Constraint Therapy - Our Version

Constraint therapy is something that is used as a method to help "re-train" the brain. It's often used for kids that have hemiplegic cerebral palsy to help them gain function in their affected side. Although I just said "often used", it is NOT used much here in Ontario - especially in the north. When it is done, it usually involves casting the non-affected arm for a few weeks. During this time, occupational therapy is usually stepped up to get the most benefit. Our previous OT was supportive of trying out a modified method. As you can see in the video, it's very high-tech and involves putting a sock over Bennett's left hand. Even though we only do this every once in awhile, I have seen improvement in the function of Bennett's right arm and hand. I wonder what would happen if we were able to participate in a formal program? If you want to see a great example of constraint therapy, check out Amy's Blog - Maddy has been making some fantastic progress!

Happy Birthday Bennett!!

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

What's Going On?

A lot actually. I love blogging but just haven't had the time lately. It serves as a great outlet for me and a virtual baby book for Bennett. So, please bear with me as I play catch up.

First of all, we've been busy lately because after 2 years of looking for a new house, we have finally decided to build! The new house can't be started for a couple months because of winter but in the meantime things have been crazy around here as we get our house ready to sell. It's amazing how much stuff you realize you have when you try to organize it. We've also put off way too many jobs and now find ourselves up to our necks in drywall and paint! I don't really enjoy that kind of stuff too much to begin with but I'm really not liking it with a big deadline of one more week to finish.

I'll blog more about house stuff as it comes up but in the meantime, let's step back more than a month ago to Bennett's 3rd birthday party....Check out the short slideshow above. How I love making those things!!

Oh Murphy....

Murphy loves to love people. But as I've said - 80 pounds of Murphy love can be a lot to handle...

Four Christmases

This year marks our fourth Christmas with Bennett. It's incredible how quickly kids grow up isn't it? In the early days we thought the days would never end and now I would like the days to go more slowly so I can enjoy my little boy.

We've had a nice Christmas - it has been a busy month - Disney, Birthdays, Christmas....I hope everyone is having a nice holiday too. Christmas can be a difficult time for many people - a fact that our "must be happy all the time - especially at Christmas" society tends to overlook. For anyone who for any reason is having a difficult time right now - my Christmas wish for you is peace.

Disney 2009!

Whew! A lot has happened since my last post. We travelled to Disney World in Florida for a week and my baby turned 3!! I can't believe it - where does the time go?

As you can see, we had a great time!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Student of the Week

As many of you know Bennett attends a preschool program at our local Children's Treatment Centre. Every week a different child is chosen to be the "PATH Student of the Week". This week was Bennett's turn.

We are pleased to introduce PATH Student of the Week, Bennett.

Bennett is a very social young man who enjoys learning new things. He is now learning how to make new sounds and is motivated to try new words. Bennett uses his communication book and his Minimo device very well to express what he wants and to share his ideas.

In Occupational Therapy, Bennett is now able to snip paper using his first Fiskar scissors. We are very proud of Bennett as he uses both hands to play with toys and is able to pull a zipper up and down by himself with just a little bit of help. Bennett is starting to make zip and zoom lines.

Bennett loves to explore all of his surroundings. He readily participates in gross motor activities, both in the classroom and the gym. He can walk in all directions and can climb up and down the stairs. Bennett enjoys kicking a ball and willingly participates in riding a tricycle.

It's a pleasure to have Bennett in our Preschool Program. He is always smiling and loves to do crafts!