We did a new videotape today. It goes like this: 10 minutes of B playing on his own while I totally ignore him, 10 minutes of him directing what/how we play and then 10 minutes of parent-directed play where I have to get him to play 5 different toys with me. Two months ago, B cried/screamed/tantrumed pretty much the ENTIRE 30 minutes because he wanted to leave the basement. No fun. Today he was a different boy. I still didn't feel like it was a totally accurate assessment of his play skills but it was at least more representative. For the first 10 minutes, he just jumped around and ran and laughed and ignored all toys. He played right next to me but did not require my attention. The next 10 minutes, we played "social" games like tickling, pulling him to me etc. He never wanted to play toys but he was totally engaged. He would anticipate me pulling him back and take a couple of steps backwards while looking over his shoulder. Cool stuff. For the last 10 minutes, I was pretty astounded. He completed an entire puzzle with no trouble. He played with the toy kitchen and did try to leave it once but was easily re-engaged. We also played with duplo blocks, a little people castle and with mr. potato heads. He rocked it. Just two months later.
Shortly thereafter, my big boy threw his third doozy tantrum while therapists looked on. He was very tired, sick with a cold and very very awful. I was trying to put B down for a nap and holding myself back, which was no easy task. And then it was over basically as quickly as it began. He requested a snack and was chatting and laughing when I came out. That's something that has always cracked me up about kids. When it's done, it's just done - nothing like adults where we continue to stew and dwell.
B just sang Twinkle Twinkle Little Star - a darn good approximation. It's so interesting how these songs are taking off. Imagine a 1 year old who has said a couple of single syllable words suddenly singing a song. That's what it's like. Fascinating and super exciting!
Snow is coming down here pretty hard. All 4 of us are in for the next 2 days - no therapists, no schedule. It feels good.
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