At the very beginning of the summer, I took Chelsea and her brother to the library to get their very own library card. And I was SUPER proud- after years of practicing writing her name, Chelsea was able to write hers on her library card ALL BY HERSELF!!!
I also had Chelsea pick out her own library bag (big surprise which bag she picked!) and tied on a cheap lanyard from the store to hold her library card so she wouldn't lose it, and her bag stays right by the front door where her school backpack lives during the school year. The card never even has to leave the lanyard because it scans right though during checkout and won't get lost!!!
When we go to the library, Chelsea is in charge. She has to return her books, look for new ones, and if she wants help, she can ask me or the librarian. She usually asks both of us during her visit!
I made a paper Chelsea can give to the librarian and point to a type of book she wants, and the librarian works hard to pick out words Chelsea is trying to say. I have found that putting that little introduction at the beginning helps a lot with people being willing to be patient and help her. There are so many great people in the world!
After selecting her own books, she is in charge of taking her books to the librarian to check out, and carries her own bag. It is wonderful to watch her be in charge of things, and have pride that she can do things for herself!
My goal for Chelsea is that she will learn to do things for herself, like go to the library, make a menu/ list and go grocery shopping, have good hygiene skills, learn to cook, etc. Things to help her live an independent and fulfilling life. I want her to be happy, and I can see how rewarding it is for her to do things for herself.
nice
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