Spinning in Circles

I cannot believe Franklin is turning 6 this week! We celebrated with an early birthday party yesterday and it was wonderful. In light of his recent struggle at parties, we kept it to a very small number, with just a …

On International Women’s Day I want to dedicate this post to my wonderful daughter Tabitha. I know it isn’t easy being the big sister to your autistic brother. I know you carry him mentally just as much as you do …

I took this photo during the 10 maybe 15 minutes he was content at his friends party today. I really want Franklin to be involved because he really does have the loveliest group of friends. It is heartwarming every time …

A well earned treat for playing outside at two afternoon playtimes this week! This is the first time he’s managed this since being in Year 1. Back in September at the start of Year 1, Franklin struggled to go outside …

Our Support Dog journey started back in April 2018, after we had observed the benefits an assistance dog can bring to an autistic child’s life. We completed an application and had an initial phone interview, and were then invited to …

Franklin’s sensory needs are currently through the roof, thus why I’m desperate for OT (Occupational Therapy) support. 7 1/2 months of chasing and pleading and still no appointment. We’ve been passed from pillar to post and back again! He is …

Franklin’s current highly-focused interest is zips. When someone arrives at home in a coat his eyes light up. He likes to study the zip at close range and then zip it open and closed, on repeat, for an eternity. He …

The calming effect music has on Franklin is undeniable. He has an obvious affinity with music. Whenever music is played he completely focuses in on it, all encompassing, seeming to block out all other sensory stimuli. We use it at …

After a difficult Christmas period, Franklin has totally surprised me by settling back into school brilliantly this week. He’s beamed going in each morning, settled into the classroom routine, eaten really well and also played outside at lunchtime! (we’re still …

Christmas Day didn’t start well and Franklin had two major meltdowns over the course of the day. He didn’t want to join us at the dinner table for Christmas dinner. He ran away and lay on the sofa until we …