The Response

The response to Sensory Mamas has been tremendous.  There are so many families that have reached out to me wanting support and information.  It is so imperative that we get the word out about this far too prevalent disorder.

The sun was out yesterday and my son played (hard) outside for a good 2.5 hours.  The difference in his demeanor and motor planning issues was HUGE.  Don't forget that during this time of year our sensory kids need exercise more than ever!

We're On A Roll. . . .

There are no words to describe the excitement I feel over getting Sensory Mamas started.  The response has been fantastic.  Who knew there were so many of us in the same boat.  I truly hope that Sensory Mamas can provide a safe haven for support, encouragement, and empowerment (S.E.E.)  The simple statement, "I see you," says it all.  Together we have a wealth of resources, knowledge, and support, and I have such big plans for this group.  Let's keep the momentum going, Mamas!

The Next Attention Deficit Disorder?

The Next Attention Deficit Disorder?

Grind away

My little guy is in bed right now grinding his teeth.  Do any of you have grinders?  According to his dentist it's fairly common for kids with sensory issues to grind.  It's the "nails on the chalkboard" affect that creeps me out.  Arrghh, that sound!

I'm no super mom

Thank you everyone for your kind words on email and Facebook, and for all of your support.  This is a new phase of my journey and your encouragement means the world to me.  I am by no means a super mom, but I feel like there is a reason why my son was given to me.

There are a lot of us out there. . . .

So far I have heard from 14 moms who are interested in being a part of "Sensory Mamas" - and those are just women I know.  It is amazing to me how prevalent sensory issues are becoming.

Sensory Mama

In September 2007 I took my three year old son to be tested for a speech delay.  At the time of the testing I asked the clinician if she could perform a sensory inventory on him.  Based on her findings we had a preliminary diagnosis for Sensory Processing Disorder.  Since then my son has been seeing an amazing Occupational Therapist who was able to break through a lot of his sensory issues and give him the tools to cope and overcome what previously seemed impossible.  That combined with speech therapy, has allowed him to blossom.  To look at him today you would never know that he is the same child.

  After my son was officially diagnosed through Emmanuel Hospital, I searched for a support group in the area - just moms talking to moms.  At that time there was a support group through the SPD Foundation run by an OT as well as a lecture series on various aspects of SPD run by an OT practice, but there was nothing for moms to talk to other moms.  I posted a message on urbanmamas.com looking for a group and almost three years later I got an email from a woman looking for the same type of group.  In the last three years I have read everything I could get my hands on dealing with SPD, spoke to clinicians, and generally tried to educate myself as much as possible about the disorder and the paths of treatment.  During that time I have had the pleasure of supporting other moms and offering advice based on what I have experienced with with my son.  Getting the email response to my post inspired me to create a support group "Sensory Mamas," a group of moms who are interested in getting together to share their experiences.

I created this blog to help other mamas of sensory children know that you are not alone.  This is a journey, and one that has amazing highs and frustrating lows.