Mama Hop Monday - Volume 5

 

Mama Hop is very committed to her role as our CCE advice columnist.  We all regret missing last Monday's installment of "Mama Hop Monday" - especially Mama Hop.  So as soon as she arrived here this afternoon, she unpacked her laptop, got out her paper and pen (yes, she requires both) and she got down to business answering questions.  If you have a question that you would like featured on a future edition of "Mama Hop Monday," leave a comment or email DualDownsDivas@gmail.com.  If you wish to remain annonymous, just let us know.  Without futher ado:

 

Question:

Please thank her for doing this, I've wanted to hear from her for so long.

- Robin

 

Answer:

You are welcome Robin. I enjoy doing this and hope some of my responses are worthwhile.

- Mama Hop

 

Question:

Elizabeth, I think you've mentioned how your Mom expected you and Leanne to act like "ladies." I'd love to hear Mama Hop's advice on training and disciplining a child with Down syndrome. Also, what was the best thing she did to promote such a great relationship between sisters?

- Lisa

 

Answer:

I expected the girls to act like ladies, but once they began school, they refused to wear dresses. Just kidding.   It took Leanne longer to learn things but since she is 3 years older, there was time to work with her. As far as discipline, I used lots of positive reinforcement and I would withdraw privileges when needed. Both girls were always close, but also had their own activities and friends.

- Mama Hop

 

Question:

As a special education teacher and parent of a special needs child what are Mama Hope's thoughts on inclusion?

- Anonymous

 

Answer:

Anonymous--I could go on forever regarding my thoughts on inclusion since I have seen pros and cons. It totally depends on the child and program. Socially, it helps all the students to be more appropriate and understanding. At the same time, I think it is questionable regarding academics. The child often should have a one-on-one attendant. I have seen where special ed students have been dumped in a large classroom and have not benefited at all. As I said, it depends.

- Mama Hop