A Practical Guide to Down syndrome and Special Needs Parenting
Watching Grace navigate kindergarten this year has given me a newfound appreciation for occupational therapy. It's not just the handwriting, it's opening a crayon box, drawing, turning pages of her math book, opening snack containers, using the restroom...the list goes on. Fine motor skills equal independence, friends. So give your little ones some opportunities to... Continue Reading →
Because of DS, Grace often stays in developmental stages longer, and I realized a few years back that this sometimes made me forget to challenge her to be independent in small manageable ways that helped us both. This is a list of a few products that have been invaluable to us in promoting her independence... Continue Reading →
Once Grace started walking, I'll admit that we focused less on gross motor development in favor of working on other skills. Often, I'd check off the physical therapy box at the playground, with obstacle courses set up around the house, or during free play . When we have decided to add a new toy to... Continue Reading →
Board games offer a fun way to spend family time while teaching children many valuable skills. Beyond counting, color identification, literacy, and hand-eye coordination, board games are a screen-free way to learn how to follow instructions, engage in problem-solving, promote teamwork, increase focus, and teach kids how to be gracious losers. We have an overflowing... Continue Reading →
Clockwise from upper left: 1)Doll by Little Wonder and Co.; 2)This is Ella book by Krista Ewart; 3)Kids Like Me... Learn ABCs by Laura Ronay; 4)Quilt by Downright Charming; 5) T-shirt by Littlest Warrior; 6) Tote by Dance Happy Designs. As a parent, it's often a challenge to choose gifts that are both meaningful and... Continue Reading →
The Extra Life 