We started working with a new SLP at the med center. This was our third visit and first full session (the first two were filling out evals and paperwork).

I cannot express how much I LOVE what he's doing for Jack. I have NEVER seen Jack respond so well to anyone this quickly before. And it's also the first male therapist we've ever worked with.

A few things he did that were totally cool...

He warmed Jack up by playing some games like peek-a-boo and funny faces (I know we're trying to get Jack to imitate the faces, but right now Jack was sitting back and letting the SLP entertain him)

He held Jack while he did some oral stimulation and deep pressure massage...

He bounced Jack up and down (and Jack LOVED this)

He put Jack in his stroller and ran with him around the therapy room (all the while Jack is shrieking with laughter). Using this technique he got Jack to repeat the word "GO" at the end of "Ready, set, GO!!!!!!!!!!!" So he would say "Ready, Set" and Jack would ever so softly say "Go" it made me cry!!!!!!!!!!

We also worked with the picture exchange system. We used cheerios and a picture icon of cereal. This was to work on the basic give and take of communication. Jack did well with this. Next week I am bringing some chocolate chips (or other small super treat) to use. And we'll only use them during therapy. I like this idea.

I told him I was so relieved to be working with him and also told him he got more reaction out of Jack in three weeks than some others have in nearly two years. He said not to sell myself short and to pat hubby and I on our backs for a job well done with Jack.

We'll continue once a week. Imagine, if he got Jack to use a new word already what will happen a few weeks from now!!!!!!!!!

I also went back and added pictures to past journal entries -- be sure to check them out!!