R-E-L-A-X-A-T-I-O-N {Tip 3 of 31}

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Parents of children with special needs all have the same obsession: stimulation!

It is commonly believed that the more you stimulate your child physically and mentally, the better your chances are to see him/her improve both functionally and cognitively. However, think about how much energy this constant stimulation (and often over-stimulation) requires from your child? There are 5 sources we all draw our energy from: food, good metabolic functions, hydration, proper respiration and sleep.

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A child with Cerebral Palsy ^[3], for example, will not eat as much as their healthy peers. They drink less (usually a lot less!), often have respiratory problems and suffer from poor sleep. For these reasons, it has been proven that a CP child spends 3 times more much energy than their peers to perform ANY activity. In other words, a one hour drive in the adapted transportation to go to school (half an hour back and forth), represents the same fatigue as a 3 hour drive for him/her! Result: there is no remaining surplus (always available in healthy children) to grow, thrive and flourish as a human being.

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Techniques do exist to improve respiration, digestion and sleep by strengthening their weakened connective tissues, however if you have not yet started working with these specially designed techniques, you can still work on limiting their stimulation and encouraging as much relaxation as possible after school. Turn your house into a relaxing environment. Put down the TV volume, enjoy soft music; give a relaxing bath and stop feeling obliged to entertain your child at all costs!!! Give them some ‘down’ time (yes…leave them alone for a few minutes), and just RELAX…and enjoy being together! You will notice a tremendous difference in his/her performance throughout the school year!