Why You Should Always Apologize for a Smelly Diaper
Aaron and I had the privilege this week of attending Keelie's IEP (individual education plan) meeting with her preschool teacher and speech therapist. During the meeting we laughed at some of the funny things Keelie did during the year, marveled at the progress she's made (meeting 100% of her speech and language goals), and discussed a whole new set of goals for the next school year.
That's when her preschool teacher, Mrs. Bowe, informed us that Keelie has been invited to attend a very special school program for next year. The Assert program for autism, developed by professor Thomas Higbee, provides educational and behavioral interventions for children with autism. Because the learning model is so intense, requiring one-on-one teaching for six hours of the day, five days a week, very few children are taken into the program. A similar program run through a private school would cost us over $25,000 a year--just for preschool, grade school is much more. Keelie will be attending the Assert program through the public school system. Aaron and I feel very blessed to be given this wonderful opportunity to help Keelie's growth and development.
When asked why Keelie was selected out of all of the kids in the preschool class, Mrs. Bowe listed Keelie's progress and ability to follow routine. She also said, "You were always so nice to us. You apologized if Keelie had a smelly diaper. No one else ever did that!"
The moral of the story: it certainly pays to apologize if your child has a smelly diaper.
Comments
I am so happy for you guys. This is a great opportunity. I look forward to hearing more about Keelie's progress.
And I will make sure I always apologize for any sticky diapers from here on out :)
Rachel
Funny. I actually feel proud of you...for apologizing for a smelly diaper! Sheesh.
But hey...Being polite does make a difference. Obviously, it does!
And you helped win this wonderful opportunity for your daughter. (My adolescent niece is autistic, and I know how valuable such a program will be...)
Ya done good, Fiauna.
=)
1. I saw your comment over at Erin's and wondered if it was me? I know you used to be a visitor, and I know I've looked at your blog on occasions, but I can't remember if I've commented or not. I'm sorry if it was.
2. The diaper apology thing is awesome. I've noticed that the general public is not annoyed by obnoxious children really, just by obnoxious children with unapologetic parents. When we apologize, they understand and extend mercy.
I have heard tht program is amazing and it sounds like your family really deserves it :-)
GO KEELIE!!! And a huge way to go for Keelie's family too! :)
Such a simple thing... just common courtesy.
AND
YES.... PEOPLE MUST REMEMBER TO APOLOGIZE FOR POOPY DIAPERS STINKING UP THE EARTH'S ATMOSPHERE :) LOL
Lesson learned on my part. I go forward as a nicer parent. :)
-Francesca
Woo Hoo!!
I'm so excited for the whole family to have this opportunity. To be in an environment where they have so much expertise in helping her reach her potential is a wonderful thing.
My friend has a high-functioning Autistic son. Prior to knowing her, I had no idea how expensive it is to have a child with any kind of special need. I'm glad your child and family have access to such a needed opportunity!