What would you do?

ntyravgmom

I know that I have only one month to handle this issue, but it's started off a bit frustrating and I feel bad. My lo has started receiving his services for speech delay this week, but my older one who has autism is excited to have the therapists visiting our home and just wants to carry one conversations and show off with his little brother. I've nicely sent him to his room while suggesting an activity for him to do, but I know he is upset when I do this. During today's session he stayed in his room for awhile, but then came back out to the living room and had his little brother repeating him instead of interacting with the therapist. The sessions are an hour long. Any suggestions on what I can do to keep my older one occupied and satisfied while watching how my younger one interacts with the therapist so that I can learn how to apply what he's learning in therapy? I don't want to just say "go to your room!", because that just seems mean. I want him to enjoy his time by himself. Another therapist was trying to find a way to play a game with all of us, but my boys are so far apart in age that it's difficult.

mommytoconnor

Perhaps he could watch a movie or something while therapy is going on. If he just won't stay in his room, maybe try having him sit with you and do an art project or something while you can still entertain him and watch your other LO in therapy. Or have him play outside, if possible.  Does he respond to you explaining to him what is going on and that "we have to be quiet, while your brother is working with so and so" I know it can be difficult when you have two and one is being a distraction to the other, you want to maximize your therapy time.  I wish I had more suggestions, cause I agree, just telling him to go to his room all the time seems like a punishment almost. Good luck.

ntyravgmom

Thank you for these ideas. I know it will be much easier once school starts for my eldest. He is high functioning and doesn't qualify for ESY here and already attended camp earlier this summer. It's just as well, ESY has been cut way back to mornings only and 4 days a week. LO would've had to wait for time slots if my eldest was in this ESY. And like auntie said it will be good for him to learn it isn't always about him.