It reminds us both too much of Jude crying. He cried and cried as a baby. And he still cries and whines for us today. What brings it on? Anything new, anything frustrating and any sort of transition (from playing to going in the car, from going in the car to going inside to go potty, from watching a show to eating dinner). It's all met with a whiny cry, lots of sobs, tears and foggy glasses. And that's just Chris (smile).
We have discovered one therapy that helps. It's called Integrated Listening Systems (iLS). There are several programs within it, but the one we love best is called "calming". Jude listens to 15-30 minutes of it while he's playing or focusing on a task. And it completely evens out his emotions for the next several days. Perhaps I should use it next. If anything, the music will block out all the crying, right? :)
Here is a short video about the technology:
These are things that lots of typical kids do. While Jude is not a typical kid, he does come with many of his own kinds of blessings. When he laughs, it's contagious. He is sensitive and sympathetic to anyone who is upset. He is persistent and brave. He loves to go bowling, even though he can't see far enough to know how many pins he's knocked down. He pushes the ball and laughs anyway.
There are other kinds of tears that Jude brings us. Tears of joy. There is a special sense of pride in accomplishments that don't come very easily. Like having a vision impairment and still learning letters, numbers and colors. That is the gift we are learning to appreciate. Those times when Jude succeeds in spite of his challenges are worth all the tears from him and us along the way.
Tears
Salty water
Foggy little glasses
Always wishing them away
Parenting