Back to school, with a few changes

Well, we are back into the school year, and even with just a few days under our belt I have noticed a few things about Hannah's stereotypy. First, she is now 8 and in 3rd grade (where did the time go?) and she has been getting better about suppressing her stereotypies in public for a few years now. I talked about her movements with her new teacher, just as I have in years past, and so far so good. I have noticed that she will have more movements later in the day, probably within an hour of bedtime. I'm not sure if that is related to the additional stimulus during the day, or if she represses them at school and "saves them up" for later when she can do them at home and in private.

They have also changed in presentation as well. She continues to rub her nose and jump, but where before she was clasping hands and squeezing (as the predominant movement) she is now flapping her hands at her side as she jumps. It can sometimes appear as though she is doing full pushup movements with her arms at her sides. It isn't drastically different, but this is the first time I can remember the movement modifying and then continuing in the modified pattern. Not sure if it is significant, but if you live with a kiddo who has stereotypies, you notice it.

I hope all of you have successful back to school experiences, give big hugs to the kiddos!

Facebook

Just so everyone knows, I do have a Facebook group for stereotypies where people can join up and post comments/questions for everyone to provide feedback on. I find it has been particularly helpful for those parents who have a new diagnosis or are finding the term after seeing the videos. I'm not particularly fond of Facebook, but I will allow that it has been very helpful for parents who are worried (like we all were/are at some point!)

You can find the group at http://www.facebook.com/groups/motorstereotypy/ (link in sidebar as well). We would be happy to have some medical professionals, medical students, and educators on board, so if you are inclined please join up.

All the best-

Amanda