After discovering the realities of seclusion and restraint with our autistic daughter at school my wife an I are learning more about the realities of our schools and culture in how kids with special needs are being handled. We don’t disagree that something needs to be done, but there are alternatives that are safer and better for everyone. A recent podcast, LOMAH Special Needs Podcast (#39 – Restraint & Seclusion of Special Needs Individuals), that my wife an I listened gave very compelling alternatives. Use our alternative physical techniques of blocking. If you can restrain someone you can block someone. Kim Sanders – Ukeru Systems
Community is God’s answer to despair. You were made to share your life with others! Now is the time to find the people who will support you through life, who will rejoice with you in your victories and weep with you in your trouble. Day 3 of the @YouVersion plan ‘Better Together’ (http://bible.com/r/Qc) “Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep.” Romans 12:15 NLT (https://bible.com/bible/116/rom.12.15.NLT)
“Our kids, by their existence, make a legitimate spiritual claim on our time, our money, and our focus.” – Devotions for Sacred Parenting by Gary L. Thomas I was challenged today in how I approach being a Dad. Too often I choose to focus on everything but my kids. Our time is too short with our kids, and there will be years ahead when we will have all kinds of time to pursue other things. I will say that this is one of the reasons I wake up at 4am some days to get a run in as I make an effort to not let my running negatively impact my family. #parenting #sacrifice #responsibility
Had a great weekend camping not far from home at Woodchip Campground in Byron Center. Weekend was filled with a bunch of fun activities with the kids including time in the pool and time with some of Vanessa’s family. We haven’t decided if Woodchip will become an annual location or not. Woodchip Campground, 7501 Burlingame Ave SW, Byron Center, MI 49315
So a few days ago a came across an article about a different app, for iOS, that had the intent on monitoring and setting up some boundaries when it comes to smartphone use. This app was one that had been previously reviewed, and recommended, for Android devices. I’m giving this a try, as I’m trying to do better with putting the technology aside and actually “being there” my family. The smartphone has it’s benefits, but like anything there needs to be a balance.