I need a pep talk

femmegem · December 2010

We went to visit my parents for Christmas on December 16th. We just got back last night. Both kids had daycare today, but DS1's class was split up into the other classrooms because there were so few kids there, and he is horrible with change. So he's beyond off his routine. I suppose any kid would be a little wild with all that change, but with his sensory issues and not having OT for three weeks he's a real pill right now. He can barely sit still. He's doing a lot of yelling because he's having trouble modulating his voice because his sensory stuff is so off. I've been trying to keep up with it, but I'm just not as good as interpreting what he needs as his OT, naturally. So I'm doing what I can for him, but it's clearly not cutting it. I'm just afraid I'm going to snap and yell at him this weekend. He shouted at me to shut up no fewer than ten times just during our ride home from school today. I stayed calm and gave him a consequence and that finally stopped it, but I was *thisclose* to losing it on him. I need to remember to take a lot of deep breaths, I think. Any other words of wisdom?

jettagurl · December 2010

I don't really have any advice - just some hugs and a "you can do it!" for you.

I, fortunately, don't have the sensory issues to deal with, but when my two get crazy, I just think, "F it" and pop in a movie, grab some snacks and we all chill out. I'd be one to just pacify him thru the weekend till he gets back on his schedule and back to work with the OT.

Hopefully it goes quickly for you!

femmegem · December 2010

Oh, there will be plenty of TV this weekend. No doubt!

Kersbear · December 2010

Hang in there. Hopefully a few days at home will help him settle back in. Is your DH around this weekend? If so I say go get out of the house, by yourself, for a little bit.

MrsStubbs · December 2010

Take a long hot bath tonight after they go to bed.

*Amy* · December 2010

Sending you hugs. Wish I had some advice!

Glendi2.0 · December 2010

This might not help, but you honestly have no choice but to keep your cool... I know your son has sensory issues, so I say this with some perspective- DD has an autism disorder that carries with it a variety of issues, including sensory sensitivities... I learned a long time ago that I have been dealt a parenting hand that would make most people fold, but that's not really a choice here, is it... remind yourself constantly that he's not a bad kid, he's not acting out out of brattiness or whatever; he's simply incapable of regulating himself and this gnarly behavior is his cry for help- really the only way he knows how to. And don't underestimate your ability to respond to his needs... it might not be solving all his problems, but I'm sure it's improving his state of mind a bit.

Good luck- I know how tough these times of year can be... it feels like every other kid on the planet thrives on all the curve balls that go hand in hand with the holidays, while every change to the routine means an even bumpier re-entry into real life for our kiddos. Keep your head up.

CubbyMama · December 2010

When my own kids or my students are trying my patience (and I had two students with severe behavior disorders--defiant, destructive, etc.), I kick in my reality tv addiction and pretend there are cameras on me. Throw in an imaginary million-dollar reward if you manage to show no sign of frustration! You'd be amazed at how well this works sometimes...and don't forget to really reward yourself somehow (wine, chocolate...) if you succeed!

femmegem · December 2010

Cubby, that's actually a great idea. I'm going to try it. And Glendi, thank you. I know I have to keep his sensory issues at the front of my mind so I can not only help him through the rough times but also respond to him with sympathy rather than frustration, anger and sometimes even outright indignation.