Memories
“Stay still. C’mon guys please smile! I have spent the entire day at Build A Bear and in return I would like a GOOD picture!”
MEMORIES!
I remember this day so well. Every year we spent spring break in Alexandria, VA. We had our routine which always ended at Build A Bear. We spent so much money there we should own the joint!
As our daughter returned to school this month I thought of this picture because it jarred my memory of how far we have come.
We went to Build A Bear so often because it was a “carrot” “nugget” or “present” for EXPECTED behavior. During those years our younger daughter stepped far out of her comfort zone and our older daughter endured many embarrassing moments while we practiced pragmatic skills. The BEARS were a hefty but necessary part of achieving more goals and encouraging allegiance to the process.
Our daughter is successfully in High School now. She still has many more goals to achieve and many obstacles to overcome – BUT she is at least in the running. As parents of those living with ASD we often need to use unconventional methods. Our advice – Create the memories and keep setting goals. You will look back and be eternally grateful.
