June 11 marked one year since the kiddos moved in with us. During a visit with Girl's therapist, the three of us reflected on how things have changed & improved in that year. It really is amazing.
Little Boy: Used to only communicate with about 2 words & screams. Clung to Sissy but liked us for entertainment. Went to sleep almost *too* well - never fussed, never called for anyone when he woke, slept for hours at a stretch. Clearly his escape. Now? Talks constantly even when we can't understand him. Screams when rightfully upset or frustrated. Gives boys as much attention (or more, some days) as Sissy. Comes to Doug and I when hurt or needs comfort. Loves to cuddle with us. Fights his naps. :) Acts appropriately when exploring new places, using us as his familiar point.
Girl: Was clingy, behaved only to please, parented Little Boy, avoided all emotions except the occasional huge cry. Did not trust Doug or I to keep her safe or comfort her. Now? The clinginess is way less, we see real, appropriate behavior. Is a bit overbearing with Little Boy but doesn't parent as much. Many times has stated her emotions to us as well as the boys. Will occasionally trust us to comfort her but doesn't come to us voluntarily yet. HUGE strides in her feeling as part of our family.
I look forward to writing about continued improvements!
Little Boy: Used to only communicate with about 2 words & screams. Clung to Sissy but liked us for entertainment. Went to sleep almost *too* well - never fussed, never called for anyone when he woke, slept for hours at a stretch. Clearly his escape. Now? Talks constantly even when we can't understand him. Screams when rightfully upset or frustrated. Gives boys as much attention (or more, some days) as Sissy. Comes to Doug and I when hurt or needs comfort. Loves to cuddle with us. Fights his naps. :) Acts appropriately when exploring new places, using us as his familiar point.
Girl: Was clingy, behaved only to please, parented Little Boy, avoided all emotions except the occasional huge cry. Did not trust Doug or I to keep her safe or comfort her. Now? The clinginess is way less, we see real, appropriate behavior. Is a bit overbearing with Little Boy but doesn't parent as much. Many times has stated her emotions to us as well as the boys. Will occasionally trust us to comfort her but doesn't come to us voluntarily yet. HUGE strides in her feeling as part of our family.
I look forward to writing about continued improvements!
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