As a teacher in a special needs nursery, I have had the privilege to work with some wonderful children and parents. Many of the children need 'extra special' care because they are so ill and their care needs are so great, that it is difficult for the parent to know where to start when playing with their child.
One such special family came to my nursery some years ago when the little chap was just 2 years old. His mother and father are wonderful caring people who dedicated their lives to the care of this child, but the caring was so technical and constant that there was little time to play.
This is what we taught the parents to do; to learn to play and enjoy playing with this child. When this mum did her first finger painting with the child, she cried. Finger painting was such a normal thing to do with a child, yet it was the first time she had had the encouragement and opportunity to do this in a safe and supportive situation. Following this, getting messy was a big part of the activities that he was able to do at nursery.
He was too ill to come to nursery daily, but his two sessions per week were tailored to his needs ensuring he had music, sensory and messy play which always involved his mother. Whenever he did a painting, he had to do three others for grandparents and some were sent across the world to relative living far away. Whatever was happening in the school, he was included and involved.
It has been a joy and privilege to be part of this little boys life,.
The inevitable end happened at a children's hospice last week, and now we must all say our 'goodbyes' to him.
Although sad, we will celebrate his life, and remember the lives that he touched, the people who were inspired to do things because of him, and the love that he brought to those who worked and played with him.
When I sing the songs that you loved, it will be for you little man.
