Green Kid Crafts

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

End of the month update


Well here we are already at the end of February. time sure is flying by. My husband is in the middle of his second week at his new job. He works at a turkey processing place. Tomorrow i have orientation for my new job. I am going to be working in activities at a nursing home close to home. I am also waiting to hear if I am going to be doing a receptionist position as well as activities is just PRN. I will also be getting my STNA.

With both me and my husband working we aren't able to put the time into the online school that we were before. Bella is also needing more support. She is in the process of getting an IEP and on Monday they are going to be starting back in the district schools. They will not be attending the school they were in before doing online school, they will be going to another school in the district. It is closer to mine and my husbands job and close to the babysitter. Their aunt is going to watch them when they aren't in school and when needed before and after school, as well as watching the boys for us.

We are in the process of Louie's IEP as well for kindergarten next year. I have an appointment on March 26 where I go alone to talk to the behavioral doctor about him. His autism testing and speech and everything is April 19 and we will go back May 17 to get those results. May 7 the boys go back to genetics as well. Bella sees the Developmental doctors on April 5 to talk about ODD and ADHD see whats going on with her. Silas sees psychology on April 9 to go over his behaviors including his feeding issues. He then sees GI on the 11. Lot's of appointments the next few months.

We also have some birthday's coming up. Kaya will be 7 here is 2 weeks!!! Her birthday is March 14. Silas will be 3 just a few short weeks later on April 6, and then Bella will be 8 on May 25!!!

Monday, February 26, 2018

A guide to Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

First off in order to understand what SPD is, you first need to understand what the sensory system even is. This system is what helps us experience and process all the information around us. In people with Sensory Processing Disorder, their bodies have a hard time processing this information around them. They can become very overwhelmed with all the sights, smells, and sounds that people normally don't even really think about. Our whole lives we were taught that we have 5 senses, when in reality we really have 7!

Our visual sense is all things that pertain to vision and what we see. Light, colors, everything we see around us. Hearing, or our auditory sense, is the sounds around us. How loud or how quiet something is, how much sound is actually around us. Smell, or olfactory sense, is of course anything we smell. There can be good and bad smells, some things have a faint smell, and others have a very strong smell. Taste, or oral, is how we taste things. Our taste buds are a part of this sense and they can taste, sweet, sour, salty, bitter. Touch, or tactile is how things feel with any part of our body. We think of just touching with our hands, but we can touch with our feet, mouths and any part and it may feel different depending what part we are feeling with. Proprioception deals with where our bodies are in space. Our movements, how much pressure we put on something, that is all proprioception.  The vestibular sense deals with balance, gravity, and head movement.

Now with SPD people can be seekers or avoiders and may not have trouble with every sense. Here is a list of the different senses and how seekers and avoiders may react to these senses.

Vision- Seekers will look for bright lights and colors and deal very well with visual chaos. Avoiders may get headaches or squint a lot with sunlight and bright lights. They may cover their eyes a lot, avoid visual chaos or clutter, and seek out lighter colors.

Hearing- Seekers like to make a lot of noise and tolerate a lot of noise, they like fast paced music and enjoy having music on all the time. On the other hand avoiders cover their ears often and hate loud noises. They will often say that it is too loud.

Touch- Seekers will try to touch everything and anything. They love feeling different textures and usually have no troubles with clothing. They often have a high pain tolerance. Avoiders can be picky eaters because they don't like certain textures. They may also have trouble with different clothing textures and won't touch some textures. They often hate being dirty.

Taste- Seekers love trying foods and things with different and often strong flavors. They might put everything in their mouths. Avoiders often like bland foods and may even be picky about the temperature of their food.

Smell- Seekers will smell everything while avoiders often plug their noses and may get headaches from smells.

Proprioception- Seekers love to rough play. They love to hug and be hugged tight. They may often be aggressive and may not know their own strength. Avoiders like to avoid anything rough or tight. They may have trouble with knowing where their bodies are in space and may have troubles gripping objects or pushing as they have trouble with knowing how much pressure to use.

Vestibular- Seekers love swinging, jumping, and spinning. You might often see them randomly spinning in circles. They also like tipping backwards. Avoiders are fearful of having their head tipped backwards. They may be fearful of heights and don't like swinging or spinning.

Now you have to remember there are some people who may have a mix. They may be seekers for some senses and avoiders in others. Just as with any other condition, no 2 people with sensory processing disorder are alike. Some may have SPD very mildly and others may not notice and others may have it severe and very noticeable.

People, and especially kids with SPD may sometimes get very overwhelmed with everything going on around them. They may not have the words to say that they are over or under stimulated and end up having behaviors. Others may see these behaviors as kids misbehaving, when in reality that is far from the truth. These behaviors can appear in any way from withdrawing, exploding, whining, screaming, hitting, or anything else imaginable.

Sunday, February 25, 2018

BabyDam Bathtub Divider Giveaway


Do you ever find that your bathtub is too big for your baby and wish you could make it smaller? Now you can with the BabyDam Bathtub Divider. Put the divider in your bathtub to make the tub the size you want it to be. Enter below for your chance to win one.

2/25-3/11

Enter for your chance to win (1) BabyDam Bathtub Divider!

A retail value of $45!


Sponsored by:

BabyDam USA

Available on Amazon!

-------------------------------------------

Hosted by:

MamatheFox


Saturday, February 24, 2018

The Star DVD

The big movie we all heard about during the Christmas season is now out on DVD and is better than ever!! The DVD includes A Devon Franklin Children's Bible Study along with other bonus features not seen in theaters. If you are interested in buying the movie you can do so here as well as check out other awesome features included with the movie.

The Star is a heartwarming tale of faith and friendship. The Huffington Post says it is "Full of humor and heart." The movie stresses the importance of believing in yourself. The movie follows the journey of a brave donkey who wants to go beyond his daily like in the mill. He finally gets the courage to go on his adventure and on his way he tems up with some friends who all become accidental heroes in the greatest story ever told. The movie is rated PG. This is a must see for the entire family.

Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Humidifier and Aromatherapy Diffuser Giveaway



Who here uses a humidifier or essential oils? Who wants to win a new humidifier and diffuser?
enter now: 2/21 (9:00 AM EST) - 3/15 (11:59 pm EST).

Sponsored By: TopTenUSA


Hosted By: Love, Mrs. Mommy 


Many families with babies and young children will be wanting to ensure they have the best possible home environment for health and happiness. Humidifiers are one of the items that can really help to make sure that the cold, dry air of the winter months doesn't irritate little noses or sensitive skin. Whether you just need a small humidifier for that inevitable cold, or a more advanced device for winter-long running, you'll find it here.

With this in mind, TopTenUSA have picked the best humidifier for baby bundles that you can buy right now, carefully selecting them for functionality, quality, design, and in the interests of saving energy. We've also made sure that every one of the products we've chosen has been rated by the Energy Star program.

1 Lucky Winner Will Receive: 


A Radiate Your Love Cool Mist Ultrasonic Humidifier, 7 Color Changing Mood Enhancing LED Lights, Aromatherapy Diffuser, and 4 Timer Options with Auto Shut Off! ($37.77 RV)

All These Amazing Features in 1 Great Product!




Open To US entrants and must be 18+ to enter
Giveaway Dates ~ 2/21 9:00 AM EST through 3/15 11:59PM EST

Disclosure: Love, Mrs. Mommy and all participating bloggers are not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. This giveaway is in no way endorsed or sponsored by Facebook or any other social media site. The winner will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. Winner has 48 hours to reply before a replacement winner will be drawn. If you would like to participate in an event like this please contact LoveMrsMommy (at) gmail (dot) com.

Tuesday, February 20, 2018

Breastfeeding:The Big Controversy


In a lot of mommy groups I am in one of the biggest conversation pieces, as well as a big part of controversy is breastfeeding. The big quote is "Breast is Best." Everyone for the most part seems to agree with that, and for the most part I do agree.  In my opinion there are a few times where it may not be. Baby may have allergies, might have trouble growing, may need more calories than mom can provide, or there are times where mom for whatever reason may not be able to produce enough or breastfeed at all.

There are also times where mom may just choose to not breastfeed for whatever reason. Too many women are very quick to judge those who don't breastfeed, especially those who choose not to. That is not right, it is their choice as a mom to choose that. While breast may be best, babies who drink formula still grow and thrive just like babies who are breastfed.

With my first I tried breastfeeding. We even seen a lactation consultant. My body just wasn't producing enough. We had to switch to formula. I was disappointed in my body because with all the pressure from others I felt I was letting my baby down by not being able to breastfeed her. My second came shortly after, and so I didn't even try to breastfeed her. I was ok with that by that point. When my oldest son came, I tried breastfeeding again. He was a sick baby and landed in the hospital very quickly. I tried pumping because he wasn't able to breastfeed and I quickly lost my milk supply. When my youngest was born I breastfed with a mixture of formula feeding. I made sure he got what they call the liquid gold, but after that I wasn't preoccupied with making sure he was breastfed. For whatever reason my body just doesn't produce enough milk. There are all the lactation cookies, and fenugreek and things I could have tried, but I wasn't super worried about it. My older daughter had a milk allergy, my older son had medical problems as well as my younger son who needed thickened liquids. There are so many reasons why breastfeeding may not be the best option. We as a community need to stop making those moms who don't or can't breastfeed feel bad. They don't deserve to be put down. just ebcause they formula feed doesn't mean they are bad moms. They are still making sure their babies are fed and are growing. Some may not choose to breastfeed at all, some may do it a few days or weeks, some aim to breastfeed to 2 years or longer. It is all their choice.

Let's come together as moms, as females, as a community and stop mom shaming, stop putting others down. We are all mom or parents, we all have the choice to make choices for our children. As long as they are not being abused or neglected or children aren't in immediate danger we need to just support each other and allow others to make their own choices when it comes to their own children.

Monday, February 19, 2018

Your guide to IEPs and 504s

What is an IEP? IEP stands for individual education program. They are for students with qualifying disabilities who require specialized instruction and services in the school setting. An IEP outlines the child’s present assessment information and abilities, the targeted and intense interventions and specialized instruction the child will receive, the goals of the IEP, and the accommodations the child requires to promote success. The IEP is reviewed annually, upon parent request, during transitions to new schools, and if the child’s progress or lack of progress warrants a review of the IEP.

What is a 504 plan? 504 plans are different from IEPs. Some students have one or the other and some have both. While an IEP addresses the academic and other needs a student may need to receive their education, a 504 plan covers accommodations a student may need to receive. The goal of the 504-plan is to “level the playing field. ”  Students with 504-plans do not require specialized instruction or
monitoring.  Students may need a longer time to take tests or sit in a room alone. They may have restrictions for gym class. They may be allowed to take oral tests instead of written or have things read to them. These are types of accomodations a 504 plan covers.

Sunday, February 18, 2018

Lots going on

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

I have been having a LOT going on. Lots of testing and stuff on my youngest. Will be updating everyone as we know more. Going to be starting a new job (well kinda 2 in 1) my husband is going to hopefully be starting a job soon, he has been looking. My girls are likely going to have to be put back in public school. My 5 year old is being tested for autism and we are getting his IEP going for kindergarten next year.

Saturday, February 10, 2018

Plasma Car Giveaway



Runs 2/10 through 2/24....Winner pulled on 2/25 - EST

Open to Continental US only













The Original PlasmaCar is a ride-on toy that does not have pedals, gears or a motor. Instead the rider uses their body to wiggle their way around.

By using their own natural forces of inertia, centrifugal force, friction, and the PlasmaCar is naturally kid powered!




Available now though Amazon (it’s Prime!)




Enter to win (1) PlasmaCar valued at $70


Hosted by: MamatheFox.com

Sponsored by: PlasmaCar

Co-Hosted by: MomJunky & Miki's Hope








Open to Continental US residents only




MamatheFox and all participating blogs are not help responsible for sponsors who fail to fulfill their prize obligation

Thursday, February 8, 2018

PASSION "WHOLE HEART" ALBUM Review & Giveaway

Passion Music is committed to leading people towards renewed intimacy with God and fresh encounters of worship. Passion started in 1995 and is geared towards students and 18-25 year olds to try to transform their lives by the power of the Holy Spirit. This new CD is from the 2018 Passion Conference. The group is four-time Dove Award winners. They have had seven albums debut at No. 1 on Billboard’s Christian Albums Chart with two hitting the Top 5 on the Billboard 200.
The music on this CD is very powerful and uplifting. It really makes you feel alive and feel the power of the Lord. I really enjoyed listening to it and hope you guys will as well.

The CD will be available 2/23 as a digital album and can be found here.
If you want to discover more about Passion music you can go here.

Now here is the awesome part. I have the chance to give one of you lucky readers a copy of the CD. You can enter to win here. Giveaway runs 2/8-2/15 winners will be announced around 2/16 CD will be shipped in March. Open to continental U.S. residents only please

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.  Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation.  I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller /FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days on the same blog, you are not eligible to win.  Or if you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again.  Winner is subject to eligibility verification.

Saturday, February 3, 2018

On-The-Go & Camera-Ready Tech Giveaway!


Sponsored By: Offices.Net


Hosted By: Love, Mrs. Mommy



At Offices.net we appreciate that choosing the right office space can hugely effect the success and prosperity of your business.

With this is mind, our area specific consultants will want to know more than just your budget. They will take the time to establish what makes your business tick. What amenities are essential for your company’s success, what infrastructure is necessary for you to run at full capacity and what style of office space will help you attract the best players in your field.

As a brokerage, we can provide you with cost comparisons, translate any industry jargon, arrange viewings and even assist with negotiations. We aren’t happy with putting a round peg in a square hole, we strive to find that perfect fit.

1 Lucky Winner Will Receive


iClever Bluetooth Keyboard
This is a foldable wireless keyboard (pocket size) with aluminum alloy housing and a carrying pouch! Great for iPad, iPhone, tablets, laptops, and smartphones. $32.99 RV

&

Whellen l184 Selfie Ring Light
 This flash lamp clip ring has 36 LED bulbs and is perfectly portable for phone, tablet, iPad, and laptop use. $7.95 RV



Open To US and must be 18+ to enter
Giveaway Dates ~ 2/3 9:00 AM EST through 2/24 11:59PM EST

Disclosure: Love, Mrs. Mommy and all participating bloggers are not held responsible for sponsors who do not fulfill their prize obligations. This giveaway is in no way endorsed or sponsored by Facebook or any other social media site. The winner will be randomly drawn by Giveaway Tools and will be notified by email. Winner has 48 hours to reply before a replacement winner will be drawn. If you would like to participate in an event like this please contact LoveMrsMommy (at) gmail (dot) com.

Thursday, February 1, 2018

The Next Big Step

Today starts the next big step in my oldest sons life. Kindergarten registration. This isn't my first child to get registered for school, it's actually my third, but it is my first son. This is a really big step for him, because that first year we almost lost him a few times and we had know idea what to expect with his future. We never did, and still don't take a single day for granted. Kindergarten will be great for him. It should help him get more socialized and hopefully be able to teach him new things. He will need and IEP, but that is ok. Once I get him registered I have to call the lady who runs the special education department and get him set up to start the IEP process again. It will help he had an IEP in preschool.

Speaking of IEPs, in this month we will also be likely starting the IEP process for my oldest daughter as well. She was recently diagnosed with a learning disorder and we need to get her an IEP and possibly special education. It is hard as a parent to hear that your child is struggling and that they need extra help, but we also want what is best for our children. This is going to be a big step for both of them in what I hope to be a very successful future for them all.

Next school year the girls will both be going back to the public schools now that their brother will be joining them. My youngest will also be able to start preschool, which is still up in the air. It will be a great experience for him, but they do not provide transportation for preschool, and our closest school doesn't have preschool so for him to go we have to take him to one of the other schools which means driving 9-15 miles one way dropping him off, either driving 9-15 miles back home or finding something to do around the school for 3 hours while he is at school and then getting him and coming home. That is 18-30 miles a day minimum if we stay close to the school otherwise 36-60 miles a day 4 days a week so we are talking a minimum of 72-120 miles a week for preschool. There has to be a better way.

My husband is also taking a major step and getting into a program where he will be getting his high school diploma and certified in welding. This is big for him as he has dyslexia and other disabilities and never finished high school and it has been hard on him not having finished or anything. This is really big for him.

day 3: meaning of my name

A lot of you may be wondering where my blog name came from, how I came up with it. As I have previously mentioned i have 4 kids. They are cu...