It's what we do

Eli got a tunnel for Christmas from his Gi and Papa. This is how I found him after his first day back to school today:

Just laying down and eating a snack! I knew he would like it, but I didn't realize how much. 

It's been so amazing to watch him in the last year as he has begun to recognize his sensory needs and either be able to meet them himself or tell us what he needs.

When we were on our trip to Disney World, we realized that he loves the sound of trickling water. I downloaded a noise machine app for my phone with that sound. One night we were crammed onto a bus with lots of people including crying babies and kids (one of his triggers).  Instead of melting down, he was able to tell me "turn on the water". So I turned on the app and held it to his ear all the way back to the hotel. It was such a huge moment for us.  It was only a couple of months ago that the sight and sound of kids left him covering his ears and squeezing his eyes shut while completely shutting down in every other way. He's come so far!!!