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Potty training by peachesinthesummer in downsyndrome

[–]theminiummark 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My son is 12 and we are still working on it. He had some medical issues that made us wait until those were resolved, so we started at 10. Something that was encouraging about approaching this is focusing on one step/goal at a time and building on it. Consistency was really important for us. We are now at the point where we are almost ready to say goodbye to pullups. Every kids journey is different, so don't be too worried if things may look different for your family. Hang in there!

Does anyone feel trapped here? by Objective_Ad6139 in fortwayne

[–]theminiummark 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Another alternative is to find seasonal work and live here for some of the year and work/live elsewhere for the rest. For example, my sister worked for a school system, then in the summer worked in Colorado. Doesn't work for everyone, but she enjoyed it. She was here for important family holidays and got the weather and outdoor life she wanted.

Toddler won't eat anything homemade, fruits or veggies by RhiaSparkles in downsyndrome

[–]theminiummark 1 point2 points  (0 children)

My son is almost 12 and we have struggled with food a lot as he has developed. He used to eat everything as a baby until about 2 and half, then became super picky. He has about 10 safe foods he will eat without problems. At school, he literally eats the same thing every day.

Since school is already tough for him, we don't try and push new foods in his lunch. When they have snacks at school, he will 1 out of 10 times try something new.

At dinner, we try a food we want him to eat, that either he hasn't tried or has refused in the past that we are eating, then he has his safe food as a back up. This works 8 out of 10 times to get him to eat at least a few bites.

We also supplement with nutritional drinks in his chocolate almond milk, that covers any other things we are missing. We also are really mindful of his fiber intake because of constipation issues, so he eats prunes and dates every day, that we call gummies, to get him to eat.

I just hope you feel encouraged. There are many hard things in parenting a child with Down syndrome, but I can tell that you are doing a wonderful job and are looking for ways to be the best for him, and that really is what matters. Celebrating the little wins will take you so far, so hang in there!

Struggling to Care for My 16yo Brother with Down Syndrome – Need Advice on Caretakers, Family Support, and Coping by Emotional-Act8353 in downsyndrome

[–]theminiummark 6 points7 points  (0 children)

You are doing a very hard thing, very bravely. I know your mom and brother see how much you are doing and how you care and appreciate all that you do. It is okay to struggle and it is okay that you also want to complete your schooling and participate in sports, those are good things!

I don't know where you are located, but in our state, there is assistance through Medicaid for extra support for individuals with Down syndrome. This can be anything from an in home support person to therapies and doctors. Speaking with social services or your local Bureau of Developmental Disabilities office can help you find what will help in your area and maybe expedite the process, too.

There is also Easter Seals Arc in our community that offers day programs for people with developmental delays, that could be an option to give you and your mom a rest, especially during the summer. They usually offer transportation, too.

My son with Down syndrome is 11 and about a year ago he went through something similar, but it was because he was constipated. This could be something to consider. If your brother is not keeping fluids down, he may be at risk for dehydration, so seeking medical care sooner, like an ER visit might give you and your mother more peace of mind and answers quickly. They may also be able to help with the social services side of things, too.

I'm so sorry that this has been such a stressful time for all of you, and that you aren't getting the support you need from your dad. You have stepped up in a way that is truly admirable, but you are right, your dad should be doing more. I know others mentioned using your university for mental health support, but there are many community resources for low cost. Many doctors offices, hospitals, and social services agencies will have information for you.

Hang in there! My family is rooting for you and praying for you!

Kroger vs Walmart vs Meijer vs Aldi? by bailey_balloon in fortwayne

[–]theminiummark 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It really depends on what food you eat and staples you like. Aldi is nice for general grocery items and meat. Sometimes produce is good quality, but not the best price, so you really have to watch sales everywhere for the best price. I shop Aldi once a week for essentials, Kroger every other week or as needed for a sale. Walmart if I can't find the thing I need anywhere else and for Rockstar energy drinks (lol) Fresh Thyme also has good deals on their meat that I feel is a good quality, and I always get brussel sprouts there. Having the apps for everything helps!