Day 10 - School and Home Visit Day

We had a great end to our second week.  2 of the SSD trainers came to Emma's school and we all spent 2 hours helping Kindle fit into her day.  She did great!  She was in a quiet down-stay during work times.  She helped Emma walk in her gait trainer by motivating her to move toward her and jumping up and giving her kisses to stay awake and focused.  We set up her crate in a quiet corner of the classroom where Kindle will spend parts of the school day for breaks and down time, like when Emma is eating lunch in the cafeteria.  We are so blessed that the school district and the IU have been amazingly supportive!  After a quick lunch, we went to Emma's daycare for on-site training with the staff there.  Her van drivers also came for training.  Kindle will never go on the bus lift.  She will enter the van through the door and meet her inside.  She will be on the floor at the aide's feet right next to Emma.  We also set up a crate at the daycare.  Emma is there before and after school.  Kindle will spend as much time in the crate there as the staff feels is necessary.  This is down time for Kindle and they can judge when it is a good idea for Kindle to be out and when it isn't.
Emma was glad to see all of her friends and teachers who she has missed over the last two weeks.  We also saw how the dog attracted lots of positive attention from children at both locations.  This is a wonderful opportunity not only for Emma to connect with other children, but for the other children to really learn more about service dogs and people with disabilities.  A win-win!
Our day ended with a home visit.  We were able to show the trainers how things work at home, where we want to put the invisible fence, and how Kindle will get in and out of Emma's bed using the platform and steps that Keith built.  Kindle and Emma have been in our bed until we can get hers all set up.  Plus, I want to be certain that Kindle and Emma will be able to sleep safely together alone.   All in all, a great day!
We want to thank everyone at Emma's school, in transportation, and daycare who have been so supportive and helpful to make this work for our family.  It was great to see the looks on the faces of everyone who cares about Emma as they watched Emma and her dog together today.  THANK YOU!!!  We couldn't do it without you!
Hello 1st grade!  HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO KATHERINE FROM YESTERDAY AND ANNA TODAY!!!   I hope you both had a wonderful birthday and enjoyed having Mr. Birthday Bear for the day.  I'm so sorry I couldn't be with you for your birthday, but I will be back soon and I want to hear all about your special days.  I hope all of you enjoyed the Harvest Party today and had a good first day with Mrs. Fulginiti!  Have a great weekend!  There are only 3 days of team training left and then I will be back!  Love, Mrs. Wenger :)