United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

She was waiting in line to go back to her classroom and a little kid from her class came running really fast back into the line and smashed right into her and knocked her over. Well they freaked. So now they don't want her outside at any of the three recesses!

They squashed the walking club idead I had because now they don't want her to even be on the playground area at all.

So I asked them.... So what happens if she's in music class and they hold hands and someone flips her arm up fast? Will she be excluded from music class then? What if she's in the lunchroom and someone bumps into her left arm while she's carrying her tray and in a vulnerable position? Will she have to eat lunch alone in another room? And finally - what if she's in her classroom napping on the floor and a little boy needs to get to the bathroom fast and kicks her or steps on her? Will she then not be allowed to go to school? What happens when the weather is bad and recess will be inside? Where will she go then?

I told them that they are taking "school" out of school and that we need to draw the "risk" line somewhere in the middle.

Her recess shadow is freaked out. So yes - I wanted them to be careful and keep an eye out - but I think that this is taking it a bit too far. Maia's already that David brace to support and compress her joint. They know that.

I went to the playground and Maia and I did a tour with the shadow and Maia showed us what she could do and what she could not do. So they have a new slide that has steps and handrails on both sides - it's a wonderful slide. They don't want her to go on it - "what if she slips!" and my answer is - so spot her!

I can understand how they wouldn't want her to be on equpiment with 50 other kids jumping on at the same time - and I explained that to Maia and she was ok with it...I told her to go on something when there's nobody or 2-3 kids around it.... choose hopscotch or something else when it's too crowded - she was ok with that...

I bought blow up soft balls so that the shadow could bring them out and they could play ball together...

Is it Maia's right to be able to get some fresh air and play with her friends outside? They want her inside in her room playing board games or something - with her shadow - no friends.

So Rich, all you teachers out there, and everyone else with kids in school.... I'm at a loss! What do you think I should do?

Thanks in advance!
-francine

...as my stomach gurgles and eats away at the lining...I just know I have an ulcer!

So sorry you guys are having to go through this. I also am at a loss when reading this.

Cindy

Unfortunately, I completely understand your post. On the other hand you may have educated them to a point that they are more worried about liability issues and lawsuits than Maia's feelings.And I agree, it's not fair to her. She also needs the socialization and not to be singled out. How will the classmates treat her if their example is panic over an accident?
Ask them this. What if she is walking down the hall and trips over her own feet, will they panic? After all, do we not all have little accidents.
It may just be something as simple as assuring them you are looking out for her best interest, she needs to be careful but she's not made of glass, and you are not interested in suing the school district.
After being so involved in Michaelas school this past year, I never realized how much liability issues are factored into the decision making process.This is going to have to be another very open communication process between you and the school.
Also, Remember,they don't know you very well yet, and when they are more comfortable with you, things will relax.Some people are so lawsuit happy the rest of us pay the price. Prayers for you,Lou and Maia.Keep us updated.

P.S. Did you receive my e-mail about the one-handed typing program? www.aboutonehandtyping.com

Francine,
Sorry to hear about this. I had to go and talk with the Principle this year regarding Kayla and PE. They are doing several things that she just can't do so they had her just sitting there watching every one else. Instead, now they will give her a task she will help keep time, make sure everyone is doing it right or something so that she is included. Also, they called me the other day becuase she tripped in the class room and feel right on the arm and also hit her head. Luckily, she was o.k. but they can fall even in the class room. Kayla, just tripped no one even pushed her. You can protect them to a point but they still need to be kids and socialize and recess is one of the few times they can. I just wanted to let you know a little bit of what we have been dealing with. You and your family are in my prayers.

Angie

I feel so sorry for you guys. These are things I fear for Hannah. Hannah is only 21 months old and started school this year. I educated the teachers about her arm. The were freaked out about it, but do pick her up the correct way. They were afraid about the playground also. They didn't let her go on the equipment at all. The equipment is age appropriate for her. I had Hannah's PT through Early Intervention visit the school during the playground time and shadow her and help her on the equipment and talk to the teachers about her arm. They felt much better about it then and they also were shown how to help Hannah get on the slide. Now, she is so happy outside and plays on the equipment and the teachers are not as afraid. Maybe Maia's therapist could make a trip to the school and talk to the teachers and help her on the playground. I'm sorry I don't have anymore advice. We will keep you in our prayers.

Lisa

I went and I did a session with a colleague of mine today and I got out some of my angst.... I'm going to go there on Monday and tell them Maia - like any other child- has the right to fresh air and recess. If they want me to sign a liability disclaimer I will. But I don't want her excluded from being able to have a break as small as it is each day. I view Kindergarten as being a foundation year... they view it as just one year in her life.... She can play on the playground safely. And I'll just have to take it from there... I wonder if anywhere there is a listing of what rights a child has at public school.

here's a link you might be interested in... I"ll probably post more as I read more...

http://www.fetaweb.com/02/mistakes.parents.crabtree.htm

so I can't find out anything specifically about recess.... so I'm going to call an advocate/lawyer tomorrow and find out what Maia's rights are...

doesn't that just sound silly... I have to fight for recess? but I truly think this is important!

I would contact a lawyer but you also may be able to see what the law is in your state regarding childrens access at school. Even if they are considered Special ED or 504 because of BPI thet have rights. I know here in Texas you can get on the Texas Education Website and read all the laws and what has to be provided to each child.

Francine,
I truly feel for you and Maia especially. This is ridicoulous. They need o get a grip. Yes, there is liability, but come on now. My friend had issues with the school here in Illinois and they hired an advocate/lawyer and wow, things sure turned around quickly. So quickly that the school district paid for her to go to a private school for children with disabilities to the tune of $25,000 a year in tuition per year. Good luck
Gayle
Mom of BRANDON 5 with a right obpi