Small breakthrough?

I listened to how the therapists speak to the kids at the center this week and tried to take some of that knowledge home with me. Twice today, Nate followed instruction that he has never followed before--bringing an object to me. Could it be because I said it in a new way? "Nate: teddy bear give Mama" and "Nate: keys give Mama" worked both times. Whenever I have said before, "Nate: give the keys to Mama. Bring Mama the keys. Take the keys here to Mama," I've been met by a blank stare. I thought he was being obstinate, but maybe, just maybe, he really didn't understand. I know there's still plenty of belligerence in that little boy of mine, but I was so pleased today to see him wanting to cooperate when he understood what it was I wanted.