11-25-08 Meadowbrook
We took some extra time for Abby Sunshine to prepare for our visit today. I snapped this photo outside of Meadowbrook just before we entered. Doesn’t she look relaxed? Doesn’t she look ready to sit down and nicely listen to a story about herself? Well, that little rascal whined while I was reading the story. Can you believe it? The 4th graders were listening very well, and there was my sidekick, whining as I read her book. I am learning about what to do in a situation like that. Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer would know what to do. By petting her, I may have been rewarding the whine. Something made her feel uneasy. She perked up when it was time to do tricks. In fact, she did “stand-up” really nicely for the class. I like when she pauses while standing on two legs. It is impressive and got a WOW from the audience! The kids were busy working on some fancy book reports / posters. I could see the work was high quality. It is remarkable to witness what 4th graders can create. They shared some good ideas of things to teach Abby Sunshine, too.
Hi i am maria from Mrs. Frobers classroom !!! I just wanted to say that Abby Sunshine was ADORABLE !!!!!!! And your book is great !!!
<3
it is WONDERFUL that you brought Abby Sunshine to share an experience with the children I know they will remember for ever!
As a Cesar Millan Fan, I agree that petting a dog who is whining or anxious reinforces the behavior (and what a lightbulb moment THAT was)!!! I found a distractive reaction from me turns the trick like making a sound (tsst) or relocating my dog to a different location or position, even venting some energy like with performance tricks for just a minute or two.
Finially, I check in with myself and see if I am worriying or upset about something. I find so much of the time that is going on under the surface, while I am pretneding everything is fine to everyone else (also including me lol)!
You will never know how many smiles that you and Abby Sunshine bring to these children many be the only ray of literal sunshine, that some of these children may experience during these troubling time! Bless you for your work!