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string(3724) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src=\"http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG\" alt=\"18147\" title=\"18147\" width=\"185\" height=\"276\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332\" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href=\'http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg\'><img src=\"http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg\" alt=\"\" title=\"signature3\" width=\"115\" height=\"38\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-158\" /></a></p>
<p><a href=\"http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/\">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href=\"http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com\">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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<p><a href=\"http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/\" class=\"more-link\">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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string(344) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/" class="more-link">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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string(3650) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG" alt="18147" title="18147" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/" class="more-link">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG" alt="18147" title="18147" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/" class="more-link">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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string(3650) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG" alt="18147" title="18147" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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string(344) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/" class="more-link">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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string(3650) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG" alt="18147" title="18147" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2322/special-exposure-wednesday-12/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
"
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<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p>Got something special to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9937" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
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string(731) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2322/special-exposure-wednesday-12/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
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<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p>Got something special to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9937" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
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string(21) "Of PPOs, DME and AFOs"
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string(698) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2287/of-ppos-dme-and-afos/" class="more-link">Read more on Of PPOs, DME and AFOs…</a></p>
"
["content"]=>
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string(3999) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p>We are blessed with federal health insurance. This allows us about a dozen options to choose from and change every year in November. Right after Bear turned one. We switched from the cheaper <a href="http://www.agencyinfo.net/iv/medical/types/hmo-ppo-pos.htm">HMO to a PPO</a> so we could have easy access to specialists. The referral process at the HMO had screwed up majorly 3 times. You all know that can't have that with a special needs baby. When she needs to go from the neurologist to the neurosurgeon, we can't wait around for the PCP to approve the referral and have it processed. We need to walk across the street to the surgeon's office and be seen.</p>
<p>It took me almost a month to find the right coverage. Of course, over the past 3 years, said PPO has been taken over by our former HMO. Coverage has changed and we are stuck. Bear is at $7,700 of her $10,000 lifetime maximum benefit. The stroller we were going to order is $2,200. That would make it very difficult for us to have any I am no playing a numbers game to find out if we can order a cheaper stroller so we'll have enough to last through next year.</p>
<p>Besides the stroller, we'll need at least 2 sets of custom molded below ankle orthotics, and 2 sets of wrist cock-ups and night splints. I don't think $2,300 is enough but trying to scrutinize the 4 available PPOs before December 14th frightens me. Deductibles, copays, out-of-pocket maximums and co-insurance. Figuring this out is a job in itself.</p>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(698) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2287/of-ppos-dme-and-afos/" class="more-link">Read more on Of PPOs, DME and AFOs…</a></p>
"
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string(3999) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p>We are blessed with federal health insurance. This allows us about a dozen options to choose from and change every year in November. Right after Bear turned one. We switched from the cheaper <a href="http://www.agencyinfo.net/iv/medical/types/hmo-ppo-pos.htm">HMO to a PPO</a> so we could have easy access to specialists. The referral process at the HMO had screwed up majorly 3 times. You all know that can't have that with a special needs baby. When she needs to go from the neurologist to the neurosurgeon, we can't wait around for the PCP to approve the referral and have it processed. We need to walk across the street to the surgeon's office and be seen.</p>
<p>It took me almost a month to find the right coverage. Of course, over the past 3 years, said PPO has been taken over by our former HMO. Coverage has changed and we are stuck. Bear is at $7,700 of her $10,000 lifetime maximum benefit. The stroller we were going to order is $2,200. That would make it very difficult for us to have any I am no playing a numbers game to find out if we can order a cheaper stroller so we'll have enough to last through next year.</p>
<p>Besides the stroller, we'll need at least 2 sets of custom molded below ankle orthotics, and 2 sets of wrist cock-ups and night splints. I don't think $2,300 is enough but trying to scrutinize the 4 available PPOs before December 14th frightens me. Deductibles, copays, out-of-pocket maximums and co-insurance. Figuring this out is a job in itself.</p>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(45) "What's up with the overpriced "special" toys?"
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string(1276) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2294" title="phpqeNNTXAM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpqeNNTXAM.jpg" alt="phpqeNNTXAM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2292/whats-up-with-the-overpriced-special-toys/" class="more-link">Read more on What's up with the overpriced "special" toys?…</a></p>
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<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p>I think there are fantastic toys out there to help kids with special needs. Developmental toys that encourage them to better use their hands, minds and senses. Adaptive toys that help them get beyond their disabilities and play, just like every other kid. I also think these toys are often overpriced. Sometimes, I'll start flipping through a catalog of them and get ticked off as I see the prices—I feel like I'm being taken advantage of. Like many parents of kids with special needs, I'm vulnerable to wanting to get my child anything and everything that could help him. I don't like being at the mercy of these companies.</p>
<p>To be fair, maybe these companies charge more for the toys they make or adapt because they are small operations and don't have armies of people in China mass-producing them. That's when you start to wonder why the big-gun companies can't get find a way to make toys for our kids.</p>
<p>Have you also found toys for kids with special needs to be overpriced?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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string(1276) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2294" title="phpqeNNTXAM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpqeNNTXAM.jpg" alt="phpqeNNTXAM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2292/whats-up-with-the-overpriced-special-toys/" class="more-link">Read more on What's up with the overpriced "special" toys?…</a></p>
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string(3635) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2294" title="phpqeNNTXAM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpqeNNTXAM.jpg" alt="phpqeNNTXAM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p>I think there are fantastic toys out there to help kids with special needs. Developmental toys that encourage them to better use their hands, minds and senses. Adaptive toys that help them get beyond their disabilities and play, just like every other kid. I also think these toys are often overpriced. Sometimes, I'll start flipping through a catalog of them and get ticked off as I see the prices—I feel like I'm being taken advantage of. Like many parents of kids with special needs, I'm vulnerable to wanting to get my child anything and everything that could help him. I don't like being at the mercy of these companies.</p>
<p>To be fair, maybe these companies charge more for the toys they make or adapt because they are small operations and don't have armies of people in China mass-producing them. That's when you start to wonder why the big-gun companies can't get find a way to make toys for our kids.</p>
<p>Have you also found toys for kids with special needs to be overpriced?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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[4]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(54) "Magic Marker Monday — Learning About Fresco Painting"
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string(31) "Mon, 09 Nov 2009 01:00:29 +0000"
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string(8) "Michelle"
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["category"]=>
string(19) "Magic Marker Monday"
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string(851) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2296/magic-marker-monday-learning-about-fresco-painting/" class="more-link">Read more on Magic Marker Monday — Learning About Fresco Painting…</a></p>
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string(4684) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt62/xqtz7984/5MF/sc1w.jpg" /></p>
<p>My seven-year-old has been learning about Michaelangelo through our homeschool art curriculum. We've been taking a close look at the Sistine Chapel and the techniques that Michaelangelo used in his famous paintings there — specifically, fresco painting, or painting on wet plaster. </p>
<p>This set us up for some messy fun! A small tub of spackling paste, some chipboard, a flat-ended plastic spatula, a pointed wooded manicure stick and a watercolor set and we were ready to go. </p>
<p>The first step was to spread the spackling paste out on the chipboard and let it set up until it was firm, but still damp. Then she etched in the lines of her drawing using the manicure stick (which I'm told was A LOT of fun). </p>
<p>In the last step, she added paint and voila — a fresco painting of her very own creation! </p>
<p>Now you wouldn't exactly see this particular crowd of faces in the Sistine Chapel, but I'd have to say that bunnies, bears, princesses, lions and rainbows are quite captivating in fresco.</p>
<p><em>This project was adapted from a lesson out of the exceptional art curriculum series by <a href="http://www.artisticpursuits.com/" target="_blank" title="Artistic Pursuits Homeschool Art Curriculum">Artistic Pursuits</a>. </em> </p>
<p><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/siggy2copy.png" alt="S2" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>What has your little artist been up to this week? Link up and share!</em></p>
<p align="center"><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9759" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>Want the <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> button code? <a title="Link To Us" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/link-to-us/" target="_blank">Click Here!</a></p>
<p><a title="Michelle" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Find out more about Michelle</a><br />
Meet Michelle here each Monday for <a title="Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">Magic Marker Monday</a><em><br />
Questions? Please feel free to email Michelle at childlif[at]gmail[dot]com or come and visit her at <a title="In The Life Of A Child" href="http://inthelifeofachild.com" target="_blank">In The Life of a Child</a></em></p>
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string(851) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2296/magic-marker-monday-learning-about-fresco-painting/" class="more-link">Read more on Magic Marker Monday — Learning About Fresco Painting…</a></p>
"
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string(4684) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt62/xqtz7984/5MF/sc1w.jpg" /></p>
<p>My seven-year-old has been learning about Michaelangelo through our homeschool art curriculum. We've been taking a close look at the Sistine Chapel and the techniques that Michaelangelo used in his famous paintings there — specifically, fresco painting, or painting on wet plaster. </p>
<p>This set us up for some messy fun! A small tub of spackling paste, some chipboard, a flat-ended plastic spatula, a pointed wooded manicure stick and a watercolor set and we were ready to go. </p>
<p>The first step was to spread the spackling paste out on the chipboard and let it set up until it was firm, but still damp. Then she etched in the lines of her drawing using the manicure stick (which I'm told was A LOT of fun). </p>
<p>In the last step, she added paint and voila — a fresco painting of her very own creation! </p>
<p>Now you wouldn't exactly see this particular crowd of faces in the Sistine Chapel, but I'd have to say that bunnies, bears, princesses, lions and rainbows are quite captivating in fresco.</p>
<p><em>This project was adapted from a lesson out of the exceptional art curriculum series by <a href="http://www.artisticpursuits.com/" target="_blank" title="Artistic Pursuits Homeschool Art Curriculum">Artistic Pursuits</a>. </em> </p>
<p><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/siggy2copy.png" alt="S2" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>What has your little artist been up to this week? Link up and share!</em></p>
<p align="center"><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9759" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>Want the <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> button code? <a title="Link To Us" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/link-to-us/" target="_blank">Click Here!</a></p>
<p><a title="Michelle" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Find out more about Michelle</a><br />
Meet Michelle here each Monday for <a title="Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">Magic Marker Monday</a><em><br />
Questions? Please feel free to email Michelle at childlif[at]gmail[dot]com or come and visit her at <a title="In The Life Of A Child" href="http://inthelifeofachild.com" target="_blank">In The Life of a Child</a></em></p>
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string(39) "Questions that hurt, comments that help"
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string(31) "Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:08 +0000"
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string(421) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2278/questions-that-hurt-comments-that-help/" class="more-link">Read more on Questions that hurt, comments that help…</a></p>
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string(4198) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><strong>8 most annoying questions I’ve been asked about Matthew.</strong></p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2281" title="iStock_000010966724XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000010966724XSmall2-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000010966724XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p>1) Will he ever live on his own?</p>
<p>2) Don’t you feel guilty?</p>
<p>3) What will happen to him when you die?</p>
<p>4) I hear they can be cured. Have you read Jenny McCarthy’s book?</p>
<p>5) Don’t you feel lucky that you have two other children that are normal?</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. <em>What</em> a waste.</p>
<p>7) Will he ever get married and have children?</p>
<p>8) Will he grow out of it?</p>
<p>Luckily, there are the nice comments, too. They don’t come as often but they are unforgettable.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2282" title="iStock_000002185664XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000002185664XSmall-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000002185664XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p><strong>8 of the nicest things people have said about Matthew</strong></p>
<p>1) He had a great day today. I love having him in my class.</p>
<p>2) That kid has the most beautiful smile.</p>
<p>3) Matthew had a rough day today, but he wasn’t the only one.</p>
<p>4) I used to wonder what it would be like if he didn’t have autism, but now, I can’t imagine him any other way.</p>
<p>5) When can Matthew come for a visit? I miss him so much.</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. And what a great sense of humor!</p>
<p>7) You must be so proud of him.</p>
<p>8) Matthew does such great work. When can he work in my garden again?</p>
<p>Please share with me your bad news good news comments and questions!</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="font-family: book antiqua,palatino;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Laura</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.laurashumaker.com"><strong>Laura Shumaker</strong></a> is the author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/098018360X/ref=s9_simx_gw_s3_p14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=085M4YFZYC07KD36YG92&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846"><strong>A REGULAR GUY: GROWING UP WITH AUTISM</strong></a></p>
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string(421) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2278/questions-that-hurt-comments-that-help/" class="more-link">Read more on Questions that hurt, comments that help…</a></p>
"
["atom_content"]=>
string(4198) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><strong>8 most annoying questions I’ve been asked about Matthew.</strong></p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2281" title="iStock_000010966724XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000010966724XSmall2-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000010966724XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p>1) Will he ever live on his own?</p>
<p>2) Don’t you feel guilty?</p>
<p>3) What will happen to him when you die?</p>
<p>4) I hear they can be cured. Have you read Jenny McCarthy’s book?</p>
<p>5) Don’t you feel lucky that you have two other children that are normal?</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. <em>What</em> a waste.</p>
<p>7) Will he ever get married and have children?</p>
<p>8) Will he grow out of it?</p>
<p>Luckily, there are the nice comments, too. They don’t come as often but they are unforgettable.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2282" title="iStock_000002185664XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000002185664XSmall-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000002185664XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p><strong>8 of the nicest things people have said about Matthew</strong></p>
<p>1) He had a great day today. I love having him in my class.</p>
<p>2) That kid has the most beautiful smile.</p>
<p>3) Matthew had a rough day today, but he wasn’t the only one.</p>
<p>4) I used to wonder what it would be like if he didn’t have autism, but now, I can’t imagine him any other way.</p>
<p>5) When can Matthew come for a visit? I miss him so much.</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. And what a great sense of humor!</p>
<p>7) You must be so proud of him.</p>
<p>8) Matthew does such great work. When can he work in my garden again?</p>
<p>Please share with me your bad news good news comments and questions!</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="font-family: book antiqua,palatino;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Laura</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.laurashumaker.com"><strong>Laura Shumaker</strong></a> is the author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/098018360X/ref=s9_simx_gw_s3_p14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=085M4YFZYC07KD36YG92&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846"><strong>A REGULAR GUY: GROWING UP WITH AUTISM</strong></a></p>
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[6]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(11) "Say 'Ahhhh'"
["link"]=>
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string(63) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2270/say-ahhhh/#comments"
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string(31) "Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:00:57 +0000"
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string(7) "Deborah"
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string(33) "BlogDeborahHospital Survival Tips"
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string(477) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2270/say-ahhhh/" class="more-link">Read more on Say 'Ahhhh'…</a></p>
"
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string(7845) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18140.JPG" alt="18140" title="18140" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2272" /></p>
<p>I have learned some lessons along the way that have made it easier for the doctors and nurses to do their jobs, easier for me to provide the daily care that Ashley needs, and most importantly, easier on Ash. I will share some of those things in the list below, but I would love to hear from others about the lessons they have learned in parenting their children with disabilities.</p>
<p>1. Always be honest with your child about what is going on and about what is going to happen to them. Communicate, communicate, communicate – even if you think your child doesn’t understand what you say. The tone of your voice, your calm approach, and your soothing hands will all help to keep your child calm during medical visits and procedures. </p>
<p>I will tell her that nothing on that particular visit will hurt. However, if I do expect a procedure where something will hurt or be invasive, I do tell her. When it is time for shots, I say and sign that she is going to get a shot and that it is going to hurt for a minute. I tell her that before we get to the doctor’s office, and I tell her again just before the shot is administered. I tell her it is ok to say ‘Oooow’ or to cry. Never let your child be surprised.</p>
<p>2. Practice what might happen when visiting the doctor. For instance, when Ash was younger, she was very reluctant to let the doctor look in her mouth. She wouldn’t say ‘Ahhh’, but would in fact clamp her mouth shut. So, when we were not at the doctor’s, we would practice opening our mouths and saying ‘Ahhh’. It turned into a fun game, and the next time we visited the doctor, Ashley had no problem sharing her new skill. </p>
<p>3. If your child has communication issues, make sure the doctor understands that you will need to help communicate. The doctor should talk about everything that he or she is going to do, and then as a parent you can communicate that to your child in the way you feel is most effective. </p>
<p>If your child is sensory defensive and doesn’t like to be touched in certain ways or by certain people, let your doctor know that up front. Instruct the doctor on the best way to approach your child. I honestly believe a good doctor will appreciate the information because it will make their job so much easier.</p>
<p>4. Don’t allow a doctor or nurse to talk to your child as if he or she is a baby (unless of course, they are a baby!). Nothing annoys me more than to have a doctor or nurse talk in baby talk to my twelve year old. </p>
<p>5. Unless you know for a fact that your doctor always stays on schedule, taking a bag or backpack of your child’s favorite toys, books and games can help pass the time and prevent an impatient meltdown.</p>
<p>6. If your child has to stay overnight in the hospital, make a sign to put either on the hospital room door or on the hospital bed that explains in short, concise language how best to work with your child. </p>
<p>For instance, I put on Ashley’s sign the fact that she is deafblind and that no one should just walk up and start touching her without announcing themselves to her first. I also list things like “champion IV remover”, “escape artist”, and other descriptive things about Ashley that may not be reflected in her medical chart. </p>
<p>7. Does your child often have medical problems which require an ambulance come to your home to transport her/him to the emergency room? If so, make sure you have important information like insurance info, medications, and specific medical conditions documented and within easy reach. </p>
<p>I keep two sheets of paper that contain all that information as well as the name and phone number of every medical specialist that Ashley sees in an envelope taped to the back of my front door. When the ambulance staff or fire department staff (they are often the first responders in my area) arrive, I can hand them that envelope and they have all the information they need. </p>
<p>8. And finally, another tip I have learned regarding emergency room visits, if you take your child to the emergency room yourself, you may have to wait a long time to be seen. You will be sitting in the waiting room with a lot of other ill or injured people. The stress level of that combined with whatever issue brought you to the emergency room will almost guarantee a meltdown by your child. </p>
<p>And, my experience is that emergency room staff doesn’t always care if there is a meltdown. It will NOT get you seen any sooner. </p>
<p>However, if an ambulance brings your child to the emergency room, they are taken immediately back to the ER treatment area and not left to sit in the waiting room. Given the seriousness of your child’s issue as well as their response to the long wait in the waiting room, calling an ambulance might be something you want to consider.</p>
<p>I’ll stop the list here, but again, I would love to hear from other families about the tips they may have. There are many difficult times that families will face when one of their family members has special needs, and finding appropriate medical care is one of the most critical. </p>
<p>As I said at the start, I have been very blessed to find a cadre of wonderful doctors and nurses. My final tip is, when you find someone that is wonderful, make sure to thank them over and over again!!!</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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string(477) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2270/say-ahhhh/" class="more-link">Read more on Say 'Ahhhh'…</a></p>
"
["atom_content"]=>
string(7845) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18140.JPG" alt="18140" title="18140" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2272" /></p>
<p>I have learned some lessons along the way that have made it easier for the doctors and nurses to do their jobs, easier for me to provide the daily care that Ashley needs, and most importantly, easier on Ash. I will share some of those things in the list below, but I would love to hear from others about the lessons they have learned in parenting their children with disabilities.</p>
<p>1. Always be honest with your child about what is going on and about what is going to happen to them. Communicate, communicate, communicate – even if you think your child doesn’t understand what you say. The tone of your voice, your calm approach, and your soothing hands will all help to keep your child calm during medical visits and procedures. </p>
<p>I will tell her that nothing on that particular visit will hurt. However, if I do expect a procedure where something will hurt or be invasive, I do tell her. When it is time for shots, I say and sign that she is going to get a shot and that it is going to hurt for a minute. I tell her that before we get to the doctor’s office, and I tell her again just before the shot is administered. I tell her it is ok to say ‘Oooow’ or to cry. Never let your child be surprised.</p>
<p>2. Practice what might happen when visiting the doctor. For instance, when Ash was younger, she was very reluctant to let the doctor look in her mouth. She wouldn’t say ‘Ahhh’, but would in fact clamp her mouth shut. So, when we were not at the doctor’s, we would practice opening our mouths and saying ‘Ahhh’. It turned into a fun game, and the next time we visited the doctor, Ashley had no problem sharing her new skill. </p>
<p>3. If your child has communication issues, make sure the doctor understands that you will need to help communicate. The doctor should talk about everything that he or she is going to do, and then as a parent you can communicate that to your child in the way you feel is most effective. </p>
<p>If your child is sensory defensive and doesn’t like to be touched in certain ways or by certain people, let your doctor know that up front. Instruct the doctor on the best way to approach your child. I honestly believe a good doctor will appreciate the information because it will make their job so much easier.</p>
<p>4. Don’t allow a doctor or nurse to talk to your child as if he or she is a baby (unless of course, they are a baby!). Nothing annoys me more than to have a doctor or nurse talk in baby talk to my twelve year old. </p>
<p>5. Unless you know for a fact that your doctor always stays on schedule, taking a bag or backpack of your child’s favorite toys, books and games can help pass the time and prevent an impatient meltdown.</p>
<p>6. If your child has to stay overnight in the hospital, make a sign to put either on the hospital room door or on the hospital bed that explains in short, concise language how best to work with your child. </p>
<p>For instance, I put on Ashley’s sign the fact that she is deafblind and that no one should just walk up and start touching her without announcing themselves to her first. I also list things like “champion IV remover”, “escape artist”, and other descriptive things about Ashley that may not be reflected in her medical chart. </p>
<p>7. Does your child often have medical problems which require an ambulance come to your home to transport her/him to the emergency room? If so, make sure you have important information like insurance info, medications, and specific medical conditions documented and within easy reach. </p>
<p>I keep two sheets of paper that contain all that information as well as the name and phone number of every medical specialist that Ashley sees in an envelope taped to the back of my front door. When the ambulance staff or fire department staff (they are often the first responders in my area) arrive, I can hand them that envelope and they have all the information they need. </p>
<p>8. And finally, another tip I have learned regarding emergency room visits, if you take your child to the emergency room yourself, you may have to wait a long time to be seen. You will be sitting in the waiting room with a lot of other ill or injured people. The stress level of that combined with whatever issue brought you to the emergency room will almost guarantee a meltdown by your child. </p>
<p>And, my experience is that emergency room staff doesn’t always care if there is a meltdown. It will NOT get you seen any sooner. </p>
<p>However, if an ambulance brings your child to the emergency room, they are taken immediately back to the ER treatment area and not left to sit in the waiting room. Given the seriousness of your child’s issue as well as their response to the long wait in the waiting room, calling an ambulance might be something you want to consider.</p>
<p>I’ll stop the list here, but again, I would love to hear from other families about the tips they may have. There are many difficult times that families will face when one of their family members has special needs, and finding appropriate medical care is one of the most critical. </p>
<p>As I said at the start, I have been very blessed to find a cadre of wonderful doctors and nurses. My final tip is, when you find someone that is wonderful, make sure to thank them over and over again!!!</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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[7]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(27) "Special Exposure Wednesday."
["link"]=>
string(70) "http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/5MinutesForSpecialNeeds/~3/-GwhTif3YXE/"
["comments"]=>
string(83) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2261/special-exposure-wednesday-11/#comments"
["pubdate"]=>
string(31) "Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:00:11 +0000"
["dc"]=>
array(1) {
["creator"]=>
string(10) "TiffandIvy"
}
["category"]=>
string(45) "BlogSpecial Exposure WednesdayTiffphotography"
["guid"]=>
string(46) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/?p=2261"
["description"]=>
string(703) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2261/special-exposure-wednesday-11/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
"
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string(2638) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9401" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
<div class="feedflare">
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["summary"]=>
string(703) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2261/special-exposure-wednesday-11/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
"
["atom_content"]=>
string(2638) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9401" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/5MinutesForSpecialNeeds/~4/-GwhTif3YXE" height="1" width="1"/>"
}
[8]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(18) "IEP tips from moms"
["link"]=>
string(70) "http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/5MinutesForSpecialNeeds/~3/G7vaqeV1ox4/"
["comments"]=>
string(72) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2256/iep-tips-from-moms/#comments"
["pubdate"]=>
string(31) "Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:14 +0000"
["dc"]=>
array(1) {
["creator"]=>
string(7) "Astacia"
}
["category"]=>
string(28) "Individual Educational Plans"
["guid"]=>
string(46) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/?p=2256"
["description"]=>
string(737) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2256/iep-tips-from-moms/" class="more-link">Read more on IEP tips from moms…</a></p>
"
["content"]=>
array(1) {
["encoded"]=>
string(3526) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<ul>
<li>Walk in with confidence, knowing who your child really is</li>
<li>Never go alone (even if the other person is quiet and take notes)</li>
<li>Be positive</li>
<li>Stay focused on the positive of your child</li>
<li>Assume that everyone in the room is doing the best they can</li>
<li>Remember the school generally is only looking the upcoming year.</li>
<li>To get services you must talk deficits, this is hard because we know how wonderful our child is. Acknowledge this and take a box of Kleenex.</li>
<li>When the school says that can't because it is against policy, politely ask them for a copy of the policy.</li>
<li>Listen to that voice in your head.</li>
<li>If you don't think you are being heard, give some complements, then ask for what you want.</li>
<li>Be prepared, bring enough copies of any recent testing or paperwork from outside sources.</li>
<li>Try to come to the meeting with ideas on how to work with all the people involved.</li>
<li>Blog about it afterward</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(737) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2256/iep-tips-from-moms/" class="more-link">Read more on IEP tips from moms…</a></p>
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string(3526) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<ul>
<li>Walk in with confidence, knowing who your child really is</li>
<li>Never go alone (even if the other person is quiet and take notes)</li>
<li>Be positive</li>
<li>Stay focused on the positive of your child</li>
<li>Assume that everyone in the room is doing the best they can</li>
<li>Remember the school generally is only looking the upcoming year.</li>
<li>To get services you must talk deficits, this is hard because we know how wonderful our child is. Acknowledge this and take a box of Kleenex.</li>
<li>When the school says that can't because it is against policy, politely ask them for a copy of the policy.</li>
<li>Listen to that voice in your head.</li>
<li>If you don't think you are being heard, give some complements, then ask for what you want.</li>
<li>Be prepared, bring enough copies of any recent testing or paperwork from outside sources.</li>
<li>Try to come to the meeting with ideas on how to work with all the people involved.</li>
<li>Blog about it afterward</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(745) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2254" title="phpP8yjQePM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpP8yjQePM.jpg" alt="phpP8yjQePM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2253/not-a-good-cause/" class="more-link">Read more on I don't enjoy feeling like a "good cause"…</a></p>
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<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p>I am always so floored by the kindness and generosity of the Embassy Suites people. Whenever I go to events like this for Max, I feel so grateful. But I also find them sobering. Because they make me realize that I am a parent with a child who benefits from the kindness of others. And I don't like feeling like a "good cause."</p>
<p>If I had to analyze my feelings, I'd say that I've gotten to a place in my life where I no longer feel sorry for myself for having a kid with special needs. I don't feel sorry for Max, either. He's adorable, he's doing well and he's so happy. I long ago stopped mourning the child Max could have been, and accept Max for who he is. But when I go to events for kids with special needs, I get acutely aware that I am One Of Those Parents with One Of Those Kids.</p>
<p>Do you know what I mean?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2253/not-a-good-cause/" class="more-link">Read more on I don't enjoy feeling like a "good cause"…</a></p>
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<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p>I am always so floored by the kindness and generosity of the Embassy Suites people. Whenever I go to events like this for Max, I feel so grateful. But I also find them sobering. Because they make me realize that I am a parent with a child who benefits from the kindness of others. And I don't like feeling like a "good cause."</p>
<p>If I had to analyze my feelings, I'd say that I've gotten to a place in my life where I no longer feel sorry for myself for having a kid with special needs. I don't feel sorry for Max, either. He's adorable, he's doing well and he's so happy. I long ago stopped mourning the child Max could have been, and accept Max for who he is. But when I go to events for kids with special needs, I get acutely aware that I am One Of Those Parents with One Of Those Kids.</p>
<p>Do you know what I mean?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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["description"]=>
string(344) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/" class="more-link">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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string(3650) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG" alt="18147" title="18147" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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string(344) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/" class="more-link">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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string(3650) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG" alt="18147" title="18147" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2322/special-exposure-wednesday-12/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
"
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<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p>Got something special to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9937" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
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string(731) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2322/special-exposure-wednesday-12/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
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<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2321" title="excited4web" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/excited4web.jpg" alt="excited4web" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>Wagon rides are the best!</p>
<p>When you are little and you get tired easily there is nothing better that having your big sister pull you in a wagon.</p>
<p>Got something special to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9937" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
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string(21) "Of PPOs, DME and AFOs"
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string(698) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2287/of-ppos-dme-and-afos/" class="more-link">Read more on Of PPOs, DME and AFOs…</a></p>
"
["content"]=>
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string(3999) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p>We are blessed with federal health insurance. This allows us about a dozen options to choose from and change every year in November. Right after Bear turned one. We switched from the cheaper <a href="http://www.agencyinfo.net/iv/medical/types/hmo-ppo-pos.htm">HMO to a PPO</a> so we could have easy access to specialists. The referral process at the HMO had screwed up majorly 3 times. You all know that can't have that with a special needs baby. When she needs to go from the neurologist to the neurosurgeon, we can't wait around for the PCP to approve the referral and have it processed. We need to walk across the street to the surgeon's office and be seen.</p>
<p>It took me almost a month to find the right coverage. Of course, over the past 3 years, said PPO has been taken over by our former HMO. Coverage has changed and we are stuck. Bear is at $7,700 of her $10,000 lifetime maximum benefit. The stroller we were going to order is $2,200. That would make it very difficult for us to have any I am no playing a numbers game to find out if we can order a cheaper stroller so we'll have enough to last through next year.</p>
<p>Besides the stroller, we'll need at least 2 sets of custom molded below ankle orthotics, and 2 sets of wrist cock-ups and night splints. I don't think $2,300 is enough but trying to scrutinize the 4 available PPOs before December 14th frightens me. Deductibles, copays, out-of-pocket maximums and co-insurance. Figuring this out is a job in itself.</p>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(698) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2287/of-ppos-dme-and-afos/" class="more-link">Read more on Of PPOs, DME and AFOs…</a></p>
"
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string(3999) "<p><img class="alignright" src="http://www.sxc.hu/pic/m/l/lu/lusi/387982_stethoscope4.jpg" alt="" width="180" height="135" />Looks like we'll be changing insurances this open season. Three years of hand and foot orthotics have brought us to Bear's lifetime maximum benefits for durable medical equipment. I hate that they are not covered separately. There is not cap for therapy because she's under 6, why is there a cap for her therapeutic needs? It's so frustrating because we really like this insurance company.</p>
<p>We are blessed with federal health insurance. This allows us about a dozen options to choose from and change every year in November. Right after Bear turned one. We switched from the cheaper <a href="http://www.agencyinfo.net/iv/medical/types/hmo-ppo-pos.htm">HMO to a PPO</a> so we could have easy access to specialists. The referral process at the HMO had screwed up majorly 3 times. You all know that can't have that with a special needs baby. When she needs to go from the neurologist to the neurosurgeon, we can't wait around for the PCP to approve the referral and have it processed. We need to walk across the street to the surgeon's office and be seen.</p>
<p>It took me almost a month to find the right coverage. Of course, over the past 3 years, said PPO has been taken over by our former HMO. Coverage has changed and we are stuck. Bear is at $7,700 of her $10,000 lifetime maximum benefit. The stroller we were going to order is $2,200. That would make it very difficult for us to have any I am no playing a numbers game to find out if we can order a cheaper stroller so we'll have enough to last through next year.</p>
<p>Besides the stroller, we'll need at least 2 sets of custom molded below ankle orthotics, and 2 sets of wrist cock-ups and night splints. I don't think $2,300 is enough but trying to scrutinize the 4 available PPOs before December 14th frightens me. Deductibles, copays, out-of-pocket maximums and co-insurance. Figuring this out is a job in itself.</p>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(45) "What's up with the overpriced "special" toys?"
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string(1276) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2294" title="phpqeNNTXAM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpqeNNTXAM.jpg" alt="phpqeNNTXAM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2292/whats-up-with-the-overpriced-special-toys/" class="more-link">Read more on What's up with the overpriced "special" toys?…</a></p>
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<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p>I think there are fantastic toys out there to help kids with special needs. Developmental toys that encourage them to better use their hands, minds and senses. Adaptive toys that help them get beyond their disabilities and play, just like every other kid. I also think these toys are often overpriced. Sometimes, I'll start flipping through a catalog of them and get ticked off as I see the prices—I feel like I'm being taken advantage of. Like many parents of kids with special needs, I'm vulnerable to wanting to get my child anything and everything that could help him. I don't like being at the mercy of these companies.</p>
<p>To be fair, maybe these companies charge more for the toys they make or adapt because they are small operations and don't have armies of people in China mass-producing them. That's when you start to wonder why the big-gun companies can't get find a way to make toys for our kids.</p>
<p>Have you also found toys for kids with special needs to be overpriced?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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string(1276) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2294" title="phpqeNNTXAM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpqeNNTXAM.jpg" alt="phpqeNNTXAM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2292/whats-up-with-the-overpriced-special-toys/" class="more-link">Read more on What's up with the overpriced "special" toys?…</a></p>
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string(3635) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2294" title="phpqeNNTXAM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpqeNNTXAM.jpg" alt="phpqeNNTXAM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Last week on my blog, I started a <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com/2009/11/help-i-cant-stop-organizing-plus-first.html">Special Needs Swap Shop</a>. I offered up a $1600 PONY Gait Trainer that Max used when he was little (someone took it). Then I invited readers to send me e-mails mentioning what sort of stuff they were looking for, and to let me know what sort of things they had to give away. I ended up talking on the phone with Ali, mom to a kid with cp, and we commiserated over how expensive stuff for kids with disabilities can be. "It's like, the second you attach the words 'special needs' to something you can charge double," she said. Sooooo true. I have literally paid double the price for an adaptive Connect Four game because it came with a special stand and rubberized pieces that are easier to hold.</p>
<p>I think there are fantastic toys out there to help kids with special needs. Developmental toys that encourage them to better use their hands, minds and senses. Adaptive toys that help them get beyond their disabilities and play, just like every other kid. I also think these toys are often overpriced. Sometimes, I'll start flipping through a catalog of them and get ticked off as I see the prices—I feel like I'm being taken advantage of. Like many parents of kids with special needs, I'm vulnerable to wanting to get my child anything and everything that could help him. I don't like being at the mercy of these companies.</p>
<p>To be fair, maybe these companies charge more for the toys they make or adapt because they are small operations and don't have armies of people in China mass-producing them. That's when you start to wonder why the big-gun companies can't get find a way to make toys for our kids.</p>
<p>Have you also found toys for kids with special needs to be overpriced?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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[4]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(54) "Magic Marker Monday — Learning About Fresco Painting"
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string(31) "Mon, 09 Nov 2009 01:00:29 +0000"
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string(8) "Michelle"
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["category"]=>
string(19) "Magic Marker Monday"
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string(851) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2296/magic-marker-monday-learning-about-fresco-painting/" class="more-link">Read more on Magic Marker Monday — Learning About Fresco Painting…</a></p>
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string(4684) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt62/xqtz7984/5MF/sc1w.jpg" /></p>
<p>My seven-year-old has been learning about Michaelangelo through our homeschool art curriculum. We've been taking a close look at the Sistine Chapel and the techniques that Michaelangelo used in his famous paintings there — specifically, fresco painting, or painting on wet plaster. </p>
<p>This set us up for some messy fun! A small tub of spackling paste, some chipboard, a flat-ended plastic spatula, a pointed wooded manicure stick and a watercolor set and we were ready to go. </p>
<p>The first step was to spread the spackling paste out on the chipboard and let it set up until it was firm, but still damp. Then she etched in the lines of her drawing using the manicure stick (which I'm told was A LOT of fun). </p>
<p>In the last step, she added paint and voila — a fresco painting of her very own creation! </p>
<p>Now you wouldn't exactly see this particular crowd of faces in the Sistine Chapel, but I'd have to say that bunnies, bears, princesses, lions and rainbows are quite captivating in fresco.</p>
<p><em>This project was adapted from a lesson out of the exceptional art curriculum series by <a href="http://www.artisticpursuits.com/" target="_blank" title="Artistic Pursuits Homeschool Art Curriculum">Artistic Pursuits</a>. </em> </p>
<p><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/siggy2copy.png" alt="S2" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>What has your little artist been up to this week? Link up and share!</em></p>
<p align="center"><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9759" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>Want the <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> button code? <a title="Link To Us" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/link-to-us/" target="_blank">Click Here!</a></p>
<p><a title="Michelle" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Find out more about Michelle</a><br />
Meet Michelle here each Monday for <a title="Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">Magic Marker Monday</a><em><br />
Questions? Please feel free to email Michelle at childlif[at]gmail[dot]com or come and visit her at <a title="In The Life Of A Child" href="http://inthelifeofachild.com" target="_blank">In The Life of a Child</a></em></p>
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string(851) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2296/magic-marker-monday-learning-about-fresco-painting/" class="more-link">Read more on Magic Marker Monday — Learning About Fresco Painting…</a></p>
"
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string(4684) "<p align="center"><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/magic_marker.jpg" alt="MMM" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>"<strong>It took me four years to paint like Raphael, but a lifetime to paint like a child."</strong></em></p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>~Pablo Picasso</em></strong></p>
<p>Welcome to <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong>! If you haven't heard about <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> yet, <a title="Welcome To Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">click here</a> and then hurry right back…</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://i598.photobucket.com/albums/tt62/xqtz7984/5MF/sc1w.jpg" /></p>
<p>My seven-year-old has been learning about Michaelangelo through our homeschool art curriculum. We've been taking a close look at the Sistine Chapel and the techniques that Michaelangelo used in his famous paintings there — specifically, fresco painting, or painting on wet plaster. </p>
<p>This set us up for some messy fun! A small tub of spackling paste, some chipboard, a flat-ended plastic spatula, a pointed wooded manicure stick and a watercolor set and we were ready to go. </p>
<p>The first step was to spread the spackling paste out on the chipboard and let it set up until it was firm, but still damp. Then she etched in the lines of her drawing using the manicure stick (which I'm told was A LOT of fun). </p>
<p>In the last step, she added paint and voila — a fresco painting of her very own creation! </p>
<p>Now you wouldn't exactly see this particular crowd of faces in the Sistine Chapel, but I'd have to say that bunnies, bears, princesses, lions and rainbows are quite captivating in fresco.</p>
<p><em>This project was adapted from a lesson out of the exceptional art curriculum series by <a href="http://www.artisticpursuits.com/" target="_blank" title="Artistic Pursuits Homeschool Art Curriculum">Artistic Pursuits</a>. </em> </p>
<p><img src="http://i267.photobucket.com/albums/ii305/childslife/Avatars/siggy2copy.png" alt="S2" /></p>
<p align="center"><em>What has your little artist been up to this week? Link up and share!</em></p>
<p align="center"><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9759" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
<p>Want the <strong>Magic Marker Monday</strong> button code? <a title="Link To Us" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/link-to-us/" target="_blank">Click Here!</a></p>
<p><a title="Michelle" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/" target="_blank">Find out more about Michelle</a><br />
Meet Michelle here each Monday for <a title="Magic Marker Monday" href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/58/magic-marker-monday/" target="_blank">Magic Marker Monday</a><em><br />
Questions? Please feel free to email Michelle at childlif[at]gmail[dot]com or come and visit her at <a title="In The Life Of A Child" href="http://inthelifeofachild.com" target="_blank">In The Life of a Child</a></em></p>
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string(39) "Questions that hurt, comments that help"
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string(31) "Fri, 06 Nov 2009 13:00:08 +0000"
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string(421) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2278/questions-that-hurt-comments-that-help/" class="more-link">Read more on Questions that hurt, comments that help…</a></p>
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string(4198) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><strong>8 most annoying questions I’ve been asked about Matthew.</strong></p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2281" title="iStock_000010966724XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000010966724XSmall2-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000010966724XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p>1) Will he ever live on his own?</p>
<p>2) Don’t you feel guilty?</p>
<p>3) What will happen to him when you die?</p>
<p>4) I hear they can be cured. Have you read Jenny McCarthy’s book?</p>
<p>5) Don’t you feel lucky that you have two other children that are normal?</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. <em>What</em> a waste.</p>
<p>7) Will he ever get married and have children?</p>
<p>8) Will he grow out of it?</p>
<p>Luckily, there are the nice comments, too. They don’t come as often but they are unforgettable.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2282" title="iStock_000002185664XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000002185664XSmall-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000002185664XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p><strong>8 of the nicest things people have said about Matthew</strong></p>
<p>1) He had a great day today. I love having him in my class.</p>
<p>2) That kid has the most beautiful smile.</p>
<p>3) Matthew had a rough day today, but he wasn’t the only one.</p>
<p>4) I used to wonder what it would be like if he didn’t have autism, but now, I can’t imagine him any other way.</p>
<p>5) When can Matthew come for a visit? I miss him so much.</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. And what a great sense of humor!</p>
<p>7) You must be so proud of him.</p>
<p>8) Matthew does such great work. When can he work in my garden again?</p>
<p>Please share with me your bad news good news comments and questions!</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="font-family: book antiqua,palatino;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Laura</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.laurashumaker.com"><strong>Laura Shumaker</strong></a> is the author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/098018360X/ref=s9_simx_gw_s3_p14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=085M4YFZYC07KD36YG92&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846"><strong>A REGULAR GUY: GROWING UP WITH AUTISM</strong></a></p>
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string(421) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2278/questions-that-hurt-comments-that-help/" class="more-link">Read more on Questions that hurt, comments that help…</a></p>
"
["atom_content"]=>
string(4198) "<p>You’re sitting there minding your own business when<strong> BAM</strong>, some friend, relative or stranger asks you a question about your child that levels you. These questions would not be in the “well meaning” category.</p>
<p><strong>8 most annoying questions I’ve been asked about Matthew.</strong></p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2281" title="iStock_000010966724XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000010966724XSmall2-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000010966724XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p>1) Will he ever live on his own?</p>
<p>2) Don’t you feel guilty?</p>
<p>3) What will happen to him when you die?</p>
<p>4) I hear they can be cured. Have you read Jenny McCarthy’s book?</p>
<p>5) Don’t you feel lucky that you have two other children that are normal?</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. <em>What</em> a waste.</p>
<p>7) Will he ever get married and have children?</p>
<p>8) Will he grow out of it?</p>
<p>Luckily, there are the nice comments, too. They don’t come as often but they are unforgettable.</p>
<p><img class="alignleft size-thumbnail wp-image-2282" title="iStock_000002185664XSmall" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/iStock_000002185664XSmall-150x150.jpg" alt="iStock_000002185664XSmall" width="150" height="150" /></p>
<p><strong>8 of the nicest things people have said about Matthew</strong></p>
<p>1) He had a great day today. I love having him in my class.</p>
<p>2) That kid has the most beautiful smile.</p>
<p>3) Matthew had a rough day today, but he wasn’t the only one.</p>
<p>4) I used to wonder what it would be like if he didn’t have autism, but now, I can’t imagine him any other way.</p>
<p>5) When can Matthew come for a visit? I miss him so much.</p>
<p>6) He is so handsome. And what a great sense of humor!</p>
<p>7) You must be so proud of him.</p>
<p>8) Matthew does such great work. When can he work in my garden again?</p>
<p>Please share with me your bad news good news comments and questions!</p>
<p><strong><em><span style="font-family: book antiqua,palatino;"><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Laura</span></span></em></strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.laurashumaker.com"><strong>Laura Shumaker</strong></a> is the author of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/098018360X/ref=s9_simx_gw_s3_p14_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=085M4YFZYC07KD36YG92&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=470938631&pf_rd_i=507846"><strong>A REGULAR GUY: GROWING UP WITH AUTISM</strong></a></p>
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[6]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(11) "Say 'Ahhhh'"
["link"]=>
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string(63) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2270/say-ahhhh/#comments"
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string(31) "Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:00:57 +0000"
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string(7) "Deborah"
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string(33) "BlogDeborahHospital Survival Tips"
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string(477) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2270/say-ahhhh/" class="more-link">Read more on Say 'Ahhhh'…</a></p>
"
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string(7845) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18140.JPG" alt="18140" title="18140" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2272" /></p>
<p>I have learned some lessons along the way that have made it easier for the doctors and nurses to do their jobs, easier for me to provide the daily care that Ashley needs, and most importantly, easier on Ash. I will share some of those things in the list below, but I would love to hear from others about the lessons they have learned in parenting their children with disabilities.</p>
<p>1. Always be honest with your child about what is going on and about what is going to happen to them. Communicate, communicate, communicate – even if you think your child doesn’t understand what you say. The tone of your voice, your calm approach, and your soothing hands will all help to keep your child calm during medical visits and procedures. </p>
<p>I will tell her that nothing on that particular visit will hurt. However, if I do expect a procedure where something will hurt or be invasive, I do tell her. When it is time for shots, I say and sign that she is going to get a shot and that it is going to hurt for a minute. I tell her that before we get to the doctor’s office, and I tell her again just before the shot is administered. I tell her it is ok to say ‘Oooow’ or to cry. Never let your child be surprised.</p>
<p>2. Practice what might happen when visiting the doctor. For instance, when Ash was younger, she was very reluctant to let the doctor look in her mouth. She wouldn’t say ‘Ahhh’, but would in fact clamp her mouth shut. So, when we were not at the doctor’s, we would practice opening our mouths and saying ‘Ahhh’. It turned into a fun game, and the next time we visited the doctor, Ashley had no problem sharing her new skill. </p>
<p>3. If your child has communication issues, make sure the doctor understands that you will need to help communicate. The doctor should talk about everything that he or she is going to do, and then as a parent you can communicate that to your child in the way you feel is most effective. </p>
<p>If your child is sensory defensive and doesn’t like to be touched in certain ways or by certain people, let your doctor know that up front. Instruct the doctor on the best way to approach your child. I honestly believe a good doctor will appreciate the information because it will make their job so much easier.</p>
<p>4. Don’t allow a doctor or nurse to talk to your child as if he or she is a baby (unless of course, they are a baby!). Nothing annoys me more than to have a doctor or nurse talk in baby talk to my twelve year old. </p>
<p>5. Unless you know for a fact that your doctor always stays on schedule, taking a bag or backpack of your child’s favorite toys, books and games can help pass the time and prevent an impatient meltdown.</p>
<p>6. If your child has to stay overnight in the hospital, make a sign to put either on the hospital room door or on the hospital bed that explains in short, concise language how best to work with your child. </p>
<p>For instance, I put on Ashley’s sign the fact that she is deafblind and that no one should just walk up and start touching her without announcing themselves to her first. I also list things like “champion IV remover”, “escape artist”, and other descriptive things about Ashley that may not be reflected in her medical chart. </p>
<p>7. Does your child often have medical problems which require an ambulance come to your home to transport her/him to the emergency room? If so, make sure you have important information like insurance info, medications, and specific medical conditions documented and within easy reach. </p>
<p>I keep two sheets of paper that contain all that information as well as the name and phone number of every medical specialist that Ashley sees in an envelope taped to the back of my front door. When the ambulance staff or fire department staff (they are often the first responders in my area) arrive, I can hand them that envelope and they have all the information they need. </p>
<p>8. And finally, another tip I have learned regarding emergency room visits, if you take your child to the emergency room yourself, you may have to wait a long time to be seen. You will be sitting in the waiting room with a lot of other ill or injured people. The stress level of that combined with whatever issue brought you to the emergency room will almost guarantee a meltdown by your child. </p>
<p>And, my experience is that emergency room staff doesn’t always care if there is a meltdown. It will NOT get you seen any sooner. </p>
<p>However, if an ambulance brings your child to the emergency room, they are taken immediately back to the ER treatment area and not left to sit in the waiting room. Given the seriousness of your child’s issue as well as their response to the long wait in the waiting room, calling an ambulance might be something you want to consider.</p>
<p>I’ll stop the list here, but again, I would love to hear from other families about the tips they may have. There are many difficult times that families will face when one of their family members has special needs, and finding appropriate medical care is one of the most critical. </p>
<p>As I said at the start, I have been very blessed to find a cadre of wonderful doctors and nurses. My final tip is, when you find someone that is wonderful, make sure to thank them over and over again!!!</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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string(477) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2270/say-ahhhh/" class="more-link">Read more on Say 'Ahhhh'…</a></p>
"
["atom_content"]=>
string(7845) "<p>For the most part, I have been very blessed to find medical professionals who do an excellent job of providing care. I can say without a doubt that most of the doctors and other healthcare staff we see have never treated a child with my daughter, Ashley’s, unique combination of disabilities. But they are doing a wonderful job! </p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18140.JPG" alt="18140" title="18140" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2272" /></p>
<p>I have learned some lessons along the way that have made it easier for the doctors and nurses to do their jobs, easier for me to provide the daily care that Ashley needs, and most importantly, easier on Ash. I will share some of those things in the list below, but I would love to hear from others about the lessons they have learned in parenting their children with disabilities.</p>
<p>1. Always be honest with your child about what is going on and about what is going to happen to them. Communicate, communicate, communicate – even if you think your child doesn’t understand what you say. The tone of your voice, your calm approach, and your soothing hands will all help to keep your child calm during medical visits and procedures. </p>
<p>I will tell her that nothing on that particular visit will hurt. However, if I do expect a procedure where something will hurt or be invasive, I do tell her. When it is time for shots, I say and sign that she is going to get a shot and that it is going to hurt for a minute. I tell her that before we get to the doctor’s office, and I tell her again just before the shot is administered. I tell her it is ok to say ‘Oooow’ or to cry. Never let your child be surprised.</p>
<p>2. Practice what might happen when visiting the doctor. For instance, when Ash was younger, she was very reluctant to let the doctor look in her mouth. She wouldn’t say ‘Ahhh’, but would in fact clamp her mouth shut. So, when we were not at the doctor’s, we would practice opening our mouths and saying ‘Ahhh’. It turned into a fun game, and the next time we visited the doctor, Ashley had no problem sharing her new skill. </p>
<p>3. If your child has communication issues, make sure the doctor understands that you will need to help communicate. The doctor should talk about everything that he or she is going to do, and then as a parent you can communicate that to your child in the way you feel is most effective. </p>
<p>If your child is sensory defensive and doesn’t like to be touched in certain ways or by certain people, let your doctor know that up front. Instruct the doctor on the best way to approach your child. I honestly believe a good doctor will appreciate the information because it will make their job so much easier.</p>
<p>4. Don’t allow a doctor or nurse to talk to your child as if he or she is a baby (unless of course, they are a baby!). Nothing annoys me more than to have a doctor or nurse talk in baby talk to my twelve year old. </p>
<p>5. Unless you know for a fact that your doctor always stays on schedule, taking a bag or backpack of your child’s favorite toys, books and games can help pass the time and prevent an impatient meltdown.</p>
<p>6. If your child has to stay overnight in the hospital, make a sign to put either on the hospital room door or on the hospital bed that explains in short, concise language how best to work with your child. </p>
<p>For instance, I put on Ashley’s sign the fact that she is deafblind and that no one should just walk up and start touching her without announcing themselves to her first. I also list things like “champion IV remover”, “escape artist”, and other descriptive things about Ashley that may not be reflected in her medical chart. </p>
<p>7. Does your child often have medical problems which require an ambulance come to your home to transport her/him to the emergency room? If so, make sure you have important information like insurance info, medications, and specific medical conditions documented and within easy reach. </p>
<p>I keep two sheets of paper that contain all that information as well as the name and phone number of every medical specialist that Ashley sees in an envelope taped to the back of my front door. When the ambulance staff or fire department staff (they are often the first responders in my area) arrive, I can hand them that envelope and they have all the information they need. </p>
<p>8. And finally, another tip I have learned regarding emergency room visits, if you take your child to the emergency room yourself, you may have to wait a long time to be seen. You will be sitting in the waiting room with a lot of other ill or injured people. The stress level of that combined with whatever issue brought you to the emergency room will almost guarantee a meltdown by your child. </p>
<p>And, my experience is that emergency room staff doesn’t always care if there is a meltdown. It will NOT get you seen any sooner. </p>
<p>However, if an ambulance brings your child to the emergency room, they are taken immediately back to the ER treatment area and not left to sit in the waiting room. Given the seriousness of your child’s issue as well as their response to the long wait in the waiting room, calling an ambulance might be something you want to consider.</p>
<p>I’ll stop the list here, but again, I would love to hear from other families about the tips they may have. There are many difficult times that families will face when one of their family members has special needs, and finding appropriate medical care is one of the most critical. </p>
<p>As I said at the start, I have been very blessed to find a cadre of wonderful doctors and nurses. My final tip is, when you find someone that is wonderful, make sure to thank them over and over again!!!</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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[7]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(27) "Special Exposure Wednesday."
["link"]=>
string(70) "http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/5MinutesForSpecialNeeds/~3/-GwhTif3YXE/"
["comments"]=>
string(83) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2261/special-exposure-wednesday-11/#comments"
["pubdate"]=>
string(31) "Wed, 04 Nov 2009 02:00:11 +0000"
["dc"]=>
array(1) {
["creator"]=>
string(10) "TiffandIvy"
}
["category"]=>
string(45) "BlogSpecial Exposure WednesdayTiffphotography"
["guid"]=>
string(46) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/?p=2261"
["description"]=>
string(703) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2261/special-exposure-wednesday-11/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
"
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string(2638) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9401" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
<div class="feedflare">
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["summary"]=>
string(703) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2261/special-exposure-wednesday-11/" class="more-link">Read more on Special Exposure Wednesday….</a></p>
"
["atom_content"]=>
string(2638) "<p><img title="specialexposurewednesday" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/12/specialexposurewednesday.jpg" alt="" width="286" height="255" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2262" title="hopweb" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/hopweb.jpg" alt="hopweb" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>This girl is so excited.</p>
<p>It's finally November.</p>
<p>Only 26 more days until she and her brother turn 4!</p>
<p>Got a photo to share?</p>
<p>Why don't you join in this <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/9/welcome-to-spe%E2%80%A6sure-wednesdaywelcome-to-special-exposure-wednesday/"><span style="color: #00545f;">Special Exposure Wednesday</span></a>. </p>
<p>Please remember your comment love at each link you visit.</p>
<p>Also blogging at <a href="http://mythreeringcircus.com">Three Ring Circus</a></p>
<p><script src="http://www.mcklinky.com/linky_include_basic.asp?id=9401" type="text/javascript"></script><a href="http://www.mcklinky.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.mcklinky.com/images/MckLinkyLogo119.gif" width="119" height="39" border="0" /></a></p>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/5MinutesForSpecialNeeds/~4/-GwhTif3YXE" height="1" width="1"/>"
}
[8]=>
array(14) {
["title"]=>
string(18) "IEP tips from moms"
["link"]=>
string(70) "http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/5MinutesForSpecialNeeds/~3/G7vaqeV1ox4/"
["comments"]=>
string(72) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2256/iep-tips-from-moms/#comments"
["pubdate"]=>
string(31) "Tue, 03 Nov 2009 13:00:14 +0000"
["dc"]=>
array(1) {
["creator"]=>
string(7) "Astacia"
}
["category"]=>
string(28) "Individual Educational Plans"
["guid"]=>
string(46) "http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/?p=2256"
["description"]=>
string(737) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2256/iep-tips-from-moms/" class="more-link">Read more on IEP tips from moms…</a></p>
"
["content"]=>
array(1) {
["encoded"]=>
string(3526) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<ul>
<li>Walk in with confidence, knowing who your child really is</li>
<li>Never go alone (even if the other person is quiet and take notes)</li>
<li>Be positive</li>
<li>Stay focused on the positive of your child</li>
<li>Assume that everyone in the room is doing the best they can</li>
<li>Remember the school generally is only looking the upcoming year.</li>
<li>To get services you must talk deficits, this is hard because we know how wonderful our child is. Acknowledge this and take a box of Kleenex.</li>
<li>When the school says that can't because it is against policy, politely ask them for a copy of the policy.</li>
<li>Listen to that voice in your head.</li>
<li>If you don't think you are being heard, give some complements, then ask for what you want.</li>
<li>Be prepared, bring enough copies of any recent testing or paperwork from outside sources.</li>
<li>Try to come to the meeting with ideas on how to work with all the people involved.</li>
<li>Blog about it afterward</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(737) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2256/iep-tips-from-moms/" class="more-link">Read more on IEP tips from moms…</a></p>
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string(3526) "<div class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 298px"><a href="http://www.cafepress.com/+special_needs_womens_cap_sleeve_tshirt,281205876"><img src="http://www.cafepress.com/cp/catalogExp/watermark.aspx?i=28793737" alt="" width="288" height="148" /></a><p class="wp-caption-text">Special Needs T-Shirt by Spectrum Hope</p></div>
<p style="text-align: center;">The comments from <a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2204/gearing-up-for-our-third-iep/">my post last week</a> were so fantastic, I must share them with everyone. Here is a compiled list of tips for IEP meetings:</p>
<ul>
<li>Walk in with confidence, knowing who your child really is</li>
<li>Never go alone (even if the other person is quiet and take notes)</li>
<li>Be positive</li>
<li>Stay focused on the positive of your child</li>
<li>Assume that everyone in the room is doing the best they can</li>
<li>Remember the school generally is only looking the upcoming year.</li>
<li>To get services you must talk deficits, this is hard because we know how wonderful our child is. Acknowledge this and take a box of Kleenex.</li>
<li>When the school says that can't because it is against policy, politely ask them for a copy of the policy.</li>
<li>Listen to that voice in your head.</li>
<li>If you don't think you are being heard, give some complements, then ask for what you want.</li>
<li>Be prepared, bring enough copies of any recent testing or paperwork from outside sources.</li>
<li>Try to come to the meeting with ideas on how to work with all the people involved.</li>
<li>Blog about it afterward</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Astacia is a highly caffeinated mother of two. She is <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-9368-Seattle-Special-Needs-Kids-Examiner">Seattle Special Needs Kids Examiner</a> and a contributor in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1935096311?ie=UTF8&tag=mamikazecom-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1935096311">Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms</a>. She blogs at <a href="http://mamikaze.com">mamikaze</a>.</em></p>
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string(745) "<p><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2254" title="phpP8yjQePM" src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/phpP8yjQePM.jpg" alt="phpP8yjQePM" width="350" height="262" /></p>
<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2253/not-a-good-cause/" class="more-link">Read more on I don't enjoy feeling like a "good cause"…</a></p>
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<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p>I am always so floored by the kindness and generosity of the Embassy Suites people. Whenever I go to events like this for Max, I feel so grateful. But I also find them sobering. Because they make me realize that I am a parent with a child who benefits from the kindness of others. And I don't like feeling like a "good cause."</p>
<p>If I had to analyze my feelings, I'd say that I've gotten to a place in my life where I no longer feel sorry for myself for having a kid with special needs. I don't feel sorry for Max, either. He's adorable, he's doing well and he's so happy. I long ago stopped mourning the child Max could have been, and accept Max for who he is. But when I go to events for kids with special needs, I get acutely aware that I am One Of Those Parents with One Of Those Kids.</p>
<p>Do you know what I mean?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2253/not-a-good-cause/" class="more-link">Read more on I don't enjoy feeling like a "good cause"…</a></p>
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<p>Every year, a local branch of the Embassy Suites hotel chain throws a Halloween event for the kids in Max's school. They go all out—they pick up the kids by shuttle van, decorate different rooms where costumed staffers hand out candy, offer a great buffet lunch and also have a room with pumpkins for the kids and tables where they can color.</p>
<p>I am always so floored by the kindness and generosity of the Embassy Suites people. Whenever I go to events like this for Max, I feel so grateful. But I also find them sobering. Because they make me realize that I am a parent with a child who benefits from the kindness of others. And I don't like feeling like a "good cause."</p>
<p>If I had to analyze my feelings, I'd say that I've gotten to a place in my life where I no longer feel sorry for myself for having a kid with special needs. I don't feel sorry for Max, either. He's adorable, he's doing well and he's so happy. I long ago stopped mourning the child Max could have been, and accept Max for who he is. But when I go to events for kids with special needs, I get acutely aware that I am One Of Those Parents with One Of Those Kids.</p>
<p>Do you know what I mean?</p>
<p>Ellen blogs daily at <a href="http://lovethatmax.blogspot.com">To The Max</a></p>
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["post_content"]=>
string(3650) "<p>I tried, really tried, to come up with a good and interesting post for today, but most of my family has the H1N1 flu and I just can’t seem to focus my mind enough to write.</p>
<p>So I decided to share some of the random thoughts that have been running through my mind.</p>
<p>For instance, I lay awake last night wondering where Gatorade got its name.</p>
<p>And, how did we survive before Puffs starting putting lotion in tissues? I must admit though that the tissues with the Vicks Vaporub in them make me nauseous.</p>
<p>Why does my sweet little Ashley’s voice start sounding like an emphysemic old man’s voice when she has the flu? </p>
<p>And why should I have to choose between taking Tamiflu to make myself weather the flu better or not taking it and building a resistance to H1N1? I opted for the Tamiflu and will just renew my search for the H1N1 vaccine when I am feeling better.</p>
<p><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/18147.JPG" alt="18147" title="18147" width="185" height="276" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2332" /></p>
<p>Even though I’ve been really sick, I still feel guilty staying in my pajamas and robe all day long. I know it’s silly because no one I know will come within 100 feet of my house now that they know I have the flu.</p>
<p>And, do you think the crazy people on the Jerry Springer Show are all actors, or truly are there women who married men who are really in love with other men who are becoming women?</p>
<p>Finally, is the flu just God’s way of making me slow down and get some much needed rest? If so, God, do you think we could discuss some other alternatives?</p>
<p><a href='http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg'><img src="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/07/signature3.jpg" alt="" title="signature3" width="115" height="38" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-158" /></a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/meet-our-team/">Deborah</a> can be found writing here at 5MFSN every Wednesday, and can also be found at <a href="http://pipecleanerdreams.blogspot.com">Pipecleaner Dreams</a>.</p>
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<p><a href="http://www.5minutesforspecialneeds.com/2329/ramblings-of-a-fevered-mind/" class="more-link">Read more on Ramblings of a Fevered Mind…</a></p>
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