We had another rough start today. When we arrived, the kids were having their ‘Music and Movement’ time, and the moment Denis saw us he started to cry. He knew we were there for him, and we think he knows – on some level – that something’s changing. And we’re the ones disrupting his routine (which we now know he doesn’t like at all!). So, when we arrived, the caregivers were going to quit the ‘Music and Movement’ session so that we could have the playroom alone with Denis. This, of course, upset ALL the kids. Everyone started crying and chaos was all about! We insisted that they continue and made it clear that we didn’t want to disrupt any of the regular routines today. So they continued and actually invited us to watch. It was great! We loved catching another glimpse of how D spends his days. However, he was somewhat worried by our presence. He kept glancing back at us and wasn’t sure what to make of us being there.
Today's clip was taken toward the end of the M&M session. Denis decided to put away his ball early so he could go listen to the piano. Maybe we have a musician on our hands!
After the M&M session, Denis was a bit reluctant to play with us. But eventually, he came around. There were two other girls in the room with us and we all had a good time playing together. Soon after, it was time for lunch. Not wanting to get in between D and his food again, we promptly walked him to the dining room. He sat down, was dressed in a bib, and dug in! As we waved good-bye, he got up from his chair and came to tell us that his bread was 'nyum-nyum' which we took to mean yummy. Too cute!
7 comments:
Hey C&J – I’m loving the play-by-play of these final days before Denis officially becomes Denis Schatzky. What a fortunate little boy he is. I can’t say it more emphatically than he couldn’t ask for two better people to become his parents. Has the orphanage provided you the schedule Denis has been on for most of his young life? It might prove helpful for him to make the transition. Isn’t it astonishing what such young children are really aware of – such as how the day should go and who should be involved? xo from Aunt Monica
Once Denis gets settled into his new home in Japan, I am sure any mis-givings he has about his new routines or new surroundings will melt away quickly. He will soon realize that he is in a safe and secure environment where he is getting all the attention and not having to compete for it with a lot of other kids. He will also be fascinated with his new surroundings - both at home and outside - which will be so different from his current environment.
Do you know whether the orphanage has made any mention of why you are present? How are you introduced to Denis?
Anthony
Hi Celia, its Deb, your Kaliningrad buddy from the yahoo board... its so exciting that you are back there to pick up your son! He sounds very bright and completely emotionally available... which is great news developmentally - but I understand your concern that his keen awareness of the upcoming change may cause him anxiety. I'm wondering, since he is such a great eater, have you thought of bringing him food treats? We loved the (fruit) yogurts we bought at our hotel, in the small containers - they taste so good, he'd probably love those. I'm thinking as your visits become part of his routine, it may help his transition for him to associate you with yummy treats. (I'm sure some chocolate wouldn't hurt too, and I'm sure you know that sucking on lollipops really helps w/children's ear pressure during plane rides.) In any case, its wonderful to see you all back at the orphanage with him!
I can't believe the beautiful music that he has listened to with such regularity. He might need piano lessons sooner rather than later. Thanks for posting, it is so cool to get to see a small part of what you are seeing.
-g
So cute sitting so astute next to the piano. So, who's going to take piano lessons to continue on with M & M?
So when you get back we'll have to have you three over for a snack. We are four very snack oriented people so I know Denis will like us. And may later Denis can lead us through a few show tunes around the piano. What a dream guy! What dream parents! Hope you're all well and making your way. Avis (Joe would comment but he is busy with a logrolling competition on the you know what)
That is so great he probably loves music! You just wait Denis for our rock out sessions! xoxReB
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