bakomama said:

This stuff breaks my heart. Our poor kids have a hard enough time dealing with school under the best circumstances. These adults should be fired and not allowed to work with special needs kids anymore!

posted 26 days ago  

like (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

Yes, this is still an active group, that typically meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the Katz JCC on Springdale Road, in Cherry Hill. For more information, go to the ASPEN website: www.aspennj.org and search local chapters for more specific information. Next month's speaker meeting will be on the topic of Internet Safety, in June will be a family support meeting (no speaker - closed to professionals), and in July and August, they will not be meeting. Starting in September, they will begin meeting at the Beneficial Bank on the corner of Route 70 and Springdale Road. Hope this information helps!

posted 26 days ago  

like (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

I sent you a message via Facebook about calling you on Monday. Hang in there!

posted about 1 month ago  

like (1) (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

Hi to you, too! I haven't had much time for this site lately, as the work I do in advocacy is swamped in the spring IEP season. I hope to get back here when the dust settles.

posted about 1 month ago  

like (1) (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

O.T. involves the activities of daily living that require upper body strength, movement and dexterity. Low tone can pose challenges to many children on the spectrum, including hand strength needed for many tasks. O.T.'s can assist with skill development like handwriting, shoe tying, buttoning, zippering and many other tasks which pose challenges to many. This is a brief description, not meant to imply the scope of O.T. services.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

LovingMom2 said:

So is sensory integration therapy the same as OT? Thanks for answering.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

That is a good question. Occupational Therapists provide sensory integration therapy, but it usually involves activities which help various systems like the lymbic system. Spinning and swinging provide stimulation to those areas in the brain which require more stimulation than most neurotypicals need or can tolerate. The skin or tactile system can be either super sensitive or under sensitive, and various activities can be used to address needs in that domain. Some individuals respond well to deep pressure, while others benefit from a brushing program, where the skin is brushed with a soft brush. All in all, meeting sensory needs helps individuals with focus, concentration and relaxation. Children with sensory integration needs that are met through a "sensory diet" throughout the school day are more "ready to learn" than if they were not afforded this therapy. I hope this helps.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

LovingMom2 said:

Thanks a lot! It does help and some interesting information! Thanks for taking the time to respond.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

Jill-Longenecker said:

I understand and agree. I am in a loveless marriage but there's no abuse or addiction.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

I checked out the website and am very impressed that such an organization exists in North Jersey. We have little here in South Jersey for adults. I can see how such an organization could make such a difference for families and individuals in your community.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

nana905 said:

@spiritofthelamb The orginization is functioning for All of NJ, we went to the camp in PA. It was an amazing time. The weekend is for those under 16 & the camp is for those over 16 & goes the 2nd week in June. In the fall, there was a visit to a farm for picking vegetables & hayride. then there have been 2 movies & a bowling event.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

Welcome to the site! It is good to see fathers who are actively involved in parenting children on the autism spectrum! So often, the responsibility falls on one parent and oftentimes, the mother. Your family will certainly have best opportunities to prosper with your active involvement!

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

Thanks for the message! I am post-wedding SWAMPED, and don't have much time for this site right now. BTW, where is Haskell, NJ? I am in the greater Philadelphia area, in a NJ suburb.

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

nana905 said:

@spiritofthelamb so happy for you!! Haskell is in Passaic County, northern Jersey, about 30 miles from NYC. I thought you were part of southern Jersey. Do you know about Ability Tree? Blessings~

posted 2 months ago  

like (+)

spiritofthelamb said:

I have not heard of Ability Tree. Can you explain? I have a couple of advocacy clients in Pasaaic County, and their struggles are often overwhelming to them. New Jersey's systems are complex, and educational concerns vary greatly from district to district. Also, services for the DD population vary greatly from county to county, and north of Trenton vs. south of Trenton. Thanks for your messages and for understanding my busy life these days. I struggle with time management these days as there is no where near enough time to address everything. I am learning to be easier on myself and let the little things go a bit. In spite of all of the challenges, I could not be happier in my new marriage, nor feel more cherished than I do today. Blessings right back at you :)~

posted 2 months ago  

like (2) (+)