hide-n-(sensory)-seeking

      Welcome to Wordy Wednesday! Today's subject: IMAGINATION       Albert Einstein knew the value of a good imagination. So I have gathered some of my favorite Einstein quotes to sprinkle throughout todays post!   imagine : verb (used with object) 1. to form a mental image of (something not actually present to the senses). 2. to think, believe, or fancy: He imagined the house was haunted. 3. to assume; suppose: I imagine they'll be here soon. - dictionary.com      Most everyone would agree that to imagine is synonymous with childhood. And it well should be. This is in fact a vital skill that enables children to develop physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. Wow! That is huge. Sometimes as parents we may have a tendency to dismiss our children's imaginary play as mere whimsy, and thus feel that interruptions to do more "important" things are acceptable. I have been guilty of st...

I'm not a terribly negative person, but I don't know that I'm exactly the 'cup half-full' type either. I think I'm more of a realist. Things simply are what they are. But like anyone else, I sometimes get caught up in negative thinking and tend to take it out on myself. So I enjoyed reading this post , and this one . They were good reminders that big or small, our thoughts, feelings, and viewpoint of ourselves and our kids have a huge impact on our actions and reactions. I want my kids to think well of themselves, not haughty, just that they have confidence in their abilities and worth. Kids often imitate what they see, so it's important for us as parents to model good self-worth. This makes family life all around a happier and more cheerful experience. So take a few minutes, and make a list of your own, then have your kids make one too. Then lets all sit back and cut ourselves some slack! A friend of mine is a bit nervous about becoming a parent for ...

Zak had his fourth visit with Dr. N today. All of his visits have gone really well. Today after their visit, she told me that she feels like he is a very smart and secure kid, who isn't likely to have any major problems due to his sensory issues. While she agrees that his sensory issues will probably always be a factor for him and sometimes a challenge, she said that he is getting more and more self-aware of his needs and what does and doesn't help. That is key to him being able to successfully self-regulate. She highlighted that because he is bright and communicative, and because he has a good support network at home that he is going to be just fine, and encouraged us to keep trying out new things to see if they help. He has another appointment in two weeks, then I'm not sure how much longer she plans to keep seeing him. It sounds to me like he probably won't need routine visits, but we'll see. As for Kitty Kat, Dr. N recommends her seeing someone more speci...

I have been trying to absorb and navigate a recent truth that I must come to terms with. We care for four individuals with special needs . Not always in a strictly medical sense, but often in a very intense and immediate and nothing-else-is-going-to-happen-until-this-gets-fixed way. Most of the above happens primarily in regard to Kit and Grandpa's needs. But Zak has a good handful of moments like that too. And then there's Grace. Goofy Grace, Grinning Grace, Gregarious Gorgeous Graceful Grace! And lately, Gloomy Grace. A Little Left Out       She has a problem with not having enough problems. Yes, I'm being quippy, but it's also completely true. She is truly upset that Zak gets to see a doctor every week, and gets to answer questions. She literally tears up. "It's not fair! When do I get to go see a doctor?" She feels like she is missing out big time. And you know what? She is. Not because she doesn't get to go see a doctor, bu...

Welcome to Wordy Wednesday!   Today's subject is:   SUCCESS By definition, success is: a noun 1. the favorable or prosperous termination of attempts or endeavors; the accomplishment of one's goals. 2. the attainment of wealth, position, honors, or the like. 3. a performance or achievement that is marked by success, as by the attainment of honors: The play was an instant success. (dictionary.com) Quite honestly, that definition falls pretty short. I can agree with the technicality of the first definition, but as a whole it's certainly a far cry from the spirit of this concept. Is this how I would explain success to my children? Never. Because something as important as success should never be boiled down to a dictionary definition. It's not just a noun. It's an attitude. And a viewpoint. A motive, a memory, and a person. Or many people. We can stop it, impede it, direct it, or, let it flow and carry us. Direct us. We ...