I Went to Preschool!

Yesterday I spent the entire afternoon at school with Jack. There was a mix-up and the nursing agency didn't send anyone -- so per our agreement I stayed and kept an eye on Jack for seizure activity (which there was none).

I am actually glad I got to do this. I have spent a lot of time observing the classroom but haven't had the chance lately. Jack simply shined...so much more than I ever imagined. He didn't seem to mind my being there at all. I thought he'd head straight for me once he saw I was staying -- but he didn't. He looked over at me every so often and flashed me big smile but other than that he went about his usual day.

First they danced the chicken dance and then the hokey pokey. Jack spun around in his wheelchair and I had to hide my giggles because he was so into it! Jack's little friend M helped push his wheelchair around in a circle for follow the leader...they were under the watchful supervision of the PT :)

Then Jack sat in a little wooden seat for story time. They read a story about a monster under the bed that turns out to be a little brother instead! The kids were so cute. Jack had some trouble paying attention for the whole story but looked at the pictures and pointed to the eyes under the bed when asked.

He was sitting next to his best friend L. Little L is the cutest little girl! They have a special bond that the teachers have mentioned before, but I saw it for myself yesterday. Jack and L both have CP, L can walk but isn't totally verbal (has one word utterances just like Jack). She sticks close to Jack and Jack follows her everywhere.

Then it was time for free-play. Jack used his walker (VERY well I might add with NO HELP except getting up into it) to go over to the blocks area. He played with blocks, little people, trains, and then scooted over to the kitchen area to play house with little L. Jack made whooshing sounds and pretended to wash dishes...little L was helping to dress the Cabbage Patch kid. The PT was working with Jack during this time to encourage Jack to use both hands during play. She also stretched his legs.

Then it was story time again. Jack sat in a Bumbo seat next to little L. They read the Very Hungry Caterpillar. Miss L., the teacher showed the class the caterpillars in the jar that the mailman delivered -- they were eating some sticky stuff on the bottom of the jars. They talked about what the Caterpillar in the story ate and how BIG he got and how he turned into a chrysalis and eventually a big beautiful butterfly.

Then it was potty break time for Jack. Jack walked to the potty with his walker while Miss M. the aid helped him with his pants and diaper and helped him sit on the potty. Jack didn't go but knew the drill. Miss M. diapered Jack and then he flushed and walked over to the sink to wash his hands.

Then came snack time...Jack chose animal crackers and milk and politely asked for "More" and waited his turn. He knew to put his dirty dishes in the bin and to wait for everyone to finish. The speech therapist worked with Jack during snack time. Jack cooperated very well!

After snack Jack used the star cart to go outside. He immediately asked me for the swing, so Miss L. and I took him over to the swing. He loved every minute. It started to drizzle a little so we went inside and it was time for the goodbye song! The PT helped Jack to stand with just one finger assistance (sometimes holding his right hand) and sometimes just putting a finger on his right shoulder. They sang and then the kids got called one by one so they could leave

I'll tell you I was tired and a bit over stimulated after my afternoon at preschool! I don't give Jack enough credit and now understand why he's tired and hungry after school. It's a lot of work!

Well, speaking of school we're going to be late if I don't get him up from his nap!!!

PS -- I am still working on uploading pictures to our new albums!

http://jacksmom.myphotoalbum.com