Quick Diet Update

 So, today we decided to launch 100% gluten free casein free AGAIN. 
We have been casein free for three weeks, and almostly completely gluten free (with occasional cheats) for two.  Isaac's behavior has been crazy.  We've seen him have symptoms that we've never seen before, like open and close drawers really fast.  His hand stimming has increased SIGNIFICANTLY.  We think he is having withdrawals.  On the up side, in moments of high anxiety (which is typically when he forgets his language) we've heard Isaac speak with new words.  When his ball went back behind the dresser, Isaac started to cry and asked me for help while signing it.  That is totally new for him. Also, when his shirt cuff got pushed up on his arm and he couldn't get it down (a major tactile sensory issue for him) he started screaming "want help" over and over.  He was screaming, but he said the words together!!!  Again today, Isaac told David that he was scared and signed it when I was running the vacuum cleaner.  That is also new.  I'm glad he is communicating his feelings!  We've heard him use two words together now fairly frequently by saying "want" and next saying the item he wants  which is an improvement.  For those of you that do not knowIsaac's age, he is 32 months.

Also, on a positive note:  Isaac did very well in his daycare program on Friday.  He is attending a highly structured, special needs based daycare two days a week for socialization.  At the facility, he has a therapist that shadows him to help him participate in the activities.   Friday was his first day alone there, and all the teachers were surprised at how well he did.  They also reported that he spoke quite a bit during the day, and when asked during circle time, "Isaac, how are you?"  He said and signed "fine." I'm pleased with how well he is doing there.

Another week ahead.  It's been rough!  Wednesday, we are going to a doctor in Franklin, TN to have some tests done.  This doctor specializes in biomedical treatment for autism.  I'm nervous because I know Isaac will have to have blood work, but I'm curious to find out what is going on in his body.  I'll post again later in the week!