I knew better than to have many expectations for this holiday season with Rose. I was right. Her therapists have confirmed her sudden increase in defiant, rude and altogether unpleasant behavior is related to stifled memories of years of sad Christmases. They said once Christmas is over, we'll see an overnight difference.
Then I wonder, are Rose's behaviors amping up because I expected it--like a quasi self fulfilling prophecy? Who knows. Maybe it's also because we hired another PCA who started this week. Regardless, we're back in May mode. Re-learning to ignore the bad to further reinforce the good.
At the same time, we're toning down the St. Nicholas stuff. Surprises make her more anxious and seem to increase the negative behaviors. So keep your fingers crossed that we make it through the holiday season in one piece. Next year, perhaps we'll all be in a better place to truly enjoy the holidays.
No comments:
Post a Comment