Conference

Today I attended a local child care conference. The organization I'm apart of holds it each year at the technical college. It's a really nice event. Continental breakfast, vendors, keynote speaker, workshop 1, lunch & door prizes, workshopc 2 & 3. I attended Operational Systems Open to Close, Autism Spectrum Disorder double session. I learned *a lot* about Sensory Processing Disorder. I amazed that some kids are so affected by balance, how food feels going down their throat or even a specific color. It's much more severe than I would have thought. The more I learn, the more I'm not so sure I would give my child some of the immunizations that are pushed if I have the responsibility of making the decision again someday. Here's an interesting website: http://www.generationrescue.org/ This year the keynote was Kim & Jason from Madison. They were very good. A fun & thoughtful message to encourage people to reduce stress from their lives. Their presentation was on "Adultitis". Turns out this is very serious & I'm at stage 2.

Stage 2 Adultitis: You have progressed to a very aggressive form of Adultitis. You are probably experiencing very high stress levels and may be having difficulty laughing. Seek help now. Please consult the Prescription for treatment options.

You can take the test here: http://www.adultitis.org/ They have a lot of stuff going on-a great website, comic strip, magazine, books & more. I admire their drive & unique way of doing things.

I acquired one of Jason's prints that has this quote:

"You may grow out of almost everything else in your life, but never your childhood."

I think that's true -you always remember when you were a kid and your childhood is a part of you. Some people have told me (some who are in the same business as me), "you don't have to do all that with the kids" (art, curriculum, circle time, parties, newsletters, activity calendars, etc.) or "that's not necessary - they will learn that in school or do that when they're older", etc. I believe everything they experience will enrich their little lives. Experiences will make them more interesting people, better learners, kids who are confident, who love to learn and try new things. What about all the time I spent with them? They learn they are important and that someone cares. I believe it's all worthwhile! I'm in the business of enriching little lives. : ) I like that. It's so true you will take your childhood everywhere you go & I'm hoping "my kids" have a little something special to leave with.