Keep Calm and Carry On...

A lot has happened in the last week.

I had a meeting with Aidens teachers and developed excellent strategies for all of us to stay in touch. These include a virtual classroom for us all, more checking of his diary and help after school on some days. I made it abundantly clear to all of them that Aiden is not handling school very well, neither academically nor emotionally. I came away from this meeting refreshed and energised.

We went out and purchased a small notebook computer for Aiden to use in the classroom for his notes as well as at home for his assignments. He is not allowed games on this computer, nor is it a toy.

Discussions with the paediatrician went very well. Not only did he reiterate the importance of Aiden speaking to a therapist but he also gave Aiden a script for a mood stabiliser. So, my kid has joined the ranks of medicated kids. Being that I too am medicated, I am looking for the same "help" that my crazy pills give me (grin). I'm looking forward to having a more balanced child, emotionally.

And today Aiden began seeing a therapist to help him talk through his feelings, his emotions, how to control his anger, things like that. I was quite happy with Dr R and Aiden seemed to like her as well. We did discuss the difficulties with the way Caitie treats her brother and will be working on that too. 

One thing that jumped out at both appointments was Aiden complaining about lack of sleep! I find that odd as he is in bed by 8pm and asleep by 8.30 every night. The house gets up at 6.30 but we let him sleep in til 7pm. That's around 11 hours of sleep and still he claims to be tired? Is it more emotional tired than physical perhaps? 

The poor wee man is also struggling with social issues particular for his age, specifically girl trouble. We are working through this too and I feel its very important that I don't dismiss his feelings or minimise  them.  What he is feeling is very real and it's very painful and I want him to understand that I get it! It's hard to look into your sons eyes and hear him cry " why won't she look at me, why doesn't she give me a chance?"  oh my love, if I knew the answer I would be a very rich person. For now, I tell him there are two solutions- one is to walk away, forego his friendship and cut all ties OR stay a friend in the hopes that maybe in the future her feelings may change. Tough call but he chose option number two. And here I was thinking I would be having these talks with my daughter!

So, we are ready for Term 2. Lord help us!

Cin