Hello friends! This week on the Porch we are talking about saving time. I really encourage you to check out Taming the Chaos post, it's very thought provoking and encouraging. So now it is my turn. Hmm? When I think of saving time I think of the things that waste the most time.
Around here a big time waster is self care. Normally a child would be able to clothe and care for the basics with minimal oversight. That is not so with a bunch of kids whose executive function is not great. Executive function is the ability to line several tasks up in a row and do them in order. Such as put on undies, then pants, then socks, then shoes. That may seem simple but here, it is a big deal.
I have a friend whose child had such an executive impairment that she would get into the shower with her clothes on. She just couldn't think through the sequence. If you are in this place their is hope. That little girl is now a very good soccer player that can cope fine with her own care!
Thankfully we have found a wonderful tip to help.
We have these pictures on the front of the drawer that shirts are in. On the other drawers are pants, or pajamas. We take the guessing out of dressing. By lining up the items in order of use the kids are better able to get dressed themselves.
Other time wasters are getting out the door. There is always the jostle for coats, shoes, socks, and books. For us this gets so much worse when there is an OCD involved. We helped move along the process by a few set in stone rules.
1. You must have a all clothing including shoes, socks, or jacket on and ready before asking for anything more to take along.
2. You can only take 4 things with you so pick carefully, no getting out of the van to trade once you have picked.
This is not all our van rules. We try to keep it simple and to the point. Rules will vary from family to family, but be firm. Consistence will make for an easier time transitioning out the door.
The other big time waster that we face is medication time. If I have the medication list written out, everything flows much smoother. Also it is safer, you know exactly how much to give. Having the medications written out will also help others help you. Dad can step in and help with a medication while you get every one cleaned up for bed.
Last but not least teamwork. Try your best to function as a team. You and your husband/wife need to help each other tend to your children. The responsibility should not fall on one person. Secondly your children are part of the team. Assign them chores. Show them they too can help the family to excel.
Till next week my friends God bless!
Heather lives in West Virginia. She and her husband have been homeschooling their 5 children for 7 years. Due to a genetic disorder their children have multiple special needs. Living life to the fullest for the glory of God is their goal! Visit Heather's at GFCF Mom of Many or Special Needs Homeschooling
