10 years after the ada, we have indeed progressed for the differently abled person, but it's not over yet, and in fact may be beginning all over again! while i admit to there being problems with the special ed programs in schools (the segregation that is mention in the article), i persoanlly feel my son shouldn't spend his day in a "regular" classroom. he isn't at the same level for his age, but to put him in a class at his actual educational level would make him the oldest in the class by far. considering he has yet to figure out how to be careful and considerate of others, i would be very concerned in the latter situation. however, i DO like the mixed approach of his current class. he spends most of his time with his regular special ed class, but is mainstreaned in a regular reading group (which has apparently "adopted" him) when he agrees to it (he isn't forced) as well as into a regular ed p.e. class once or twice a week. he meets kids who are "normal", but is still getting an education at HIS level. i admit concern for his future: will he be functional enough to get a job? will he graduate high school? does he have a chance for college? but i try to push those away and get him through the NOW. 4 years after diagnoses we're still trying to find a balance and what works. because he grows and changes, what works changes, and it is a challenge just to figure out that much in the present without having to worry about the future.

tomorrow is kristav's next appointment with the neurologist that is working on finding a medication for him. because of the time i may actually be able to make this appointment instead of having dad do it. kristav is becoming a bit more aggressive for some reason: taking what he wants even if someone else has it, hitting if they want it back, more shrieking tantrums. his teacher says holding him firmly over his lap when he's tantruming helps, so i may have to try that. i just am concerned about giving attention to the tantrum..making him feel that all he has to do is tantrum to get attnetion. it is very hard to engage him. we do praise him for being a helper, and give hugs and love, so maybe they will balance out? i just remember the behavior modification specialist telling us to ignore the tantrums, and they did eventually go away. maybe i need to watch MY behavior and see if i am giving attention to the tantruming again? if so, that may be why it is increasing in frequency. i do know the whole bedtime thing is really getting on my nerves and it is very hard to ignore: loud talking and humming for literally HOURS. hard to tune it out and see if it will die off. i have tried it, to no affect at the time. maybe he's on to us? ;)

posted by domynoe on 1:58:34 PM | note me

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