Too many toys?

My daughter had a friend over today for a play date. Her friend asked where all of her toys were. I explained that we get rid of the old toys and try to keep the ones that are played with. She said she has rooms full of toys and she probably does have a lot. Why do kids have so many toys? When I asked what she got from Christmas she couldn't remember and my children really can't answer this question either.
When I was a child and returned to school after Christmas vacation we shared what we got for Christmas. Everyone said what they got and it was usually one big thing and a few little things including socks and underwear. I remember my Easy Bake Oven. I got it the Christmas we lived in Aurora, IL. It was a great gift. But that was my gift. My children received about 10 things each. I know it's my fault, maybe we just are too indulgent or maybe we just have more to spend. But it seem that children are used to getting "stuff'" almost everyday. McDonald's gives them a toy, Cost Cutters or the barber shop gives them a small toy or candy, the bank gives them stickers. Hey, these kids are used to it.

Learning to use the computer

As a mom who grew up before computers, I find it fascinating to see my children catch on to computer use so quickly. My daughter just turned 5 yet she is navigating her way around with a mouse and learning techniques it took me a long time to learn.

Reflections on Christmas

Well, the holidays are just about over. New Years has no appeal for me. It's a great holiday if you're single but I don't and can't stay up late enough to enjoy the party.
I'll probably take the tree down tomorrow. I love to get an early Christmas tree but a few days after Christmas Day I want it down, the decorations packed away and my living room cleaned. It will take months to get the fir needles out of the room. Just when you think they're gone in March or April and - move the sofa and find some more.
The kids are happy with what Santa brought them. Hubby is happy and I am happy. The family visits were lovely. Everyone ate too much- even me and as a diabetic I have to be really careful. I even slipped a bit and my sugars are a little high. Oh well, Christmas cookies are only around once a year and I had to try a couple.
I'm keeping up with the morning class for the kids. We started again today. I don't want them to have off 10 days and not write their names or have any counting or math. I'm trying to keep it fun and besides, they don't look at it as real school anyway so they both enjoy the routine.

Merry Christmas!

To everyone a Blessed and Merry Christmas!

First day of Christmas vacation!!!

Well, it's the first day of Christmas vacation for the children. We baked gingerbread for a gingerbread house, watched a little of the movies, "A Christmas Carol "and "It's a Wonderful Life". The kids told us the first movie was too creepy and the second is too boring. No snow this Christmas, just cold rain, rain, rain. The kids went out to play and we had a silly muddy mess.
It's now time for sweet tea and cookies.

Being an advocate for your child during an IEP meeting.

I have requested a new IEP for my son. After reading this article about IEP meetings, I feel that I can approach the team with open ears and be an advocate for my son.
I feel that I am realistic of his needs and I look forward to the results of his assessment.

Chicago visit

Hubby and I took the kids to Chicago today for a day trip. The ride is only 1 1/2 hours and it was such a nice day today. Perfect for a road trip. I wanted to show my children the "old " neighborhood. I wanted to show they where mommy went to school. I showed my kindergarten at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish.
Now, I haven't been in this area for years and all of my family has long since moved to the suburbs, but I felt quite nostalgic. I remember the streets, the church, my old home on Kimball.
We took a skyline photo of my daughter with her Troll for school. We ate lunch in the Ukrainian Village. (20th and Chicago Ave.) and we had a nice walk down some lovely streets.
All in all, a very nice day.

Half Day School

We are starting a new routine at home. After meeting with my son's teachers and principle, we have decided to change his schedule to half days.
He stays home with me in the morning and we work on his handwriting and simple math skills. He will continue to receive speech. I will then bring him to school afternoons so that he will be with his friends for 2 1/2 hours.
He won't have any bus rides or cafeteria time which is too noisy and stressful.
We just started so wish us luck.
Any homeschool sites that you recommend would be appreciated.

Bonding

Here is a piece about bonding exercises. Special needs or not, all children can use more bonding.

Blizzard of 2006

We're still digging out. Over 12" of snow.

Snow Day!!!

Is homeschooling the way to go?

After a difficult day and little sleep, I have be wondering if homeschooling is the way to go for my son. Even though I feel and know that he is stronger everyday, school is a major stress for him. From the bus ride to a noisy lunch room to friendship difficulties, he finds it at time overwhelming. Today when I picked him up, he was wet, poopy and looked in such obvious distress. It took all night, a long bath and much cuddles to get him to make eye contact.
If school causes such distress, maybe he needs to stay home with me this year. One more year to develop emotionally. One more year to find his place in our world.
This is one big decision.