United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

The topic was discussed a while back about having a child select a buddy to accompany them to the therapy room while in school so that they wouldn't feel so singled out leaving the classroom alone. Initially, I thought this was a great idea and in some cases I'm sure it is. However, here's another perspective that I just developed. I babysit for a girl a little older than Nicole and when Nicole has therapy at home, they're both interested in trying out the therapist's toys so they usually take turns and then switch, etc. Well, I noticed the other day that the other girl really whips through things and accomplishes many more motor tasks and much quicker than Nicole does. I know that the other girl notices b/c she's made a few comments -- not in a mean way, but to indicate to me that she notices. Nicole hasn't said anything yet, but I imagine that either it's just a matter of time or it's something that she might not be comfortable discussing yet -- or perhaps that's part of the frustration that she has which comes out in other ways and at different times. Anyway, what I learned from this process is that it might not always be such a good idea to have a child who has great motor skills accompany a child with a BPI to therapy b/c it might bring down the child's self-esteem. Like I said, I'm sure this isn't always the case, but I'm just sharing my observations at this time... -Tina )

Tina,
I read your post with great interest. I can so clearly remember the moment at which I realized that there were things that other kids could do that I could not do, it was a moment of great awakening for me. It is something that all 'our' bpi kids (I say 'our' because you all are like family to me) must face eventually. It is a part of the acceptance of the injury that we must come to terms with. That does not mean it is easy or that we should not strive to be the best we can be.

I was fortunate in that this happened in kindergarten and when I burst into tears, my teacher scooped me up, took me over to a rocking chair and soothed my pain. That teacher was a good friend through all my growing up, she took an interest in me and supported me even until my adulthood until the time of her own death.

As I read the earlier post from Lee Ann, I think it was, describing the difficulties she is facing for her child in school, I reflected back on this teacher and how much she helped me. It is indeed very important to surround your children with those who care and understand and who are willing to take the time to help them achieve.

Nancy