The Birthday Boy

We had a birthday in our class today! The little guy was very excited about turning 7 (which is considered a VERY big feat among first graders). He is one of my "high needs" students, someone who requires constant monitoring and supervision. I was warned about this one at the beginning of the year. Tales from his previous teachers poured into my room like warning sirens. He entered my room with a file folder FULL of accommodations, modifications, interventions and specialists notes. I was terrified to meet this kid...

And now, with the first of March coming, I can say that every one of those traumatized teachers was correct! He is a handful and requires the amount of supervision that a three year old needs. I have to remind him of VERY basic socially appropriate behaviors nearly 10 times a day. He is nuts. He sees more specialists than I can count. He does nothing independently and is always within an arms reach of my frantic grip. 

But... today was his birthday. And if you have a birthday in Room 26, regardless of your learning ability, behavior patterns, special needs, or "nuttiness", you will be celebrated. 

And just as we were about to sing "Happy Birthday", I saw the birthday boy suck his thumb and pick his nose at the same time, with the same hand... and I let him be.