In the last three days I have consulted to three different school systems and have encountered many parents in our clinic. What I have find to continue to be a challenge for parents is needing to prove that their child can.
My hat continues to be off to people who parent, advocate, and enjoy their families at the same time.
A wonderful parent is challenged by a school system and team who do not find it a priority to support her physically challenged child who is an AAC user to read and write. I continue to understand that many systems and practitioners just do not know how or where to begin. As a result, AAC programming is not suitable for actual talk but is "dummed down" to the point that theory cannot support such slow tactics. Systems and practitioners need to understand that time is crucial and is of the essence. Every moment counts! Here is a tool for parents to share with districts about AAC USERS writing, reading. The book is entitled Waves of Words and gives an account of literacy success amongst AAC users.
Also a great resource regarding literacy and writing is the work of the Center for Disabilities in North Carolina
How should parents respond when the cognitive ability of their child is challenged so much that they are faced with a long list of what their child cannot do or cannot say? Research has shown that inspite of cognitive ability, children are able to have success based on social opportunties, engagement, and exposure. That is your inability is often the result of lack of opportunity and practice. It is the practitioners life work (head and heart life's work) to ascertain the best way to engage and teach so that learning and interdependence may occur.
A video documentary about inclusion will soon be available.
Another challenge for families may be transportation to therapy appointments. A great transportation service that we have used is Precious Cargo
Looking for a great Children's Museum that is not overwhelming try the location in Trumbull, CT. Although the museum is temporarily closed for one month, I would encourage everyone to visit in December.
SIGNING OFF FOR NOW
Landria Seals