Gifted Issues Discussion homepage Forums Twice Exceptional Stressed! Just need to vent a bit!

Elizabeth, that camp was so far above and beyond. It's always fabulous to hear about someone who will really try for a kid who needs something apart from the norm.

Sorry for your struggles; I hope things improve ASAP.

DeeDee

Yes, it is *wonderful* to hear about people who will try to figure out how to help/deal with a kid rather than just blame the kid for being different. And that was a camp! Amazing. Too bad we couldn't get the same kind of thoughtfulness from DD's previous private school (incidentally costing over $12,000/ year). You definitely don't always get what you (think you're) paying for.

Hugs. Holiday care is a nightmare at the best of times. It is probably little comfort but more people means more choices (not much help if they are equally bad).

I know! I think it might be the cheapest camp we've got her in all summer, too - it was under $450 for two weeks, including "wraparound" care before and after the main program.

I don't have any ideas, but you've got all of my sympathy! DS was in Cub Scout day camp this week, and I wound up volunteering most of the days in part to be his buddy when he needed to get away from it all. Most of the counselors and parent volunteers were great with him, but it was definitely easier for everyone when I was around. I'm not sure what we would do if I were working right now.

My deepest sympathies (and sending lots of good wishes that you'll find a solution that works!!).

The thought of leaving my DS9 (ADHD) in care makes me cringe. Why just the other day I picked him up from a birthday party and he was the LOUD kid running around like a nut (and they only had him a couple of hours... which is why they were still smiling ;P ).

I've been a SAHM, but because our family needs me to return to work, I've gotten a teaching assistant certificate which means I'll only work when the kids are in school. The money isn't as good as a full time, year round job would be, but the schedule is perfect.

However I'm guessing changing your work hours/situation isn't an option (or you would have already). It's tough... hang in there & best of luck

Did you tell the camp ahead of time that there might be some issues with your DD, or did they just sort of figure it out? I would love a camp that was so proactive!

It's not her first year there, so the director had some idea what the issues might be. I think that the straight-up screaming is fairly new this summer, though.

DD9 has no memory of screaming and no idea what the camp nurse is talking about. :P

I am lucky to work shift work, so we only require part-time care. We have an AMAZING child care provider who watches out two in her home. She has 4 boys, all with varying issues including AS, giftedness, SPD, ADHD. She is the most patient lady I have ever met. My two fit right in and she doesn't bat an eye at their quirks because she has experience dealing with their issues. She thinks they are 'normal', LOL! My kids love going to her house. My little guy gets upset when he has to stay home with me!

DD went to an all-girls science day camp for one week. DS would not cope with the noise and confusion of a day camp. Hugs to you!! I understand the stress!