Hi everyone,
First of all, thank you all for your comments--truly, you are extraordinarily helpful at times when I feel like no one understands our situation. I feel like the biggest issue I have is trying to combat/learn our way out of issues at home when I do not have permission to write about them in detail, or at all. (For any new readers, Elena and Vivian have to approve anything I write on this blog about them).
So I'll do my best.
First, the breakthrough.
We have been working on a lot of self-sufficiency/executive function tasks/sequencing/attitude things for YEARS with our educational and psychology team. The reality is, we really haven't made much progress. We are considering a psychiatrist; not immediately, but the possibility is looming of getting help that way. (I understand that there isn't a lot of detail behind this).
Essentially a lot of this boils down to Elena being able to do things, but just doesn't. (Basic things. That she can do. I swear, taking all your comments into account, I am not asking too much with my demands.)
So, we are trying to find ways for her to practice skills without increasing her isolation (ideally, if she isn't ready, we don't just leave her at home, for instance). This has been a near constant struggle.
What ended up working was using her upcoming Chorus competition field trip (to Nashville) as bait.
I simply told her I wasn't going (as chaperone, or as her helper).
Her mouth dropped.
And then I told her if she wanted to go, I would not let her delay the group; she would have to find a way to prepare herself, using methods we have been trying to teach her, and she would have to demonstrate she was capable of this by a certain date or she would not be able to go.
So, this worked for a few weeks (a record!) and then sunk back, but as she realizes I am dead serious, I think things are getting better.
End of 2018
December was a whirlwind of end-of-school performances, medical appointments, and lots of time dealing with health insurance. My in-laws came down for Christmas; we always love having them, and they were especially helpful this year! My family joined us the day after Christmas and it was wonderful having everyone here. Dad is doing okay, Jason was our chef and dinner was lovely, and we even managed to get a family picture!
I don't know about you all, but my 2018 was a few amazing highs peppered among a lot of lows. Among the high points was my trip to Africa, spending time with friends and family in a few select cities (DC, NY), and our trip to the beach. The lows are more of the struggles vaguely described above, of course, my Dad's diagnosis, Jason's traveling for work, and navigating Vivian's epilepsy--which took about 3/4 of this year. I've been trying to take care of myself and our family during this time by stressing healthy eating, regular exercise, and a regular sleep regimen.
I know that the New Year is just another day, but the idea of starting fresh is appealing. Here are a few lessons I've learned this year, in no particular order:
1. Keep the best notes possible regarding health expenses. You never know when someone will be hurt or sick, and it can save a ton of time and stress if this is organized. I thought I was good before, when I blew out my knee in 2015--but Viv's condition is pretty complex. My plan needs some tweaks, including better digital organization, but I'll get there.
2. Everyone says it, but it's true: take time for yourself. I enrolled myself in an adult beginner tap dance class; I'm not good at it, and I can't make it every week, but I try, even if it's been a terrible night at home. I'll even get a sitter. The physical and mental challenge of tap really gets me out of my negative headspace, I can't possibly focus on problem solving home challenges AND getting the dance combo right.
3. Make an exercise goal. I joined an instagram challenge (something I've never done before) and while it wasn't super difficult, it made me structure in exercise where I wouldn't have otherwise. Now I make monthly short-term goals, and I've been doing well on them for the past three months. My biggest achievement (I think) is I've biked 50 miles/week (on my decade-old fluid trainer in the cold garage, mostly) for the past three months. I have bigger fitness goals, but it all depends if I can jog again, which I'll be working on in 2019.
4. Get fresh air every day. I know when things are negative, or cold and grey outside, sometimes cave days are good--but getting out, even if for a short while, makes them better (I think).
Showing posts with label goals. Show all posts
Showing posts with label goals. Show all posts
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
5th Grade Recap and Graduation
The 5th grade finale was a whirlwind time…so much going on, I was pretty exhausted and didn't have energy to write.
Elena had a few goals for herself for fifth grade; they were all academic. She mastered her times tables (she really wanted to do that) and we managed a pretty good routine related to schoolwork, being active, and getting rest.
I didn't visit 5th grade very often (I volunteered in Vivian's class quite a bit). Mostly I didn't b/c the kids were all pretty busy and needed less parent intervention; I decided it was important for me to be as "hands off" as possible with Elena in school. I think she appreciated that.
She was more independent in general; this was the only year she did not have an aide. Sure, there were people who helped E in the lunchroom (if needed) and on/off the bus, and at field trips--but Elena was mainly on her own, and did well. If I was concerned about her being included (or excluded), or feeling upset about how she was doing physically…any time I checked in on E at school I was pleasantly surprised. Every time. She would be working in a group, or running around in PE trying to tag someone, or sitting at lunch with friends, or playing four-square with one crutch at recess with the rest of the kids, taking turns just like them. I can't say enough how thankful I am for this school, these teachers, these students.
Elena took her SOL tests (state mandated Standard of Learning; for the non-Americans reading, these tests are a hotly contested topic) on paper this year instead of online (last year it was a mix). Her teacher recommended paper-pencil accommodation; both Elena and I agreed this was a good idea. She had extra time (really didn't take it) and mandated breaks. Elena hated the tests, but seemed to have a decent attitude and was relatively calm about taking them (that's a win!). I still don't know if she passed them (scoring takes longer with this accommodation, but I'm still not sure how to get the results).
Elena's favorite academic subjects are science and history. She does not like math, and this is our hardest subject right now (but we have a good homework ritual). We had a tutor last year but lost him with scheduling conflicts. Elena is also a slow reader (especially with books she does not like). She has worked very hard, and her grades showed it throughout the year, ending with straight As. We are so very proud.
Elena's big IEP goals were related to keeping up physically with her peers (getting to/from classes, being swift and safe on the few stairs that are in the building, sitting properly to best use her hands, carrying a lunch tray, interacting in PE). I took a great video of E carrying her lunch tray (with her lunch on it) (no crutches) in a crowded lunchroom and navigating perfectly.
She stood and sang with her peers during her (long, hot) 5th grade choral concert. She took a seat in a chair (the only one) while she played the recorder part of the concert, and then afterwards went right back up with her peers (it was perfect). She helped wash cars with one crutch during the staff car wash and got sprayed with water with everyone else; the only difference begin she wore her shoes and I helped her dry off and change out of her wet clothes (and soaked socks). She joined the drama club again this year, and for the first time had a few costume changes. I stayed away from backstage this year and just enjoyed the show.
On graduation day, she walked (and kept up) with her paired classmate during the ceremony. Vivian was part of the ceremony too, a lovely addition to a beautiful occasion. Elena navigated the steps and seats, and when it was her turn to get her diploma, walked down/over and shook hands and held her certificate.
Just like everyone else.
What a great year.
Elena had a few goals for herself for fifth grade; they were all academic. She mastered her times tables (she really wanted to do that) and we managed a pretty good routine related to schoolwork, being active, and getting rest.
I didn't visit 5th grade very often (I volunteered in Vivian's class quite a bit). Mostly I didn't b/c the kids were all pretty busy and needed less parent intervention; I decided it was important for me to be as "hands off" as possible with Elena in school. I think she appreciated that.
She was more independent in general; this was the only year she did not have an aide. Sure, there were people who helped E in the lunchroom (if needed) and on/off the bus, and at field trips--but Elena was mainly on her own, and did well. If I was concerned about her being included (or excluded), or feeling upset about how she was doing physically…any time I checked in on E at school I was pleasantly surprised. Every time. She would be working in a group, or running around in PE trying to tag someone, or sitting at lunch with friends, or playing four-square with one crutch at recess with the rest of the kids, taking turns just like them. I can't say enough how thankful I am for this school, these teachers, these students.
Elena took her SOL tests (state mandated Standard of Learning; for the non-Americans reading, these tests are a hotly contested topic) on paper this year instead of online (last year it was a mix). Her teacher recommended paper-pencil accommodation; both Elena and I agreed this was a good idea. She had extra time (really didn't take it) and mandated breaks. Elena hated the tests, but seemed to have a decent attitude and was relatively calm about taking them (that's a win!). I still don't know if she passed them (scoring takes longer with this accommodation, but I'm still not sure how to get the results).
Elena's favorite academic subjects are science and history. She does not like math, and this is our hardest subject right now (but we have a good homework ritual). We had a tutor last year but lost him with scheduling conflicts. Elena is also a slow reader (especially with books she does not like). She has worked very hard, and her grades showed it throughout the year, ending with straight As. We are so very proud.
Elena's big IEP goals were related to keeping up physically with her peers (getting to/from classes, being swift and safe on the few stairs that are in the building, sitting properly to best use her hands, carrying a lunch tray, interacting in PE). I took a great video of E carrying her lunch tray (with her lunch on it) (no crutches) in a crowded lunchroom and navigating perfectly.
She stood and sang with her peers during her (long, hot) 5th grade choral concert. She took a seat in a chair (the only one) while she played the recorder part of the concert, and then afterwards went right back up with her peers (it was perfect). She helped wash cars with one crutch during the staff car wash and got sprayed with water with everyone else; the only difference begin she wore her shoes and I helped her dry off and change out of her wet clothes (and soaked socks). She joined the drama club again this year, and for the first time had a few costume changes. I stayed away from backstage this year and just enjoyed the show.
 |
| Cropped from an ensemble Jungle Book song/dance number |
On graduation day, she walked (and kept up) with her paired classmate during the ceremony. Vivian was part of the ceremony too, a lovely addition to a beautiful occasion. Elena navigated the steps and seats, and when it was her turn to get her diploma, walked down/over and shook hands and held her certificate.
 |
| Our graduate |
Just like everyone else.
What a great year.
Monday, January 5, 2015
Happy New Year! Goals 2015
We talked about our goals as a family, and we have a few. We try to think of these goals by season, as to work on them throughout the year.
Goals for E (* denotes a goal made on her own):
1. Swim forward and back longways across the warm water pool.* My guess is the pool is about 15m across. E can swim across the short-side, but she isn't always successful. Sometimes she looks fantastic, other times she sinks. I think she just needs more time to figure it out.
2. Try to get out of her crouch. I know this is a lifelong issue. We'll try something new this year.
3. Use the walk path around the neighborhood. There is a nice path around the houses here, but it's gravel and hilly. We've never taken a walk on it. I'd like to see how far we can go.
4. Bike the river trail without help. Trike or upright bike, I want her to be able to use the brake appropriately and pedal up the small hills.
5. Start voice lessons. E has asked for voice and piano a while back; she enjoys piano, but as we've learned from the psychologist, it accentuates almost everything that is difficult for her.
6. Help me cook more often. E is enjoying being my helper, and can now use a sharp knife (thanks after-school class!). It also opens up a lot of great opportunities to talk about real life math.
7. Try yoga again.
Goals for Vivian:
1. Go down a water slide.* Vivian is almost an independent swimmer now. If she passes the swim test, she can slide this summer.
2. Have after school activities. Viv typically gets dragged around to Elena's appointments, but doesn't have her own. She joined a girl scout troop (once a month), and I enrolled her in a tap dancing class. She also wants to take ballet, but we'll have to fit that in later in the year.
Goals for me:
1. Finish the 40 for 40. (Forty preferably-athletic events in the calendar year between my 39th and 40th birthday). I'm halfway there.
2. Try every class at the gym.
3. Declutter. Specifically the storage room and the garage.
4. Drink more water. I get headaches, mostly from dehydration.
5. Sleep better. I am a horribly light sleeper and hardly ever rest well. This got infinitely worse after I became a parent, accentuated by the fact that I had a child that could not get in/out of her bed on her own and every obstacle was a serious fall hazard. Elena can do almost everything on her own (wearing her leg brace at night makes it very very slow) but I am constantly aware of every sound.
6. Try the garden again. I constructed a compost bin last summer, and we've been adding to it since then. I plan on trying raised beds of sorts, so E can garden without squatting so much. We'll see.
Goals for all of us:
1. Be loud cheerleaders when Jason runs his 10-miler!
2. Look at our world a different way. E has been interested in astronomy (before they started studying it in school), and we had a special meeting with a hobby astronomer last year. We'll have another stargazing party (we take out a mattress on the driveway and kids come over) or two. And Vivian is really into amoebas (I think she liked the word) so we'll take water samples from the lake and see the small stuff. I'm looking for a secondhand microscope, as well as making one of my own (my first attempt wasn't successful).
3. Everyone walk to the beach on their own. Grown-ups will carry chairs, but not kids.
4. Welcome our new baby cousin! I am very excited about the impending arrival of my nephew! Vivian has never seen a newborn.
5. Send a card with family updates. We used to send one out at Christmas, but we're two years behind.
6. Craft more at home. I'm not into crafting unless it has a specific use (knitting blankets, decorating cookies, making Halloween costumes) but E and Viv could use the fine-motor practice.
7. Find a game the entire family enjoys playing. Right now Viv doesn't like to play our current favorites.
7. Find a game the entire family enjoys playing. Right now Viv doesn't like to play our current favorites.
Happy New Year! Recap of 2014's goals
A few days late, but Happy New Year! We had a great Christmas holiday and a nice break from school. The weather was nice, so both girls had fun with friends and family!
I don't have many holiday pictures…there were also a lot of doctor's appointments over the break. But that's for another post. I have been thinking of our goals from last year, our goals for this year, and how we can best achieve them (given the hit to E's mobility/upcoming surgical options).
First, I'll recap last year.
1. INITIATIVE. Check. Elena has been more responsible in getting her homework done, getting ready for school, etc. It's been a gradual process, but it's definitely improved. Her homework nook and a few changes around the house has made it easier.
2. Summer of Independence. Check. And it helped a lot with goal 1. Sure, with her crouch issues/pain, we've had some setbacks, but overall she knows we expect her to be as independent as possible.
3. Have another stretching trial. Check. We use her stander regularly at home, and she uses one in school. I can't say it's helped much, but we tried.
4. SWIM LESSONS. CHECK!
5. Have a playdate twice a month. Half-check. Drama club helps with her social development, and takes a lot of time. Twice a month is a bit much, but E has had more playdates than ever (still not tons, but some!).
6. Take a trip to visit a friend. Nope.
7. Go camping in our new tent! CHECK!
8. Run a race. Nope. Viv did one with me but we didn't think it was a good idea with E's intermittent knee pain.
9. Go to an aquarium. CHECK!
10. Go kayaking. CHECK!
11. Go up and down the stairs, with one hand on the railing, the other free, regardless of footwear, on a regular basis. Nope. She can do it, but not on a regular basis--only when she's feeling really good. With her knee/tightness, she's already fallen down the steps twice this year--so the pressure is off of this goal.
12. Do the cha-cha slide (or other dance) without crutches. Nope. This was a little ambitious.
13. Write a story/poem/comic and submit it to a contest (there are a few we like, either in the paper or on radio). Nope.
14. Ride her bike (with training wheels) independently. Meaning, if she has to brake, she does. If she has to get on/off, she does. If she falls, she gets back up and on the bike. Right now, she's done everything but the fall independently, but with very close supervision. Nope. We did get toe clip pedals, which help riding and make it difficult for her to get on/off. We've taken a break from her regular bike and concentrated on her trike.
15. Hunt for shells at the beach--standing up, carrying a bucket. Nope. We did try, but it wasn't successful.
16. Try to FaceTime (or other video chat) with a friend. Half-check--we did a lot of this with family.
New Years Goals for Vivian:
1. Make her own breakfast (cereal, toast, or some other low-maintenance option). CHECK! She's a whiz with the toaster and frozen homemade waffles.
2. Put her laundry in a clothes hamper. Check!
3. Ride a bike without training wheels. Check!
4. Roller Skate with her new skates. Check!
New Years Goals for Me:
1. Have a regular exercise regimen. It doesn't have to be the same thing every week, but the frequency of activity should be more than once a week. Check.
2. Do two large races. I've already signed up for a bike race (ride, for me--I'm not racing). I hope to enter a short triathlon as one of them (but we'll see). Mostly check. I decided not to do long races, but shorter ones. So far I have logged nearly twenty of them. My plan is to do forty, before I'm forty (in one calendar year). I am about halfway, right on target.
3. Reduce clutter in the house/clean the house. I'm doing a good job on this, but I'm not finished. Check.
4. Make some sort of beach shoe for Elena to wear with her KiddieGaits. I have some ideas we'll be testing out before our summer beach trip. Nope. I spent too much time on crutches and tried to find a good shoe. A good try, but a failure on both counts.
5. Grow a garden for food and flowers. We didn't get much to grow last year. Half-check. I grew a lot of leaves, not much actual fruit/veg.
6. Volunteer at school. Check.
7. Add enough fiber to our diets (specifically, Elena's) to try to eventually discontinue use of her laxative. Still a work in progress.
8. Read five books (or more) this year. Check! I've read over 14. I lost count.
9. Visit a new city, with the kids, on a school break. Check! We took the kids to Boston!
10. Go out for a family movie. Check!
Overall I'd say we did very well on our 2014 goals!
I don't have many holiday pictures…there were also a lot of doctor's appointments over the break. But that's for another post. I have been thinking of our goals from last year, our goals for this year, and how we can best achieve them (given the hit to E's mobility/upcoming surgical options).
First, I'll recap last year.
1. INITIATIVE. Check. Elena has been more responsible in getting her homework done, getting ready for school, etc. It's been a gradual process, but it's definitely improved. Her homework nook and a few changes around the house has made it easier.
2. Summer of Independence. Check. And it helped a lot with goal 1. Sure, with her crouch issues/pain, we've had some setbacks, but overall she knows we expect her to be as independent as possible.
3. Have another stretching trial. Check. We use her stander regularly at home, and she uses one in school. I can't say it's helped much, but we tried.
4. SWIM LESSONS. CHECK!
5. Have a playdate twice a month. Half-check. Drama club helps with her social development, and takes a lot of time. Twice a month is a bit much, but E has had more playdates than ever (still not tons, but some!).
6. Take a trip to visit a friend. Nope.
7. Go camping in our new tent! CHECK!
8. Run a race. Nope. Viv did one with me but we didn't think it was a good idea with E's intermittent knee pain.
9. Go to an aquarium. CHECK!
10. Go kayaking. CHECK!
11. Go up and down the stairs, with one hand on the railing, the other free, regardless of footwear, on a regular basis. Nope. She can do it, but not on a regular basis--only when she's feeling really good. With her knee/tightness, she's already fallen down the steps twice this year--so the pressure is off of this goal.
12. Do the cha-cha slide (or other dance) without crutches. Nope. This was a little ambitious.
13. Write a story/poem/comic and submit it to a contest (there are a few we like, either in the paper or on radio). Nope.
14. Ride her bike (with training wheels) independently. Meaning, if she has to brake, she does. If she has to get on/off, she does. If she falls, she gets back up and on the bike. Right now, she's done everything but the fall independently, but with very close supervision. Nope. We did get toe clip pedals, which help riding and make it difficult for her to get on/off. We've taken a break from her regular bike and concentrated on her trike.
15. Hunt for shells at the beach--standing up, carrying a bucket. Nope. We did try, but it wasn't successful.
16. Try to FaceTime (or other video chat) with a friend. Half-check--we did a lot of this with family.
New Years Goals for Vivian:
1. Make her own breakfast (cereal, toast, or some other low-maintenance option). CHECK! She's a whiz with the toaster and frozen homemade waffles.
2. Put her laundry in a clothes hamper. Check!
3. Ride a bike without training wheels. Check!
4. Roller Skate with her new skates. Check!
New Years Goals for Me:
1. Have a regular exercise regimen. It doesn't have to be the same thing every week, but the frequency of activity should be more than once a week. Check.
2. Do two large races. I've already signed up for a bike race (ride, for me--I'm not racing). I hope to enter a short triathlon as one of them (but we'll see). Mostly check. I decided not to do long races, but shorter ones. So far I have logged nearly twenty of them. My plan is to do forty, before I'm forty (in one calendar year). I am about halfway, right on target.
3. Reduce clutter in the house/clean the house. I'm doing a good job on this, but I'm not finished. Check.
4. Make some sort of beach shoe for Elena to wear with her KiddieGaits. I have some ideas we'll be testing out before our summer beach trip. Nope. I spent too much time on crutches and tried to find a good shoe. A good try, but a failure on both counts.
5. Grow a garden for food and flowers. We didn't get much to grow last year. Half-check. I grew a lot of leaves, not much actual fruit/veg.
6. Volunteer at school. Check.
7. Add enough fiber to our diets (specifically, Elena's) to try to eventually discontinue use of her laxative. Still a work in progress.
8. Read five books (or more) this year. Check! I've read over 14. I lost count.
9. Visit a new city, with the kids, on a school break. Check! We took the kids to Boston!
10. Go out for a family movie. Check!
Overall I'd say we did very well on our 2014 goals!
Thursday, January 2, 2014
New Years Goals, 2014
Happy New Year! I hope everyone is ready to say goodbye to 2013. For me, 2013 was a giant stressball of work and home--with some great times wedged in the chaos. I am ready for something different.
I asked E and Viv for their input for these goals. Here we go!
1. INITIATIVE. I'm not sure how to measure this, but I want Elena to respond quicker to just about everything. Getting to the table when we call her, starting her homework, doing what her teacher asks, moving toward a destination. She waits until the third or fourth time we ask, and frequently until we get upset at her for lack of starting an activity. She is late at school when leaving a room, starting work, cleaning up, etc. My guess is part of this is learned, b/c until end of 2nd grade, she typically always had an adult helper for clean up, carrying, escort, etc.
2. Summer of Independence. We usually work on something giant during summer break--before it was No Carrying, then transitioning to crutches. This year it will be self-sufficiency. Dressing herself, brushing her own teeth, taking her own bath, making her own breakfast, etc. She does these things individually, but never together (due to time constraints and school).
3. Have another stretching trial. We'll be using the stander from now until her birthday in an intense regimen to try to keep her legs from getting too tight. E has approved the plan.
4. SWIM LESSONS.
5. Have a playdate twice a month.
6. Take a trip to visit a friend.
7. Go camping in our new tent!
8. Run a race.
9. Go to an aquarium.
10. Go kayaking.
11. Go up and down the stairs, with one hand on the railing, the other free, regardless of footwear, on a regular basis.
12. Do the cha-cha slide (or other dance) without crutches.
13. Write a story/poem/comic and submit it to a contest (there are a few we like, either in the paper or on radio).
14. Ride her bike (with training wheels) independently. Meaning, if she has to brake, she does. If she has to get on/off, she does. If she falls, she gets back up and on the bike. Right now, she's done everything but the fall independently, but with very close supervision.
15. Hunt for shells at the beach--standing up, carrying a bucket.
16. Try to FaceTime (or other video chat) with a friend.
New Years Goals for Vivian:
1. Make her own breakfast (cereal, toast, or some other low-maintenance option).
2. Put her laundry in a clothes hamper.
3. Ride a bike without training wheels.
4. Roller Skate with her new skates.
New Years Goals for Me:
1. Have a regular exercise regimen. It doesn't have to be the same thing every week, but the frequency of activity should be more than once a week.
2. Do two large races. I've already signed up for a bike race (ride, for me--I'm not racing). I hope to enter a short triathlon as one of them (but we'll see).
3. Reduce clutter in the house/clean the house. I'm doing a good job on this, but I'm not finished.
4. Make some sort of beach shoe for Elena to wear with her KiddieGaits. I have some ideas we'll be testing out before our summer beach trip.
5. Grow a garden for food and flowers. We didn't get much to grow last year.
6. Volunteer at school.
7. Add enough fiber to our diets (specifically, Elena's) to try to eventually discontinue use of her laxative.
8. Read five books (or more) this year.
9. Visit a new city, with the kids, on a school break.
10. Go out for a family movie.
HERE WE GO!
I asked E and Viv for their input for these goals. Here we go!
1. INITIATIVE. I'm not sure how to measure this, but I want Elena to respond quicker to just about everything. Getting to the table when we call her, starting her homework, doing what her teacher asks, moving toward a destination. She waits until the third or fourth time we ask, and frequently until we get upset at her for lack of starting an activity. She is late at school when leaving a room, starting work, cleaning up, etc. My guess is part of this is learned, b/c until end of 2nd grade, she typically always had an adult helper for clean up, carrying, escort, etc.
2. Summer of Independence. We usually work on something giant during summer break--before it was No Carrying, then transitioning to crutches. This year it will be self-sufficiency. Dressing herself, brushing her own teeth, taking her own bath, making her own breakfast, etc. She does these things individually, but never together (due to time constraints and school).
3. Have another stretching trial. We'll be using the stander from now until her birthday in an intense regimen to try to keep her legs from getting too tight. E has approved the plan.
4. SWIM LESSONS.
5. Have a playdate twice a month.
6. Take a trip to visit a friend.
7. Go camping in our new tent!
8. Run a race.
9. Go to an aquarium.
10. Go kayaking.
11. Go up and down the stairs, with one hand on the railing, the other free, regardless of footwear, on a regular basis.
12. Do the cha-cha slide (or other dance) without crutches.
13. Write a story/poem/comic and submit it to a contest (there are a few we like, either in the paper or on radio).
14. Ride her bike (with training wheels) independently. Meaning, if she has to brake, she does. If she has to get on/off, she does. If she falls, she gets back up and on the bike. Right now, she's done everything but the fall independently, but with very close supervision.
15. Hunt for shells at the beach--standing up, carrying a bucket.
16. Try to FaceTime (or other video chat) with a friend.
New Years Goals for Vivian:
1. Make her own breakfast (cereal, toast, or some other low-maintenance option).
2. Put her laundry in a clothes hamper.
3. Ride a bike without training wheels.
4. Roller Skate with her new skates.
New Years Goals for Me:
1. Have a regular exercise regimen. It doesn't have to be the same thing every week, but the frequency of activity should be more than once a week.
2. Do two large races. I've already signed up for a bike race (ride, for me--I'm not racing). I hope to enter a short triathlon as one of them (but we'll see).
3. Reduce clutter in the house/clean the house. I'm doing a good job on this, but I'm not finished.
4. Make some sort of beach shoe for Elena to wear with her KiddieGaits. I have some ideas we'll be testing out before our summer beach trip.
5. Grow a garden for food and flowers. We didn't get much to grow last year.
6. Volunteer at school.
7. Add enough fiber to our diets (specifically, Elena's) to try to eventually discontinue use of her laxative.
8. Read five books (or more) this year.
9. Visit a new city, with the kids, on a school break.
10. Go out for a family movie.
HERE WE GO!
Sunday, December 29, 2013
New Year's Goals 2013: The Recap
I always like to review our goals that we had set for this year. We review them with Elena too, so she can see how far she has come.
New Years Goals for Elena:
1. Complete the Blue Ridge Marathon. CHECK! E ran her fastest mile, approximately 17 minutes, on the day of the marathon. It was awesome.
2. Catch a frisbee. CHECK! I may not have a video of her best catch, but she did it!
3. Put in her own earrings. Untested. She can get them out herself. It would help if she had a mirror that she could get close to so she can really see what she is doing.
4. Play mini golf by without help. CHECK! Jason also took the girls later in the year and said Elena did a great job!
5. Get ready for bed by herself, in 10 minutes. CHECK! When she is really motivated, she can do it. It takes focus and she has to be in the right mood to be efficient.
6. Leave the house, with her own backpack on, and get on the school bus while we watch. CHECK! Well, I'm giving it a check. She left the house, went down the stone steps (with her backpack on), to the bus. She needs a small boost getting on that first step onto the bus.
7. Stretch with the Dynasplint 3x week. Nope. We are using it more than we used to, mostly b/c we are looking at stretching options because she is so tight. We need more stretching, or something, b/c spasticity/contracture is a problem--especially on her right foot.
8. Do CME exercises, or similar type balance play on playgrounds, 3x/week. Nope. Granted, this was ambitious. There just wasn't time to get this going.
9. TAKE SWIM LESSONS UGH this is my biggest disappointment in myself regarding this list. I just couldn't fit it in the schedule. I don't know how to make this more of a priority. Elena wants this.
10. Ride bikes! CHECK!
11. Sleep in a tent! CHECK! We got a new tent for Christmas, so hopefully we won't get drenched next time.
12. Take the kids to the movies. Nope. We've had some movie nights at home, but we haven't been to the theater yet.
Elena's own goals:
1. Climb the rock wall at PT by herself. CHECK!
2. Take piano or voice lessons. CHECK! (piano)
3. Have an Easter Egg Hunt outside the house. Nope. It rained on Easter. We did have hunts inside, though.
4. Spend time in the snow--sledding and skiing. CHECK!
Bonus Vivian goals:
1. Roller skate CHECK!
2. Make her own toast Well, we tried. She ended up almost sticking her hand right in the hot toaster, so we'll have to try that again sometime.
3. Play frisbee with a dog (E likes the addition of a dog too) Untested.
4. Write a letter (she can write her name) She wrote a note to me, the first day after I left work, wishing me a great day off. CHECK.
And goals for me:
1. Spend more time with grown-ups. CHECK! Not as much as i'd like, but yes.
2. Continue to do something after the kids go to bed. CHECK. It's much better now that I am home.
3. Run/bike some races around town. Well, I did some with Elena. Half-check.
4. Paint the foyer of the house. No, but I did paint the playroom, which is probably better.
5. Learn how to use my new sewing machine! CHECK! Halloween!
6. Find a babysitter. Nope. We still need to do this one.
Overall, I think we did a pretty good job on these. Being home is going to change a lot of things, one being structuring homework so we can fit in more activities--or less of them. Elena is having some school challenges, which brings academics to the forefront, competing with motor skills--it's hard to find the time (especially when her everyday activities take her longer to accomplish than her peers). I'm not sure how well we balance school/home/exercise/therapy/rest/down time, but I do know that me being home will be an improvement in a lot of these areas.
Next up, 2014 Goals!
New Years Goals for Elena:
1. Complete the Blue Ridge Marathon. CHECK! E ran her fastest mile, approximately 17 minutes, on the day of the marathon. It was awesome.
2. Catch a frisbee. CHECK! I may not have a video of her best catch, but she did it!
3. Put in her own earrings. Untested. She can get them out herself. It would help if she had a mirror that she could get close to so she can really see what she is doing.
4. Play mini golf by without help. CHECK! Jason also took the girls later in the year and said Elena did a great job!
5. Get ready for bed by herself, in 10 minutes. CHECK! When she is really motivated, she can do it. It takes focus and she has to be in the right mood to be efficient.
6. Leave the house, with her own backpack on, and get on the school bus while we watch. CHECK! Well, I'm giving it a check. She left the house, went down the stone steps (with her backpack on), to the bus. She needs a small boost getting on that first step onto the bus.
7. Stretch with the Dynasplint 3x week. Nope. We are using it more than we used to, mostly b/c we are looking at stretching options because she is so tight. We need more stretching, or something, b/c spasticity/contracture is a problem--especially on her right foot.
8. Do CME exercises, or similar type balance play on playgrounds, 3x/week. Nope. Granted, this was ambitious. There just wasn't time to get this going.
9. TAKE SWIM LESSONS UGH this is my biggest disappointment in myself regarding this list. I just couldn't fit it in the schedule. I don't know how to make this more of a priority. Elena wants this.
10. Ride bikes! CHECK!
11. Sleep in a tent! CHECK! We got a new tent for Christmas, so hopefully we won't get drenched next time.
12. Take the kids to the movies. Nope. We've had some movie nights at home, but we haven't been to the theater yet.
Elena's own goals:
1. Climb the rock wall at PT by herself. CHECK!
2. Take piano or voice lessons. CHECK! (piano)
3. Have an Easter Egg Hunt outside the house. Nope. It rained on Easter. We did have hunts inside, though.
4. Spend time in the snow--sledding and skiing. CHECK!
Bonus Vivian goals:
1. Roller skate CHECK!
2. Make her own toast Well, we tried. She ended up almost sticking her hand right in the hot toaster, so we'll have to try that again sometime.
3. Play frisbee with a dog (E likes the addition of a dog too) Untested.
4. Write a letter (she can write her name) She wrote a note to me, the first day after I left work, wishing me a great day off. CHECK.
And goals for me:
1. Spend more time with grown-ups. CHECK! Not as much as i'd like, but yes.
2. Continue to do something after the kids go to bed. CHECK. It's much better now that I am home.
3. Run/bike some races around town. Well, I did some with Elena. Half-check.
4. Paint the foyer of the house. No, but I did paint the playroom, which is probably better.
5. Learn how to use my new sewing machine! CHECK! Halloween!
6. Find a babysitter. Nope. We still need to do this one.
Overall, I think we did a pretty good job on these. Being home is going to change a lot of things, one being structuring homework so we can fit in more activities--or less of them. Elena is having some school challenges, which brings academics to the forefront, competing with motor skills--it's hard to find the time (especially when her everyday activities take her longer to accomplish than her peers). I'm not sure how well we balance school/home/exercise/therapy/rest/down time, but I do know that me being home will be an improvement in a lot of these areas.
Next up, 2014 Goals!
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Happy 2013! New Year's Goals
Goals for Elena (in no particular order):
1. Complete the Blue Ridge Marathon. Elena and Vivian are already registered; they have until April 20th to log in 25.2 miles, and then they'll finish the last mile with the marathon runners! We'll be keeping track of her progress, so stay tuned!
2. Catch a frisbee.
3. Put in her own earrings. She needs to stand steady and tall so she can use both of her hands.
4. Play mini golf by without help.
5. Get ready for bed by herself, in 10 minutes. Meaning, use the bathroom, wash hands, brush her teeth, get into bed, get her own covers on (it is difficult for her to get over her covers and then underneath them without help) and wait for me to tuck her in. I think she can do this, but we've never tried it all at once and under a specific time frame.
6. Leave the house, with her own backpack on, and get on the school bus while we watch. Normally she is under close supervision, with us ready to catch her (we are in front of her, going backwards down the steps) and we are carrying her backpack. I always worry with her going down the stone steps, but she has only fallen once (and managed to end up on the grass, not sure how that happened). Obviously this will wait until the cold/icy weather has passed.
7. Stretch with the Dynasplint 3x week. We should be doing this more often, but realistically, we don't have that much time in a day to do everything.
8. Do CME exercises, or similar type balance play on playgrounds, 3x/week. Hopefully we can fit this in the schedule...
9. TAKE SWIM LESSONS
10. Ride bikes!
11. Sleep in a tent!
12. Take the kids to the movies. E doesn't like to sit still that long--it might depend on the type of movie. I also worry a bit about the noise level, b/c it is so darn LOUD in a theater!
Elena's own goals:
1. Climb the rock wall at PT by herself. (It's new and it's awesome!)
2. Take piano or voice lessons.
3. Have an Easter Egg Hunt outside the house.
4. Spend time in the snow--sledding and skiing.
Bonus Vivian goals:
1. Roller skate
2. Make her own toast
3. Play frisbee with a dog (E likes the addition of a dog too)
4. Write a letter (she can write her name)
And goals for me:
1. Spend more time with grown-ups. (Advice on where to fit this in?)
2. Continue to do something after the kids go to bed. I have been doing well at staying up to cook, clean, or hang out with Jason, etc. This is a work in progress but it's going well.
3. Run/bike some races around town.
4. Paint the foyer of the house. It's got E's handprints all over it from learning to walk over the years, and it's WAY overdue.
5. Learn how to use my new sewing machine! I've been doing all the girls' costumes, Scout badges, and clothes alterations by hand...it'll be a snap once I figure out the machine.
6. Find a babysitter. We LOVE our Fantastic Nanny Annette, but we need to find an alternate in the hope of having a date night every now and then. It would be good to introduce the girls to a different caretaker if we are away.
LET'S DO THIS!
1. Complete the Blue Ridge Marathon. Elena and Vivian are already registered; they have until April 20th to log in 25.2 miles, and then they'll finish the last mile with the marathon runners! We'll be keeping track of her progress, so stay tuned!
2. Catch a frisbee.
3. Put in her own earrings. She needs to stand steady and tall so she can use both of her hands.
4. Play mini golf by without help.
5. Get ready for bed by herself, in 10 minutes. Meaning, use the bathroom, wash hands, brush her teeth, get into bed, get her own covers on (it is difficult for her to get over her covers and then underneath them without help) and wait for me to tuck her in. I think she can do this, but we've never tried it all at once and under a specific time frame.
6. Leave the house, with her own backpack on, and get on the school bus while we watch. Normally she is under close supervision, with us ready to catch her (we are in front of her, going backwards down the steps) and we are carrying her backpack. I always worry with her going down the stone steps, but she has only fallen once (and managed to end up on the grass, not sure how that happened). Obviously this will wait until the cold/icy weather has passed.
7. Stretch with the Dynasplint 3x week. We should be doing this more often, but realistically, we don't have that much time in a day to do everything.
8. Do CME exercises, or similar type balance play on playgrounds, 3x/week. Hopefully we can fit this in the schedule...
9. TAKE SWIM LESSONS
10. Ride bikes!
11. Sleep in a tent!
12. Take the kids to the movies. E doesn't like to sit still that long--it might depend on the type of movie. I also worry a bit about the noise level, b/c it is so darn LOUD in a theater!
Elena's own goals:
1. Climb the rock wall at PT by herself. (It's new and it's awesome!)
2. Take piano or voice lessons.
3. Have an Easter Egg Hunt outside the house.
4. Spend time in the snow--sledding and skiing.
Bonus Vivian goals:
1. Roller skate
2. Make her own toast
3. Play frisbee with a dog (E likes the addition of a dog too)
4. Write a letter (she can write her name)
And goals for me:
1. Spend more time with grown-ups. (Advice on where to fit this in?)
2. Continue to do something after the kids go to bed. I have been doing well at staying up to cook, clean, or hang out with Jason, etc. This is a work in progress but it's going well.
3. Run/bike some races around town.
4. Paint the foyer of the house. It's got E's handprints all over it from learning to walk over the years, and it's WAY overdue.
5. Learn how to use my new sewing machine! I've been doing all the girls' costumes, Scout badges, and clothes alterations by hand...it'll be a snap once I figure out the machine.
6. Find a babysitter. We LOVE our Fantastic Nanny Annette, but we need to find an alternate in the hope of having a date night every now and then. It would be good to introduce the girls to a different caretaker if we are away.
LET'S DO THIS!
Saturday, December 29, 2012
New Year's Goals 2012: The Recap
Now that the holidays are almost over, it's time to review the goals from the beginning of this year.
1. Carry a regular umbrella, with or without crutches. Never attempted. She really didn't seem to want to--she loves her umbrella hat, and as one commenter noted, it is difficult bordering on unsafe at times.
2. Elena will go up and down steps (that have a banister or handrail) with only one hand holding it, one hand free, without supervision, regularly alternating right and left feet, at a good pace. CHECK. Elena can do this. She does this occasionally...but we have not been diligent in encouraging her to do it on a regular basis. I traded independence (stairs without supervision--she can crawl or walk up, and walk or slide down on her rear) for intense supervision on this one. My Christmas present from Elena was that she would walk up and down for me, with me waiting at the bottom of the steps. We agreed on a "belated" Christmas gift, b/c every time I mentioned it, she didn't feel like practicing (and when Christmas rolled around, she was mortified she wasn't ready).
3. Elena will take a group swim class and/or swim without floatation devices in the neighborhood pool. I did not get around to lessons this year! I'm still upset with myself about this one.
4. Elena will get in the bath, wash herself and her hair, get out of the bathtub, dry herself off with a towel, and put on her own pajamas. This was attempted, but the hair washing was not entirely successful. BUT she was able to get in and out of the large bathtub (last year it was only the smaller one), wash herself (hair had issues), get out, dry herself, and put on her pjs. I'm giving this one a CHECK.
5. Elena will play mini golf, with one or both hands, either with or without crutches. Never attempted. We planned on mini golf at the beach, but it rained.
6. Elena will make her own breakfast. Never attempted. But she has really helped with cooking this year, including washing, peeling, and cutting (!). She can also set the table and put food/groceries away.
7. Elena will dress herself in time for school. CHECK. She doesn't do it every day, but she has on occasion.
8. Elena will spend the night at a friend's house with NO meltdown. CHECK!
9. Elena will point and flex her feet on demand. CHECK. Her point is not good, but it is better than it's ever been. She has to close her eyes and concentrate, it doesn't come naturally.
10. Elena will do some of her own stretches herself before bed, instead of us moving her body to do all her stretches. (Laughts) Admittedly, this is a pipe dream. She does do two stretches on her own (butterfly, glute stretch) and is expected to hold "stretching" poses (frog pose, half-kneels, full stand, bridge).
Crazy goals for E?
*1. E will twirl. No, but she can turn around in 2-3 steps.
*2. E will walk a dog, without falling while holding the leash. CHECK!
*3. E will bike up a hill. She did bike up a surface that was not entirely flat. For you and me, it was pretty flat, but she really did have to work at it. Half-check.
*4. E will ride a wave in on a float. She did with me! Call it a CHECK.
*5. E will catch and throw a frisbee. Not attempted.
And goals for me:
1. Find a way to relax. Half-check. The fact that my husband has graduated from business school makes this easier in general.
2. Stay up after the kids go to bed. CHECK. The fact that E goes to bed well now makes this possible.
3. Get E on the bike more often. Myself, too--I have mine on a trainer in the garage ready to go. Half-check. I did, for a while...and then I ended up prepping for birthdays, parties, Brownies, etc.
4. Do some rides/runs/multisports races around town. Some of them our whole family can do together. CHECK!
5. Find an artistic outlet. Does making a bunch of cars for Viv's birthday count?
Next up: 2013 Goals
1. Carry a regular umbrella, with or without crutches. Never attempted. She really didn't seem to want to--she loves her umbrella hat, and as one commenter noted, it is difficult bordering on unsafe at times.
2. Elena will go up and down steps (that have a banister or handrail) with only one hand holding it, one hand free, without supervision, regularly alternating right and left feet, at a good pace. CHECK. Elena can do this. She does this occasionally...but we have not been diligent in encouraging her to do it on a regular basis. I traded independence (stairs without supervision--she can crawl or walk up, and walk or slide down on her rear) for intense supervision on this one. My Christmas present from Elena was that she would walk up and down for me, with me waiting at the bottom of the steps. We agreed on a "belated" Christmas gift, b/c every time I mentioned it, she didn't feel like practicing (and when Christmas rolled around, she was mortified she wasn't ready).
3. Elena will take a group swim class and/or swim without floatation devices in the neighborhood pool. I did not get around to lessons this year! I'm still upset with myself about this one.
4. Elena will get in the bath, wash herself and her hair, get out of the bathtub, dry herself off with a towel, and put on her own pajamas. This was attempted, but the hair washing was not entirely successful. BUT she was able to get in and out of the large bathtub (last year it was only the smaller one), wash herself (hair had issues), get out, dry herself, and put on her pjs. I'm giving this one a CHECK.
5. Elena will play mini golf, with one or both hands, either with or without crutches. Never attempted. We planned on mini golf at the beach, but it rained.
6. Elena will make her own breakfast. Never attempted. But she has really helped with cooking this year, including washing, peeling, and cutting (!). She can also set the table and put food/groceries away.
7. Elena will dress herself in time for school. CHECK. She doesn't do it every day, but she has on occasion.
8. Elena will spend the night at a friend's house with NO meltdown. CHECK!
9. Elena will point and flex her feet on demand. CHECK. Her point is not good, but it is better than it's ever been. She has to close her eyes and concentrate, it doesn't come naturally.
10. Elena will do some of her own stretches herself before bed, instead of us moving her body to do all her stretches. (Laughts) Admittedly, this is a pipe dream. She does do two stretches on her own (butterfly, glute stretch) and is expected to hold "stretching" poses (frog pose, half-kneels, full stand, bridge).
Crazy goals for E?
*1. E will twirl. No, but she can turn around in 2-3 steps.
*2. E will walk a dog, without falling while holding the leash. CHECK!
*3. E will bike up a hill. She did bike up a surface that was not entirely flat. For you and me, it was pretty flat, but she really did have to work at it. Half-check.
*4. E will ride a wave in on a float. She did with me! Call it a CHECK.
*5. E will catch and throw a frisbee. Not attempted.
And goals for me:
1. Find a way to relax. Half-check. The fact that my husband has graduated from business school makes this easier in general.
2. Stay up after the kids go to bed. CHECK. The fact that E goes to bed well now makes this possible.
3. Get E on the bike more often. Myself, too--I have mine on a trainer in the garage ready to go. Half-check. I did, for a while...and then I ended up prepping for birthdays, parties, Brownies, etc.
4. Do some rides/runs/multisports races around town. Some of them our whole family can do together. CHECK!
5. Find an artistic outlet. Does making a bunch of cars for Viv's birthday count?
Next up: 2013 Goals
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Summertime
I don't know where to start, it's been so busy lately!
At Elena's last week of school, I got to visit!
E has changed so much this year. She is a great reader and very imaginative. Her favorite class is PE (physical education). Not only has she progressed wonderfully academically--physically she is much stronger, faster, and her stamina has really improved. At the beginning of the school year, she required her push chair to make it through the school day. By the end of this year, she only uses it on fire drills and maybe on a field trip!
We are looking forward to summer playdates with her classmates, as well as E's online attempt at Edmodo (sort of like a school Facebook for kids).
Elena went from being a Daisy to a Brownie!
Last Day of School!
Summer to-do list!
Let's Do This!!
At Elena's last week of school, I got to visit!
 | ||
| E and her reading buddy, A |
E has changed so much this year. She is a great reader and very imaginative. Her favorite class is PE (physical education). Not only has she progressed wonderfully academically--physically she is much stronger, faster, and her stamina has really improved. At the beginning of the school year, she required her push chair to make it through the school day. By the end of this year, she only uses it on fire drills and maybe on a field trip!
 |
| E in the school's Japanese Garden |
We are looking forward to summer playdates with her classmates, as well as E's online attempt at Edmodo (sort of like a school Facebook for kids).
Elena went from being a Daisy to a Brownie!
 |
| Bridging to Brownies |
Last Day of School!
 |
| a little chalk surprise when E got off the bus! |
Summer to-do list!
Let's Do This!!
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
IEP Time
I know a lot of parents are very apprehensive of IEP season. I've been there...but not lately. Elena's educators seem to anticipate my every move. They are incredible.
SO--in case this helps anyone else out there, here is a condensed version of E's IEP.
Elena is in mainstream first grade, with what I consider an exceptional teacher. Mr. M is calm, patient, and allows/facilitates the kids to try to creatively solve their own problems--whether they be academic, personal, social, or physical. He follows curriculum and teaches them critical thinking, which in my opinion seems to be buckling in many classrooms under the pressure of standardized testing.
All parties believe that Elena is capable of participating in all activities in the general education setting. The focus of her IEP stresses "access to the curriculum" due to orthopedic impairment. Her goals relate to keeping physical pace with her classmates--transport within and between classrooms, using utensils (eating, writing, cutting, etc.), getting seated, staying focused, etc.
Elena's needs involve adult guarding for safety when navigating steps and appropriate accommodations during physical education, playground, and transitions to address her balance and mobility issues. As she gets older and more capable, she needs less help, and is nearing independence for most of the school day. Stairs, carrying, physical education and recess continue to be the areas of greatest need.
The following adaptations/modifications are required by her IEP:
1. Adaptive seating (cube chair for circle time, chair with foot support for classroom and lunchroom (tables are higher in some rooms).
2. Assistance to have her shoes/braces repositioned as needed.
3. Close proximal monitoring for transitions in/out of chairs/stroller/wheelchair as needed.
4. Extra time for transitions.
5. Guidance or assistance carrying items, managing clothes and equipment.
6. Individualized support for safety for all transitions outside of the classroom (including bus dismissal and arrival).
7. Physical support, adaptations and monitoring for access to PE curriculum.8. Stroller or wheelchair available for extensive transitions.
IEP goals for Elena in the upcoming year:
1. With support (hands held or wall) E will demonstrate a jump and landing without falling at least five times in a 30 minute period.
2. Elena will ambulate up and down 8 steps with one handrail and an adult for stand by assist keeping pace with her peers moving in the hallway.
3. Elena will consistently ambulate in the classroom without her loftstrand crutches demonstrating adequate deceleration and balance.
4. Elena will ambulate to/from lower playground safely with her loftstrand crutches and access climbing playground structure and slide with stand by assistance within a regular recess period.
5. Elena will transition from a seated position on the floor by half kneel to stand with hand support.
AND, if that wasn't enough, E's current first grade teacher will be "looping" with her class--meaning, he will be her second grade teacher as well. I am really looking forward to this arrangement!
SO--in case this helps anyone else out there, here is a condensed version of E's IEP.
Elena is in mainstream first grade, with what I consider an exceptional teacher. Mr. M is calm, patient, and allows/facilitates the kids to try to creatively solve their own problems--whether they be academic, personal, social, or physical. He follows curriculum and teaches them critical thinking, which in my opinion seems to be buckling in many classrooms under the pressure of standardized testing.
All parties believe that Elena is capable of participating in all activities in the general education setting. The focus of her IEP stresses "access to the curriculum" due to orthopedic impairment. Her goals relate to keeping physical pace with her classmates--transport within and between classrooms, using utensils (eating, writing, cutting, etc.), getting seated, staying focused, etc.
Elena's needs involve adult guarding for safety when navigating steps and appropriate accommodations during physical education, playground, and transitions to address her balance and mobility issues. As she gets older and more capable, she needs less help, and is nearing independence for most of the school day. Stairs, carrying, physical education and recess continue to be the areas of greatest need.
The following adaptations/modifications are required by her IEP:
1. Adaptive seating (cube chair for circle time, chair with foot support for classroom and lunchroom (tables are higher in some rooms).
2. Assistance to have her shoes/braces repositioned as needed.
3. Close proximal monitoring for transitions in/out of chairs/stroller/wheelchair as needed.
4. Extra time for transitions.
5. Guidance or assistance carrying items, managing clothes and equipment.
6. Individualized support for safety for all transitions outside of the classroom (including bus dismissal and arrival).
7. Physical support, adaptations and monitoring for access to PE curriculum.8. Stroller or wheelchair available for extensive transitions.
IEP goals for Elena in the upcoming year:
1. With support (hands held or wall) E will demonstrate a jump and landing without falling at least five times in a 30 minute period.
2. Elena will ambulate up and down 8 steps with one handrail and an adult for stand by assist keeping pace with her peers moving in the hallway.
3. Elena will consistently ambulate in the classroom without her loftstrand crutches demonstrating adequate deceleration and balance.
4. Elena will ambulate to/from lower playground safely with her loftstrand crutches and access climbing playground structure and slide with stand by assistance within a regular recess period.
5. Elena will transition from a seated position on the floor by half kneel to stand with hand support.
AND, if that wasn't enough, E's current first grade teacher will be "looping" with her class--meaning, he will be her second grade teacher as well. I am really looking forward to this arrangement!
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Year 2012 Goals
Happy New Year!
It's time to think of some new goals. I wanted to be more eloquent, but it's late.
In no particular order, for Elena:
1. Carry a regular umbrella, with or without crutches. Elena has an umbrella hat, that she uses when she wants to walk in rain with crutches. She loves it--but it's not super convenient to get it on her head.
2. Elena will go up and down steps (that have a banister or handrail) with only one hand holding it, one hand free, without supervision, regularly alternating right and left feet, at a good pace. When she wants to go up/down steps quickly, she scoots down on her rear and crawls up. She and I have talked about this a lot. When she gets better at standing up to go up/down steps regularly, she can get her ears pierced!
3. Elena will take a group swim class and/or swim without floatation devices in the neighborhood pool.
4. Elena will get in the bath, wash herself and her hair, get out of the bathtub, dry herself off with a towel, and put on her own pajamas. She can do most of these things in part, but has never done them sequentially on her own.
5. Elena will play mini golf, with one or both hands, either with or without crutches.
6. Elena will make her own breakfast. We'll have to put something she can reach.
7. Elena will dress herself in time for school.
8. Elena will spend the night at a friend's house with NO meltdown.
9. Elena will point and flex her feet on demand.
10. Elena will do some of her own stretches herself before bed, instead of us moving her body to do all her stretches.
Crazy goals for E?
*1. E will twirl.
*2. E will walk a dog, without falling while holding the leash.
*3. E will bike up a hill.
*4. E will ride a wave in on a float.
*5. E will catch and throw a frisbee.
And goals for me:
1. Find a way to relax. I'm not sure how to do this.
2. Stay up after the kids go to bed. After such challenging days (especially when Elena is melting down, or not going to bed well) , I've literally been tapped out. I hope to make this time "me time", at least most nights.
3. Get E on the bike more often. Myself, too--I have mine on a trainer in the garage ready to go.
4. Do some rides/runs/multisports races around town. Some of them our whole family can do together.
5. Find an artistic outlet. I do science for a living, I juggle the family life, I'm a chronic multitasker. I need a right-brained activity that helps me unwind.
It's time to think of some new goals. I wanted to be more eloquent, but it's late.
In no particular order, for Elena:
1. Carry a regular umbrella, with or without crutches. Elena has an umbrella hat, that she uses when she wants to walk in rain with crutches. She loves it--but it's not super convenient to get it on her head.
2. Elena will go up and down steps (that have a banister or handrail) with only one hand holding it, one hand free, without supervision, regularly alternating right and left feet, at a good pace. When she wants to go up/down steps quickly, she scoots down on her rear and crawls up. She and I have talked about this a lot. When she gets better at standing up to go up/down steps regularly, she can get her ears pierced!
3. Elena will take a group swim class and/or swim without floatation devices in the neighborhood pool.
4. Elena will get in the bath, wash herself and her hair, get out of the bathtub, dry herself off with a towel, and put on her own pajamas. She can do most of these things in part, but has never done them sequentially on her own.
5. Elena will play mini golf, with one or both hands, either with or without crutches.
6. Elena will make her own breakfast. We'll have to put something she can reach.
7. Elena will dress herself in time for school.
8. Elena will spend the night at a friend's house with NO meltdown.
9. Elena will point and flex her feet on demand.
10. Elena will do some of her own stretches herself before bed, instead of us moving her body to do all her stretches.
Crazy goals for E?
*1. E will twirl.
*2. E will walk a dog, without falling while holding the leash.
*3. E will bike up a hill.
*4. E will ride a wave in on a float.
*5. E will catch and throw a frisbee.
And goals for me:
1. Find a way to relax. I'm not sure how to do this.
2. Stay up after the kids go to bed. After such challenging days (especially when Elena is melting down, or not going to bed well) , I've literally been tapped out. I hope to make this time "me time", at least most nights.
3. Get E on the bike more often. Myself, too--I have mine on a trainer in the garage ready to go.
4. Do some rides/runs/multisports races around town. Some of them our whole family can do together.
5. Find an artistic outlet. I do science for a living, I juggle the family life, I'm a chronic multitasker. I need a right-brained activity that helps me unwind.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
New Year's Goals: 2011 Review
2011 was a fun, exciting blur of a year. I have to say, I'm looking forward to 2012. Last year was extremely busy, with lots of Mom Solo (with the hubby in school or away on business), lots of bursts of activities. Overall it was a very good and successful year...and a very tiring one.
I think it was energy well spent--but I need to re-energize. Recuperate? I'm not exactly sure how to do that, but I'm going to try. I'm still thinking of goals for 2012 though.
First, a Review of Past Goals:
--E will be able to carry items at home--specifically, food to the dinner table. CHECK. She can bring non-breakables to the table, and helps clear (plastic) plates/trays. She still spills often, but it's a work in progress.
--E will make some progress getting out of the bathtub. CHECK. Elena can get out of the small bathtub by herself (with supervision). Unfortunately, now we bathe the girls together in a different bathtub that has a higher side.
--E will be able to put her own AFOs on, with supervision. HALF CHECK. Elena can get her surestep inserts on, but not the kiddiegait and shoe part. She can get her regular sneakers on (her shoes she wears without AFOs).
--E will successfully navigate a step without assistance, and without crutches. CHECK! She went up and down a free-standing step at PT, and she can go up and down steps with only one hand on the banister and the other free. Steps are still a challenge, but we're getting there.
--E will be able to put on, take off, and carry a backpack. CHECK!
--I want Elena to make some progress navigating our entire yard. CHECK! She can get outside the back, down the steps, across the grass and to the playset without her crutches and without supervision. She can also navigate around the entire house, steps and grass, with her crutches.
--Elena will be able to get in and out of the pool (using pool steps, a handrail, her swim vest, and anti-slip pool shoes) without scraping her knees and feet. BIG FAT CHECK!
--Elena will answer questions regarding her disability when asked by peers. CHECK. Sometimes I can see she doesn't mind. Other times, she really does, and sometimes, she shuts them down.
--Elena will be able to step side-to-side. Sort-of check.
--Elena will be able to move backwards independently in some fashion. CHECK. She can walk backwards ~10 steps or so without her crutches. She moves about 1-2 feet.
*1. E will walk TO and FROM the bus by herself on a school day. As of yesterday? CHECK!!!
*2. Elena will RUN. And be able to STOP, without a handhold, and without crutches. You mean...Like THIS?
*3. Elena will pivot on one foot (or two feet, simultaneously). Nope.
*4. E will try a jump shot--with a ball, and land without falling down. Untested.
*5. E will attend a dance class without a facilitator. CHECK! She did a yoga class for 5-7 year-olds last month, without a facilitator. I had spoken to the instructor beforehand, and she said that E modified some of the poses but she did GREAT.
--E WILL JUMP ROPE. Half-Check. She sort of did, with Jimmy at the Gym.
--E WILL CATCH A FRISBEE. Untested.
--E WILL WALK A DOG--THAT PULLS THE LEASH. Untested.
--E WILL TAKE A SHOWER--STANDING. She did, but we had a handle in the shower and I helped wash her. Half-check?
--E WILL HIT A PITCHED (NOT TEE'D) BALL WITH A BAT, AND ROUND THE BASES. Check! Did it at PT!
--E WILL ROLLER (OR ICE) SKATE. Check--She did ice skate (with heavy assistance) at the Gaylord Hotel!
And me?
1. Get in better shape. Nope. I'll try again this year.
2. Learn how to use Skype. Does Google Video count? I'm going to say yes.
3. Make a Yoga With E short video. This was a big failure. It just took too long, and I couldn't get E to commit.
4. Cook more at home--ideally, with the kids helping me. Check!
5. Vivian Time. Check!
And now, for 2012!
I think it was energy well spent--but I need to re-energize. Recuperate? I'm not exactly sure how to do that, but I'm going to try. I'm still thinking of goals for 2012 though.
First, a Review of Past Goals:
--E will be able to carry items at home--specifically, food to the dinner table. CHECK. She can bring non-breakables to the table, and helps clear (plastic) plates/trays. She still spills often, but it's a work in progress.
--E will make some progress getting out of the bathtub. CHECK. Elena can get out of the small bathtub by herself (with supervision). Unfortunately, now we bathe the girls together in a different bathtub that has a higher side.
--E will be able to put her own AFOs on, with supervision. HALF CHECK. Elena can get her surestep inserts on, but not the kiddiegait and shoe part. She can get her regular sneakers on (her shoes she wears without AFOs).
--E will successfully navigate a step without assistance, and without crutches. CHECK! She went up and down a free-standing step at PT, and she can go up and down steps with only one hand on the banister and the other free. Steps are still a challenge, but we're getting there.
--E will be able to put on, take off, and carry a backpack. CHECK!
--I want Elena to make some progress navigating our entire yard. CHECK! She can get outside the back, down the steps, across the grass and to the playset without her crutches and without supervision. She can also navigate around the entire house, steps and grass, with her crutches.
--Elena will be able to get in and out of the pool (using pool steps, a handrail, her swim vest, and anti-slip pool shoes) without scraping her knees and feet. BIG FAT CHECK!
--Elena will answer questions regarding her disability when asked by peers. CHECK. Sometimes I can see she doesn't mind. Other times, she really does, and sometimes, she shuts them down.
--Elena will be able to step side-to-side. Sort-of check.
--Elena will be able to move backwards independently in some fashion. CHECK. She can walk backwards ~10 steps or so without her crutches. She moves about 1-2 feet.
*1. E will walk TO and FROM the bus by herself on a school day. As of yesterday? CHECK!!!
*2. Elena will RUN. And be able to STOP, without a handhold, and without crutches. You mean...Like THIS?
*3. Elena will pivot on one foot (or two feet, simultaneously). Nope.
*4. E will try a jump shot--with a ball, and land without falling down. Untested.
*5. E will attend a dance class without a facilitator. CHECK! She did a yoga class for 5-7 year-olds last month, without a facilitator. I had spoken to the instructor beforehand, and she said that E modified some of the poses but she did GREAT.
--E WILL JUMP ROPE. Half-Check. She sort of did, with Jimmy at the Gym.
--E WILL CATCH A FRISBEE. Untested.
--E WILL WALK A DOG--THAT PULLS THE LEASH. Untested.
--E WILL TAKE A SHOWER--STANDING. She did, but we had a handle in the shower and I helped wash her. Half-check?
--E WILL HIT A PITCHED (NOT TEE'D) BALL WITH A BAT, AND ROUND THE BASES. Check! Did it at PT!
--E WILL ROLLER (OR ICE) SKATE. Check--She did ice skate (with heavy assistance) at the Gaylord Hotel!
And me?
1. Get in better shape. Nope. I'll try again this year.
2. Learn how to use Skype. Does Google Video count? I'm going to say yes.
3. Make a Yoga With E short video. This was a big failure. It just took too long, and I couldn't get E to commit.
4. Cook more at home--ideally, with the kids helping me. Check!
5. Vivian Time. Check!
And now, for 2012!
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Summertime at the pool, with some independence
It was a gorgeous day today, so we all went to the pool! I brought a camera this time, to try to capture some of Elena's progress at the water's edge.
She can get into the pool by herself! Another Goal reached!
When it comes to getting out of the pool, though, Elena is very hesistant to take the last step onto the deck (and off the handrail). That's pretty understandable, given the lack of support, a cold, shivering body, stepping up, and hard concrete. But I'm sure we'll get there.
I called early in the summer about swim lessons. Ideally, I'd love Elena to take group lessons, b/c she loves peers and learns well from other kids as an example. Unfortunately, there are very few instructors here that are comfortable with E in their group class, as she is very unsafe around the pool (meaning, little confidence she can ambulate to the edge, stop, sit, etc) and they don't typically allow floatation devices during lessons (of course). I was a little disappointed, but not offended. This summer we're going to focus on fun, friends, and familiarity with the pool, and I'm going to look into private lessons at the indoor warm water pool later in the year.
She can get into the pool by herself! Another Goal reached!
When it comes to getting out of the pool, though, Elena is very hesistant to take the last step onto the deck (and off the handrail). That's pretty understandable, given the lack of support, a cold, shivering body, stepping up, and hard concrete. But I'm sure we'll get there.
I called early in the summer about swim lessons. Ideally, I'd love Elena to take group lessons, b/c she loves peers and learns well from other kids as an example. Unfortunately, there are very few instructors here that are comfortable with E in their group class, as she is very unsafe around the pool (meaning, little confidence she can ambulate to the edge, stop, sit, etc) and they don't typically allow floatation devices during lessons (of course). I was a little disappointed, but not offended. This summer we're going to focus on fun, friends, and familiarity with the pool, and I'm going to look into private lessons at the indoor warm water pool later in the year.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
The Year of Thinking Dangerously
Remember when I wrote my New Year's Goals? Well, apparently, that wasn't aggressive enough. I am "gettin' served", as E liked to say. She's all over the place--I even "caught" her walking from the bathroom at Daisy Scouts CARRYING both of her crutches in ONE HAND as she walked with huge steps into the meeting room--because she "didn't feel like wearing them".
It helps that I made the 2011 goals, b/c now I've been trying them to see where we are. Well...she can carry heavy ceramic plates (no food on them yet) now and keep them upright. She can lift her foot entirely out of the bathtub (while I hold her other hand-I've never tried that before). She goes up the indoor steps with me close, but has only needed me to catch her twice. She moved backwards AND sideways without falling over the weekend.
So, given that we're only a few weeks into January, I think my 2011 goals aren't thinking BIG enough. Or independent enough. So, I'm just going to run with this, and THINK BIG. Allow myself to think dangerously.
So, here are some additional goals for 2011:
*1. E will walk TO and FROM the bus by herself on a school day. The steps outside our house are unevenly spaced, and have no handrail. She can do these with crutches or without. This means going from outside the door, down the steps, across the driveway, and INTO the bus without help (and reverse, coming home). Currently we carry her--mostly b/c we are running late, but also b/c we have doubts regarding her safety/ability to do all the steps--and in a timely manner, especially those on the bus b/c they are so large.
*2. Elena will RUN. And be able to STOP, without a handhold, and without crutches. I don't care what it looks like.
*3. Elena will pivot on one foot (or two feet, simultaneously). Either (or both) sides. Currently she switches directions/turns by veering in a circle.
*4. E will try a jump shot--with a ball, and land without falling down.
*5. E will attend a dance class without a facilitator. While wearing her shoes and braces, she'll keep up (mostly, anyway) with the class. If she falls, she'll get up and keep going.
Ridiculously dangerous thinking? E WILL JUMP ROPE. E WILL CATCH A FRISBEE. E WILL WALK A DOG--THAT PULLS THE LEASH. E WILL TAKE A SHOWER--STANDING. E WILL HIT A PITCHED (NOT TEE'D) BALL WITH A BAT, AND ROUND THE BASES. E WILL ROLLER (OR ICE) SKATE.
Crazy, I know...but who knows, "Danger" might be her middle name this year...
It helps that I made the 2011 goals, b/c now I've been trying them to see where we are. Well...she can carry heavy ceramic plates (no food on them yet) now and keep them upright. She can lift her foot entirely out of the bathtub (while I hold her other hand-I've never tried that before). She goes up the indoor steps with me close, but has only needed me to catch her twice. She moved backwards AND sideways without falling over the weekend.
So, given that we're only a few weeks into January, I think my 2011 goals aren't thinking BIG enough. Or independent enough. So, I'm just going to run with this, and THINK BIG. Allow myself to think dangerously.
So, here are some additional goals for 2011:
*1. E will walk TO and FROM the bus by herself on a school day. The steps outside our house are unevenly spaced, and have no handrail. She can do these with crutches or without. This means going from outside the door, down the steps, across the driveway, and INTO the bus without help (and reverse, coming home). Currently we carry her--mostly b/c we are running late, but also b/c we have doubts regarding her safety/ability to do all the steps--and in a timely manner, especially those on the bus b/c they are so large.
*2. Elena will RUN. And be able to STOP, without a handhold, and without crutches. I don't care what it looks like.
*3. Elena will pivot on one foot (or two feet, simultaneously). Either (or both) sides. Currently she switches directions/turns by veering in a circle.
*4. E will try a jump shot--with a ball, and land without falling down.
*5. E will attend a dance class without a facilitator. While wearing her shoes and braces, she'll keep up (mostly, anyway) with the class. If she falls, she'll get up and keep going.
Ridiculously dangerous thinking? E WILL JUMP ROPE. E WILL CATCH A FRISBEE. E WILL WALK A DOG--THAT PULLS THE LEASH. E WILL TAKE A SHOWER--STANDING. E WILL HIT A PITCHED (NOT TEE'D) BALL WITH A BAT, AND ROUND THE BASES. E WILL ROLLER (OR ICE) SKATE.
Crazy, I know...but who knows, "Danger" might be her middle name this year...
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Year 2011 Goals
Happy New Year!
I'm exhausted, so I'm going to get right to it. Here are my gross motor (and possibly "other") goals for E in 2011, in no particular order:
1. E will be able to carry items at home--specifically, food to the dinner table. I'm talking plates with food on them, and not have them tip over. This includes drinks--in open cups. I don't plan on filling anything to the brim, but I do expect her not to spill what is in her cup or on her plate the majority of the time. Right now carrying any food receptacle (with food in it) is a guaranteed mess.
2. E will make some progress getting out of the bathtub. Specifically, I am hoping that with one hand held, she will be able to lift one leg at a time over the edge of the tub. This will take lots of practice, as she'll be barefoot, cold, and on a slippery surface. My back will thank me.
3. E will be able to put her own AFOs on, with supervision. Currently she can take them off, but we haven't worked on putting them on.
4. E will successfully navigate a step without assistance, and without crutches. Currently she initiates going up and down, but her clearance of the step isn't always successful and neither is the weight transfer.
5. E will be able to put on, take off, and carry a backpack. (She may already be able to do this).
6. I want Elena to make some progress navigating our entire yard. We live on a very steep front hill (with *ahem* perilously large rocks a the bottom of said hill), a flat side yard, and we have stone steps in the backyard that lead to the garage level. She can navigate going out the back door of the house, down the deck, to the flat side yard. We haven't really tried anything else yet. Since the other steps don't have a handrail, she would have to be able to successfully do multiple steps with her crutches (she has done 3-4 at a time, but never 10+).
7. Elena will be able to get in and out of the pool (using pool steps, a handrail, her swim vest, and anti-slip pool shoes) without scraping her knees and feet. By in and out, I mean sitting on the side of the pool out of the water as the start and end point. In order to not scrape her knees, I think this means she'll have to stand up using the handrail and walk up the steps.
8. Elena will answer questions regarding her disability when asked by peers. We are working on this, and so far it's actually going very well. Most questions come from kids, when I am around--and they ask me, not Elena. Right now, the most common question is "why do you use those things (crutches)?" and E says "these help me walk". Normally that suffices and everyone is smiley and satisfied.
9. Elena will be able to step side-to-side. She can do this, but it takes a lot of effort.
10. Elena will be able to move backwards independently in some fashion.
And Goals for me:
1. Get in better shape. I know this is a common New Year's goal. I am not in bad shape, but I need to be stronger. Elena is getting bigger, and I still need to carry/lift her. I plan on some "event" (nothing massive--a city 5K walk/run, for instance) once a month as a fitness goal. In the absence of a local race/event, I will drink water every day (don't laugh--I am chronically dehydrated, and I hate drinking water).
2. Learn how to use Skype. I did set up an account, so I'm part-way there!
3. Make a Yoga With E short video. Elena and I talk about it a lot.
4. Cook more at home--ideally, with the kids helping me. With Jason in school, it's The Mommy Show a lot of the time, and it's easier on our wallets and bodies if I cook more often. And healthy, home-cooked meals in the freezer is like time in a bottle, which is what every parent needs!
5. Vivian Time. Viv is getting more attention these days, which is great! I want to have a regular parent+Vivian time (normally, E gets this during Viv's nap and before Viv's bedtime).
I'm exhausted, so I'm going to get right to it. Here are my gross motor (and possibly "other") goals for E in 2011, in no particular order:
1. E will be able to carry items at home--specifically, food to the dinner table. I'm talking plates with food on them, and not have them tip over. This includes drinks--in open cups. I don't plan on filling anything to the brim, but I do expect her not to spill what is in her cup or on her plate the majority of the time. Right now carrying any food receptacle (with food in it) is a guaranteed mess.
2. E will make some progress getting out of the bathtub. Specifically, I am hoping that with one hand held, she will be able to lift one leg at a time over the edge of the tub. This will take lots of practice, as she'll be barefoot, cold, and on a slippery surface. My back will thank me.
3. E will be able to put her own AFOs on, with supervision. Currently she can take them off, but we haven't worked on putting them on.
4. E will successfully navigate a step without assistance, and without crutches. Currently she initiates going up and down, but her clearance of the step isn't always successful and neither is the weight transfer.
5. E will be able to put on, take off, and carry a backpack. (She may already be able to do this).
6. I want Elena to make some progress navigating our entire yard. We live on a very steep front hill (with *ahem* perilously large rocks a the bottom of said hill), a flat side yard, and we have stone steps in the backyard that lead to the garage level. She can navigate going out the back door of the house, down the deck, to the flat side yard. We haven't really tried anything else yet. Since the other steps don't have a handrail, she would have to be able to successfully do multiple steps with her crutches (she has done 3-4 at a time, but never 10+).
7. Elena will be able to get in and out of the pool (using pool steps, a handrail, her swim vest, and anti-slip pool shoes) without scraping her knees and feet. By in and out, I mean sitting on the side of the pool out of the water as the start and end point. In order to not scrape her knees, I think this means she'll have to stand up using the handrail and walk up the steps.
8. Elena will answer questions regarding her disability when asked by peers. We are working on this, and so far it's actually going very well. Most questions come from kids, when I am around--and they ask me, not Elena. Right now, the most common question is "why do you use those things (crutches)?" and E says "these help me walk". Normally that suffices and everyone is smiley and satisfied.
9. Elena will be able to step side-to-side. She can do this, but it takes a lot of effort.
10. Elena will be able to move backwards independently in some fashion.
And Goals for me:
1. Get in better shape. I know this is a common New Year's goal. I am not in bad shape, but I need to be stronger. Elena is getting bigger, and I still need to carry/lift her. I plan on some "event" (nothing massive--a city 5K walk/run, for instance) once a month as a fitness goal. In the absence of a local race/event, I will drink water every day (don't laugh--I am chronically dehydrated, and I hate drinking water).
2. Learn how to use Skype. I did set up an account, so I'm part-way there!
3. Make a Yoga With E short video. Elena and I talk about it a lot.
4. Cook more at home--ideally, with the kids helping me. With Jason in school, it's The Mommy Show a lot of the time, and it's easier on our wallets and bodies if I cook more often. And healthy, home-cooked meals in the freezer is like time in a bottle, which is what every parent needs!
5. Vivian Time. Viv is getting more attention these days, which is great! I want to have a regular parent+Vivian time (normally, E gets this during Viv's nap and before Viv's bedtime).
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
2010 Review of New Year's Goals
I wrote a post in January this year regarding what I'd love E to accomplish, in terms of motor function, sociability, and independence. Here's the review:
--E will be completely potty trained. Well, we're still on the mostly part. Mainly due to surgery weakness, at this point. Elena can walk to the bathroom, independently undress and dress (even when wearing a dress), wipe herself, flush the toilet and wash hands and exit the bathroom. I trust her to do this if the bathroom trip only involves pee; a bowel movement may require help. Currently, she gets intense supervision b/c she's still getting used to her "new legs" post-op. Overall, I consider this goal a pass.
--E will make some progress to get her clothes on herself. CHECK. E can dress and undress herself, including socks (we have to pull them all the way on, but at least she gets them on), pants, shirts, some dresses, and jackets. We don't make her to it before school b/c we're pressed for time in the morning, and dressing takes a while. She can undress more quickly than dress.
--E will be able to ambulate barefoot at the pool without scraping the tops of her feet into a bloody mess. CHECK!! We did this last Sunday, at our first pool visit post-op! She looked GREAT. She walked with one crutch and one hand. It took us 10 minutes to actually get all the way across the deck, but she did it, and her feet looked GREAT and FLAT. YAY!
--E will be able to move backwards in some way. We didn't really make progress on this one. I wasn't trying too hard. She can back up when against something, but she could do that for a while. No independent backwards movements--well, maybe a little with her crutches.
--Elena will jump, and get some air under her feet, without holding on to something. CHECK! She jumped AND landed a while back, with her braces and AFOs. Most of the time her jumping is while holding on to something, though.
--E will be able to go up and downstairs herself, with supervision. CHECK. With close supervision (not touching). We haven't worked on this lately due to her lengthening operation, but we'll get back on it once she's stronger.
--Elena will be able to hold hands with a friend and walk a little. CHECK! Last time we did this (that I remember, anyway) was at the Pumpkin Patch with our friends, The Teasters.
And, well...goals for me, not so much...
--Keep up with this blog. CHECK.
--Commit to doing CME exercises with E at home. Once a week, for a good 20+minute session with block equipment. NOPE. I did it for a while, but got lazy.
--Spend some one-on-one time with Vivian. CHECK. Not as much as I want, but, I do get to spend some time with my cute little tornado.
--Try to find some time for myself. HAH. Does soccer count? If so, then CHECK.
I've been working on next year in my head. I think it's going to be a Very Good Year.
--E will be completely potty trained. Well, we're still on the mostly part. Mainly due to surgery weakness, at this point. Elena can walk to the bathroom, independently undress and dress (even when wearing a dress), wipe herself, flush the toilet and wash hands and exit the bathroom. I trust her to do this if the bathroom trip only involves pee; a bowel movement may require help. Currently, she gets intense supervision b/c she's still getting used to her "new legs" post-op. Overall, I consider this goal a pass.
--E will make some progress to get her clothes on herself. CHECK. E can dress and undress herself, including socks (we have to pull them all the way on, but at least she gets them on), pants, shirts, some dresses, and jackets. We don't make her to it before school b/c we're pressed for time in the morning, and dressing takes a while. She can undress more quickly than dress.
--E will be able to ambulate barefoot at the pool without scraping the tops of her feet into a bloody mess. CHECK!! We did this last Sunday, at our first pool visit post-op! She looked GREAT. She walked with one crutch and one hand. It took us 10 minutes to actually get all the way across the deck, but she did it, and her feet looked GREAT and FLAT. YAY!
--E will be able to move backwards in some way. We didn't really make progress on this one. I wasn't trying too hard. She can back up when against something, but she could do that for a while. No independent backwards movements--well, maybe a little with her crutches.
--Elena will jump, and get some air under her feet, without holding on to something. CHECK! She jumped AND landed a while back, with her braces and AFOs. Most of the time her jumping is while holding on to something, though.
--E will be able to go up and downstairs herself, with supervision. CHECK. With close supervision (not touching). We haven't worked on this lately due to her lengthening operation, but we'll get back on it once she's stronger.
--Elena will be able to hold hands with a friend and walk a little. CHECK! Last time we did this (that I remember, anyway) was at the Pumpkin Patch with our friends, The Teasters.
And, well...goals for me, not so much...
--Keep up with this blog. CHECK.
--Commit to doing CME exercises with E at home. Once a week, for a good 20+minute session with block equipment. NOPE. I did it for a while, but got lazy.
--Spend some one-on-one time with Vivian. CHECK. Not as much as I want, but, I do get to spend some time with my cute little tornado.
--Try to find some time for myself. HAH. Does soccer count? If so, then CHECK.
I've been working on next year in my head. I think it's going to be a Very Good Year.
Monday, January 11, 2010
New Year's Goals
I have to write "Goals" instead of "Resolutions", b/c that's really what they are. Here is what I've come up with for E this year--some of this has been discussed with her therapists, some of it is my own design. In no particular order:
--E will be completely potty trained. We are really making some great progress on this. E can use a standard potty without extra equipment entirely by herself, as long as she is wearing knit pants and her shoes with AFOs. She can undress, get on the toilet, wipe herself (I only trust her to do this with urine, though), dress herself, flush, and then walk to the sink to wash hands. Right now, I say outside an open door while she goes potty (just in case she runs into trouble, or she needs a voice cue). She needs more instruction on how to wipe herself after a bowel movement, and how to undress/dress herself when wearing something other than pants.
--E will make some progress to get her clothes on herself--including socks and pants. Right now, E can undress herself completely if she is wearing anything but tights. We have not worked on dressing herself at all, with the exception of putting on her jacket.
--E will be able to ambulate barefoot at the pool without scraping the tops of her feet into a bloody mess. I don't care if she uses her crutches, or walks with a hand held--just the difference of not injuring herself is a huge win. Our dorsiflexion drills and using her sneakers at home and during CME exercises (without braces) are helping this effort.
--E will be able to move backwards in some way. I tried this a while ago, asked E to take a few steps backwards. She did pretty well--she did three steps in place. Backwards is a whole different game.
--Elena will jump, and get some air under her feet, without holding on to something. Even if it's a millimeter. She can almost do this, her confidence and desire is there. I didn't say she would stay upright afterwards, though.
--E will be able to go up and downstairs herself, with supervision. E can do this with one hand on a standard railing and the other hand held. I'd love to be able to just be next to her without her hand holding mine in a death grip.
--Elena will be able to hold hands with a friend and walk a little. Normally if another little person tries to hold E's hand while they move around, they both end up on the floor. E's balance is getting better, so she might be better equipped to deal with being tethered to someone her own size.
And Resolutions for me:
--Keep up with this blog. Especially reach out to those who have supported me by reading it. Thank you.
--Commit to doing CME exercises with E at home. Once a week, for a good 20+minute session with block equipment; certain exercises a minimum of 4 days a week (ideally every day, but I'm being realistic).
--Spend some one-on-one time with Vivian. I spend A LOT of time and effort on Elena, and I think that is important...but I want Viv to know she is equally loved and cherished.
--Try to find some time for myself. I know all you parents out there are like, OF COURSE, if only that were so easy. HA!
--E will be completely potty trained. We are really making some great progress on this. E can use a standard potty without extra equipment entirely by herself, as long as she is wearing knit pants and her shoes with AFOs. She can undress, get on the toilet, wipe herself (I only trust her to do this with urine, though), dress herself, flush, and then walk to the sink to wash hands. Right now, I say outside an open door while she goes potty (just in case she runs into trouble, or she needs a voice cue). She needs more instruction on how to wipe herself after a bowel movement, and how to undress/dress herself when wearing something other than pants.
--E will make some progress to get her clothes on herself--including socks and pants. Right now, E can undress herself completely if she is wearing anything but tights. We have not worked on dressing herself at all, with the exception of putting on her jacket.
--E will be able to ambulate barefoot at the pool without scraping the tops of her feet into a bloody mess. I don't care if she uses her crutches, or walks with a hand held--just the difference of not injuring herself is a huge win. Our dorsiflexion drills and using her sneakers at home and during CME exercises (without braces) are helping this effort.
--E will be able to move backwards in some way. I tried this a while ago, asked E to take a few steps backwards. She did pretty well--she did three steps in place. Backwards is a whole different game.
--Elena will jump, and get some air under her feet, without holding on to something. Even if it's a millimeter. She can almost do this, her confidence and desire is there. I didn't say she would stay upright afterwards, though.
--E will be able to go up and downstairs herself, with supervision. E can do this with one hand on a standard railing and the other hand held. I'd love to be able to just be next to her without her hand holding mine in a death grip.
--Elena will be able to hold hands with a friend and walk a little. Normally if another little person tries to hold E's hand while they move around, they both end up on the floor. E's balance is getting better, so she might be better equipped to deal with being tethered to someone her own size.
And Resolutions for me:
--Keep up with this blog. Especially reach out to those who have supported me by reading it. Thank you.
--Commit to doing CME exercises with E at home. Once a week, for a good 20+minute session with block equipment; certain exercises a minimum of 4 days a week (ideally every day, but I'm being realistic).
--Spend some one-on-one time with Vivian. I spend A LOT of time and effort on Elena, and I think that is important...but I want Viv to know she is equally loved and cherished.
--Try to find some time for myself. I know all you parents out there are like, OF COURSE, if only that were so easy. HA!
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