2013 -A new year

I am frequently asked "How is Robbie doing?" That is such a difficult question to answer. I know most people would like to hear- "he's doing great!" But that is not our reality- and really what is great? Robbie is making progress. He is getting better at telling us his wants and needs- most of the time. Sleep patterns are improving- usually 5 nights of sleep and 2 nights awake. He does interact with family and occassionally close friends- if prompted. He does play with his sister- she gives him no choice. :) Here are the buts.... The stimming behaviors are almost constant. He rarely communicates without being prompted. He presents with many "typical" autistic behaviors. EX- He doesn't seem to distinguish the difference between objects and people. He refers to his toys as friends- and likes to draw happy faces on them to express his joy. He hugs boxes of his favorite cookies. While this sounds cute- think about what it really means? Can Robbie truly have meaningful relationships with people- other than his family? People are begining to look at him and know something is different. The worst part is when they pretend he not there. So- We continue to worry about what type of life Robbie will have long term. We've been told he will never be mainstreamed in school. He will probably not be able to live and function indepently. We love Robbie and will continue to support him and work with him to the best of our ability. He has a new little brother on the way. He has turned 7 years old. Summer is coming. It could always be worse, and we hope it will just continue to get better!