Overwhelmingly impressed!

Alexander went to his first "Motor Group" physio-therapy today.  It is group physio for kids with motor disorders, as well as developmental delays and behavior issues.  I had assumed that since it was "group" in stead of 1:1, that it wouldn't be as good as just going to a physio therapist.  Boy was I wrong!!

I can't stop smiling!

For the first time since I can remember, I was completely at ease with Alexander in a group activity/sport.  Usually I worry about him not understanding, worry about he kids teasing him, and I worry about him worrying about not being "up to par.  Yes, I am very good at worrying.

Well today was different.  It was a group of 6 children, some like him, and a few with higher challenges both mentally and physically, and all in his own age-group and size. They started the hour with each child introducing themselves, and for the first time Alexander didn't stick out.  It made me tear up, but in a good way.

I had expected that there would be the physio-therapist and 1-2 aides.  In stead there was a physio therapist, a sport skill instructor, 2 kinesiologists, a PT assistant and 2 kinesiology students.  Yes, that's correct.  8 adults and 6 kids!!  That's more than 1:1 isn't it?  In later sessions there will also be an occupational  therapist yoga instructor, and a physio therapist ski instructor! I am blown away.

The environment was one full of positivity and "high fives", while encouraging the kids and cheering them on.

The first half hour was spent cycling through stations, working with all the different professionals doing things like weights, balancing, playing basket ball, jumping, and playing soccer.  All of it was done 1:1 with one therapist per child.  Then the second half hour was spent rollerblading!!  They had roller blades and pads for all the kids, and they taught them how to get up and how to fall, then how to roller-blade.  Alexander and another girl caught on fairly fast, and got to go roller blade in the hallway with their respective therapists.  Alexander was VERY proud of doing 7 laps, and he told me he is a star!

In the coming weeks they are doing cross country skiing, lacrosse, inside hockey, curling, yoga, bowling and rock climbing.

The most important part of today though - Alexander was beaming the whole time.  He looked so happy and proud the whole time, and his attitude about skiing next week has already changed from "I can't" to "I can".