Self-Confidence in the Snowstorm

As we were snowblowing the foot of snow in the alpaca pen yesterday, I was watching John among the animals. He made his way from the barn door to the gate in order to see his father clearing paths to the "poop pile". The females backed away allowing him just enough room to squeeze up front. They mull around slowly, which is important for our son. He is startled by quick movement and has trouble perceiving the nearness of moving objects.

Alpacas have designated areas for their manure. As soon as the area was cleared, Irish Rose led the parade of females to that part of the pen. Using the fence system, John confidently carried his shovel to help with his job of "bean clean-up". He enjoys dumping the scrapings into the large, blue tub we pull behind us.

Focusing on the tasks at hand, he shows none of his usual concerns: fear of the slippery footing
or open space. This takes more than an hour....an hour of exercise and fresh air. All tangible, concrete activities that build self-confidence!