It would appear the first day of school went well for both boys.
S brought his laptop home, and absolutely NOTHING had been done with it over the summer. In fact, when I turned it on, it only powered up for a few moments before the battery was too low for it to continue. Am I surprised? Not so much – but I am a bit disappointed.
Now I will have to get in touch with the SERT and find out the fastest way to get his required reading material loaded onto his laptop. I also have to confirm EA details with her as S indicated that he didn’t have an EA in his morning classes, only afternoon.
On another positive note, he did remember to give each of his teachers the letter of introduction I had written, so at least they are aware of some of the educational requirements he is facing. If they actually are willing to work with me remains to be seen, but let’s just take one day at a time.
Last night S also asked me to make sure some chapters from the book he received at technology camp was loaded on to his MP3 – he wanted to read the novel on his way to and from the school, he said. Of course I was very quick to jump all over that request! Anything that will put a book in his hand is a good thing in my mind.
The A-man has Math, English, Drama and Religion this semester. He had an essay assignment last night – a “My Goals in Life” assignment that will basically provide the teacher some insight into the kids in the class while providing some extra details about their writing styles. I was quite surprised to see how much he had written by the time I got home, and even more surprised by how well written it was. He’s got a very natural writing style. Perhaps an English teacher is what he should consider rather than Math…
I have to contact the guidance teacher about the Math level the A-man has signed up for. He tells me that he is taking a ‘combined’ class that will allow him either the College or University stream, but I had not realized that such a course was an option. See – this is why it’s hard when Hubby signs off on things! (I was away when course requirement information had to be submitted, and I’m not sure how much review of the details were made before he signed off on the information!) It will probably be okay, but I think it may be a good idea for both the A-man and I to meet with a guidance councilor to review the courses he is currently taking, and to find out what will need to be taken to ensure he is has what he’ll need for post-secondary.
S is going over to Lil’A’s house tonight for a couple of hours, so the A-man and I are going to hit the Y. We haven’t been for a while, so I know it will do us both good to get out and working those muscles. I also need to get the vehicle cleaned out a bit – a car wash and vacuum will be required before I head out for the weekend’s event tomorrow. I’ll be picking up a State Representative at the airport early afternoon, so I don’t want the vehicle too messy!
Yes, I am off again this weekend. Leaving the office tomorrow around 11, and should be back mid-afternoon on Monday. May have something in the city the beginning of October (haven’t been advised by the State yet if I am needed), and I know for sure that I have two weekends at the end of the month that will take me back to the city, but after that my November, December and January are wide open, thankfully.
I’m actually looking forward to this weekend, though. It’s a music event and one of my favourite bands from my high school years is going to be playing on Saturday evening, so I know I will enjoy that. It sucks that I won’t be at home for my birthday on Friday, but since Hubby is on afternoons, it’s not like it would have been a ‘special’ night anyway. I’ve been enjoying my birth-week gifts from Cuz, though; she really does take the time to find perfect, unique gifts! (Thanks for the teapot – she made me giggle this morning!!)
Last year the A-man had told me about a friend of his that he was worried about – she had told him she was being abused by her father. (Not sure if I had blogged about that or not…) The A-man and I had discussed this girl in great depth; he had talked to his Religion teacher about what she had shared with him even before he talked to be about it. He didn’t really know this girl that entirely well, which is why is sort of surprised me that she had confided, but perhaps she just felt he was ‘safe.’ Anyway, turns out that I am acquainted with her boyfriend’s parents, so I suggested the A-man encourage her to confide in these adults because I felt they would do whatever they could to help her. Yesterday she told the A-man that she was pregnant. She is in Grade 11, her boyfriend is in Grade 12. The A-man has never even kissed a girl, and a fellow classmate is going to have a baby!
Yeah, I’m kind of glad my children are geeks…
Showing posts with label first day of school.. Show all posts
Showing posts with label first day of school.. Show all posts
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Letter to the teacher
Here is the letter S will be giving to his teachers when he starts school next week:
Dear Teacher,
I would like to provide you with some information one of your Grade 9 students this year – S.
I know you will be receiving a copy of his IEP within the next few weeks, but I thought it would be best to start the year with all of details about his special educational requirements fully explained, and to also let you know that I would appreciate being kept aware of his progress in your classroom via email. Above, you will notice I’ve provided my various contact numbers and home email address for your records.
S has been diagnosed with a number of learning disabilities, in addition to having ADHD, Aspergers and a Generalized Anxiety Disorder. He has had a board-provided laptop for two years, and has been well-trained on all of the programs installed on his system. S and I also participated in a Board-sanctioned training program over the summer and we are both prepared to ensure a positive and successful transition to his next level of education.
While attending the training program in August, the Superintendent of Special Education assured the parents that most of the text books utilized in our schools have already been scanned and are available through the Board office. I would appreciate it if you could let me know the details of any textbooks that will be used in your classroom so that I can ensure he has what is required already on his system. If you can email with this information sometime this week, I will confirm the data is on his system over the weekend.
In addition to having his textbook available electronically, I wanted to advise you that S does have a graphomotor disability, and should not be requested to copy detailed notes from the board. His IEP will indicate that this information be provided to him already prepared, so that he can make notations as the work is being discussed in class. (If possible, it would ideal if the information could be provided in advance to allow him the opportunity to scan it into the laptop prior to class and make electronic notations, but I do realize this won’t always be realistic.)
S will utilize Kurzweil (a text-to-voice software program) to assist him with the reading of the text, and Dragon Naturally Speaking (DNS) will be used for the inputting of his information. DNS is a text-to-voice program that allows him to share his thoughts and ideas freely – he will use this program to speak into the computer, get his thought into print, and will then require some time to edit the information into suitable context.
For the past three years, S has had EA support, and I have been advised this will continue during his time at your school. I’m not fully understanding of how EA support works within the high school environment and ask for your patience while both S and I adjust to this.
Now, a little bit about his Aspergers. In January 2008, S underwent some extensive medical testing, including an fMRI at a hospital. The fMRI is a functional MRI that actually monitored and assessed his brainwave function. In a nutshell – and using a few technical terms as possible! - the results of this test indicated that S needs information to be provided repetitively for it to become rote - his brain simply does not encode novel tasks. He processes everything in a literal manner, and is not able to conceptualize how his present actions can/will affect his future. He lacks imagination and will not be able to visual/conceptualize new ideas. He can neither read nor understand facial expressions/voice tones, and often will not look you in the eye when speaking. He will not do this to be rude – he simply is unable to do this, so please don’t force this issue as he can become agitated.
With respect to the ADHD and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), S has been fortunate to have been experiencing fewer and fewer symptoms of the GAD, and hopefully won’t have any problems at highschool. He has been known to become very anxious during transitional periods or during times that are out of the norm (such as leaving ‘normal class’ to go to the gym for an assembly.) Past experience has shown that when advised of schedule adjustments in advance, he tends to cope better. S experiences typical ADHD behaviour – sometimes he will need gentle reminders to remain on task (without drawing attention to him) and he does not have innate organizational abilities. Due to his short working memory, he will require reminders about recording homework assignments and assistance in determining the best plan of attack for large projects/assignments. Again, this is where it would be helpful to send me an email with homework details so that I can ensure he stays on task.
Despite the conditions I have explained to you, S is a very happy teen that truly wants to do well, and is very willing to please others. Nothing makes him happier than to be of assistance in some way, shape or form. He is very musically inclined, loves to do magic tricks, and is happy to tell you the latest joke he has heard. He has an average-to-above-average IQ, and has the ability to do well in school if provided the necessary accommodations. S has been the target of bullies in the past, and as such, tends to want to ensure all rules are clearly explained and treatment for all is ‘fair.’
I have always been very involved in my son’s education, and would like to see this continue at high school. I realize that my child is not perfect, and I also recognize that S’s perception is often very different than the perception of others. I am willing to take the time to ‘peel the layers’ to get to the heart of any/all issues with him, and it is my sincere hope that together we will have an opportunity to ensure his success. Once the school year has begun, I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and further discuss the information I’ve included in this letter. I apologize for the length of this letter, however I feel it is very important to start the new year/new school with as much information shared as possible.
I will contact the school within the next two weeks to set up a meeting if I don’t hear from you prior.
Thank you for your time – I look forward to meeting you soon.
Dear Teacher,
I would like to provide you with some information one of your Grade 9 students this year – S.
I know you will be receiving a copy of his IEP within the next few weeks, but I thought it would be best to start the year with all of details about his special educational requirements fully explained, and to also let you know that I would appreciate being kept aware of his progress in your classroom via email. Above, you will notice I’ve provided my various contact numbers and home email address for your records.
S has been diagnosed with a number of learning disabilities, in addition to having ADHD, Aspergers and a Generalized Anxiety Disorder. He has had a board-provided laptop for two years, and has been well-trained on all of the programs installed on his system. S and I also participated in a Board-sanctioned training program over the summer and we are both prepared to ensure a positive and successful transition to his next level of education.
While attending the training program in August, the Superintendent of Special Education assured the parents that most of the text books utilized in our schools have already been scanned and are available through the Board office. I would appreciate it if you could let me know the details of any textbooks that will be used in your classroom so that I can ensure he has what is required already on his system. If you can email with this information sometime this week, I will confirm the data is on his system over the weekend.
In addition to having his textbook available electronically, I wanted to advise you that S does have a graphomotor disability, and should not be requested to copy detailed notes from the board. His IEP will indicate that this information be provided to him already prepared, so that he can make notations as the work is being discussed in class. (If possible, it would ideal if the information could be provided in advance to allow him the opportunity to scan it into the laptop prior to class and make electronic notations, but I do realize this won’t always be realistic.)
S will utilize Kurzweil (a text-to-voice software program) to assist him with the reading of the text, and Dragon Naturally Speaking (DNS) will be used for the inputting of his information. DNS is a text-to-voice program that allows him to share his thoughts and ideas freely – he will use this program to speak into the computer, get his thought into print, and will then require some time to edit the information into suitable context.
For the past three years, S has had EA support, and I have been advised this will continue during his time at your school. I’m not fully understanding of how EA support works within the high school environment and ask for your patience while both S and I adjust to this.
Now, a little bit about his Aspergers. In January 2008, S underwent some extensive medical testing, including an fMRI at a hospital. The fMRI is a functional MRI that actually monitored and assessed his brainwave function. In a nutshell – and using a few technical terms as possible! - the results of this test indicated that S needs information to be provided repetitively for it to become rote - his brain simply does not encode novel tasks. He processes everything in a literal manner, and is not able to conceptualize how his present actions can/will affect his future. He lacks imagination and will not be able to visual/conceptualize new ideas. He can neither read nor understand facial expressions/voice tones, and often will not look you in the eye when speaking. He will not do this to be rude – he simply is unable to do this, so please don’t force this issue as he can become agitated.
With respect to the ADHD and Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), S has been fortunate to have been experiencing fewer and fewer symptoms of the GAD, and hopefully won’t have any problems at highschool. He has been known to become very anxious during transitional periods or during times that are out of the norm (such as leaving ‘normal class’ to go to the gym for an assembly.) Past experience has shown that when advised of schedule adjustments in advance, he tends to cope better. S experiences typical ADHD behaviour – sometimes he will need gentle reminders to remain on task (without drawing attention to him) and he does not have innate organizational abilities. Due to his short working memory, he will require reminders about recording homework assignments and assistance in determining the best plan of attack for large projects/assignments. Again, this is where it would be helpful to send me an email with homework details so that I can ensure he stays on task.
Despite the conditions I have explained to you, S is a very happy teen that truly wants to do well, and is very willing to please others. Nothing makes him happier than to be of assistance in some way, shape or form. He is very musically inclined, loves to do magic tricks, and is happy to tell you the latest joke he has heard. He has an average-to-above-average IQ, and has the ability to do well in school if provided the necessary accommodations. S has been the target of bullies in the past, and as such, tends to want to ensure all rules are clearly explained and treatment for all is ‘fair.’
I have always been very involved in my son’s education, and would like to see this continue at high school. I realize that my child is not perfect, and I also recognize that S’s perception is often very different than the perception of others. I am willing to take the time to ‘peel the layers’ to get to the heart of any/all issues with him, and it is my sincere hope that together we will have an opportunity to ensure his success. Once the school year has begun, I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you and further discuss the information I’ve included in this letter. I apologize for the length of this letter, however I feel it is very important to start the new year/new school with as much information shared as possible.
I will contact the school within the next two weeks to set up a meeting if I don’t hear from you prior.
Thank you for your time – I look forward to meeting you soon.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
New school year getting close
I think it was a very good thing to have the opportunity to go and see the school yesterday.
S will have the following classes this term – Music, Science, Learning Strategies and Geography. He will have the same teacher for both Music and Geography, and he knows his Learning Strategies teacher from a supply stint last year, and seemed really happy to know that he will be working with her again.
The Science teacher is the same one that the A-man had last year… I did not care for this man, but I will be sure to prepare a “letter of introduction” for him. I’m also prepared to ensure he will not bully S in the same manner he got away with for the A-man. (I still feel really bad that I didn’t believe the A-man when he complained about this teacher…) There will be no marks deducted for wrinkled or ripped pages this year, I tell ya.
Also while at the school, S learned that he would have a few of his favourite people in his classes, so that will be nice too. He will have music with one cousin, learning strategies with another, and geography with his ‘girl friend’. She originally was going to have 3 out of 4 classes with him, but when she switched out of music to drama, it adjusted all of her schedule. Still, it will be nice for him to have the comfort of knowing at least one face when he walks into each class room next week.
While we were at the school, I inquired about his laptop system and his EA support. S’s locker is very close to the resource room, so he was advised to go into that room upon arriving at school and meet the various EA’s that he will be working with. The laptop actually arrived while we were taking the school tour, so at least we know that is done. Now I just have to make sure the text books have already been put into the text to voice program (Kurzweil) that he uses. Otherwise I will have to find out the method for getting the necessary pages scanned in while we wait for the books to be uploaded from the Board office.
Tonight I will be picking up S’s “friend” on my way home from work. They have made a ‘date’ to hang out at the mall and do some back to school shopping together. He was convinced that the universe was against him on Friday when she had called to invite him for Sunday. This is my way of making up the fact that we went to the cottage for the weekend.
The A-man called R (his ‘friend’) to see if she could come – of course she can’t – so my niece is going to come and hang out with the A-man. I think this will be good as she’s going through a rough time since her boyfriend broke up with her on the weekend, and the A-man will be able to help her see things a bit more clearly, I’m sure. (They were far too involved for people that are only 14 and 15 anyway, I think.)
So, I will bring my book and probably park my butt on a bench, sipping tea, and waiting for the teenagers to do their thing. It will be a great way to get in some serious people-watching anyway. I’m also going to drop off some eggs to the R-man while in the city.
Last night S and I went through all of his school uniform stuff, and I ended up going through the rest of his clothes since our cleaning lady dropped off a bag of stuff to us. He now has 7 pairs of jeans in the drawer for use now, plus about the same number hanging in the closet for when he grows. I am in the clear for clothing for this child for quite some time. Uniform stuff he is set for a long time too. The A-man is a different story, but at least he will be able to have enough for getting through the first week when I will go in a pick up some new pants and shirts for him.
I am planning on taking Friday off work (boss doesn’t know that yet) and hoping to maybe go over and spend some time with Cuz. I’m not sure if she will be at her summer location, but I will give her a call on Thursday to see what she will be up to. I’ve got my birth week gift from her at the cottage, and I can’t believe that I will begin opening on Saturday!
Not sure what type of school supplies we will need to get, but again, I’m pretty sure we will be able to cope for the first week at least!
S will have the following classes this term – Music, Science, Learning Strategies and Geography. He will have the same teacher for both Music and Geography, and he knows his Learning Strategies teacher from a supply stint last year, and seemed really happy to know that he will be working with her again.
The Science teacher is the same one that the A-man had last year… I did not care for this man, but I will be sure to prepare a “letter of introduction” for him. I’m also prepared to ensure he will not bully S in the same manner he got away with for the A-man. (I still feel really bad that I didn’t believe the A-man when he complained about this teacher…) There will be no marks deducted for wrinkled or ripped pages this year, I tell ya.
Also while at the school, S learned that he would have a few of his favourite people in his classes, so that will be nice too. He will have music with one cousin, learning strategies with another, and geography with his ‘girl friend’. She originally was going to have 3 out of 4 classes with him, but when she switched out of music to drama, it adjusted all of her schedule. Still, it will be nice for him to have the comfort of knowing at least one face when he walks into each class room next week.
While we were at the school, I inquired about his laptop system and his EA support. S’s locker is very close to the resource room, so he was advised to go into that room upon arriving at school and meet the various EA’s that he will be working with. The laptop actually arrived while we were taking the school tour, so at least we know that is done. Now I just have to make sure the text books have already been put into the text to voice program (Kurzweil) that he uses. Otherwise I will have to find out the method for getting the necessary pages scanned in while we wait for the books to be uploaded from the Board office.
Tonight I will be picking up S’s “friend” on my way home from work. They have made a ‘date’ to hang out at the mall and do some back to school shopping together. He was convinced that the universe was against him on Friday when she had called to invite him for Sunday. This is my way of making up the fact that we went to the cottage for the weekend.
The A-man called R (his ‘friend’) to see if she could come – of course she can’t – so my niece is going to come and hang out with the A-man. I think this will be good as she’s going through a rough time since her boyfriend broke up with her on the weekend, and the A-man will be able to help her see things a bit more clearly, I’m sure. (They were far too involved for people that are only 14 and 15 anyway, I think.)
So, I will bring my book and probably park my butt on a bench, sipping tea, and waiting for the teenagers to do their thing. It will be a great way to get in some serious people-watching anyway. I’m also going to drop off some eggs to the R-man while in the city.
Last night S and I went through all of his school uniform stuff, and I ended up going through the rest of his clothes since our cleaning lady dropped off a bag of stuff to us. He now has 7 pairs of jeans in the drawer for use now, plus about the same number hanging in the closet for when he grows. I am in the clear for clothing for this child for quite some time. Uniform stuff he is set for a long time too. The A-man is a different story, but at least he will be able to have enough for getting through the first week when I will go in a pick up some new pants and shirts for him.
I am planning on taking Friday off work (boss doesn’t know that yet) and hoping to maybe go over and spend some time with Cuz. I’m not sure if she will be at her summer location, but I will give her a call on Thursday to see what she will be up to. I’ve got my birth week gift from her at the cottage, and I can’t believe that I will begin opening on Saturday!
Not sure what type of school supplies we will need to get, but again, I’m pretty sure we will be able to cope for the first week at least!
Friday, August 28, 2009
School starting soon
It's almost the weekend...
Although I am looking forward to a couple of down days, I'm starting to think that I really need some 'down weeks'! (lol)
I guess this, too, shall pass.
I called the school yesterday to get some information about S's specialized bussing. Turns out he will be getting on the bus almost a half hour earlier than he is used to, and about 10 minutes before the A-man's bus comes to get him each day. He's not sold on this whole "short bus" concept, but last night when I asked him if he thought he could manage on the 'regular' bus, he didn't really have a reply for me. I guess I will just have to monitor the situation, and see how he is coping further in to the school year before I look at making some changes in his transportation.
It could be that he's past the issues he'd experienced years ago, but it would probably be something we would have to move into in transitional stages. I'm sure age and maturity will play a large part in all of it - for both S and the other students on the bus, actually.
I would love for him to have the ability to ride the 'regular' bus again, but I just don't want to face all of the turmoil again, and I am thinking the negative stigma to an outburst on a high school bus would be far worse than that of elementary school. Maybe not...
Feeling very unsure about all of this - can you tell?
On Monday we have the official tour of the school - finding the classrooms, getting the locker - that sort of thing. The A-man is really looking forward to being our official tour guide at the school. I think he is quite excited that S is going to finally have the opportunity to get away from the other school.
We are going to the cottage tonight - I left a number of tasks for the boys to complete today and advised them that the sooner they get these done, the sooner we will be able to head out. I am seriously hoping that S helps with the tasks - the A-man always seems to end up having to do his share and then some.
~~~
Haven't had any response from the resumes I've sent out, but I will continue to look and consider. Boss and I are going to be interviewing a young lady on Tuesday morning to replace my assistant, but I'm still not sure if she will be required on a full time basis or not.
Oh, the fun just never ends...
Although I am looking forward to a couple of down days, I'm starting to think that I really need some 'down weeks'! (lol)
I guess this, too, shall pass.
I called the school yesterday to get some information about S's specialized bussing. Turns out he will be getting on the bus almost a half hour earlier than he is used to, and about 10 minutes before the A-man's bus comes to get him each day. He's not sold on this whole "short bus" concept, but last night when I asked him if he thought he could manage on the 'regular' bus, he didn't really have a reply for me. I guess I will just have to monitor the situation, and see how he is coping further in to the school year before I look at making some changes in his transportation.
It could be that he's past the issues he'd experienced years ago, but it would probably be something we would have to move into in transitional stages. I'm sure age and maturity will play a large part in all of it - for both S and the other students on the bus, actually.
I would love for him to have the ability to ride the 'regular' bus again, but I just don't want to face all of the turmoil again, and I am thinking the negative stigma to an outburst on a high school bus would be far worse than that of elementary school. Maybe not...
Feeling very unsure about all of this - can you tell?
On Monday we have the official tour of the school - finding the classrooms, getting the locker - that sort of thing. The A-man is really looking forward to being our official tour guide at the school. I think he is quite excited that S is going to finally have the opportunity to get away from the other school.
We are going to the cottage tonight - I left a number of tasks for the boys to complete today and advised them that the sooner they get these done, the sooner we will be able to head out. I am seriously hoping that S helps with the tasks - the A-man always seems to end up having to do his share and then some.
~~~
Haven't had any response from the resumes I've sent out, but I will continue to look and consider. Boss and I are going to be interviewing a young lady on Tuesday morning to replace my assistant, but I'm still not sure if she will be required on a full time basis or not.
Oh, the fun just never ends...
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
It went well!
The A-man is totally pumped about his "Hospitality & Tourism" class. The first cooking section they are going to cover is baking, and he is going to learn how to make an apple pie. I have no idea what other types of items they are going to be making, though - he was really focused on the pie! (lol)
Actually, he did tell me that they had an ISU (individual study unit) where they needed to learn a little bit about a country of choice, then present the information they learned while preparing a dish from said country. The A-man thought he would like to prepare sushi.
Yeah - not only is it a very expensive food choice, but also not an easy one for a beginner chef. Hmmm.... maybe this could be a Mother/Son experiment - we could learn together! I will have to suggest that to him.
S did very well for his first day. Well, at least he told me that he did - which for him is always the most important thing. He got to meet the new principal - he thought she seemed nice - and he has a couple of friends in his class, which is always a good thing.
After supper last night, we went through his agenda and wrote in the days that he has to pack his gym clothes, pizza days, that sort of thing. I told him I would fill in the month of September but it was up to him to do the rest of the months. I highly doubt he will do it, but my thought is that if I keep showing him the steps, maybe eventually, he will pick them up too. BIG maybe there.
Last night I started to read an article of executive dysfunction of the brain, and then after I had read the same paragraph at least three times, I realized I was simply too tired to be able to absorb anything. I slept like a log, but had odd dreams. Very odd dreams. This morning it was tough to drag myself out of bed.
Today is the day that the boys and I are interviewed for the ADHD Information DVD. I didn't share the details of the interview until last night. As I expected, the two of them got very excited and started acting a bit goofy. The A-man suddenly developed an English accent. I have no idea what country S was supposed to be from. I laughed when the producer called me and said they were just going to Google how to get to our house. Try explaining to someone from the city that although you really do have an address, it is simply too obscure for Mapquest to find. I really don't think she believed me.
I am working this coming weekend - another music event for a client. It is going to be really long days (13 hour shifts!!) but I think it will be fun. The weather is supposed to be really hot, but since we are going to be working outside until midnight each night, we are going to have to bring the gammet with respect to clothing. I will NOT be going in to the office on Monday.
Actually, he did tell me that they had an ISU (individual study unit) where they needed to learn a little bit about a country of choice, then present the information they learned while preparing a dish from said country. The A-man thought he would like to prepare sushi.
Yeah - not only is it a very expensive food choice, but also not an easy one for a beginner chef. Hmmm.... maybe this could be a Mother/Son experiment - we could learn together! I will have to suggest that to him.
S did very well for his first day. Well, at least he told me that he did - which for him is always the most important thing. He got to meet the new principal - he thought she seemed nice - and he has a couple of friends in his class, which is always a good thing.
After supper last night, we went through his agenda and wrote in the days that he has to pack his gym clothes, pizza days, that sort of thing. I told him I would fill in the month of September but it was up to him to do the rest of the months. I highly doubt he will do it, but my thought is that if I keep showing him the steps, maybe eventually, he will pick them up too. BIG maybe there.
Last night I started to read an article of executive dysfunction of the brain, and then after I had read the same paragraph at least three times, I realized I was simply too tired to be able to absorb anything. I slept like a log, but had odd dreams. Very odd dreams. This morning it was tough to drag myself out of bed.
Today is the day that the boys and I are interviewed for the ADHD Information DVD. I didn't share the details of the interview until last night. As I expected, the two of them got very excited and started acting a bit goofy. The A-man suddenly developed an English accent. I have no idea what country S was supposed to be from. I laughed when the producer called me and said they were just going to Google how to get to our house. Try explaining to someone from the city that although you really do have an address, it is simply too obscure for Mapquest to find. I really don't think she believed me.
I am working this coming weekend - another music event for a client. It is going to be really long days (13 hour shifts!!) but I think it will be fun. The weather is supposed to be really hot, but since we are going to be working outside until midnight each night, we are going to have to bring the gammet with respect to clothing. I will NOT be going in to the office on Monday.
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Let the games begin...
Hubby and I discovered over the weekend, it was not exactly the best of times to start the reduction of S's anxiety medication. We will try again in a couple of weeks - once the 'excitement' of beginning a new school year is over.
He didn't exactly have a major melt down yesterday, but it was gearing up to be a good one. Hubby was able to head it off at the pass.
I think both boys are quite excited about the start of a new school year, all things considered. Yes, S did have a bit of a melt down yesterday (as we knew he would) but he was up early this morning -before I woke him - and he's been talking non-stop since. "8th grade privilege" and "on the first day of school last year..."
The A-man's alarm went off at 6:30 (!!) and he didn't take too long to actually turn it off and start moaning about getting out of bed. He isn't a morning person - gets that from his Mom - therefore he realizes he needs time, at his pace, to do what he likes/needs to do in the morning. It has taken me a number of years to be able to relinquish control enough to allow him this time and space, but it really did work for him last year. I'm pretty sure his new-found maturity level also helped greatly with this.
Yesterday, when we were leaving the cottage, S told me that he and his brother and their three friends from the cottage had a big group hug as a way of saying good-bye to summer. Coping, learning and growing, I guess.
The start of another school year. I hope (and pray) it's finally a good one.
He didn't exactly have a major melt down yesterday, but it was gearing up to be a good one. Hubby was able to head it off at the pass.
I think both boys are quite excited about the start of a new school year, all things considered. Yes, S did have a bit of a melt down yesterday (as we knew he would) but he was up early this morning -before I woke him - and he's been talking non-stop since. "8th grade privilege" and "on the first day of school last year..."
The A-man's alarm went off at 6:30 (!!) and he didn't take too long to actually turn it off and start moaning about getting out of bed. He isn't a morning person - gets that from his Mom - therefore he realizes he needs time, at his pace, to do what he likes/needs to do in the morning. It has taken me a number of years to be able to relinquish control enough to allow him this time and space, but it really did work for him last year. I'm pretty sure his new-found maturity level also helped greatly with this.
Yesterday, when we were leaving the cottage, S told me that he and his brother and their three friends from the cottage had a big group hug as a way of saying good-bye to summer. Coping, learning and growing, I guess.
The start of another school year. I hope (and pray) it's finally a good one.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Will wonders never cease?
I got an email from S's SERT this morning - wanting to let me know that she was going to do her best to ensure that S has a good 'transitional' year - year between elementary school and high school. She also wanted to get some information about the series of events that unfolded at the end of the school year when she was on jury duty.
The strangest of all - she sent that email at about 11 o'clock at night.
I am going to call the new Principal this morning to go over some things. I have resolved that S will not have an underqualified EA this year. There has to be one SOMEWHERE in this Board that has the qualifications the doctor so clearly defined. I want that EA in our school.
~~
I've been up since 5:30 this morning. Too much going on in this head of mine. Between work and the looming first day of school, my stomach is just in knots.
S deserves to have a good year at school. He really truly does. In my reply email to the SERT, I indicated that neither of my sons will ever "look fondly back at their years in elementary school."
How sad it that? 10 years they spent at that school, and neither will have any positive memories. I don't know that things would have been different had we changed schools... and it's too late now to ponder that. Of course, Mommy guilt will always make me wonder...
The strangest of all - she sent that email at about 11 o'clock at night.
I am going to call the new Principal this morning to go over some things. I have resolved that S will not have an underqualified EA this year. There has to be one SOMEWHERE in this Board that has the qualifications the doctor so clearly defined. I want that EA in our school.
~~
I've been up since 5:30 this morning. Too much going on in this head of mine. Between work and the looming first day of school, my stomach is just in knots.
S deserves to have a good year at school. He really truly does. In my reply email to the SERT, I indicated that neither of my sons will ever "look fondly back at their years in elementary school."
How sad it that? 10 years they spent at that school, and neither will have any positive memories. I don't know that things would have been different had we changed schools... and it's too late now to ponder that. Of course, Mommy guilt will always make me wonder...
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Back to real life (?)
Boss and I arrived back to the office around 1pm yesterday. We unloaded the vehicle, check our emails, and after an hour, I deemed myself too tired to be of any more use, and came home. It actually worked out well for timing - hubby was still home, and we were able to do a brief update on the status of things before he went off to work for the night.
We are getting our new front windows today, so I am not going in to work. I still have to move things out of the way in both the dining room and the living room, but I thought I would take a bit of time to do a blog update first. I don't imagine the window guys will be here until at least 9:30.
S's laptop is suffering an 'error' again. It's been over a week, and it is still not fixed. This is crazy. The board needs to get more technicians for laptop repair, that much is obvious. It has been deemed essential, yet they just take their own sweet time in getting it fixed. Drives me crazy! I will be making a couple of phone calls today for sure.
Yesterday was the A-man's first day of his second semester. He has English, Math, Religion and Phys-ed. Two really tough subjects, followed by two with very little homework. A very nice mix, indeed. His religion teacher sounds like he is quite the character. I am interested to learn more about him as the days go by.
The A-man did not get his room cleaned last week. Apparently he was 'too busy' to complete the task. I told him I would do it today, and he got really upset with me. I have been assured that he will do nothing else tonight until it is done. I have agreed to stay out, at least until the end of today.
I was wrong about the timing of the window guys. They are here now. Went out to greet them, and to find out what I need to do to assist. My task - to created a two foot working space around each window. Should be interesting...
Will write more later...
We are getting our new front windows today, so I am not going in to work. I still have to move things out of the way in both the dining room and the living room, but I thought I would take a bit of time to do a blog update first. I don't imagine the window guys will be here until at least 9:30.
S's laptop is suffering an 'error' again. It's been over a week, and it is still not fixed. This is crazy. The board needs to get more technicians for laptop repair, that much is obvious. It has been deemed essential, yet they just take their own sweet time in getting it fixed. Drives me crazy! I will be making a couple of phone calls today for sure.
Yesterday was the A-man's first day of his second semester. He has English, Math, Religion and Phys-ed. Two really tough subjects, followed by two with very little homework. A very nice mix, indeed. His religion teacher sounds like he is quite the character. I am interested to learn more about him as the days go by.
The A-man did not get his room cleaned last week. Apparently he was 'too busy' to complete the task. I told him I would do it today, and he got really upset with me. I have been assured that he will do nothing else tonight until it is done. I have agreed to stay out, at least until the end of today.
I was wrong about the timing of the window guys. They are here now. Went out to greet them, and to find out what I need to do to assist. My task - to created a two foot working space around each window. Should be interesting...
Will write more later...
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Truly back to normal
When I got home from work last night, both boys were downstairs watching TV, or playing video games. One of the two. The R-man was putting his grocceries away. Hubby is on afternoons for the next two weeks.
I got dinner ready, and we all discussed the days events over dinner. Of course, after clearning the table, both boys tried to take off back downstairs, but I hauled them back up to work on homework. The A-man has a Science project due on Friday. He has known about it since the beginning of the school year. We even discussed it over the course of the two week holiday. Yeah, he didn't bring his Science stuff home last night. I was ever so impressed.
Monday - as in just under a week from now - will bring his Drama written exam. He did sit down last night and complete his study sheet, which was fairly detailed. I guess they do the written exam, then have a full week and a half of rehersals for the performance exam. But, that is completed before exam week, so when it actually comes down to the week of exams, he gets a day off. Meaning, at the end of January, he will have one exam on the Monday, then the rest of the week off. I will be totally swamped with our second show, as it is the first weekend in February, so I won't even be able to do anything fun with him that week.
When I first got home, I realized S hadn't brought his laptop home. He told me that he didn't need it for his Science homework, because he just "had to draw lines." I was confused, but more hungry, so I figured I would review after we had dinner. In a way, he was correct - he simply had to draw a line from the scientific term to the proper definition of the term.
While he was doing this, I took that time to go through his binder, and his agenda. As I was doing this, I realized that he is going to need a LOT more hands-on assistance with organizing his notes, etc. He has papers all over the place - most of them not in the proper subject sections. My thoughts are that this could be part of the EA's job - you know, "assisting with organization" as is written in his IEP - but I could be wrong. I will be asking for clarification from either the principal or the SERT.
When I went through his agenda, I noticed that he also had religion homework. I asked him about that, and that is when he started to hit himself in the head because he forgot the laptop. Apparently he had started that homework on the computer. I'm thinking he thought he was going to get out of that homework, but since he was just required to paraphrase verses 1-12 of Matthew 2, I was able to pull out the bible, read the verse to him, then he sat down and typed up the paragraph. Of course, it took him quite a bit longer than it would have if he'd had his school computer, but maybe he will realize that NOT having the computer isn't going to get him out of doing the work.
I am such a mean mother.
I got dinner ready, and we all discussed the days events over dinner. Of course, after clearning the table, both boys tried to take off back downstairs, but I hauled them back up to work on homework. The A-man has a Science project due on Friday. He has known about it since the beginning of the school year. We even discussed it over the course of the two week holiday. Yeah, he didn't bring his Science stuff home last night. I was ever so impressed.
Monday - as in just under a week from now - will bring his Drama written exam. He did sit down last night and complete his study sheet, which was fairly detailed. I guess they do the written exam, then have a full week and a half of rehersals for the performance exam. But, that is completed before exam week, so when it actually comes down to the week of exams, he gets a day off. Meaning, at the end of January, he will have one exam on the Monday, then the rest of the week off. I will be totally swamped with our second show, as it is the first weekend in February, so I won't even be able to do anything fun with him that week.
When I first got home, I realized S hadn't brought his laptop home. He told me that he didn't need it for his Science homework, because he just "had to draw lines." I was confused, but more hungry, so I figured I would review after we had dinner. In a way, he was correct - he simply had to draw a line from the scientific term to the proper definition of the term.
While he was doing this, I took that time to go through his binder, and his agenda. As I was doing this, I realized that he is going to need a LOT more hands-on assistance with organizing his notes, etc. He has papers all over the place - most of them not in the proper subject sections. My thoughts are that this could be part of the EA's job - you know, "assisting with organization" as is written in his IEP - but I could be wrong. I will be asking for clarification from either the principal or the SERT.
When I went through his agenda, I noticed that he also had religion homework. I asked him about that, and that is when he started to hit himself in the head because he forgot the laptop. Apparently he had started that homework on the computer. I'm thinking he thought he was going to get out of that homework, but since he was just required to paraphrase verses 1-12 of Matthew 2, I was able to pull out the bible, read the verse to him, then he sat down and typed up the paragraph. Of course, it took him quite a bit longer than it would have if he'd had his school computer, but maybe he will realize that NOT having the computer isn't going to get him out of doing the work.
I am such a mean mother.
Friday, August 31, 2007
It's not ALL bad...
You know what's funny? Not in a ha-ha type of way, either. I have re-read all of my past posts, and as I'm reading them, I'm thinking to myself "Who IS this person? Does she ever do anything that is FUN?" I think I am portraying myself in a bit of a negative light here - it's just all BAD stuff. Yet, if someone were to ask me if I'm a happy person, the answer would be that without a doubt, I am a very happy person.
I have a wonderful husband, two great kids, a home that I never want to leave, and family members that I love and enjoy spending time with. We have a large circle of friends, and we entertain often. Yet, over the past week, I have only talked about the negative things that have happened to my sons. Well, let me rephrase that - I have only talked about the struggles that have been endured while trying to raise our sons. There are many positives to my children, as well. The A-man has an awesome sense of humour, and S is really starting to develop his humour. Both boys are extremely loving and caring. I am told "I love you" on a daily basis, and we enjoy spending time together. When they were younger we had to be selective on what we did with them, but as they have gotten older, both hubby and I have learned that we have many things in common with our sons. My sincere hope is that this continues, and once they reach adulthood, I will be able to look at them and consider them to be well-rounded, well-adjusted men.
I think that is what I want to get out of writing this blog. To record the struggles both boys have had to face - and will face in the years to come - and to allow myself to see that although it was hard, it was totally worth it. THEY were totally worth it. I have always loved them with my whole heart, but there were many days that I didn't like them much. I guess most moms can say that, though - struggles like ours, or not. As time passes, we have been able to see so many improvements with both of them, and I guess the pitfalls just make the triumphs that much sweeter. I would never change anything about either of my sons. They are perfect just the way they are.
Self-esteem. That's the key to a good life, isn't it? I know we all struggle with it, and I have always had a low opinion of myself. I am full of self-doubt all of the time - does that surprise you? It's true. Horrible self-esteem issues. Yet, when it comes to my children, I am a big ole momma lion. I will roar, and fight for all I am worth. However, I rarely fight for myself.
My biggest desire for my sons is that they have a strong sense of self-worth and self-understanding. Some days they are very down on themselves, and although I know I can be very hard on them, I am learning how to work around their "disabilities" and still instill this self-worth and higher self-esteem. I don't want them to become so big headed they think they should just be handed things simply because they are there, but the day-to-day struggles we face, I guess they will simply help shape who they will become.
The A-man got his schedule for his first term at high school yesterday. He was assigned his locker, and then we wandered the school, trying to find where all of his classes were going to be. I know he is nervous. I'm nervous for him. But, there will be alot of kids in the same boat, so the first week will be full of the little "minor niners" that have no idea where they are supposed to be, or what the protocol is in the cafeteria. And he hasn't expressed any concern - which is a pretty big step for him. I guess we still have a number of days to get through, though.
S is not looking forward to going back to school, but I can pretty much guarantee that come Monday, he will be totally psyched about getting his backpack and other items ready for Tuesday morning. The first day of school is always like going to bed on Christmas Eve - it's just so new, and exciting. He will remind me to take his picture in the morning...and will pack an apple for the teacher. He's just so innocent sometimes. No wonder I love him so much.
Anyway, that is all for now. Nothing negative for this go around. Part of me is hopeful that the remainder of my blog notes will only touch on good struggles - that the bad is truly behind us. But, there is still a wee bit of a doubting Thomas hiding in here too. I'm trying to squash that guy.
I have a wonderful husband, two great kids, a home that I never want to leave, and family members that I love and enjoy spending time with. We have a large circle of friends, and we entertain often. Yet, over the past week, I have only talked about the negative things that have happened to my sons. Well, let me rephrase that - I have only talked about the struggles that have been endured while trying to raise our sons. There are many positives to my children, as well. The A-man has an awesome sense of humour, and S is really starting to develop his humour. Both boys are extremely loving and caring. I am told "I love you" on a daily basis, and we enjoy spending time together. When they were younger we had to be selective on what we did with them, but as they have gotten older, both hubby and I have learned that we have many things in common with our sons. My sincere hope is that this continues, and once they reach adulthood, I will be able to look at them and consider them to be well-rounded, well-adjusted men.
I think that is what I want to get out of writing this blog. To record the struggles both boys have had to face - and will face in the years to come - and to allow myself to see that although it was hard, it was totally worth it. THEY were totally worth it. I have always loved them with my whole heart, but there were many days that I didn't like them much. I guess most moms can say that, though - struggles like ours, or not. As time passes, we have been able to see so many improvements with both of them, and I guess the pitfalls just make the triumphs that much sweeter. I would never change anything about either of my sons. They are perfect just the way they are.
Self-esteem. That's the key to a good life, isn't it? I know we all struggle with it, and I have always had a low opinion of myself. I am full of self-doubt all of the time - does that surprise you? It's true. Horrible self-esteem issues. Yet, when it comes to my children, I am a big ole momma lion. I will roar, and fight for all I am worth. However, I rarely fight for myself.
My biggest desire for my sons is that they have a strong sense of self-worth and self-understanding. Some days they are very down on themselves, and although I know I can be very hard on them, I am learning how to work around their "disabilities" and still instill this self-worth and higher self-esteem. I don't want them to become so big headed they think they should just be handed things simply because they are there, but the day-to-day struggles we face, I guess they will simply help shape who they will become.
The A-man got his schedule for his first term at high school yesterday. He was assigned his locker, and then we wandered the school, trying to find where all of his classes were going to be. I know he is nervous. I'm nervous for him. But, there will be alot of kids in the same boat, so the first week will be full of the little "minor niners" that have no idea where they are supposed to be, or what the protocol is in the cafeteria. And he hasn't expressed any concern - which is a pretty big step for him. I guess we still have a number of days to get through, though.
S is not looking forward to going back to school, but I can pretty much guarantee that come Monday, he will be totally psyched about getting his backpack and other items ready for Tuesday morning. The first day of school is always like going to bed on Christmas Eve - it's just so new, and exciting. He will remind me to take his picture in the morning...and will pack an apple for the teacher. He's just so innocent sometimes. No wonder I love him so much.
Anyway, that is all for now. Nothing negative for this go around. Part of me is hopeful that the remainder of my blog notes will only touch on good struggles - that the bad is truly behind us. But, there is still a wee bit of a doubting Thomas hiding in here too. I'm trying to squash that guy.
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