I learned early on with Abbi that pushing her was not a great idea. I could encourage and give direction but letting her come to her own ideas and conclusions were the best way for her not only learn but leave the things behind that she was growing out of.
Early in May Hannah surprised our family by giving up her beloved binky. It was her idea and not even on our schedule as of yet. We knew the day was coming and was encourage by many therapists in her life to consider and work on giving it up, but right now we decided was not the right time.
Apparently we were wrong.
And I am so pleased and very grateful that this was Hannah's decision.
One day she had it all day. It was quite humorous as she moved it around her mouth and carried it on the side of her mouth as she talked to us. She was really biting and getting all she could this particular day. Even her ABA therapist noted how funny it was that she was "really working it" this specific day.
While I was washing other binkys at the kitchen sink Hannah came and ask me for a clean one. I rinsed it and gave it to her. She put it in her mouth and then handed it back to me saying "no thanks".
At bed time we offered her one and again she took it briefly, she again put it in her mouth then quickly took it out and said once again... "no thanks".
Its been a week now. Hooray!!
She refers to binky a little in passing conversation but has not asked for it.
I finally got up the courage to throw the other binky's away. I feel quite certain that this very important phase is done in her life and I am so proud that it was her idea.
She really is growing up.