eSpecially Ben

Ben, age 6, brought this home from school. Simple, yet so very cute: Styrofoam bowl painted green for the shell with tissue paper glued on top for effect. Foam "paper" cut in shape of legs and head, with two googley eyes. Check out other works of art at Magic Marker Monday .

When I worked at a local university in the dean's office, I was known for my organizational skills throughout the campus. If someone wanted something completed, they could come to me and I would be able to assemble an event, program, service with great organization, speed and accuracy. Who knew years later I would be putting those same skills to use for my son Ben? Over the last six years, we have met and talked with so many doctors, therapists, teachers, parents, insurance companies, agencies, organizations and respite workers that I could not keep them straight without the use of a fairly good organizational system. Below I outline the system that has worked well for me. Hopefully you may take some ideas from it and develop one that works for you.   Filing Crate Purchase a crate that is designated solely for your child's information. A portable crate may come in handy if you have to take it with you to a special meeting. Make files for anything that you will receive

Our local YMCA offered to design swim lessons for Ben. The instructor is working with him one-on-one, once a week. Ben's private OT will also give the instructor ideas on activities to do while in the water. Check out other photos at 5 Minutes for Special Needs .