Words

Verbal language is difficult for Mark.  In truth, we rarely hear more than a small collection of words from him.  At the end of last year he started saying "Quiet".  And he uses it appropriately 99% of the time. 

Mark uses Quiet to tell me that he wants me to be quiet.  He uses quiet to tell me when he things he's going to be told to be quiet.  He uses quiet to tell me when things around him are too loud.

To encourage Mark in using words, I always respond to what he says.  Even if I'm not going to do it.  For example, when Mark tells me quiet while we are working on a lesson.  He typically does that if he doesn't want to do, or continue, the lesson.  My response is basic.  I say "I know you want me to be quiet, but we need to finish this first."  Another example is when Goliath barks at something.  Mark will look at me and say "Quiet."  And I will look at Mark and say "Yes, Goliath needs to be quiet."

Now Mark has other words but he goes long periods of time between volunteering them.  He will say them when asked.  (A lot of times he will say a different word, then say the first word when you ask for another word!)  But he doesn't volunteer words often.

Today, Mark not only volunteered a word, he volunteered a sentence!  I gave Mark the choice between taking a shower or going outside.  Both activities are very favored by Mark and since he had done great during math he had earned a reward.  Initially, he chose both.  I told him that he could only choose one for right now.  So he looked at me for several long moments and then said "Go outside".  I wish I had a picture of the stunned look that I am quite sure was on my face for a couple of seconds.  But then I recovered and said "Go outside.  Okay, let's go!" while giving him a tremendous hug.  And then a couple of seconds later I recovered enough to look him in the eyes and say "Good talking."

And I think Mark surprised himself.  Or was surprised that saying it worked.  I'm not sure which.  But he seemed surprised that I immediately went and opened the back door so that he could play outside.  And several times he came up to me for hugs.  Maybe he made a good connection that will help with future talking.  I hope so.  But regardless, I'm dancing on clouds today - just because of two words from my wonderful son.