So, March week came and went. My son was super excited to get to his new school. First day was great! Loved it! Was excited about the work, excited about the kids - excited in general!
My husband and I sat down with his new resource teacher, and his teacher. Plans were devised, we ensured everyone was on board and on the same page and everything was going smoothly! At the end of the week we even got a 5/5 day! (He used this system to express how well his day went).
Now not to say there weren't a few small bumps in the road, but he was learning and continued to be encouraged to express his needs within his new school and community.
A melt down about his snow pants being moved was quickly turned around. He found them, all was right with the world again.
The first week was about intergration. Getting him settled into his new environment and routine. Setting up body breaks, expectations for him and to really learn how to manage his work on his own. A colour folder system is currently being worked out. Where pages are being placed in, where he can pull them out do his work and put it back. This is in hopes that when he meets his highschool years he can do the same with his binders to keep himself organized and focused. All in all, things seem to going well.
Long weekend has come and gone and we are ready to head back to school. I get a call at noon saying he isn't feeling well. I trek to the school to get him only to find out that he is enjoying his lunch like a kid who is feeling just fine. The sore belly doesn't seem to have much of an impact on his eating habits.
I have a conversation with his resource teacher to find out there was a melt down in the morning over writing in his agenda. Rough morning ='s get me outta here! Now, to be fair to him we did have a very late night and going back after extended time off from school is always a challenge.
I sat him down before we left school - made sure he knew that if he came home there was no DS. He was to stay on the couch, and he would be stuck watching Barbie in the Pink shoes as that is what his sister was watching when we left to get him. I let him know that if he stayed, he had freedom of his DS and his shows when he got home. He insisted he wasn't feeling well and needed to come home. Off we went.
We get home, all is well until he declares he isn't feeling better! It's a miracle! So, we did some homework. Ok, day isn't totally lost. Then it starts. Where is my DS? Can I play my DS? As I kept saying no - the anger and frustration was growing. Ohhhh - hello melt down!! I stuck to my guns and no DS. We got through that, only for another melt down to occur later in the day because he didn't get what he wanted.
What a way to celebrate World Autism Awareness day! LOL
So, this morning we trekked off to school. We had a conversation which started with *How are you feeling?*. I got a good, mommy! I feel fine. This is when I let him know that he will not be coming home today, and I will no tbe coming to pick him up until afterschool. I let him know again this his DS is all his if he stays the whole day. If I get a phone call, it's gone. He agreed. I gave him a kiss, told him to have a great day and off he went.
I also made sure the school staff was aware of this agreement prior to me leaving as well.
*Fingers crossed* today goes a little better.......
Wednesday, 3 April 2013
Tuesday, 2 April 2013
World Autism Awareness Day
Today is the day! It's April 2nd - World Autism Awareness day.
Today is important to many people for many different reasons. For me, today it means celebrating my son. It's means celebrating who he is, what he has accomplished and for what is still to come. More then anything though, it's a day for the world to be captured by the Autism community who on a united front are asking that people educate themselves. It's a day the austim communities is looking for acceptance and understanding, just like every other day.
There is some great information floating around facebook today, as well as some great photo's of people going blue!
I am betting that each and every one of you will be touched by autism in your lifetime. What better time then now to gain some insight, to gain some knowledge, to gain some power?
Definition:
Autism
Autism is a complex developmental disorder distinguished by difficulties with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and behavioral problems, including repetitive behaviors and narrow focus of interest.
Classic autism is one of several disorders categorized as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Other ASDs include Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), three to six out of every 1,000 children in the United States have autism. Autism is four times more likely to be diagnosed in males. Autism is a disorder that is also prevalent worldwide. In the United Kingdom, one out of every 100 children have autism, with over half a million total diagnosed in the United Kingdom as of 2007. In China, one in every 1,000 children is diagnosed with autism. In India, the rate of incidence is 1 in every 250 children. In Mexico, two to six in every 1,000 children are autistic. Autism is not specific to any one socio-economic, ethnic, or racial group.
Autism usually manifests before a child is three years old and it continues throughout his/her lifetime. The degree of impairment varies from mild to severe. Autism is treatable and, with early diagnosis and treatment, autistic children have the ability to lead healthy, full lives.
Signs of Autism:
Who has autism? (canadian Stats)
For my son:
Today is important to many people for many different reasons. For me, today it means celebrating my son. It's means celebrating who he is, what he has accomplished and for what is still to come. More then anything though, it's a day for the world to be captured by the Autism community who on a united front are asking that people educate themselves. It's a day the austim communities is looking for acceptance and understanding, just like every other day.
There is some great information floating around facebook today, as well as some great photo's of people going blue!
I am betting that each and every one of you will be touched by autism in your lifetime. What better time then now to gain some insight, to gain some knowledge, to gain some power?
Definition:
Autism
Definition
Autism is a complex developmental disorder distinguished by difficulties with social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and behavioral problems, including repetitive behaviors and narrow focus of interest.
Description
Classic autism is one of several disorders categorized as autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Other ASDs include Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome, childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), three to six out of every 1,000 children in the United States have autism. Autism is four times more likely to be diagnosed in males. Autism is a disorder that is also prevalent worldwide. In the United Kingdom, one out of every 100 children have autism, with over half a million total diagnosed in the United Kingdom as of 2007. In China, one in every 1,000 children is diagnosed with autism. In India, the rate of incidence is 1 in every 250 children. In Mexico, two to six in every 1,000 children are autistic. Autism is not specific to any one socio-economic, ethnic, or racial group.
Autism usually manifests before a child is three years old and it continues throughout his/her lifetime. The degree of impairment varies from mild to severe. Autism is treatable and, with early diagnosis and treatment, autistic children have the ability to lead healthy, full lives.
http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/Autism
Signs of Autism:
Who has autism? (canadian Stats)
Facts and Stats
Did you know...
- Autism now affects 1 in 88 children and 1 in 54 boys (March 2012 statistic)
- The 2012 numbers reflect a 78% increase in reported prevalence in the last 6 years
- Autism prevalence figures are growing
- Boys are four times more likely than girls to have autism
- There is no medical detection or cure for autism
For my son:
You may think he's naughty. I know he is struggling to communicate his needs. You may think he is a *wuss*. I know a innocent tickle to us, at times feels painful to him. You may think he doesn't want to do his work, I know he is afraid it'...s not going to be perfect. You may think he is weird, I know he's beautiful. Take a moment, research autism. Education is power. In support of my son, who teaches me everyday that life occurs outside the box. For you buddy - love you!
Today - Light it up blue!
Friday, 15 March 2013
A few of my truth's
I often hear *How great you get to stay home with your kids.* or *It's nice you are there when your son needs him.* Don't get me wrong, these are really great things.
I'm grateful every day that I am home, and that I can be available when the school calls. I'm available when it's just not in my son's best interest to be at school, or he needs to come home because it's just not a good day for him.
The truth, I'm home because I have to be. Dealing with Autism is a full time job, more so in the stages we are at. We've been dealing with this, with very little support in terms of tools and resources for him. Another truth is we are broke. I'm not just talking a little in the bank for a rainy day, but gone through our savings, struggling to put a roof over our heads at the end of the month broke.
Between setting up appointments, fielding phone calls from the school, meetings and full blown melt downs there really isn't a employer out there who would tolerate this from a employee. Now, not only am I doing this with one child, but two. My husband works, alot. On weekends too. This makes it difficult to pick up a part time job.
Yes I do home daycare, yes I run a small business on the side but the reality is that this barely covers our bills. Before we had resources available it was paid out of our own pockets. Couple hundred here and there for social skills group. Luckily the school covered transportation because the hours were when my husband was at work and I still had daycare kids. It can cost thousands and thousands of dollars to get psych testing done, to get resources. There is very little financial support when it comes to the testing process.
The days we have meetings and appointments, I often have to make other arrangements with my daycare families. The days my son is just not having a good one results in loss of productivity for me. The bottom line, loss of income.
Getting to this point costs money. Not only does it wear you mentally and physcially on a good day, but it can also put a financial strain on your household.
I've spoken with a few people close to me about our situation and the response often is - get a job. Sure, I'll do that. It's just that easy.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't change this journey for a moment. I love my kids, just as they are and for who they are. But again, I find there is still so much educating to be done with the general public. People who have never tried on one of our shoes have no clue what our path looks like.
It's rich, rewarding, beautiful and introduces us to the world through a whole new pair of eyes. It is also frustrating, draining and big drain on financial resources.
So, if my confession does nothing but open the eyes of just open the eyes of one person the I view it as mission accomplished.
I'm grateful every day that I am home, and that I can be available when the school calls. I'm available when it's just not in my son's best interest to be at school, or he needs to come home because it's just not a good day for him.
The truth, I'm home because I have to be. Dealing with Autism is a full time job, more so in the stages we are at. We've been dealing with this, with very little support in terms of tools and resources for him. Another truth is we are broke. I'm not just talking a little in the bank for a rainy day, but gone through our savings, struggling to put a roof over our heads at the end of the month broke.
Between setting up appointments, fielding phone calls from the school, meetings and full blown melt downs there really isn't a employer out there who would tolerate this from a employee. Now, not only am I doing this with one child, but two. My husband works, alot. On weekends too. This makes it difficult to pick up a part time job.
Yes I do home daycare, yes I run a small business on the side but the reality is that this barely covers our bills. Before we had resources available it was paid out of our own pockets. Couple hundred here and there for social skills group. Luckily the school covered transportation because the hours were when my husband was at work and I still had daycare kids. It can cost thousands and thousands of dollars to get psych testing done, to get resources. There is very little financial support when it comes to the testing process.
The days we have meetings and appointments, I often have to make other arrangements with my daycare families. The days my son is just not having a good one results in loss of productivity for me. The bottom line, loss of income.
Getting to this point costs money. Not only does it wear you mentally and physcially on a good day, but it can also put a financial strain on your household.
I've spoken with a few people close to me about our situation and the response often is - get a job. Sure, I'll do that. It's just that easy.
Don't get me wrong, I wouldn't change this journey for a moment. I love my kids, just as they are and for who they are. But again, I find there is still so much educating to be done with the general public. People who have never tried on one of our shoes have no clue what our path looks like.
It's rich, rewarding, beautiful and introduces us to the world through a whole new pair of eyes. It is also frustrating, draining and big drain on financial resources.
So, if my confession does nothing but open the eyes of just open the eyes of one person the I view it as mission accomplished.
Wednesday, 13 March 2013
Children with autism
I had to share this with you all, because I think it's beautiful!
Wordless Wednesday - I think it's called?
Wordless Wednesday - I think it's called?
Monday, 11 March 2013
Sensory processing disorder - it's real.....
I'm going to apologize in advance, as this post really is out of frustration.
I betting that everyone has been touched by, knows someone, or knows somebody who knows somebody who has autism. What amazes me, is how little research is done about it. It baffles me that people don't actually take the time to research so they can better understand, and in turn help a someone they love cope.
My son is sensative. He screams when people tickle him, doesn't handle heat or cold well. Imagine sitting in the scorching hot sun, melting. Now imagine that times 2. Imagine the coldest of cold days, wind blowing in your face and a chill through your body the instant you stop outside. Imagine that times 2. That is what it feels like for my son.
When people tickle him, and then tell him he screams like a girl, or find it amusing that he seems to *over react* to what we see as something simple, it irks me.
Sensory processing disorder (http://autism.about.com/od/alternativetreatmens/a/SPDdef.htm)
Many people with autism have sensory processing disorder. That is, they may be hyper-sensitive or under-sensitive to light, noise, and touch. For some people, these differences can be overwhelming, and as a result they are unable to take part in typical community activities. Ball games, movies, even church can feel like torture.
These differences in sensory reactiveness are labeled "sensory processing disorder" or "sensory processing dysfunction," and may be attributable to differences in brain structure. While sensory issues are not a core symptom of autism, they are very common among people with autism. As a result, many children with autism are receiving treatment for sensory issues, known as "sensory integration therapy" or SI therapy.According to the Ayres Clinic (one of the leading specialists in sensory dysfunction and sensory integration therapy), the following are signs that a child may be suffering from sensory issues - and may be aided by sensory integration therapy:
So, the next you want to call child you just gave a noogie a wuss, or laugh and tell them they scream like a girl. Think again......
I betting that everyone has been touched by, knows someone, or knows somebody who knows somebody who has autism. What amazes me, is how little research is done about it. It baffles me that people don't actually take the time to research so they can better understand, and in turn help a someone they love cope.
My son is sensative. He screams when people tickle him, doesn't handle heat or cold well. Imagine sitting in the scorching hot sun, melting. Now imagine that times 2. Imagine the coldest of cold days, wind blowing in your face and a chill through your body the instant you stop outside. Imagine that times 2. That is what it feels like for my son.
When people tickle him, and then tell him he screams like a girl, or find it amusing that he seems to *over react* to what we see as something simple, it irks me.
Sensory processing disorder (http://autism.about.com/od/alternativetreatmens/a/SPDdef.htm)
Many people with autism have sensory processing disorder. That is, they may be hyper-sensitive or under-sensitive to light, noise, and touch. For some people, these differences can be overwhelming, and as a result they are unable to take part in typical community activities. Ball games, movies, even church can feel like torture.
These differences in sensory reactiveness are labeled "sensory processing disorder" or "sensory processing dysfunction," and may be attributable to differences in brain structure. While sensory issues are not a core symptom of autism, they are very common among people with autism. As a result, many children with autism are receiving treatment for sensory issues, known as "sensory integration therapy" or SI therapy.According to the Ayres Clinic (one of the leading specialists in sensory dysfunction and sensory integration therapy), the following are signs that a child may be suffering from sensory issues - and may be aided by sensory integration therapy:
- Overly sensitive to touch, movement, sights, or sounds
- Under reactive to touch, movement, sights, or sounds
- Easily distracted
- Social and/or emotional problems
- Activity level that is unusually high or unusually low
- Physical clumsiness or apparent carelessness
- Impulsive, lacking in self-control
- Difficulty making transitions from one situation to another
- Inability to unwind or calm self
- Poor self concept
- Delays in speech, language, or motor skills
- Delays in academic achievement
So, the next you want to call child you just gave a noogie a wuss, or laugh and tell them they scream like a girl. Think again......
Thursday, 7 March 2013
Saying Good bye.....
This is it. The end of the chapter.
Tomorrow was suppose to be my son's last day at his current school. He was to have the morning at his new school and a little party in the afternoon at his current school. I got a email from his teacher yesterday letting me know that she wouldn't be at the school tomorrow afternoon and due to all the upcoming changes it might be best that he just come home after being at his new school rather then go and spend his last afternoon with a supply teacher.
As much as I agree with her and the thought process, saying yes to this idea was hard. Why? Because mentally I was prepared for Friday to be his last day. The thought of today being his last day had me in tears.
Don't get me wrong - I fully know and accept that this whole change is not about me, and this is why we made the decision we did to switch schools. However, I need to have a moment of complete selfishness. I am over the moon that my son can't wait to change schools, I'm glad that this decision has made him feel lighter. That he is happy, and skipping through the hallways at school. I am sad though. I'm sad that In order to do what's best for my son, I'm letting go of my (see, told you selfish) dream to have my kids in the FI program. I'm sad that I'm loosing such an AMAZING support staff, and most of all I'm sad to be loosing one of the best things to have happened to my son. Someone who has been as big of an advocate for him as we have, someone who understands him, and communications accordingly and someone who just really loves him.
So to the following people who have forever touched our lives, I have this to say:
My son's VP and english teacher: Thank you for doing everything you could to make sure you gained my son's trust. For always being understanding but firm. Although it may not seem like it - he did really like you.
To my son's SK and grade 1 teachers and EA staff - thank you for knowing right away that there was something unique and special about my son. For being understanding and ensuring he was always placed in the right hands and care.
The gifts going to my son's EA and CYC
To my son's EA - it was wonderful that Myles felt so safe and secure with you. That you did what you could to help him and encourage him to move forward
To my son's CYC - you rock. Thank you for helping to ensure his needs were alway met. For being such a kind and loving person, who took my son under your wing from the first time you met him. For the messages letting me know you missed him. You have no idea how much it meant knowing that he had support staff that cared so much for him. I'm grateful.
To my son's current teacher: Writing this without feeling weepy isn't easy. This year was tough. Changing to a new school, I was very involved in the process. When D told me who his teacher was going to be this year, I told her - I trust you. If you think it's the best fit, then I'm on board. Well, you were the right fit. You were patient, loving, accomodating and understanding. You have touched our lives and our hearts. You made a tough change for him that much smoother. You took the time to get to know him and figure out how to best help him. It was nothing less then a pleasure to have been able to communicate with you this year and I simply cannot thank you enough for being such an amazing teacher. My son loved you, without a doubt.
PS - please enjoy your locket. (We got her a necklace with a heart locket, containing the autism ribbon, special teacher and you are my sunshine. She really was!)
This one is hard - to my son's Grade 2 teacher last year and his resource teacher this year. I don't know that I can ever fully thank you enough. To me, you were my rock at times and my ally always. Thank you for always letting me turn to you. For advice, for support and a kick in the ass when I needed it. You have become our friend and a huge part of our family. Thank you for making things happen, for being an amazing advocate. Thank you for loving my son every single day, through every ugly moment, through every accomplishment, every victory, every baby step. I firmly believe without you we would not be where we are today. You are simply an angel. *M* loves you, trusts you and I think will miss you the most. He is beyond blessed to have had you in his life and I believe will always look back fondly at the times you've shared. Don't ever stop calling for Allan and Steve. <3
Tomorrow was suppose to be my son's last day at his current school. He was to have the morning at his new school and a little party in the afternoon at his current school. I got a email from his teacher yesterday letting me know that she wouldn't be at the school tomorrow afternoon and due to all the upcoming changes it might be best that he just come home after being at his new school rather then go and spend his last afternoon with a supply teacher.
As much as I agree with her and the thought process, saying yes to this idea was hard. Why? Because mentally I was prepared for Friday to be his last day. The thought of today being his last day had me in tears.
Don't get me wrong - I fully know and accept that this whole change is not about me, and this is why we made the decision we did to switch schools. However, I need to have a moment of complete selfishness. I am over the moon that my son can't wait to change schools, I'm glad that this decision has made him feel lighter. That he is happy, and skipping through the hallways at school. I am sad though. I'm sad that In order to do what's best for my son, I'm letting go of my (see, told you selfish) dream to have my kids in the FI program. I'm sad that I'm loosing such an AMAZING support staff, and most of all I'm sad to be loosing one of the best things to have happened to my son. Someone who has been as big of an advocate for him as we have, someone who understands him, and communications accordingly and someone who just really loves him.
So to the following people who have forever touched our lives, I have this to say:
My son's VP and english teacher: Thank you for doing everything you could to make sure you gained my son's trust. For always being understanding but firm. Although it may not seem like it - he did really like you.
To my son's SK and grade 1 teachers and EA staff - thank you for knowing right away that there was something unique and special about my son. For being understanding and ensuring he was always placed in the right hands and care.
The gifts going to my son's EA and CYC
To my son's EA - it was wonderful that Myles felt so safe and secure with you. That you did what you could to help him and encourage him to move forward
To my son's CYC - you rock. Thank you for helping to ensure his needs were alway met. For being such a kind and loving person, who took my son under your wing from the first time you met him. For the messages letting me know you missed him. You have no idea how much it meant knowing that he had support staff that cared so much for him. I'm grateful.
To my son's current teacher: Writing this without feeling weepy isn't easy. This year was tough. Changing to a new school, I was very involved in the process. When D told me who his teacher was going to be this year, I told her - I trust you. If you think it's the best fit, then I'm on board. Well, you were the right fit. You were patient, loving, accomodating and understanding. You have touched our lives and our hearts. You made a tough change for him that much smoother. You took the time to get to know him and figure out how to best help him. It was nothing less then a pleasure to have been able to communicate with you this year and I simply cannot thank you enough for being such an amazing teacher. My son loved you, without a doubt.
PS - please enjoy your locket. (We got her a necklace with a heart locket, containing the autism ribbon, special teacher and you are my sunshine. She really was!)
This one is hard - to my son's Grade 2 teacher last year and his resource teacher this year. I don't know that I can ever fully thank you enough. To me, you were my rock at times and my ally always. Thank you for always letting me turn to you. For advice, for support and a kick in the ass when I needed it. You have become our friend and a huge part of our family. Thank you for making things happen, for being an amazing advocate. Thank you for loving my son every single day, through every ugly moment, through every accomplishment, every victory, every baby step. I firmly believe without you we would not be where we are today. You are simply an angel. *M* loves you, trusts you and I think will miss you the most. He is beyond blessed to have had you in his life and I believe will always look back fondly at the times you've shared. Don't ever stop calling for Allan and Steve. <3
Friday, 1 March 2013
And then there are days......
As you all know, Autism is unpredictable. One day can be like walking with rainbows and unicorns - the next is like the earth is shifting under neath you and you are trying not to get caught in the cracks.
This is how the morning started yesterday. He got up, in preparation to go to school. I made him breakfast and we followed our normals routine of me constantly telling him to eat his breakfast and him pretending to ignore me. On my last prompt to get him to eat, he replied. I can't go. It's too cold, Ill get wet! There is too much snow.
It wasn't long ago it had dawned on me that when he complained about the wind blowing in his face, or the heat, or the cold that it wasn't him simply complaining for the sake of complaining, but that he is just that sensative. What we feel to be hot or cold, he feels just that much more. What seems like nothing to us, has his senses working on over drive. He feels everything just that much more. It's hard to understand, not ever having to cope the way he does. It's real, and can debilatating for him.
So anyway, I tried to change the subject to avoid the conversation totally going south. I then asked him to get dressed and that's when the end of the world came. He missed the TV show Beyblade. The stomping started, his voice got louder and his whole body tightened up. I knew we were done. I quickly tried to reassure him he could watch it tomorrow. Let his know it was an episode he had already seen, trying to get him to realize that it wasn't that bad. Didn't work. The yelling got louder, the frustration was building and the tears were just seconds away from flowing.
I called the school, and emailed his teacher. I knew today was going to be one of those days and couldn't justify sending him to school for his teachers and classmates to deal with.
After what seemed like an eternity, he finally started to come back. Was ready to hear reason and prepared to wait until tomorrow to catch the next episode.
Shovelling heavy, wet winter snow almost seemed like a walk in the park after coping with that first thing in the morning.
You just never know what one day to the next will bring.....
This is how the morning started yesterday. He got up, in preparation to go to school. I made him breakfast and we followed our normals routine of me constantly telling him to eat his breakfast and him pretending to ignore me. On my last prompt to get him to eat, he replied. I can't go. It's too cold, Ill get wet! There is too much snow.
It wasn't long ago it had dawned on me that when he complained about the wind blowing in his face, or the heat, or the cold that it wasn't him simply complaining for the sake of complaining, but that he is just that sensative. What we feel to be hot or cold, he feels just that much more. What seems like nothing to us, has his senses working on over drive. He feels everything just that much more. It's hard to understand, not ever having to cope the way he does. It's real, and can debilatating for him.
So anyway, I tried to change the subject to avoid the conversation totally going south. I then asked him to get dressed and that's when the end of the world came. He missed the TV show Beyblade. The stomping started, his voice got louder and his whole body tightened up. I knew we were done. I quickly tried to reassure him he could watch it tomorrow. Let his know it was an episode he had already seen, trying to get him to realize that it wasn't that bad. Didn't work. The yelling got louder, the frustration was building and the tears were just seconds away from flowing.
I called the school, and emailed his teacher. I knew today was going to be one of those days and couldn't justify sending him to school for his teachers and classmates to deal with.
After what seemed like an eternity, he finally started to come back. Was ready to hear reason and prepared to wait until tomorrow to catch the next episode.
Shovelling heavy, wet winter snow almost seemed like a walk in the park after coping with that first thing in the morning.
You just never know what one day to the next will bring.....
Thursday, 28 February 2013
1 week left.....
So next week marks the last week for my son at his current school.
Monday his new resource teacher spent the day with him at his current school. He started out having a rough morning, which I was kinda glad to hear. Sounds horrible eh? But I more so wanted her to see him in action. To see what his melt downs and anxiety looks like. To see what she was in for. All in all I heard really good things from both his current resource teacher, his new resource teacher and from him.
Tuesday my son and I met his current resource teacher at his new school. We popped into the office, said hello to the secretary and principal again, and then went on a little tour of the school. He seemed to be right in his element. Happy, go lucky - taking everything in. We toured the classroom's and we popped in to say hi to the kids we already knew. He took a peek around the library, drank in his surroundings and is excited to check out his first Star Wars book! He ran a few laps around the gym and showed off his *speed*! LOL
We ended by checking out his new classroom and scooping out some of his new classmates. I think it will be easier for him knowing one of my daycare kids will be in his class. His new teacher seems nice. Asked alot of questions, which is great. I'm also wayyy beyond grateful that his current resource teacher is keeping the lines of communication with the new school team open with herself.
It's such a beautiful thing to watch my son and his current resource teacher in action. You can see the bond they share. She is amazing with him and know's him so well. He is beyond comfortable with her and responds so well to her. I'm really going to miss having her interacting with him on a daily basis.
All in all he seems to be right in his element in his new school. He can't wait to get there and as sad as I am to be loosing his current support staff, I'm thrilled to know that he is moving into a community with a great team as well. A place where he feels comfortable.
Monday his new resource teacher spent the day with him at his current school. He started out having a rough morning, which I was kinda glad to hear. Sounds horrible eh? But I more so wanted her to see him in action. To see what his melt downs and anxiety looks like. To see what she was in for. All in all I heard really good things from both his current resource teacher, his new resource teacher and from him.
Tuesday my son and I met his current resource teacher at his new school. We popped into the office, said hello to the secretary and principal again, and then went on a little tour of the school. He seemed to be right in his element. Happy, go lucky - taking everything in. We toured the classroom's and we popped in to say hi to the kids we already knew. He took a peek around the library, drank in his surroundings and is excited to check out his first Star Wars book! He ran a few laps around the gym and showed off his *speed*! LOL
We ended by checking out his new classroom and scooping out some of his new classmates. I think it will be easier for him knowing one of my daycare kids will be in his class. His new teacher seems nice. Asked alot of questions, which is great. I'm also wayyy beyond grateful that his current resource teacher is keeping the lines of communication with the new school team open with herself.
It's such a beautiful thing to watch my son and his current resource teacher in action. You can see the bond they share. She is amazing with him and know's him so well. He is beyond comfortable with her and responds so well to her. I'm really going to miss having her interacting with him on a daily basis.
All in all he seems to be right in his element in his new school. He can't wait to get there and as sad as I am to be loosing his current support staff, I'm thrilled to know that he is moving into a community with a great team as well. A place where he feels comfortable.
Wednesday, 20 February 2013
Tips for Parents
I am on a page on facebook called Asperger's Syndrome awareness worldwide and came across this info. It is far too good not to share!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aspergers-Syndrome-awareness-worldwide/197331763678219
When your child has autism:
Tips for parents
Learn about autism. The more you know about autism spectrum disorders, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions for your child. Educate yourself about the treatment options, ask questions, and participate in all treatment decisions.
Become an expert on your child. Figure out what triggers your kid’s “bad” or disruptive behaviors and what elicits a positive response. What does your autistic child find stressful? Calming? Uncomfortable? Enjoyable? If you understand what affects your child, you’ll be better at troubleshooting problems and preventing situations that cause difficulties.
Accept your child, quirks and all. Rather than focusing on how your autistic child is different from other children and what he or she is “missing,” practice acceptance. Enjoy your kid’s special quirks, celebrate small successes, and stop comparing your child to others. Feeling unconditionally loved and accepted will help your child more than anything else.
Don’t give up. It’s impossible to predict the course of an autism spectrum disorder. Don’t jump to conclusions about what life is going to be like for your child. Like everyone else, people with autism have an entire lifetime to grow and develop their abilities.
Another great tid bit:
The Difference Between Classic Autism and Mild Autism
The difference between classic autism and mild autism is that those with a milder form usually have normal language and intellectual development. Some even have above average language and intellect.
The other difference is that people with classic autism refrain from engaging in social situations, but mildly autistic people will seek social activities and want make friends with others. The challenge is that they just may not know how to do it.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Aspergers-Syndrome-awareness-worldwide/197331763678219
When your child has autism:
Tips for parents
Learn about autism. The more you know about autism spectrum disorders, the better equipped you’ll be to make informed decisions for your child. Educate yourself about the treatment options, ask questions, and participate in all treatment decisions.
Become an expert on your child. Figure out what triggers your kid’s “bad” or disruptive behaviors and what elicits a positive response. What does your autistic child find stressful? Calming? Uncomfortable? Enjoyable? If you understand what affects your child, you’ll be better at troubleshooting problems and preventing situations that cause difficulties.
Accept your child, quirks and all. Rather than focusing on how your autistic child is different from other children and what he or she is “missing,” practice acceptance. Enjoy your kid’s special quirks, celebrate small successes, and stop comparing your child to others. Feeling unconditionally loved and accepted will help your child more than anything else.
Don’t give up. It’s impossible to predict the course of an autism spectrum disorder. Don’t jump to conclusions about what life is going to be like for your child. Like everyone else, people with autism have an entire lifetime to grow and develop their abilities.
Another great tid bit:
The Difference Between Classic Autism and Mild Autism
The difference between classic autism and mild autism is that those with a milder form usually have normal language and intellectual development. Some even have above average language and intellect.
The other difference is that people with classic autism refrain from engaging in social situations, but mildly autistic people will seek social activities and want make friends with others. The challenge is that they just may not know how to do it.
Monday, 18 February 2013
Kerry's Place - finally seeing some light
So, last Thursday we had our appointement at Kerry's Place. For those of you that aren't familiar, Kerry's place is a autism center that provides ABA, resources and many other outlets for children and families of ASD children.
http://www.kerrysplace.org/Public/Home.aspx
For me, it was just so awesome to sit down and chat with someone who gets it. Someone who also has a child on the spectrum. Someone who knew how to interact with my son, and how to be able get the info needed in a manner my son could totally relate to.
After conversation with our son and us it was recognized that he could benefit with more social skills classes. Of course, there is a huge waiting list at the moment but it's refreshing to know he is now on the list and to also hear of other children who are involved with Kerry's place that are exactally the same as our son. Kids my son can relate to.
So, again we are left waiting until there is room for him in the class but I'm feeling so much more positive we are headed in the right direction.
Now, we had a public health nurse in the following morning to observe my daughter. I'm pleased to say that went well. We almost seemed relieved as well to hear/see that she seems to be right on target with her milestones and abilities. It was recognized that she struggles somewhat with cutting and her fine motor skills do seem to be lacking. The end result is that we are being referred to Kidsability ( http://www.kidsability.ca/) where a OT will work with her on her fine motor and we are hoping she will also observe her for any sensory concern's that have been addressed.
It feels good to be getting things in motion. Now we just need to cross our fingers that it all happens sooner rather then later.
http://www.kerrysplace.org/Public/Home.aspx
For me, it was just so awesome to sit down and chat with someone who gets it. Someone who also has a child on the spectrum. Someone who knew how to interact with my son, and how to be able get the info needed in a manner my son could totally relate to.
After conversation with our son and us it was recognized that he could benefit with more social skills classes. Of course, there is a huge waiting list at the moment but it's refreshing to know he is now on the list and to also hear of other children who are involved with Kerry's place that are exactally the same as our son. Kids my son can relate to.
So, again we are left waiting until there is room for him in the class but I'm feeling so much more positive we are headed in the right direction.
Now, we had a public health nurse in the following morning to observe my daughter. I'm pleased to say that went well. We almost seemed relieved as well to hear/see that she seems to be right on target with her milestones and abilities. It was recognized that she struggles somewhat with cutting and her fine motor skills do seem to be lacking. The end result is that we are being referred to Kidsability ( http://www.kidsability.ca/) where a OT will work with her on her fine motor and we are hoping she will also observe her for any sensory concern's that have been addressed.
It feels good to be getting things in motion. Now we just need to cross our fingers that it all happens sooner rather then later.
Friday, 15 February 2013
Education is key!!!
I just came across this and had to share! There is no better way to learn, then to ask!
Thursday, 14 February 2013
Writing up Valentine's - what a task!
So, being the last minute mom I am sometimes I of course had my son sit down last night to write up his Valentine's to his classmates. Knowing that there were 20 some odd to do, I really should have known better then to think this would be a easy task.
It started out with him getting worked up because he couldn't tear them apart. So, I took one off and showed him then how to fold them, peel the heart off the sticker sheet and use it to seal up the Valentine's. That of course spiraled because he couldn't fold the cards, couldn't get the stickers off etc etc.
So we made the deal that I would tear them, fold them, take the sticker off and seal them. All is good. While making dinner I hear the familiar signs of frustration coming from him.
What's wrong? I ask him.
I don't have a pen.
Ok, get one.
Problem solved? No.
Now, we didn't have a hard spot to write on. I sent him off to the diningroom table.
Think i'm now good to continue on with dinner, I of course should have known.
He had started his first Valentine, only have written the receipiant in the From portion, and his name in the to section. As we all know, because it's not perfect it was the start of a melt down.
I quickly agreed to write his Valentine's to his class, while he agreed to write the one's for his teachers. I let him know (again) that it's ok to make mistakes and I'm sure the recepiant wouldn't even notice.
As he is writing his Valentine's, his 3 year old sister is running around with the Valentine's heart's trying to place them on every surface of her and the home. Of course, this leads to more frustration. This means there might not be enough hearts, and of course again - they won't be perfect!
An hour and half later - 25 Valentine's were written and ready to head to school today.
Mom - while once the kids were tucked away in bed, enjoy'd a nice quiet glass of wine! ;)
It started out with him getting worked up because he couldn't tear them apart. So, I took one off and showed him then how to fold them, peel the heart off the sticker sheet and use it to seal up the Valentine's. That of course spiraled because he couldn't fold the cards, couldn't get the stickers off etc etc.
So we made the deal that I would tear them, fold them, take the sticker off and seal them. All is good. While making dinner I hear the familiar signs of frustration coming from him.
What's wrong? I ask him.
I don't have a pen.
Ok, get one.
Problem solved? No.
Now, we didn't have a hard spot to write on. I sent him off to the diningroom table.
Think i'm now good to continue on with dinner, I of course should have known.
He had started his first Valentine, only have written the receipiant in the From portion, and his name in the to section. As we all know, because it's not perfect it was the start of a melt down.
I quickly agreed to write his Valentine's to his class, while he agreed to write the one's for his teachers. I let him know (again) that it's ok to make mistakes and I'm sure the recepiant wouldn't even notice.
As he is writing his Valentine's, his 3 year old sister is running around with the Valentine's heart's trying to place them on every surface of her and the home. Of course, this leads to more frustration. This means there might not be enough hearts, and of course again - they won't be perfect!
An hour and half later - 25 Valentine's were written and ready to head to school today.
Mom - while once the kids were tucked away in bed, enjoy'd a nice quiet glass of wine! ;)
Monday, 11 February 2013
Here we go again.....
So, I'm not going to lie. Going through this process with one child is tough. It's taxing, and some day's can be both emotionally and physcially draining.
Now, imagine if you were doing it X 2.
Yup, you read that correctly. Now, we are facing the potential of having two children who fall under the autism spectrum.
We've noticed the odd quirk about our 3 year old daughter, but never really knew if it was my daughter feeding off my son, mimicking him or if it was just her natural reaction. We've noticed her covering her ears when she is startled, not liking tags from the clothing that are located on the side and more recently walking on her tip toes. She is also currently in a pre school program, and her teacher's had mentioned to us that her fine motor skills appear to be behind the other children in the program. The red flag for me was when the teacher added on the sentence, it wouldn't concern us if she wasn't so smart.
I can almost recall those same words being said about my son when he was younger.
So while in the midst of having one child diagnosed, I started asking questions and making phone calls. There didn't really seem to be a fine line saying yes persue this, or no - see what happens. Alot of it just boiled down to her being so young still.
One of the questions during my son's assessment was if he had any siblings on the spectrum. Having just had the conversation about my daughter the week before, we answered honestly. We didn't know. We proceeded to fill in the psychologist (who also has a background in autism) as to the signs we were seeing and made aware of.
At the same time I received the phone call about considering our son switch schools, my son's resource teacher also had said that they discussed Shelby during the team meeting and we were strongly urged to consider having her tested given my son's diagnoses.
At the peditrician's appointment my son had last week I also mentioned my daughter and some of the concern's. She quickly added my daughter as her patient and made a referal for us to talk with Trellis. Trellis called last Thursday and I spent a good chunk of time that morning, recounting her infant years and answering questions. The end result, there is someone who will be coming out to observe her on Friday morning and see if this needs to be taken further.
Meeting at the autism center with my son Thursday, and having a professional observing my daughter Friday morning.
Wish us luck, this is shaping up to be quite the week!
Now, imagine if you were doing it X 2.
Yup, you read that correctly. Now, we are facing the potential of having two children who fall under the autism spectrum.
We've noticed the odd quirk about our 3 year old daughter, but never really knew if it was my daughter feeding off my son, mimicking him or if it was just her natural reaction. We've noticed her covering her ears when she is startled, not liking tags from the clothing that are located on the side and more recently walking on her tip toes. She is also currently in a pre school program, and her teacher's had mentioned to us that her fine motor skills appear to be behind the other children in the program. The red flag for me was when the teacher added on the sentence, it wouldn't concern us if she wasn't so smart.
I can almost recall those same words being said about my son when he was younger.
So while in the midst of having one child diagnosed, I started asking questions and making phone calls. There didn't really seem to be a fine line saying yes persue this, or no - see what happens. Alot of it just boiled down to her being so young still.
One of the questions during my son's assessment was if he had any siblings on the spectrum. Having just had the conversation about my daughter the week before, we answered honestly. We didn't know. We proceeded to fill in the psychologist (who also has a background in autism) as to the signs we were seeing and made aware of.
At the same time I received the phone call about considering our son switch schools, my son's resource teacher also had said that they discussed Shelby during the team meeting and we were strongly urged to consider having her tested given my son's diagnoses.
At the peditrician's appointment my son had last week I also mentioned my daughter and some of the concern's. She quickly added my daughter as her patient and made a referal for us to talk with Trellis. Trellis called last Thursday and I spent a good chunk of time that morning, recounting her infant years and answering questions. The end result, there is someone who will be coming out to observe her on Friday morning and see if this needs to be taken further.
Meeting at the autism center with my son Thursday, and having a professional observing my daughter Friday morning.
Wish us luck, this is shaping up to be quite the week!
Monday, 4 February 2013
A hard decision and a big change.
So as we all know the story never just ends there.....
I knew the psych team, as well as my son's support staff and teacher were meeting a week ago Thursday to discuss the diagnoses and figure what where to go from there. The prospect of switching him from the FI (French Immersion) program into a single language program. My husband and I decided at the time to leave him in the program as we hadn't had a diagnoses and weren't sure it was the right thing to do.
So, the day they meet I get a text from his resource teacher letting me know they just had the meeting and asking if I had a min to talk. I knew that was not good. She called within a few mins and explained that it was strongly recommended we switch my son from the FI program into the English one again. Although he know's french, can speak it, write it, absorb it etc etc he simply won't communicate in the language. If he is asked a question in french he would always answer in English.
My husband and I spent alot of time discussing and weighing our pro's and con's. Now, not only do we have our son to decide on, but we also have our daughter starting school in September as well. We had to consider if it was fair to remove the opportunity from her so that we didn't have two kids in two different schools, or if it was more beneficial to keep her in the same school as her brother.
In the end and after consulting my son, we decided to take make the change. The email I sent to his resource teacher asking her to prepare the transistion package were some of the hardest words I ever typed. My son wanted to go the *English* school. He is excited about the prospect of going to school with my daycare kids and doing work in one language. Knowing it wasn't about me and what I wanted for him, but what is best for him the decision was clear.
My heart is so sad. He has such a strong support system behind him that we've grown so very close to that it's hard to know we are leaving them all behind. Alas, again - it's not about me!
So, the week after March break - he will settle into his new school and today I register my daughter for JK at the same school.
Now, after all of this you would think things would calm down. Wrong..........
I knew the psych team, as well as my son's support staff and teacher were meeting a week ago Thursday to discuss the diagnoses and figure what where to go from there. The prospect of switching him from the FI (French Immersion) program into a single language program. My husband and I decided at the time to leave him in the program as we hadn't had a diagnoses and weren't sure it was the right thing to do.
So, the day they meet I get a text from his resource teacher letting me know they just had the meeting and asking if I had a min to talk. I knew that was not good. She called within a few mins and explained that it was strongly recommended we switch my son from the FI program into the English one again. Although he know's french, can speak it, write it, absorb it etc etc he simply won't communicate in the language. If he is asked a question in french he would always answer in English.
My husband and I spent alot of time discussing and weighing our pro's and con's. Now, not only do we have our son to decide on, but we also have our daughter starting school in September as well. We had to consider if it was fair to remove the opportunity from her so that we didn't have two kids in two different schools, or if it was more beneficial to keep her in the same school as her brother.
In the end and after consulting my son, we decided to take make the change. The email I sent to his resource teacher asking her to prepare the transistion package were some of the hardest words I ever typed. My son wanted to go the *English* school. He is excited about the prospect of going to school with my daycare kids and doing work in one language. Knowing it wasn't about me and what I wanted for him, but what is best for him the decision was clear.
My heart is so sad. He has such a strong support system behind him that we've grown so very close to that it's hard to know we are leaving them all behind. Alas, again - it's not about me!
So, the week after March break - he will settle into his new school and today I register my daughter for JK at the same school.
Now, after all of this you would think things would calm down. Wrong..........
Sunday, 3 February 2013
Time to catch up
Wow, it's been awhile since I've updated as to what's been happening with our progress. Let me get you up to speed as I have a feeling I will be keeping up with those blog a little more now!
So, the summer came and went. My son seem to do well. He enjoy'd the freedom of the lazy days and being able to spend his days playing with my daycare kids. September came and he started at his new school. Due to a boundary review with the French Immersion program in our area he was sent to a newly built school.
His new resource teacher was his teacher from last year at his old school, and his classroom teacher was also a teacher from his old school. Things seem to be going well, until I got a phone call from his resource teacher informing me that his behaviour has progressed and not in a good way.
The meltdown's were becoming more frequent and the intensity had become worse. I made arrangements with his teacher to go in and see what it was they were seeing. Me, being as ignorant as I was figured all would be well since I was there and there would be no issues.
Boy, was I wrong. He was asked to do some work he didn't want to do with his English teacher (the VP of the school) and it was a downward spiral from there. I removed him from the classroom, and took what seemed to be an enternity before I was able to bring him back. Only to have him go off again because his friend was further in his work then my son was with his. His classroom teacher returned and they then got into an activity that my son was interested in doing, and along with me doing some of the writing for him all seemed to be well.
This lead to a big push. Seeing this behaviour, I contacted our family doctor as I knew there was something more we had to do for his anxiety.
Our date for the Cadet testing had been pushed back because there school psychologist serving my son's school.
We saw our family doctor who referred us over to a peditrician. We saw the peditrician, gave her a copy of the previous reports and then had her refer us over to Trellis. Trellis called us and advised us to go to a walk in clinic since we weren't looking for a diagnoses, so much so as resources to help our son cope.
We did the walk in, however by the time we worked everything out with them we were just days from the diagnoses meeting.
While all this was going on, things were on a downward spiral. My son had finally been able to make some friendships, however he made one friend and clung to him. My son was totally dependant on on. Wanting to sit beside him, stand in line beside him, play with him during breaks and counted on him help when he was having a hard time. This new friend, although still a friend asked to be moved from sitting beside my son because it was becoming too much. My son and I had a talk and were able to get through it.
His anxiety was increasing. I firmly believe it was a combo of things. (New school, new teacher, new routine, switch in french/english teaching ratio, our (my husband and I) impending trip to Cuba (where the kids weren't coming), and his friend's moving to France. Poor little guy had a lot on his plate. His resource teacher managed to get him second in line for Cadet testing and we finally got a date in Jan.
So the quick version is, a few weeks ago my husband and I went in and met with the Cadet team. Answered alot of questions about him and about us. One of the Cadet members was observing my son in his classroom while were answering the questions. Once we were finished the team spent a few hours with my son doing some testing and observations. We met again at 2:30 the following day. Reviewed the information and without delaying it any further, my son was diagnosed with ASD. Autism Spectrum. They stated he didn't meet enough of the criteria to be considered Aspergers, but was for sure on the spectrum.
So now, here we sit. We were given a package with a bunch of local resources and now await a meeting with our local autism center in Feb to see where we go from here.
So, the summer came and went. My son seem to do well. He enjoy'd the freedom of the lazy days and being able to spend his days playing with my daycare kids. September came and he started at his new school. Due to a boundary review with the French Immersion program in our area he was sent to a newly built school.
His new resource teacher was his teacher from last year at his old school, and his classroom teacher was also a teacher from his old school. Things seem to be going well, until I got a phone call from his resource teacher informing me that his behaviour has progressed and not in a good way.
The meltdown's were becoming more frequent and the intensity had become worse. I made arrangements with his teacher to go in and see what it was they were seeing. Me, being as ignorant as I was figured all would be well since I was there and there would be no issues.
Boy, was I wrong. He was asked to do some work he didn't want to do with his English teacher (the VP of the school) and it was a downward spiral from there. I removed him from the classroom, and took what seemed to be an enternity before I was able to bring him back. Only to have him go off again because his friend was further in his work then my son was with his. His classroom teacher returned and they then got into an activity that my son was interested in doing, and along with me doing some of the writing for him all seemed to be well.
This lead to a big push. Seeing this behaviour, I contacted our family doctor as I knew there was something more we had to do for his anxiety.
Our date for the Cadet testing had been pushed back because there school psychologist serving my son's school.
We saw our family doctor who referred us over to a peditrician. We saw the peditrician, gave her a copy of the previous reports and then had her refer us over to Trellis. Trellis called us and advised us to go to a walk in clinic since we weren't looking for a diagnoses, so much so as resources to help our son cope.
We did the walk in, however by the time we worked everything out with them we were just days from the diagnoses meeting.
While all this was going on, things were on a downward spiral. My son had finally been able to make some friendships, however he made one friend and clung to him. My son was totally dependant on on. Wanting to sit beside him, stand in line beside him, play with him during breaks and counted on him help when he was having a hard time. This new friend, although still a friend asked to be moved from sitting beside my son because it was becoming too much. My son and I had a talk and were able to get through it.
His anxiety was increasing. I firmly believe it was a combo of things. (New school, new teacher, new routine, switch in french/english teaching ratio, our (my husband and I) impending trip to Cuba (where the kids weren't coming), and his friend's moving to France. Poor little guy had a lot on his plate. His resource teacher managed to get him second in line for Cadet testing and we finally got a date in Jan.
So the quick version is, a few weeks ago my husband and I went in and met with the Cadet team. Answered alot of questions about him and about us. One of the Cadet members was observing my son in his classroom while were answering the questions. Once we were finished the team spent a few hours with my son doing some testing and observations. We met again at 2:30 the following day. Reviewed the information and without delaying it any further, my son was diagnosed with ASD. Autism Spectrum. They stated he didn't meet enough of the criteria to be considered Aspergers, but was for sure on the spectrum.
So now, here we sit. We were given a package with a bunch of local resources and now await a meeting with our local autism center in Feb to see where we go from here.
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