Dear Readers
I have a wee confession to make!
A few months back I started to feel overwhelmed with all that was going on in my life. 2015 was turning out to be a hectically busy year and something had to give. I made the decision to give myself and Nick a break from Relationship Development Intervention. I am a veteran RDI parent, therefore felt comfortable that we would continue to live the lifestyle. However, the break meant no more planned engagements, no videoing and no reflecting on each engagement (as well as a bunch of other stuff). This freed up a large chunk of time for me.
The break has been healthy. We got to spend time with family, explore new places and take Nick on a huge adventure. I got to practice my photography and read a few books. It was lovely. Nick cruised along quite happily. He fitted in with what we were doing and seemed to enjoy going out and about.
Due to lack of attention on my part, Nick has become accustomed to spending
Life has now slowed back down to a regular pace and we have school holidays on the horizon. I am itching to get back into the RDI program and start planning some good stuff to do with Nick. The last few months have been fabulous but it's time to refocus on my boy and our way forward.
The images below are to remind me that life is all about having a healthy balance. Nick needs my input, however, in order for me to remain in a good frame of mind, I also need to pay attention to other relationships and have my own interests. It is all a matter of putting it into practice, which is easier said than done!
Good luck finding your balance.
Di x
I love that you took a break - that you could give yourself the time you needed. And Nic grew so much in that huge adventure
ReplyDeleteThank you. He certainly did grow so much. Breaks are refreshing... I have a few planned for next year!!! :)
DeleteGorgeous pics and well done I think that sounds like a healthy break for you and for Nick! x
ReplyDeleteThanks so much, Vix. The pics are all a work in progress. I so love having something for myself. Hope you are well. xx
DeleteIt seems to me that the break was good for you all - all work and no play is not good for anyone :) xx
ReplyDeleteIt was good to step back for a while, that's for sure. xx
DeleteWell, I look at it like you were still doing RDI, as taking a break, and having adventures IS PART of RDI! ;) Nonetheless, WELCOME Home! :)
ReplyDeleteExactly, Kathy. RDI is not just about the focus on the child, it involves everything to do with quality of life... and taking a break was beneficial for us all.
DeleteGlad you enjoyed the break. We autism parents need to recharge our batteries every now and then.
ReplyDeleteOh yeah, we certainly do.... considering that we are in it for the very long haul! :)
DeleteI am so glad you took a break
ReplyDeleteI have some of those same guilt feelings as well about the ipad and the Wii but I am sometimes too drained after the long hours at work and console myself that atleast he is getting individual attention from other folks like therapists teachers etc
Reading this, and I am reminded of the amazing mother that you are! The decision to have a break could not have come easy, and I'm gald that you and Nick are enjoying "free" time with family and reconnecting.
ReplyDeleteTaking a break can be such a good thing, for everybody and can mean making a return refreshed with renewed motivation. That's definitely a good thing! I am so glad you followed your instincts and took that break. Nick is still doing well and you got a much needed break. xx
ReplyDeleteI am trying to read your 23 tips to communication with a non-verbal.... child and cannot. Is there any way you could tell me the week it was associated with or repost?
ReplyDeleteMary
Thanks for letting me know that the link isn't working, marymo5972. Here is the link for the post you wanted to read. http://brightsideoflifeasd.blogspot.co.za/2013/11/dis-23-ways-on-how-to-communicate-with.html
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