Brother, Wanna Help Me Build A Fort?

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A new thing is happening at our house. Sawyer wants Cooper to ‘help’ him with his antics. Fort building, trying to convince mom and dad to go to a pool, late night ice cream runs. It’s pretty cute.

‘Cooper!! Wanna help me build a fort? Yes or no? Yes? Come on Cooper. Come on. Mom said it’s ok!’ And off they run. Cooper has no idea what he’s agreeing too either. But he doesn’t care.

My heart melts. Just the sound of Sawyer saying Cooper’s name in a sentence. It’s enough to take my breath away. This is so new.

Cooper typically has very little awareness. And because of that Sawyer doesn’t really acknowledge him. That’s the truth.

But I’m learning Sawyer can urgently and sweetly coax his brother along. Cooper has a 1 second attention span and he thrives on destruction. But Sawyer doesn’t seem to care. He just alternates between talking sweetly and scolding him…rather loudly. Sometimes I swear he thinks nonverbal means deaf. He has the patience of a saint though.

It’s happening friends. Finally. Thank god. They are acknowledging each other.

PS. Cooper’s latest fashion choice is shorts over pants. Every day. I think he’s telling us he’s ready for summer.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter.

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Kate Swenson

Kate Swenson lives in Minnesota with her husband Jamie, and four children, Cooper, Sawyer, Harbor and Wynnie. Kate launched Finding Cooper's Voice from her couch while her now 11-year-old son Cooper was being diagnosed with autism. Back then it was a place to write. Today it is a living, thriving community of people who want to not only advocate for autism, but also make the world a better place for individuals with disabilities and their families. Her first book, Forever Boy, will be released, April 5, 2022.

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1 Comment

  1. Lindsey on April 8, 2018 at 1:20 pm

    What a nice moment to capture.