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So this is only a short clip but at least we were finally able to get one out there so you guys can see how we work with Tyler. This was actually a video of what is called a "play sample" which is done monthly has part of Tyler's monthly evaulations to take data on his progress. Steve actually takes him to the other assessments, but the play sample has to be done by the main caretaker, i.e. the person involved in the study so Tyler and I do this portion of the evaluation in the clinic. This is also the same room that Tyler and I visit every Friday morning. The toys you see on the table and the ones Tyler is working with are only used for the evaluation purposes and taken away after testing, but there are plenty of other fun things to do in the clinic.
This clip is only 2 minutes long but there is a lot that can be learned from it. Prior to the study, not only did Tyler have a hard time playing with cars appropriately (he would flip them and spin the wheels) but he certainly did not care or necessarily want anyone to play with him. As you will see in this clip, he's very intersted in having mom play cars with him. The beginning of the routine we start off with very simple requests and gradually work up to (not sure if the video went this far or not) waiting for sounds and eye contact. There are many other mastered skills shown in the video that you may not pick up on, For example, me pointing to somthing and saying "tyler look", he never used to look when I pointed. Or me helping Tyler with his receptive language by saying "bring me car" which he was going to do anyway so he just helps him learn the phrase. Same as "go get car". Prior to the study, Tyler basically made little to no sounds, certainly didn't make sounds as a request for anything. As you'll notice in the video, he's making sounds to get me to push the car. I do give him a few free "pushes" to make sure he stays regulated and engaged in the activity and doesn't get overly frustrated.
I'm so glad you all get to finally see these videos. Don't forget that communication develops in many many steps and most kids just do it so quickly you don't notice all the steps. We have to teach Tyler each step so try to remember back to Tyler last summer. He was happy doing his own thing, didn't want you to participate in really anything and didn't care if you came or went and now look at him. He's so amazing!
