We were happy to welcome the first family to walk through our doors for a play date on Sunday, December 6, 2010! 

Matthew was so much fun.  He loves to look at people with a smile on his face.  In our time together we bonded in several ways.  I enjoyed exploring his world by mirroring his stims.  When he rolled his fingers along the wall, I did the same.  After several swipes, he turned around, looked at me and smiled big while letting out a little giggle.  Once he made that connection with me, I modeled the word "swipe" as I moved my hands toward him down the wall, ending in a "Got you!" as I lightly tickled his belly.  Our first session was more focused on creating a connection and lengthening his attention span while modeling lots of language. 

     What worked well for Matthew?
-He seemed to open up more when he had control in the playroom. 
     For example, in the beginning when I was speaking to his father, he was putting his fingers in the crack of the door and disappearing out of sight.  I tried closing the door once he came in and he seemed to tense up a little.  I explained we can leave the door open and I let him explore while making sure he was safe.  It was more important for him to feel safe than it was to focus on having a conversation in that moment.
     When it was time for our play time and Mom and Dad were going to be watching from the observation room, I explained exactly what everyone was going to be doing and why.  I also moved very slowly, not trying to trick him to stay in the room.  I wanted it to be his decision.  He did very well, staying in the playroom and working thorugh the transition.  

-Following his lead.
     Matthew is easily distracted by the new environment.  There were lots of fun things to explore.  I had the majority of toys up on the shelf.  There was a therapy ball, a few plastic animals, and a plastic bucket on the floor.  When he went to the ball, I offerd to help him roll.  When he clapped his hands, I clapped mine.  When he slid his hands on the wall, I did the same.  Each time, with complete excitement which really seemed to catch his attention.  Each time he needed a break (e.g. flushing the toilet, walking in circles, staring off for a bit) I let him recharge his batteries by taking that break with him.

     What will I do differently next time?
-Upon reflection, next time I would model a more useful word, such as "move".  In the moment, the word that came to mind was "swipe" but if he learned the word "move" I imagine he would get a much more powerful response as it is a clearer word for people to understand and it is an easier word to physically say.  Next time, I'll model the more useful word. 

-I will lock the bathroom door before he gets here next time as he is not potty trained yet and it was a distraction that I can control.  If the door is locked before he gets here, it keeps me being the good guy.  I purposely did not lock the door when he was here as a way to prioritize building our rapport.  I wanted him to know he is in control and I am here to help him. 

     Summary:
-The most important goal I had today was building a relationship with Matthew.