there today…
In my experience working with families who have children on the spectrum I’ve seen my fair share of parents who hold back their children.
These parents will SAY they want to help their child and deep down I see that they do mean that…
BUT their actions show differently.
It’s nearly always something parents and carers don’t even realise they’re doing.
For example, a parent of a child who has limited language notices their child feeling anxious, they know what may help so they pass them their vibration cushion to ease their anxiety.
Or
A child points to or simply says “raisins” to their carer, and even though their carer knows their child has the skills to use a full sentence they honour the request and give their child raisins.
Or
A Dad sees their child struggling to put on their shoes, they are aware their child can ask for help, but instead of waiting for or gently encouraging this, they put on their child’s shoes for them.
All three situations are different ways of holding back a child from using their communication skills.
So easily and commonly done but equally so detrimental to a child’s communication development.
You may be kicking yourself right now for noticing that you have been one of these parent or carers and honestly… don’t be so hard on yourself… we’ve all been there.
What’s important is that now you recognise you’re doing this, you change this to a more beneficial strategy for your child.
For various simple strategies to help your child develop their communication skills and overall independence join ‘The Unlimited Autism Success Inner Circle’…
Just click below to join and for more information
Speak with you soon until then,
Live every moment, Love beyond words and make a difference today
Emma Ottaway
