It Can Be A Learning Process For Everyone
Last year, my daughter Lilly had an epic meltdown in the car. She was trying to tell me something, but I couldn’t understand her. I played detective, asking all sorts of questions hoping that she would give me some sort of clue as to why she was upset. Yelling escalated to screaming, headbanging and kicking, and I ended up pulling over for safety’s sake. The screams tapered into quiet sobs, and we eventually made our way home, where I discovered the source of her distress: she had left her favorite notebook at school. Living with a communication disorder can be a learning process for everyone.
Living with a child who has a challenging time communicating can be trying. It’s exasperating when they can’t get their needs across, and the frustration can result in many challenging behaviors. We’ve learned many things through trial and error and are always searching for new ideas to make communication easier for Lilly.
We’ve learned to be proactive whenever possible. If your child has a preferred method of communication (sign language, picture communication cards, or an electronic communication device), it helps if the same method is used consistently at home and at school.
If your child receives speech therapy, be consistent with any “at home” exercises they recommend.
When Lilly first started using a tablet as a communication device, it took some excessive prompting to get her to use it regularly, especially if she was already frustrated. Once she reaches a certain point in a meltdown, the tablet is likely to go flying, and its purpose is totally defeated. Getting the tablet into her hands at the first sign of aggravation to prevent a meltdown is a goal we are constantly striving for.
At home, Lilly is in a comfortable bubble surrounded by familiar things and the people who know her best. Venturing outside that bubble can be scary. If something unanticipated happens, a lot of patience is needed; it is easy to get flustered out in public, trying to calm a distraught child and feeling worried that all eyes are on you. Be kind to yourself, breathe, and know you are not alone in this journey.
These are some free resources that we have used.
- Instructions for making PECS binder.
- Let Me Talk App for Android and iOS.
Feel free to share any resources that have worked for your family – let us know at pn@northstateparent.com.
Posted in: Uniquely Us
Comment Policy: All viewpoints are welcome, but comments should remain relevant. Personal attacks, profanity, and aggressive behavior are not allowed. No spam, advertising, or promoting of products/services. Please, only use your real name and limit the amount of links submitted in your comment.
You Might Also Like...
Eloping and Autism – Uniquely Us
The Other Eloping … There is a term that many parents of special needs children are familiar with. It means to wander off, bolt, escape, or run away. This behavior […]
For Parents of NICU Babies, the Risk of Developing PTSD is Real
The emotional stress that parents experience when they have a child in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) can last long after their baby is discharged. Years later, certain sounds, […]
The Benefits of Equine Therapy
Triple Creek Ranch and the Benefits of Equine Therapy Equine therapy is a treatment that incorporates horses into the therapeutic process. Along with riding, people who partake in equine therapy […]
How to Navigate the Holidays When Your Child Has a Feeding Tube
The holiday season is upon us, and it’s hard to imagine this time of year without thinking of all the food that comes with it. Gatherings for Thanksgiving and winter […]
