For the Grandparents

For Ian's birthday and Christmas, we asked the grandparents to contribute to the purchase of a joystick for Ian to use with the computer.  It acts as a mouse and allows him to do all kinds of activities on the computer, which he LOVES!  He has one at school, but we really wanted him to be able to use it at home as we strongly believe that technology will be Ian's friend as he learns to communicate.  Of course they obliged and and we were able to present him with a very special gift on Christmas day.  He was very excited and insisted on using it immediately.  Although we knew he used one at school, we hadn't witnessed it, so we were amazed at what he can do with it.  I took video of him opening it and using it, but can't get them to download, so I've resorted to still shots. 

 Here's what it looks like

 Here he is using it and concentrating

 This is one of the activities he likes to do - putting an object with a similar object (The hand with the pointer finger is the cursor)

And this is what he does when he gets it right! 

I can't even describe the sense of accomplishment and independence that it gives him to be able to manipulate and use the computer.  So.....all you grandparents (and anyone else!) just need to come see how valuable this little (ridiculously expensive) device is and how much Ian loves it.  If he could, he would tell you how much he appreciates it!  It is a gift that will keep on giving for years and years and have a lasting impact on his ability to learn. 

Thank you Mom-mom, Dad-dad, Mimi, Pa and Mamma!!! 

from Ian

I love you!