Stockton had his first birthday party this year. He didn't ask for one, but I decided it was beneficial in many ways to throw him one. One of the most difficult things for me as a mom of an autistic child is watching everyone else with neuro-typical children have birthday parties. That might seem really silly, but I feel very envious when I see other kids get so excited about the day, the friends, the presents. . . .. Stockton has yet been able to look forward to a day or an event with much anticipation. So, as therapy for both Stockton and myself, I thought it important to teach him about birthday parties.
He chose to go bowling (from a few options) and we only invited a few cousins (just in case Stockton threw a tantrum at some point in the party--his cousins know that's just Stockton). In his ABA therapy the week prior to the party we reviewed with him the details of what was going to happen at the party. We even practiced opening a few gifts.
Stockton did so well! He didn't protest once! Sure he didn't want to bowl himself but he was so excited to watch the other kids bowl. He sat at the table at ate lunch with his friends (so what if he only drank his chocolate milk), he let the kids sing "Happy Birthday" if they did it softly, and he was perfect at opening his gifts, knowing that after he opened his presents he got to let the balloons go outside.
The part that was really impressive to me is that he wanted to go with me to take his friends home. He wanted to be with his friends longer!
I'm so amazed at my little boy and the progress he's making. He's come so far! I feel so blessed to have him, just the way he is!
Most of you know that I'm so not "crafty" but I did try a little for Stockton's party.
The invitation:
The decorations:
The favors:
And, the cake! For those of you who are crafty, don't laugh too hard at my amateur cake. For those of you who are like me, look what I did!
