"All About Andrew" is a binder that describes our son for those who don't know him. We created it to help ease Andrew's transition from elementary to middle school. Gave copies to his new aide, teachers and even the school principal over the summer. Updated the book the following summer for people at sleep away camp. Updated it again this year for folks at an after-school reading program Andrew attends.
As parents, John and I wrote an introduction to the book that describes our expectations, outlook and attitudes. We thanked the reader for taking time to review the book and getting to know Andrew better through its contents. Andrew wrote a short essay about himself, his family, hobbies, likes/dislikes and dreams. He also selected photos of himself doing special things with friends and family, along with copies of awards that he's proud of. Finally, we included two letters from former teachers and information on cerebral palsy.
Unfortunately, many people are afraid to ask questions for fear of appearing ignorant. But no one knows our kids as well a we do. We've found that having "All About Andrew" helps to proactively dispel myths and educate people without them really knowing it. (Thanks for the great idea, Ida!)
I know we'll have to adapt Andrew's book as he moves towards high school. Any ideas from you all about what to include?
3 comments:
HI, Kris,
Great blog! I have a question. Your book about Andrew...how long is it? Do you find the longer the book is the less likely people are to read it? Or does it often get read, beginning to end? Have you received positive feedback from those who have read it?
Amazingly, Kristi, the book gets read. Ours is only about 25 pages total. I put it in a narrow three ring plastic binder or I make copies and staple them (for teachers over the summer when I didn't want them to have to worry about returning it). I think it's important to keep it "short and sweet, " but with enough info to actually provide some insight. Most helpful is the stuff that comes directly from Andrew, plus any medical info, we've found. This idea would be great for all kids, I think, regardless of ability. Thx for your comments!
Hi Kris! First and foremost thanks for allowing your blog to be a platform for discussion. What a great tool!
On a fun note, I want to talk to you about some amazing resources I found! On a not so fun note I want to talk about special education.
The good stuff first....A year ago I came across an organization by the name of May We Help. This organization is led by 3 highly successful semi-retired engineers. These men will build or modify equipment to assist any person with a disability. For instance, I was looking for a pediatric shower chair Cam could self propel into his accessible shower. It's not on the market (and if it is, myself, Children's Hospital, UCP or May We Help could not find it)! May We Help found an adult size chair and cut it to size for Cam. The best part is they did it for FREE! Since our first project they have engineered/modified several things for me. One of my favorites is they took an X-Box steering wheel and put the gas and break on the wheel since Cam is limited with using his feet and breaks for the gas. They are currently making removable grab bars for me and a plastic fitting over Cam's power chair controls so he can run through the sprinkler with other kids (ie; your Niece Sarah)! In the past we have ruined the control from the wetness. May We Help has a vision to help families across the US. It might be something NJ wants to tap into! They are currently helping a family in Conneticut (a women who is playing the cello but has no hands)! If the family does not have the funds to pay for the items May We Help can offer financial support. Would you like the contact information on your blog?
Now for the not so fun stuff. Reading intervention is overwhelming my life! Have you checked out What Works Clearinghouse? I never realized how many reading interventions are available. More importantly how many claim to be scientifcally proven! I like Linda Mood Bell and Orton Gillingham. I am thinking about this as an option for Cam. Both of these programs offer strong multi-sensory components. What are you thoughts re: reading interventions?
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