We had to do Callie’s IEP for next school year a few weeks ago.
For those of you that don’t know what an IEP is, its an individualized education plan that we fill out for the school. It details what modifications and adaptations Callie might need over the upcoming year to make sure that she is successful.
When we were done, it seemed like the list was more of things that she couldn’t do. Almost a laundry list of her limitations. And if I had just stepped into that meeting and read the paperwork…..I couldn’t have told you that was even my child.
It didn’t list any of the things that she was amazing at….none of the areas in which she sparkles. Her SUPER POWERS.
It didn’t list that she is kind. So so kind.
It didn’t list that she has a heart of gold and wants to help everyone. From holding the cafeteria door to saving the lady bug trapped in our garage, she is the best helper.
It didn’t list that she always looks out for the underdog. That she seeks out the lonely kids on the playground to be friend them. It didn’t say that she gives the best hugs.
It didn’t say that her favorite subject is science and she loves reading.
It didn’t say that her giggle is the best sound ever.
It didn’t say that she always wants to do what the other kids are doing…she just might need to do it a little differently.
It didn’t say that she has great balance and can stand on her one leg for what seems like forever without falling over.
It didn’t say that she can spot the golden arches of a McDonald’s from 5 miles away.
It didn’t say that she’s really creative and a very enthusiastic story teller.
It didn’t say that she loves animals and cries if something happens to them in movies.
It didn’t say that she is strong, brave, and fierce. That she is resiliant and never gives up.
It didn’t say that she is accustom to adversity. That she has been through a lot so she understands very grown up things that most kids don’t.
It didn’t say that she hates bullies. That when we see one on TV or on the news, she always talks about how they are not a nice person.
It didn’t say how she is a little budding broadcaster. That she loves putting videos together and creating content.
It didn’t say that her favorite color is pink and she wants to open an animal rescue shelter when she’s older.
So this my sweet little girl, is your list of Super Powers. Here’s to the amazing things that you can do and do well. To the special things that make you unique and one of a kind………
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