I never had that feeling in life that I truly fit in or I was doing what I was supposed to be doing. What was my purpose in life? They say we all have a purpose here on Earth. What is mine? What was I supposed to be doing?

From early on, starting in grade school, I always felt like the odd man out. I got along with everyone, but I felt like I was not truly included or welcomed like some of the other kids. At birthday parties I felt alone. I watched other kids clicking more and meshing with one another. Not me. I knew I wasn’t truly in the group. I would sit there and feel uncomfortable and want to run out the door as quickly as possible. I wanted to go home.

Even up through high school I felt this way. I grew up in a small Midwest town where everyone knew everyone’s business. Again, I got along with pretty much everybody but it still wasn’t a good feeling. I started to skip school and miss a lot of my classes. I got off track and felt even more lost and alone.

Years later, I went to nursing school and at age 37 I started my new career. I became a Registered Nurse and worked in the ICU. I love what I do, and at that time I still couldn’t think of anything I’d rather be doing.

But guess what??!!! That all changed once my twins were born.

I loved being a mother but I still wanted to work and have a career. But then my son got diagnosed with autism at age 3. Then I knew, this was it. This was my purpose. My thing in life was to be there for my son. I was the one for him. He was the one for me. I was always a stubborn person and a little set in my ways. I was never one to back down from a good fight. What a perfect fit I was, to have an autistic child.

There are many battles a parent of an autistic child must fight. My personality would help my son to get the best in life. I would fight for him tooth and nail for everything. I wouldn’t rest until he got what he deserved. I believed in him and I fought hard. I would fight any battle for him. He is my purpose.

I fought to get my son services and therapy to help him grow. I went toe-to-toe with the school district, one of our biggest battles. They wanted to put my son in a severe classroom. I knew that was not where he needed to be. A parent knows what’s best for their child. They live with their child, and see them every day and night. How could strangers know what’s best for my son? I fought like a mama bear fights for her cub. I won and got my son the education he deserved, and he is doing very well. I finally have some of the school team on our side now. They see the potential and skill set my son has. He is unbelievably smart and knows so much more than people give him credit for. I believed in him and always will.

I will always go to battle for this kid. I will never let anyone tell me that my son can’t do something when I know he can. Parents, we are our children’s biggest advocates. Your child has rights and you as parents do as well. Don’t give in to what someone says. Go with your gut instinct and go to battle. Never let go of the dreams and hopes you have for your child. You will win!!

feature image Alvaro Reyes via Unsplash

Wendy Robles lives in California with her husband and twins. She's an ICU Registered Nurse, she advocates for her patients and her son who is on the autism spectrum. Through her blog she tells her experiences of raising a child on the spectrum, the good and the ugly. 

 

It’s nearly time to close the book on this non-conventional school year. You could say we’ve had a book thrown at us, as we’ve learned that teaching our kids is no easy task. Here are some printables to send some much-deserved gratitude to our teachers! Feel free to fill out an award or two for yourself–you’ve earned it!

PS: Another great way to say thank you to your favorite teacher: The gratitude-packed book Dear TeacherThis so-sweet book thanks all the people that empower and inspire little ones to be themselves and overcome all of life’s obstacles—making it the perfect gift for the last day of school! Learn more.

And the Award Goes to…

Who wouldn’t love having the title “World’s Best Teacher” bestowed upon them? (Parents, good news–you’re in the running this year, too!)

Click here to get this Certificate of Appreciation printable.

Dear Teacher

Let your little one’s creativity soar with this completely customizable printable.

Click here to get this Dear Teacher printable.

 

Filled to the Brim (with appreciation)

This cute fill-in-the-blank thank you note will pop with your child’s personal touch.

Click here to get this Thank You Note printable.

Many Ways to Say Thanks

Thanking them in a multitude of languages makes this thanks extra-special.

Clic here to get this Thank You Printable.

Cute Fruit

A “berry” adorable way to say thanks!

Click here to get this Berry Amazing printable.

It’s Raining Tacos!

Um…we wish because tacos make everyone smile, as will this silly and sweet thank you!

Click here to get this Taco Thank You printable.

Whether you’re gripping your coffee mug while you push your tot on the swing or enjoying a well-deserved adult beverage at a party, as a mom your hands are never truly free. That’s why PopSockets new line, PopThirst Can Holders and Cup Sleeves are the greatest thing ever.

The same company that created the brilliant PopSockets phone accessories has now added that simple, but oh-so clever-technology to your drink ware. The PopThirst Cup Holders and Cup Sleeves are essentially a Koozie with a built-in PopSocket so that you can relax your grip a little and not worry about spilling––even when the kids are playing a game of tag between your feet.

The sleeves and holders are designed to fit around most hot to-go cups, cans and pints and will help keep hot beverages warm and cold drinks cool. They come in a variety of designs and the PopGrip is removable, which means you can twist it off and swap it with a different design if you wish.

PopThirst Can Holders and Cup Sleeves are priced at $13 each and come in a variety of fun patterns that include Pusheen, animal print, swirls, florals and even Darth Vader. They’re available for purchase on PopSockets’ website now.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: PopSockets

 

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D.C. parents and caregivers: Do you know how lucky you are?! You may have worries, but a stellar pediatric hospital close to home isn’t one. Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. is dedicated exclusively to pediatrics with experts specializing in treating kids and kids only. They’re celebrating 150 years of pediatric care, research and commitment to community. Interesting fact: Volunteers opened the hospital in 1870 with 12 beds to care for Civil War orphans. Read on to learn more about this incredible pediatric hospital, practically in your backyard!

Learn more and help your loved ones grow stong with Children’s National Hospital.

Photo via iStock

“We’re No 1!”

Children’s National Hospital is among the top children’s hospitals in the United States. They’re also ranked number 1 for newborn care for the fourth straight year and as one of the top 10 pediatric hospitals in the country by U.S. News & World Report—that’s no simple feat. They’ve helped children from around the world and their pediatric specialists are internationally recognized for providing the best possible care.

(Another) humble brag: Children’s National is Magnet®-designated for excellence in nursing.

And there’s even more praise: Children’s National has attained Level 1 Surgery Verification from the American College of Surgeons, a distinction that recognizes surgery centers that have improved surgical quality, prevented complications, reduced costs and saved lives.

Children’s National is transforming pediatric medicine, and they just keep getting better.

Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C.

 

Innovative & Cutting-Edge Care

Children’s National has earned a (well-deserved) global reputation for pioneering new therapies and treatments, including heart, cancer, neurology and general surgery innovations. It ranks seventh among pediatric institutions for National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funding. 

This a huge deal: They’re recognized as committed advocates for children on local, state and federal health policy. They’re often the first at the table when pediatric healthcare legislation is being developed.

Photo by Bofu Shaw on Unsplash

As if Their Well-Deserved Accolades Weren’t Enough

Construction is soon to be completed on the Children’s National Research and Innovation Campus, the first in the nation dedicated to pediatric research. Children’s National has been designated twice as a Magnet® hospital, demonstrating the highest standards of nursing and patient care delivery. 

Now that you’ve learned Children’s National offers expert care, here’s a bonus: It’s also convenient care. This pediatric academic health system utilizes a community-based primary care network and specialty care locations in the D.C. metropolitan area, including the Maryland and Northern Virginia suburbs.

One last cool thing: They have a parenting site geared towards keeping your kids healthy called Rise and Shine. Topics and advice come straight from their experts that parents can interact with by submitting questions, taking quizzes, and more!

 


Learn more and help your loved ones grow up strong with Children’s National Hospital.

 

—Jamie Aderski

 

 

Disclaimer:   Please note that the information provided on this site is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your child’s unique symptoms. Always seek the advice of your pediatrician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition. If you believe that your child is having a medical emergency dial 911 for assistance.

Mr. Bubble is celebrating its 60th anniversary! In honor of six decades worthy of soapy fun, the brand is launching three new products for kids and their families.

The newest Mr. Bubble brand products include Calm & Sleep Bubble Bath, Fizzy Tub Colors, and Clean Skin 4in1. What can you expect from Mr. Bubble’s latest launch?

photo courtesy of PR Newswire/Mr. Bubble

The Mr. Bubble Calm & Sleep Bubble Bath ($4.99 for 36 ounces) has a calming lavender, eucalyptus, and chamomile blend and a moisturizing combo of Vitamin E and Aloe. Mr. Bubble Fizzy Tub Colors are kid-friendly bath tablets ($6.99 for a 150-count Jumbo Jar or $1.29 for a nine-count packet) that are fragrance-free and contain Bitterguard to stop your kiddo from consuming the product.

If you struggle to keep the kids clean, Mr. Bubble Clean Skin 4in1 is a bubble bath, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner in one 16 ounce bottle ($4.99)! The 4in1 contains Aloe and Shea Butter and is hypoallergenic.

Michelle Hanson, Vice President of Marketing at The Village Company, said in a press release, “Families have had a tough year. Children are always deserving of fun, but particularly now everyone can benefit from more of it. For the past 60 years, Mr. Bubble has represented an easy way for parents to get their kids squeaky clean, and with lots of laughter.”

Hanson added, “Whether its giant bubbles or colorful waterfalls, our goal has always been the same: let Mr. Bubble help you relax and unwind, all while having lots of fun in the tub.”

All three are available right now on mrbubble.com and will hit Walmart shelves (and Walmart.com) on Apr. 10 and Kroger shoppers starting Apr. 12.

—Erica Loop

 

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Photo: Kim Mcisaac via Autism Adventures with Alyssa

As a parent of a child with special needs, I’m going to zero in the stigma of the derogatory word used to describe people with mental disabilities. This word is also used as slang and to make fun of others, in reference to them being stupid.

I remember very clearly sitting across from the psychologist as he was reading the results from my daughter’s most recent tests. It was her three-year evaluation where they do a full evaluation and everyone sits around the table and talks about her results and gives recommendations.

This is one of many things as a special needs parent, that is difficult to hear and read. Listening to them refer to her level in ages. It’s just tough to hear, so I brace myself and force a smile. After all, this is just a routine IEP.

I, however, was not prepared for what was said next. As the psychologist was rambling about spatial this, decoding that, my mind was wandering. I was thinking about my beautiful 7-year-old girl and I was wondering what she was doing in class. Then my attention got diverted back as he went on to say her scores indicate “mental retardation.”

I was familiar with the term,  of course, but have never heard it in reference to my daughter. I felt sucker-punched. Obviously, I am aware that my daughter is cognitively delayed. She is non-verbal and her receptive language is weak, but developing. At this same meeting, I was told my daughter would never talk or understand spoken word only visuals. I firmly disagreed.

I stared across the table at him biting my lip to keep the tears from flowing. He looked visibly uncomfortable and went on to explain it was just the way the scoring is done. He looked like he almost felt bad saying it.

I had to resist the urge to flip the table over and scream, “Do not talk about my daughter this way. This is not my daughter. She is bright and funny, mischievous, and yes challenging I will admit, but full of potential!” I felt sick. I could see her teacher giving me the slide glance as she thankfully piped in with her recommendations and some positive attributes. I could barely hear her, though. I just needed to get out of there.

I cried all the way home. I honestly don’t know how I safely drove home, it was heart-wrenching.

That word has such a negative stigma to it there was a campaign to permanently change it.

It is now referred to as an intellectual disability.

The problem is, although that word makes me cringe and it has such a negative impact, it is just a word.

Which will be replaced by another word.

The heart of the issue is not simply a word that shouldn’t be used. It is the attitude and overall assumption that special needs people are “less than.” That their lives are not as worthy as typical people.

Ironically, today, I had an experience with a lady who came to look at the daycare that I run. In the midst of the conversation, autism came up, and I told her that I had a daughter with autism. She started to talk about how her friend’s son was “seemingly fine one day and autistic the next.” She said point-blank that he was completely fine then all of a sudden….and then she jerked her head back and began shaking it around, as if she were acting out what it looks like to be autistic. I just stared at her. If I weren’t wearing a mask,  my mouth would if dropped open.

I couldn’t even speak, I was so stunned. I am hardly ever at a loss for words but this time words failed me. She went on, talking about how hard it is, mumbling something else as I continued to stare at her.

I can not believe that an adult in this day and age would do this. Outwardly make fun of a disability. Completely inaccurately, I might add. And at a daycare, to a professional who just told you they had a child with autism! I have developed a thick skin over the years—it didn’t hurt my heart the way it once would have—but I was in disbelief.

It is complete ignorance, and it starts at home. We need to teach our typical children to do better.

We need to educate and show our children to the world. To be proud of them and not ashamed. The thinking that any one group of people is better than the next is outdated and simply untrue. Everyone’s life has meaning and value.

My daughter lives her best life every day. Her heart is pure. She doesn’t know evil, prejudice, or hate. Her life is simple. She smiles and, I swear, light radiates through. Her laugh is the sweetest sound you will ever hear.

She is worthy. She is deserving of everything life has to offer. She is different but not less: if anything she is more.

Her soul is full of beauty and innocence. It is up to us to stand up and protect her and others like her. To tell the world how imperfectly perfect they are. To set an example, to give grace, and to educate.

It is not enough to just erase the word. We have to advocate, educate and enlighten others. No more secret world of special needs, we will share the beauty, the joy, and the challenges and show the world how deserving our kids are.

 

 

This post originally appeared on Autism Adventures with Alyssa.

Kim McIsaac , is a blogger at autism adventures with Alyssa . She resides in Massachusetts with her husband and four children .  She advocates and passionate about spreading autism awareness and educating and inspiring others . She likes to write , spend time with her  family and loves the beach . 

Renowned pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, author of The Happiest Baby on the Block and The Happiest Toddler on the Block, has a 2021 prediction for you, and it has nothing to do with the weather or your sun sign. He’s compiled his expertise to make some highly educated guesses about what will trend in the parenting sphere in 2021. Here are his top three:

1. Embracing flexibility.

iStock

Even before COVID-19 parents today have been doing more than ever before with less help. Add in COVID-19 and that delicate work-life-school balance has been blown out the window. The result? Dr. Karp says it's rule-bending! Parents are learning to be more flexible. "Whether all this 'rule relaxing' means being okay with a bit more screen time or a cheese-and-cracker dinner, parents are trying to 'should' on themselves less and embrace flexibility! In 2021, I expect we'll continue to see parents give themselves some well-deserved grace…and I hope this is a trend that will outlast COVID!"

2. Relying on telehealth.

mom daughter computer online school virtual elearning
August de Richelieu via Pexels

"Out of necessity, many doctor's appointments have gone virtual this year—and this is a trend we will likely see stick around next year…and beyond. While some doctor's visits require face-to-face, in-person interaction, many doctors are finding that are others that can be done effectively from behind a screen." Dr. Karp writes. And parents can't argue the benefit of not having to take the extra time to drive to an office for an appointment, for themselves or their kids. 

3. Seeking virtual support for the fourth trimester. 

Happiest Baby Products

Parents of a new baby, whether it's their first or their third, need as much support as they can get—from friends, family, co-worker, health-care providers and their community in general. But during social isolation, having your bestie come over and hold the baby while you shower isn't an option. Their new support groups? Virtual! Finding your people online, connecting with friends and family can help. In addition, technology will play a big role in parenting such as Dr. Karp's SNOO, a smart bassinet parents rave about.  

"I created SNOO to actually give tired new parents an extra pair of hands to hold and soothe the baby. And, it also is the only baby bed proven to add hours of sleep to the baby's sleep and keep the baby safely on the back…all naps/nights. This is a massive piece of the puzzle in curbing the scary upswing in postpartum depression and anxiety…and for forging a new trend of reliable and meaningful virtual support that may help keep those perinatal mood disorders at bay. Happy SNOO New Year!"

—Amber Guetebier

featured image: SNOO/Happiest Baby 

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Elf fans rejoice! The holidays are almost here, and no one knows how to spread cheer better than Buddy the Elf. As many prepare to be truly home for the holidays, International Delight teamed up with beloved film Elf to give fans the chance to transform their homes, especially coffee corners, into a Gimbels-inspired wonderland.

International Delight Elf

International Delight has partnered with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to release a limited-edition line of holiday coffee creamers that taste like they came straight from Santa’s workshop. New Caramel Waffle Cookie, Peppermint Mocha and Frosted Sugar Cookie Coffee Creamers are sure to make any fridge more festive and the fun with Elf doesn’t stop there.

Inspired by Buddy the Elf’s unparalleled decorating skills, the International Delight + Elf’s kits offer magical décor and coffee accessories deserving of Santa’s sign-off. International Delight + Elf’s kits include:

  • A “World’s Best Cup of Coffee” sign
  • Twinkling string lights, fluffy garlands, paper snowflakes, and the infamous 6-inch ribbon curls
  • The 4 elf food groups (as told by International Delight): candy, candy canes, coffee and creamer
  • 3 coffee mugs, each with one of the film’s iconic quotes and much more! 

International Delight Elf

“This year, International Delight is going all in on holiday flavor and fun with help from our friend Buddy the Elf,” said Marie Dobson, marketing director for International Delight. “We know this holiday season is going to look a lot different for many people—so we’re thrilled to be the only coffee creamer brand partnering with Elf to bring holiday happiness to homes and coffee corners nationwide.”

International Delight Elf

For a chance to snag one of the free, limited-edition Elf at-home decorating packages, visit InternationalDelight.com/Elf by Dec. 4, 2020. Once there, all interested fans have to do is share why, more than ever this year, they need some extra holiday cheer from Buddy the Elf and International Delight for a chance to win. Winners will be randomly selected on Dec. 7 – just in time for the holidays!

If you can’t get your hands on one of the limited décor kits you can still enjoy the Elf experience all season long by purchasing International Delight’s holiday coffee creamers– on shelves now at grocery retailers nationwide in cheerful Elf packaging.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of International Delight

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Ashley Haase

We are design-loving cousins from San Francisco and Atlanta who teamed up to change the current approach to virtual interior design.

Who loves you, sweet baby girl?

After going through IVF three times, Jess and her husband welcomed their precious daughter, Penelope in 2018. Her nursery has all the function and frills this young princess deserved, with the fun modern farmhouse feel of the home. Our favorite feature is this beautiful shiplap wall, painted to match the blush color scheme throughout.

Whether you need to freshen up a somewhat finished space or design out a blank room, Cousins Ash and Jess at City & Shiplap can guide you through your design journey with a fast, fun and simple virtual interior design approach. Their goal is to bring high design to all budgets through the US with an easy and approachable process.


1

Ruffle Bedding

Ruffle Baby Bedding

$129

Light pink ruffle baby bedding. This bedding is so sweet for a little girls nursery. I fell in love with this bedding and had to have it.

BUY NOW

2

Glider

Mommy’s Nap Chair

898.99

This swivel glider saved my life. It is so comfortable and was my nap spot for late night feedings!

BUY NOW

3

Chandelier

$299

I wanted something different for my daughter bedroom that could transition once she got older. I love the look and feel of this chandelier with the light wood tones.

BUY NOW

4

Area Rug

Tummy time area

$149

I knew I would want a rug that was soft but still kept my color scheme. This rug has so many options in colors and sizes. We spent a number of afternoons playing on this rug!

BUY NOW

5

Wall mirror

Mirror, mirror on the wall

273.99

The gold detail and unique shape of this mirror brings all the pink and white together.

BUY NOW

6

Window Panel

Who says bows have to be in your hair?

$109

The bows on these panels give them that girly touch. They take this girly room to the next level.

BUY NOW

7

Lamp

Let them be light.

$49.99 BUY NOW

The lattice of this lamp brings detail to places details are forgotten. I love this little lamp by my glider to help with late nights and night time story time.

Parents need a well deserved break. CAMP has teamed up with Scotts to bring us The World’s Largest Virtual Field Day with head counselor, Jerry Harris. Families across the country are invited to get up, get out and have some fun in the sun. 

world’s biggest virtual Field Day

The World’s Largest Virtual Field Day will be held Jul. 24 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. CT. 

world’s biggest virtual Field Day

The day will kick off with an opening ceremony featuring head counselor Jerry, sharing the Field Day rules with families, followed by a rallying call from each of CAMP’s Team Captains.

world’s biggest virtual Field Day

Families will join  from home or backyard for dodgeball, sack races, capture the flag and more. Everyone who participates has an opportunity to score points for their team, and best of all a chance to win a prize box filled with $1,000 worth of toys and gifts.  

world’s biggest virtual Field Day

Visit https://camp.com/fieldday to join a team.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of CAMP

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