Setting Goals

It’s that time of year again.  I had Tad’s annual Individual Education Plan (IEP) meeting with his teacher, his paraeducator, his school speech therapist, his mainstream 1st grade teacher, and the school principal yesterday.  Thumper tagged along and slept for most of the time in his car seat, while Tad got to play on the computer in the classroom.  (Rerun and Ane were at home with the Webmaster, who had worked from home to accommodate the meeting.)

Tad has made a TON of progress this year, especially considering all the time he is spending in the general education classroom.  This year has been a big change for him, from the high-intervention CLC class to the mid-level CLC class.  He went from a class of 6 kids and 3 teachers to a class of 11 kids and 2 teachers.  And he has adapted very well!

One thing that really struck me is how everyone just loves him.  They are all so fond of him and think he’s a great kid and loving and adorable.  Whenever his teachers fall in love with him, it always reminds me of what the pediatric psychologist said when she diagnosed Tad with autism: “He will go far in life just based on how cute and sweet he is.”  It’s always reassuring to know that other people like your kid, and it makes me grateful all over again for the support that our school district offers us.

Tad’s goals are set for the next year in social behavior, speech, and academics, but this year was so low-pressure for me because we don’t have to think about where he will be next year.  His teacher is thrilled that she’s going to get to spend the next two years with him, and I’m thrilled that she’s thrilled.

And because everyone is hoping there will be a cute baby picture at the end of this post, here you go.

Never let it be said that I didn’t give my readers what they came here for.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 24th, 2013 at 12:36 am and is filed under Autism Adventures, Children, School Days.
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