This is my first blog attempt so please bare with me! I am the lucky parent of a 4 year old little boy named David. He has been diagnosed with everything like Aspergers syndrome, mild autism, PDDNOS, and ADHD. He has very many routines through-out the day and night and I thought I might share how our typical day is in the life of raising a child with special needs.
Bed Time: I always envisioned tucking the little angel into bed reading a story and kissing him goodnight. David showed me another way: his way. It starts with an egg timer set at five minutes to ring. That gives him the opportunity to be constantly aware that a transition is about to take place and it won't startle his world by just coming up and saying bed-time. When the bell rings , we go upstairs were we proceed to make sure every toy is in its proper place. Then we move on to the curtains that have to be completely even on both sides . After that we can climb into bed were he sleeps on his special pillow and with two blankies, usually accompanied by the favorite toy of the day. We then read LOTS of books, sing silly songs and work on getting me out of the bed.! After I am out I have to make sure all the covers are completely even on both sides and pulled all the way up to the top so he can lay there straight as an arrow underneath them, so as to not disturb the evenness of the covers. I then lay completely on top of him squeezing him tightly till his breathing is slow and even. We call these "big hugs" It helps him feel in control of his body the more deep pressure he receives. On my way out, I check to make sure the door is at the right angle for him and his cup of water is by his bead. breathe a sigh of relieve that by doing these little rituals for him will allow him to be at peace with himself long enough for him to fall asleep.
This is an hour long routine. But something that I know I have to do in order for David to feel comfortable with his body and his mind. I spend most of my days watching him and anticipating his triggers so i can avoid them and help keep him even keel. I hope to show what our life is like on good days, bad days, and all the little stuff in between. I wan to touch on subjects like eating, potty training, play dates, eating-out in publc, and other life situations that we deal with.
Thanks you,
Amanda
