While struggling to do everything we could to help my son with high functioning autism/Aspergers progress and meet the ever changing goals we had for him, my husband and I wrestled with how and when to tell him his diagnosis. When he was little, we were so focused on his progress it was hard to […]
I will always remember sitting at the small table with my son’s kindergarten teacher in his classroom, knees knocking, heart beating, as she gently discussed the concerns she had about my son. She handled the moment so sensitively when she suggested I have him evaluated, but it is never easy to hear something could be […]
I’m writing as a happy parent in SFUSD who has counseled numerous families over the years during the assignment process. For a moment, as school settles in, posting some lessons learned as a parent advocate. While roughly 80% of families receive a choice on their list, the remaining 20% quickly enter a painful process of […]
Preparing a child or teen with chronic illness or medical complexities for back to school poses a unique level of anxiety and challenges. Worrying about how the school year will go for their health, whether the teachers and school will accommodate their needs, and if they will enjoy a satisfying social outlet like other children. I […]
The weeks leading up to school assignments are challenging for many, especially those of us in San Francisco, where our public school assignments go through a lottery of sorts. Given recent events, including delayed communication of school assignments to both parents and schools and changes to the process for twins (and perhaps other changes), I’d […]
Whether it’s snow, sleet, rain, or a younger sibling’s nap time, there are times when weather or other challenges call for indoor play at home. Here are 11 ideas for fun activities for young children at home. Make a blanket fort with old sheets, blankets and pillows with stuffed animals Build the biggest block tower […]
Spending precious time with extended family during the holidays is filled with joy and traditions but by its nature can bring anxiety to children who are shy or have special needs. Starting with the customary hugs and kisses and obligatory, “look how much you’ve grown!!”, can bring unintended discomfort at the intensity of attention and sensory […]
Many of you are eagerly waiting for your round one letters from SFUSD (San Francisco Public Schools) and wondering what to do if you don’t get your first choice, or if you change your mind about which school is the best fit for your child. First off, if you plan to send your child to […]
I’m a single mom of two. My current childcare is preschool and elementary school, both with aftercare and rarely any help at home. My kids are not morning people, nor am I truthfully. To make this work, I had to become much more organized. Prepare everything the night before: Prepare the coffee maker so it […]
If parenting isn’t a snap on an average day, it can truly be a marathon when your child needs to be in the hospital. Whether a short one-time stay or a more serious, lengthy situation, here are pragmatic and coping tips to prepare for and help your child through a hospital stay based on my experiences. […]