Living with Special Needs

As I share on both my blog and YouTube Channel, Kyle has a genetic disorder called SYNGAP1.  It causes speech issues or the complete absence of speech in our case.  Although Kyle uses a speech device and a few simple signs to indicate some basic needs and wants, he is not always able to effectively communicate. 

SYNGAP1 also cause intellectual disability, so although Kyle is 15 years old, his cognitive age is more at a 3 to 5-year-old level.  This makes it very difficult to reason with Kyle when he wants something that he can’t have in the moment that he wants it.  He’ll respond with very loud crying and will bite his arms out of frustration.  He has a high tolerance for pain, so he’ll often leave bite marks and bruises on his arms.  

Another symptom of his genetic condition is sensory processing disorder, which makes it difficult for Kyle to process information and respond appropriately, causing him to overreact to stimulation. 

How We Keep Calm

All of these symptoms can create some very stressful situations in our family’s life.  We have several ways of helping Kyle keep calm or to help him calm down when he’s already worked up.  

One strategy is the use of a weighted blanket.  Weighted blankets have been studied and found to reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, help with focusing, calm the nervous system, and provide comfort and security.  

We use the Barmy Weighted Lap Pad for Kyle and it’s the perfect size and weight for him.  We take it in the car and Kyle loves the weight of it on his lap while driving and he enjoys the sensory fabric cover.  It has helped us calm him in some situations in which he was upset and now we don’t travel without it!  Even when already content, Kyle will pull the blanket onto his lap in the car because he enjoys it so much.

I also love weighted blankets for myself for the deep pressure and use Barmy’s Large Lap Blanket while on the couch and when sleeping.  

See how much Kyle loves the Barmy Weighted Lap Pad in our YouTube Video!  

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