Christmas Break

I used to really look forward to Christmas Break.  It is an exciting time that is full of family, parties and best of all, no school!  Yeah... that was before being a parent.  Especially a parent of a child with autism.  It's not that I don't enjoy spending time with Jackson, but it really throws a wrench in his routine.  Consistency is critically important for children with autism.  When Jackson was younger, he was more flexible. As he has become more aware of the world around him, I think he struggles with the inability of being able to communicate his needs and control his environment. 
 Despite his frustration, I feel like he did really well at parties for the most part.  There were a couple of tantrums and we didn't really get to socialize at most of the parties, but we made it through.  Our life is just different now.

Jackson didn't have any therapists during Christmas break either. After a week, he started displaying more negative behaviors.  He would scream, get naked, hit his head on the floor, get naked, push his little brother over, get naked, hit his head on the wall, get naked, jump off ridiculously high things and .....did I mention get naked?  I also failed as a parent by not preparing him for the transition of going to a new church class this year.  He had a meltdown when his class was led into a new classroom with new teachers.  Honestly, I didn't even think about it!  I am so grateful that we have an understanding primary presidency and an amazing aid that are so concerned that Jackson is learning and having a positive church experience. I think that we have everything worked out for next week, but time will tell.

Jackson has been able to get back into his routine and he finally seems to be happy and regulated.  He has been smiling a lot and is excited to work with his teachers. (sigh of relief)

                                                              Brotherly Love

                                                    I love Jackson's face in this one!

iPad and Grandpa