What a difference a year makes

We get so bogged down with the day to day, that we fail to recognize how much progress Mowgli has made. I sometimes feel like his development is going in slow motion. It is natural for children like Mowgli to experience several periods of regression prior to achieving a milestone, which makes it difficult for us to maintain perspective. Until I sat down and reflected on what life was like for Mowgli, only a year ago, I didn't realize how much my little boy has accomplished!

A year ago (at age 4 and a half), he didn't make much eye contact. He would frequently speak to people with his profile to them. The language that he had was one word commands, “water! DVD! crackers!” Now, I see those big brown eyes much more frequently when talking to him. His one word commands, have developed into complete (albeit scripted) sentences, “I want water please”. A year ago, he couldn't put a shirt on, swing on a swing, pedal a bike up an incline, or start his own bath. A year ago, he couldn't use a computer mouse. A year ago, he couldn't help me clean up his toys or climb up and down stairs (without risk of falling). A year ago, he wasn't even close to being fully potty trained. Now he is nearly trained!

All of Mowgli's accomplishments were made with the skills, dedication, patience, and care of his teacher, behavioral specialist, aides, speech therapist, occupational therapist, and physical therapist. I will never be able to thank them enough for all that they have done for him. It really does take a village to raise my little boy! The next chapter of Mowgli’s education is about to begin - kindergarten!

I know he has a long way to go, but every single day he's learning more and more. He's moving forward, he's living (and loving) life. He is meeting and exceeding expectations! I am so proud of him, and looking forward to what the next year brings.