Talks like a duck !

Eli's first day of school was yesterday. We arrived a little early and met Mr. G. the interpreter. Eli was surprised that Mr. G could speak Chinese. Mr. G said to Eli "that is because I am Chinese but I can speak English too." This was fascinating to Eli. Mr G. told Eli that he too would learn to speak English and Eli replied (in Mandarin), "that is good because everyone here sounds like a duck!" We all had a good laugh.

The day went pretty well. Eli seemed very tired when I picked him up. I was thankful that he had the additional support on his first day.

I did call and talk with Mr. G last night to see how the day went and if there was anything that Eli voiced concerns about. Mr. G told me that Eli's biggest anxiety is communication. He said that Eli talked about his foster family in China. He said that he thinks Eli will do very well and that he just needs time to adjust to the culture and learn the language. Mr. G said that Eli is very smart and 100% proficient at Chinese - Mr. G said Eli is well above grade level in China. I am hoping this will help him as he acquires his new English language skills.

This morning I woke Eli and he got dressed quickly and tried to go out to the van. I showed him the clock and explained that we had time to wait. He kept wanting to leave - he was so excited to go again. I am so thankful.....

We have decided to have Mr. G privately tutor Eli on T/TH after school. We feel that if Eli gets the additional 1:1 help this will help him both academically and emotionally. Mr. G also said that he will use this time to reinforce house/school rules or communicate anything we need him to with Eli ...

I did ask Mr. G yesterday to tell Eli that we are very proud of him and that he is a strong boy !

To think that 17 days ago his life was completely changed and now how well he is doing it's really amazing. I am sure there will be challenging days and issues to come but I feel so blessed that he is doing as well as he is right now ....