As previously mentioned, Travis has a job that has allowed us the opportunity to live all over the country. We always saw it as a fun adventure - finding a new dwelling, exploring a new city, and making new friends. However, now that we're parents, moving is a bit more complicated. It's not just about a new house to decorate or new restaurants to dine in; it's about finding new physicians, therapists, childcare, playgroups, and preschools.
Then there's the concern over the adjustment and how moving will emotionally impact the kids. This weighed heavily on my mind especially with Josie, as her cognition is more limited than Merryn's an I'm not sure exactly how much she understands.
Her speech therapist recommended I draft a social story. The goal of a Social Story™ is to share accurate social information in a patient and reassuring manner that is easily understood by it's audience. Josie loves books so it seemed like a great approach! I got out my laptop and typed up a simple booklet, printed the pages, stapled them together, and read it to the girls.
So far, the adjustment has been going well. I'm not sure how much the Social Story has to do with Josie's comfort level, but it can't hurt. More on our big move coming soon!