He pushed and shoved and I couldn't be happier

The Batsman has shied away from rough play for much of his childhood. He is a completely gentle soul who actively avoids the kind of tumble and wrestle that lots of young boys love. On many occasions we have witnessed robust ball games with other kids that have proved way too much for our boy and he has  usually retreated to somewhere less sensorily demanding.

Today we spent our Melbourne Cup Day at a BBQ with close friends. It was a lovely, lovely day.

As dusk fell, a footy game began in the garden. Two dads and two boys, including our Batsman, kicking a footy back and forth. The game quickly escalated to tackles and rougher play. I watched with a big slice of joy in my heart as the Batsman roared with laughter and, tentatively at first, and then more vigorously joined in.

The initial game turned into an hour long kicking, hand balling and tackling session and the Batsman pushed, shoved, tackled and wrestled in a way I have never seen of him. It was heartening and amazing and gave me some hope that he will learn to protect himself in the playground at primary school next year..

The Batsman pushed and shoved today and I couldn't be more thrilled.