Hello!
We wanted to send out an update from our family, as now that we are more settled we can really share a bit more about how our time has gone since we've been home! First we want to start off and just say that our expectations have been far exceeded by how well things have been going for Kaden! He had a fantastic start to school, and we have heard great things of how he is settling into class without a problem! He really enjoys school, and is participating more and more in class activities and in interactions with kids at school!
We are also wrapping up Kaden's therapy program that he has had since September, as his birthday is this month, and once he turns six years old the funding for therapy drops significantly, which means he doesn't have one on one therapy sessions anymore, but will be joining a once a week social group with the idea behind it of helping him practice social skills in a safe environment.
We have been so blessed to see Kaden talking loads more, engaging more with his siblings, and WANTING to play with anyone who's willing- significant changes in our little guy! There are also major challenges that continue in his life- Kaden's language comprehension is still far below the typical range for his age, which makes following instructions and being able to maintain a conversation or answer questions, very difficult. We are going to be focusing on his language and social skills now, as we feel these will really open up areas of his life that are struggles right now.
And other news- Brenna and Owen are doing great, and really settling in well! Brenna attends preschool three days a week, which has been perfect for her social and independent little personality! Owen is turning into quite the toddler, and is getting really interested in playing with other "little people" like himself.
Andrew has been able to get involved in a couple ministries at our church, which has been a huge highlight for him! He helps out weekly at the "Coffee time" group at the church, where the local homeless community is welcomed to the church for a cup of coffee and an interactive talk about a Scripture passage. Andrew has had a few opportunities to teach, which he has loved. He has also been able to help out Pastor Keith a bit with the young adults ministry at church, which has been a great opportunity for him as well. Again he has loved being able to get a little involved in some teaching and lesson development, and also hanging out with the young people of our church community! When he's not doing these things, he is a HUGE help to me with running things at home, as we are learning the busy life of dropping kids off and picking them up from school all through the day!
It has actually been a really nice adjustment for myself (Megan) coming home, as I've felt a bit of a heaviness on my heart be lifted as we've been able to experience such great help and support for Kaden. Things are still very much on us to coordinate things for Kaden with school and therapy, and just make sure all those involved in his day are on the same page and aware of the goals we are working on. But to be able to have amazing trained help has been a blessing I've really enjoyed!
Again, we appreciate your support and prayer during our home assignment as we continue to seek the Lord's direction for our family and for the future. I hope that this update gives you a better idea of how our family is doing these days.
Thank you for your continued love and support!
Andrew, Megan, Kaden, Brenna and Owen ("O" boy)