Last year, my oldest son was diagnosed with ADHD. It wasn’t exactly a surprise. He had experienced difficulty during his first couple of years of school. He couldn’t sit still, would rush through activities, and was always seeking something new to occupy his mind. But, though it wasn’t a surprise, it was definitely a wakeup call.

With the diagnosis in hand, it was time to take action. Knowing he did, indeed, have ADHD was comforting in a way, because now, we (his parents, teachers, and other loved ones) had parameters in which to guide him. He wasn’t just hyper or immature for his age. He had ADHD—and here’s what we can do about it.

Of course, his dad and I began working closely with his teachers to help improve his school life. Then, we focused on home. And specifically homework, which at our house might as well have been one of those “four-letter words.” Every day, without fail, homework time had been a struggle. And we were all more than ready to find ways to make it less painful—and maybe even enjoyable!—for him.

Here are a few changes we made:

Created a workspace outside his room

Prior to his ADHD diagnosis, my son’s desk was in his room. It seemed like the most practical place for it. But in hindsight, it probably made him feel confined and allowed the negativity from homework time to spill over into bedtime. As this guide on home design for kids with ADHD explains, it’s best to keep your child’s workspace outside their room because a desk or table implies there’s work to be done, which can bring on anxiety and disquiet. It recommends finding another quiet, low distraction space in the home where your child has room to move.

We converted our rarely used dining room into a work and activity room. We painted it a warm, soothing tan, put his desk up against one of the walls, and switched out the dining room table and chairs for some shelves to help with organization. So far, it’s working really well. He is definitely enjoying having a dedicated space for homework time.

Prioritized planning and routine

When we were in the process of getting my son’s diagnosis, I did a lot of reading on ADHD, and one thing I learned was the importance of organization. As this article from InsideADHD.org on environmental strategies notes, timed activities, task lists, and calendars can help a child with ADHD make the most of their focused work time. Now, my son and I do homework prep every day. Together, we assess what needs to be done, and then I help him break it all down into chunks that are doable for him. There’s no more diving in and hoping for the best! We’ve created a routine that he can count on, and he’s really thriving under that structure.

Planned for physical activity before homework time

After he’s spent all day sitting at his desk at school, the last thing my son wants to do when he gets home is go sit at another desk to work on his homework. So, we’ve really tried to develop barriers between school time, homework time, and relaxation time before bed. And the barrier between school and homework time is for him to do something physically active. He can do whatever he wants (within reason!) as long as he’s up and moving around—so no video game playing or TV watching.

Over the summer, we got a dog. I had read, as this article explains, that dogs can provide a number of positive benefits for kids with ADHD—from helping them get more exercise to helping reduce stress and anxiety to offering constant, non-judgmental companionship. So, my son’s activity of choice has been playing with his new four-legged friend. They run, play, and roll around in the backyard, providing both of them an opportunity to get out that excess energy!

Be generous with praise

Positive reinforcement has become a huge focus for us. I realized, even prior to my son’s diagnosis, that my husband and I spent far too much time trying to manage my son’s negative behavior. We didn’t give him enough credit for what he was getting right. This article on homework tips for kids with ADHD emphasizes the importance of praising the positive. It explains that specific compliments are a great way to reinforce positive behavior and to provide some much-needed encouragement. Instead of spending homework time pleading with him to do this or do that, now I spend it seeking opportunities to point out where he did well. And what do you know! It has made homework time a lot more positive for both of us.

Looking back, there are so many things I wish I would have done differently. So many times when I should have been more patient, should have realized he wasn’t just disobeying or being defiant for the fun of it, should have traded a punishment for a word of encouragement. Change is definitely in the air for all of us at our house now, and rethinking homework time as helped my son get off to a great start this school year. I can’t wait to see where the year takes him!

The post How to Create a Great Home Learning Space for a Child with ADHD appeared first on RichmondMom.com.

The first and last time my little dragon ever wore a “traditional” Halloween costume.

When I think of things that make my skin crawl I think of bugs, snakes and other creepy stuff.

What makes my son’s skin crawl? A stray tag, a bulky costume, wearing something on his head, paint on his face and these days pretty much anything that isn’t his blue t-shirt from Target (we have three).

He loves everything about Halloween. Trick-or-treating, pumpkin picking, carving and decorating, and candy (although he’ll only eat the m&ms) but just the thought of putting on a costume upsets him. In fact, the last time I was able to get him to wear a full costume he was about 8 months old.

Over the years we’ve had to get pretty creative with costumes to make Halloween fun for all of us. Here are a couple of tips and tricks I’ve learned along the way that can help make Halloween fun for kids with autism and sensory processing issues.

Find a “t-shirt and jeans” costume.  Okay, not literal jeans as many kids with sensory processing issues don’t like the feel of denim. What I mean is, find a costume that can basically be pants and a t-shirt. A few ideas to get you started:

• A mime – black sweat pants, striped shirt, white gloves
•  UPS delivery person- brown sweat pants, brown shirt (draw buttons on with permanent marker and use a little paint for the ups patch)
• A crayon- matching sweats from head to toe in their favorite color and paint CRAYOLA on their shirt
• Pajamas- superhero pajamas are a life saver -soft, comfortable, easy and practical.
• Skeleton- paint bones onto black sweats
• Waldo – glasses and hat optional
• Aerobics instructor, dancer, gymnast – as long as the leotard isn’t an issue, these costumes are soft and movable
• A child character like Charlie Brown

Partner costumes. Load up the costume on a person who likes to wear them.  Although my son hates buttons, I was able to convince him last year that a shirt was a jacket and my kids went as a werewolf both”before” and “after” midnight. A few more ideas:

• An animal trainer and have a friend or sibling be a lion or even dress up the dog
• Boo from Monster’s Inc. and you can be Sully
• Shaggy and you can be Scooby
• Calvin and you can be Hobbes
• Christopher Robin and you can be Pooh

Let the props tell the story. My son won’t wear a hat, but he’ll carry one. He’ll also use photo prop glasses (the kind on a stick), or carry an umbrella. With a little creativity you can use props to help tell your story.

• Cover an umbrella with cotton and the child can wear all blue to be a rain drop
• Wear dirty sweats and carry a chimney sweep style broom
• Tape streamers to an umbrella and be a jelly fish
• Carry a bag of money and be a burglar

It’s okay NOT to dress up.  Passing out candy and seeing a parade of costumes can be fun too.  Sit outside on the front steps and watch the parade of costumes pass by. Maybe have a costume on hand in case they’re inspired to try it, but don’t worry if they don’t.

A few additional tips.

Be aware of how your child might react to scary costumes. Look at pictures of costumes together. If you’re afraid of how your child might react to something scary, trick-or-treat early.

Visit just a few, friendly houses and stay close to home. Set it up so that if you sense a meltdown is coming you can call it a night quickly.

Buy it early, try it out. Give them time to get used to the costume, props and the whole trick or treating thing before you’re out and about.

Let your child be your guide. We’ve learned to never underestimate my son. Just when we think he can’t handle something he does brilliantly and when we’re sure he’ll love something we couldn’t be more wrong.  Take the cue from them to get as “into” Halloween as they want. After all, Halloween can be celebrated anyway that works best for your family even if it doesn’t look the way you imagined it.

Is your child on a special diet? Don’t let that get in the way of trick or treating. Find out more about the Teal Pumpkin Project.

Note: Every child is different, this includes children with autism and other sensory processing issues. While I’ll never in my life be able to get my son to wear overalls for example, it might not be an issue for another child.  Like wise, what does work for our family might not work for others. Has something worked for you? PLEASE share it in the comments below so other parents (and kids) can benefit.

The post Halloween Costumes for Kids with Autism & Sensory Processing Disorders appeared first on RichmondMom.com.

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The 2015 Summer Games Opening Ceremony and the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron will be held Friday June 12, 7:30-9 pm at the University of Richmond Robins Center (23B Boatwright Drive).

The Special Olympics promises an exciting opening event and their best one yet with 27 new high school partners to the program and hundreds of new volunteers.  Champion Together school bring together athletes with and without disabilities with developing relationships and creating the first unified generation so, later in life, youth will be able to live, work and thrive alongside peers of all ability levels.

Volunteer to Cheer along with your family at the opening ceremony or at any of the Special Olympic Games by registering on the website.

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April is National Autism Awareness Month.  The Autism Society Central Virginia will be hosting and participating in numerous events throughout our community this month to share awareness, understanding, and acceptance of this developmental disability that now affects 1 in 68 individuals and 1 in 42 boys (CDC, March 2014). 

The Autism Society Central Virginia is the local support organization for individuals with autism and their families.   This non-profit organization provides information and resources, education, advocacy, services, and supports for individuals at any age and any stage.  However, the greatest benefit of involvement in the Autism Society Central Virginia will always be our community –  networking and learning from parents and individuals on the spectrum who are walking a similar path!

Recently, several individuals shared stories of how participation in the Autism Society Central Virginia has made a difference in their lives: 

Donna Sabel , ASCV Board Member and mom to a teen on the spectrum, recently shared: “The other evening at dinner, our son announced to us that he was glad he had autism. He said it made his brain so he can remember a lot of details that help people when they buy cars and TVs. Also, if he didn’t have autism, he wouldn’t be able to go to all the cool things that the Autism Society puts on. He wouldn’t have met 2 of his friends. ASCV has been helping to improve his life ever since Bradford helped me through his IEP going into KG, but very cool to hear him acknowledge it from his perspective. I know you all are crazy busy, but know that your efforts truly positively impact affected individuals and families.”

Rosa Fernandez, mom to a young son with autism, told us:  “ASCV has trips, classes, etc. for kids and adults under the spectrum. They do so much…too much. And that’s a great thing. I can’t help but cry at times. They’ve helped my son and me so much. I love this organization!!!!! I took their IEP BootCamp and I benefited from enlightening myself with all that information. I was able to help my son. Thank you so much. We’re truly blessed to be members.”

Allison Thurman, mom to an elementary age son, described her experience at one of our educational programs:  “The ASCV IEP Boot Camp held in October was an INCREDIBLE training experience for my husband and me in our journey with our son through the public school system.  Unlike many other IEP training opportunities that are often expensive and that primarily address the IDEA regulations, the ASCV IEP Boot Camp emphasized person-centered planning and a long term vision for your child, approaches for collaboration, and lessons learned from the instructor’s personal experiences.  What a great opportunity this was for all the parents that attended!”

Shawn Kirk, an adult self-advocate and ASCV Board Member has shared:  “If were not for the Autism Society Central Virginia I would not be where I am today. They have helped me out and many others affected by autism in ways more than I can begin to describe.”

Learn more about what the ASCV has to offer and how you can help us make a difference for all affected by autism in our community at www.ascv.org.  We hope you will consider joining us for our 13^th Annual 5K Run/Walk for Autism on May 23^rd – the funds raised through this and all of our fundraising events stay here in our community to help individuals and families living with autism today.

Help Richmondmom raise money for ASCV when you join us for Wine Down at the Wine Loft, Wednesday, May 6, 2015. $10 at the door and money from raffle tickets will go directly to the Autism Society Central Virginia.

The post ASCV Provides Support for Individuals with Autism and Their Families appeared first on RichmondMom.com.

During the majority of my 24 years as a dietitian, the term “gluten-free” was not the buzzword it is today.  Even a decade ago, most people had never even heard of the word gluten. Now, I hear gluten-free discussed almost daily and can spot products throughout MARTIN’S Food Markets. While a gluten-free diet is not the best way for everyone to eat, it is important for an adult or child diagnosed with celiac disease or a gluten intolerance/sensitivity.

Celiac disease (gluten sensitive enteropathy/celiac sprue) is a chronic autoimmune disorder of the intestine which interferes with the body’s ability to digest/absorb specific proteins known as “gluten.” Gluten is a mixture of proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley as well as hybrids of these grains such as spelt, triticale or kamut. For those with celiac or a gluten intolerance/sensitivity, these proteins must be avoided through careful day-to-day dietary management. In children, the symptoms of these conditions can affect everything from their digestive system to their mood, which makes adhering to a gluten-free diet imperative for some children to thrive. For the millions of Americans suffering from these conditions, beginning a lifelong gluten-free diet can seem challenging. The good news is that your local MARTIN’S is here to help!

Helpful hints for going gluten-free:

• As a family, make a decision as to whether to go cold-turkey or ease into a gluten-free diet, as well as whether or not the whole family will be adhering to the diet or just the individual.
• Look for MARTIN’S gluten-free shelf tags throughout the store. These tags are displayed immediately below gluten-free products. Thousands of Own Brands and national brand products are identified as gluten-free throughout the perishable and non-perishable departments!
• If this diet is for a child, involve them in choosing and trying new gluten-free products by helping you spot the shelf-tag throughout the store. Once your family gets comfortable with a gluten-free diet, then you can start to be mindful about watching sugar content or looking for products with more fiber.
• Read the label every time.  Recipes, distributors or ingredient sources can change. If in doubt, go without! Avoid foods if there is no ingredient list or call the food manufacturer if you are unsure the food is gluten-free.
• Wheat-free is not necessarily gluten-free. Wheat-free products may contain rye, barley, spelt or other gluten-containing grains or gluten may be in hidden ingredients. Some naturally gluten-free grains such as oat or millet may be cross contaminated during growing, harvesting or processing.
• Avoid cross-contamination from gluten-containing foods. Be mindful of products from bulk bins or salad bars as most cannot be guaranteed gluten-free. Store all gluten-free products in separate, covered containers with labels. Use a separate cutting board for gluten-free foods and prepare foods in an area away from gluten-containing ingredients. Buy separate containers of peanut butter and jam and have a separate butter dish for gluten-free users. Use squeeze bottles of condiments and keep separate toasters. 

MARTIN’S in-store nutritionists are here as a resource for learning about a gluten-free diet and finding gluten-free foods that will provide the nutrients you need to stay healthy!  To schedule a consultation or store tour, call Valerie Pulley, RDN at 804-364-3644 or Caroline Roessler, MS, RDN at 804-794-7074. For more healthy tips, visit the MARTIN’S website.

Like this article? Check out these:

How I Saw A Nutritionist for Practically Free, What I Learned & Tips for When You Go

7 lessons I learned from going gluten free for one month

Tips on Going Gluten-Free

The post The Gluten-Free Truth – Who, Why and How! appeared first on RichmondMom.com.

Why does a child with special needs need a pediatrician who manages special needs patients only?

Although families may go through financial hardships, adjustments with employment, or lack of family support, research has shown that families that have children with special needs have increased risk for having financial instability, social isolation or family disruption. A physician who manages patients with special needs will address these issues continually throughout the patient’s childhood and even as he/she transitions into adulthood.

The demands placed on primary care doctors to manage both healthy and children with special needs may be difficult for some families. Bon Secours Developmental & Special Needs Pediatrics has committed to providing special attention to these special patients. Longer appointment times for both preventive and acute care are provided. The team consists of a pediatrician, who has had extensive experience in special needs children, and access to child life specialists, nutritionists, social workers and nurse navigators. The team works to ensure that the special needs child receives specialized care focusing on the complete wellness of the child to include medical, developmental/educational, psychological and social needs.

Who are children with special needs?

With the advancement of medical science and technology, children are surviving illnesses, birth defects or complications that they would not have survived years ago. Parents can now take their children home even if they require oxygen supplementation with nasal cannulas, tracheostomy tubes, feeding tubes or cardiac pacemakers.

What is a Special Needs Child?

The Department of Health and Human Services Maternal and Child Health Bureau in 1995 defined children with special health care needs as those who have, or are at increased risk of developing, a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral or emotional condition and who also require health and related services of a type or amount beyond that usually required by children (Pediatrics 1998; 102; 137, A New Definition of Children With Special Health Care Needs).

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bowman, call 804-287-7463
Bon Secours Developmental & Special Needs Pediatrics
5855 Bremo Road, MOB North, Suite 703 Richmond, VA 23226

 

Valerie L. Bowman, M.D., FAAP, with over 20 years in the Richmond area as a pediatrician, currently leads the Bon Secours Developmental and Special Needs Pediatrics medical team. She lives in Richmond with her husband and three sons.

Read her story here.

Bon Secours is a sponsor of Richmondmom

The post Special Needs Pediatric Care FAQS appeared first on RichmondMom.com.

Each month we give away great prizes, soak up a relaxed atmosphere, chow down on delicious free appetizers and have a really great time… who knew philanthropy could be this fun?!

If you haven’t joined us for Wine Down yet here’s what you can expect:

• $10 at the door goes directly to charity.
• Generous glasses of wine at a great discount.
• Delicious FREE appetizers provided by The Wine Loft.
• Raise more money for the selected non-profit by purchasing raffle tickets and winning great prizes.
• Meet new people (like Christa and Sarah from Richmondmom.com) and network or grab a quiet spot for you and a friend to enjoy a kid-free catch up.

As much as $1,000 is raised each month in just a couple hours at each event at the Wine Loft so feel good about connecting with other parents, family-focused businesses and raising money for a great cause.

This month we’re raising a glass (and funds) for Autism Society of Central Virginia.

About ASCV
The mission of Autism Society of Central Virginia is to improve the lives of all affected by autism by maximizing the self- sufficiency, independence, and quality of life for all living with autism.
ASCV the local voice and resource of the autism community in education, advocacy, services, and support, committed to meaningful participation and self-determination in all aspects of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Any age. Any stage.

RSVP and invite your friends on Facebook here

Wine Down
At The Wine Loft in Short Pump
May 6, 2015
6:30pm

For businesses owners who would like to donate a raffle prize, we appreciate you! Please contact us:[email protected].

These events may also be sponsored by businesses owners. If you’re interested in sponsoring a future Wine Down event, let us know. We’d love to hear from you.

The post Wine Down for Autism Society of Central Virginia appeared first on RichmondMom.com.

Kids love Kings Dominion, but all the great things happening in the park can be very overwhelming for kids with autism.  Kings Dominion and ASCV have teamed up to make a day at the park a little easier on kids with autism and their families.

On April 12, 2015, bring the whole family to Kings Dominion on Autism Awareness Day and join the Autism Society Central Virginia for a meet and greet under the Eiffel Tower from 10am-3pm.

Families with children with autism will be able to pick up a packet which contains information on gluten free food options, a map of quiet areas, information on  the Kings Dominion Special Boarding Pass Program and a pair of ear plugs and a KD Kid Traker wristband.

Autism Awareness Day
Kings Dominion
April 12, 2015
10am-3pm
Use code KDSCV at KingsDominion.com to get tickets for $34.

Want to help raise money for ASCV to promote fantastic autism-family-friendly events just like these?
Join us at Wine Down  for a special fundraising event to benefit the Autism Society of Central Virginia on May 6, at 6:30 pm.  Read more here.

Kings Dominion is a sponsor of Richmondmom

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Unfortunately, he was readmitted at 1 month of age for failure to thrive. By 4 months of age he had a nasogastric tube insertion for improved intake of calories so his body could grow and develop. Shortly after turning 1 year of age, my son needed a gastrostomy tube for delivery of his nutrition since he hadn’t mastered eating to sustain his life.

Early intervention services started at 6 months of age with him receiving occupational, physical and speech therapies weekly. Fortunately, EI services were provided at our home, so I was able to maintain my private practice. As Jon approached his third birthday, it became evident that he would need continued services outside the home (EI ends at 36 months of age). I closed my practice so I could take Jon for outpatient treatment. He also entered preschool for developmental delay and received educational services in the school setting.

Jon continues to have his challenges with gross/fine motor delay, speech and feeding, but he has made tremendous gains with the help of these community resources. Jon’s pediatrician often says, “He is the poster child for early intervention.” I cannot stress enough the importance or necessity of early intervention services and early childhood education. As a pediatrician, I’ve seen what happens to children who don’t receive these needed resources. But my experience as a parent has inspired a deeper commitment and passion for treating special needs children.

Valerie L. Bowman, M.D., FAAP, with over 20 years in the Richmond area as a pediatrician, currently leads the Bon Secours Developmental and Special Needs Pediatrics medical team. She lives in Richmond with her husband and three sons.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bowman, call 804-287-7463
Or request an appointment online here.
Bon Secours Developmental & Special Needs Pediatrics
5855 Bremo Road, MOB North, Suite 703 Richmond, VA 23226

Bon Secours is a sponsor of Richmondmom

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