Dealing With The Extreme Tantrums And Emotional Ups/Downs Of SPD

by Stephanie
(Chicago)

My daughter is three years old and has had issues from day #1. She has come a long way, but it is still SO DIFFICULT being her parents. She is constantly flipping out over what appears to be nothing. She has absolutely ZERO ability to self soothe or calm down. Everything with her is so dramatic. I realize that she isn't intentionally meaning to make us crazy. I realize that she is struggling so much to "keep it together". At the same time, it is SO HARD! I just want our days with her to "flow". Everything is painstaking. Everything is a battle. So much screaming from her, so many tears, in constant need of attention, demanding, can't do anything on her own, little ability to entertain herself, super lethargic, etc.

She's received Early Intervention services since she was 1 year old and now is the highest functioning child in her special education class. She receives OT twice during the week and is in a special "socialization" group.

She is VERY bright, articulate, and loving when she wants to be and when she is able to be.

I am so looking to hear from other parents about how it is for them and how they manage. I need advice on how to manage and maintain my own sanity. I also have a 15 month old that is picking up bad behaviors (screaming, hitting) from my older daughter... and I am pregnant with a third due in 7 weeks. Thanks!

We have an online support group of over 1,000 other parents who have been right where you are. They will welcome you with open arms and finally you will have a place to receive support, validation, resources, helpful ideas, and just a place to belong through all the tough times.

Here's the link to this awesome support group!

AllAboutKids

Take time to do this for yourself, ok? Make sure you talk to these other parents about specifics regarding the therapy she is receiving. I know she has made progress, but I am concerned that she needs so much more. It seems that if your OT is experienced with SPD, is doing the right therapies for her, if she is getting therapy often enough, and if you are following a sensory diet and doing programs at home every day, 2 years of therapy should have gotten her further. I am concerned that her system is not more integrated and regulated after 2 years. Talk to others in the group about this, ok?

Make sure you are involved in the things I mentioned above. If not, talk to your OT about what else you can do and the concerns you still have! See what the OT thinks and maybe talk to other OT's as well?? Make sure you are on track with the right intensity of therapy and the right activities that will help her regulate and integrate her neurological system.