Play Group and Support Group

I now evaluate children for possible developmental delays through the Child Find program in Houston County....I am thoroughly enjoying working with the 3 and 4-year olds, their parents, pediatricians, day cares, head starts, and whoever else refers a child because of concerns regarding development. This Friday, December 10th, we are beginning a Play Group for children that we are monitoring (called Progress Monitoring) - this is especially for children that are not enrolled in a preschool or day care and would benefit from the socialization with other children. It will also be a wonderful 'source of support' for parents of special needs children.

During this hectic time of year, take time to remember how special your child and family are....reach out to someone less fortunate! We are buying toys, sheets, outfits, etc. for a family of five. I also just heard about a family who lost their home in a house fire last weekend....it was the home of a grandmother raising her three grandkids......'tis the season of love and giving so reach out to someone and make a difference!

Blessings!

...just an observation :)

Hi friends,

Long time, no write....so sorry! I just began a new job with Student Services in Houston County, GA and they are keeping me hopping! I am doing all of the evaluations and eligibility reports for children (ages 3 and 4) with suspected developmental delays. We receive referrals from parents, pediatricians, schools, day care centers, and Head Starts. Part of my job entails going into various places and 'progress monitoring' children for 8 to 12 weeks. At the end of this time period, we have a pretty good idea whether or not the child needs additional support/services. It's been fun interacting with the children and meeting the teachers throughout our community. I have been surprised at how many people are unaware of Early Intervention Services...in the state of Georgia, it is called Babies Can't Wait. Babies Can't Wait can actually start immediately after birth and continue until the child's 3rd birthday (if the child is diagnosed with a developmental delays); we look at five areas of development - cognitive, motor (fine/gross), personal/social, adaptive (self-help), and communication (articulation and receptive/expressive language).....so SPREAD THE WORD about early intervention for children falling behind developmentally....there are so many available programs - United Cerebral Palsy, Easter Seals, Early Intervention, etc...
Together we can get the word out about intervention services and make a difference in the lives of children and families!
God bless,
Robin

Meeting the needs of Special Needs Kids :)

Hi there - I am a veteran (25+ years) teacher of special needs kids and created this blog in the hopes of helping parents and educators. I look forward to conversing with you and hopefully offering some valuable advice. First and foremost, if you are a parent of a special needs child/children, I know what a full-time 'job' it is so my first piece of advice/wisdom would be: (1) take a much-needed break for yourself...you cannot do this alone, just as any parent cannot raise a child alone...rely on friends, family members, church members, other parents of special needs children, etc. Take a break for yourself - go out and walk, go to the grocery store alone, whatever....you will find that you are a much better parent and person if you take 15 - 30 minutes a day just for yourself.

....and remember...you are so special!

More later! Lots of love and best wishes,

rteach