I decided to film him tonight so that you can hear Max sing. I hesitated before sharing the video, because if you aren't familiar with Max, you may be surprised by this video. What you will see is that he is rocking back and forth, bouncing on our couch. He rocks when he gets tired - this is how he calms himself and self-soothes. Because you don't have a starting point to measure his progress, I can tell you that the improvements we are seeing include increased eye contact, singing, leading the actions in the story without being prompted, and following instructions by turning the pages. His pronunciation isn't perfect, but his pitch is terrific, and it is very clear that he is singing the words "roll over".
This is why we walk. Getting Max to this point has taken us two years. There is no quick fix for treating Autism. It is hard work. It costs A LOT of money. It is progress measured in inches. It the last thing we think about before we fall asleep and the first thought that enters our minds when we wake up in the morning.
Thank you to everyone who has already donated to Team Maxwell for the Autism Speaks Walk For Autism. If you would like to donate, we appreciate any and all help! One day Max will say "thank you" himself, but for now, we will say it on his behalf. Thank you, thank you, thank you.
We love you Max! Thank you for this!
ReplyDeletemb
Great clip, Katrina. I see more than self-soothing in the rocking, he's also keeping time with your voice! And the looks and smiles he gives you, (even when you're not looking) are amazing and interactive.
ReplyDeletemy two cents,
Noreen
thank you so much for sharing Kat. What an amazing thing to see Max moving forward and to finally hear his voice! Good luck with the walk on the weekend. I hope to be able to see you all soon!
ReplyDeletethat brought tears to my eyes. seriously. he's just awesome. yay, max!
ReplyDelete(and that used to be one of my favourite songs when i was little... "i'm crowded... roll over...")
great stuff, carefoots!
btw, my cousin used to rock/bounce when he was tired, too.
ReplyDeleteI love his smiles. He is so pleased with himself and I know hearing his voice is important, but to me the most important thing is him referencing your face. Looking at someone and referencing them for emotion/reaction whatever, is MAJOR. Well done Max. Well done you too!
ReplyDeleteOkay Kat I'm balling, and I don't cry easy. Incredible progress, I'm so proud of Max and happy for the Carefoots!
ReplyDeleteLove Jen M.
Kat, I'm real happy for all of you! He has such a nice smile and what great accomplishments with his singing, eye contact and interaction!! Hope the weather will be great for the walk this weekend!
ReplyDeleteKaren Koh
I love seeing that little dude smile! He's doing great!
ReplyDeleteSo happy for you! Max is doing so well!
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