special needs lifeline
"FOR ALL WHO ARE TOUCHED BY A DISABILITY"
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The Power of Nurturing: Special Needs Lifeline Question of the Week
Posted by Evan S. Rosenberg under Family Update
It is all too easy for a special needs advocate to become discouraged: the bad news frequently outweighs the good. But periodically, I find an inspirational article that reinforces my belief in the SNLC vision. The headline instantly captured my attention- Hugs Help Kids’ Brains
According to research scientists at Washington University, children who are physically and emotionally nurtured at a very young age experience accelerated brain growth, associated with higher levels of critical thinking and reasoning. I can’t imagine anyone who would justify an argument in opposition to the expression of maternal affection, but in case they are out there, maybe they will be persuaded by the latest scientific evidence.
Question of the Week: Can you share an experience where positive reinforcement led to improved personal outcomes or behaviors? A smile, a laugh, anything that brightens the spirit that might not necessarily be quantifiable.
For more information, check out this article from Discovery News: http://news.discovery.com/human/hugs-help-kids-brains-120201.html
We encourage you to reply to the question of the week. Please be respectful of the opinions of our fellow community members. There is no right or wrong answer. Reflecting on challenging questions will help keep us informed.
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February 19, 2012 -
Family Update -
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As I raised my daughter, I never hesitated to give her a hug; and never hesitated to show affection to my husband in front of her. Such a simple act – yet under-used. I remember we were together at her friend’s house and I spontaneously hugged her. When the Dad of the house saw us, he immediately became concerned and asked what was wrong. I smiled and told him, “nothing, just a love hug.” It interested me that in their house a hug is used only to console, not nurture. A hug is such a simple act, costs nothing, and can become common place in any home. It pleases me that studies show nurturing has a positive effect on brain development. We should all nurture each other. Empower each other. This is how we will progress as a family, a community, a species; so very simple. Don’t get discouraged Evan Rosenberg. As a special needs advocate, working toward a common goal with us at Special Needs Lifeline, you will positively affect one person at a time, then one group, one community, and then all those who are touched by a disability… The moment you see the results of your labor, you will understand that we should never give up. Our mission, to help those who are touched by a disability connect with each other to create positive change; is too worthy.
When my son was born he weighed only 5lbs. He needed to have a brain surgery to have a shunt placed at 2 days old. Days after the surgery the NICU at the hospital would place Anthony in his diaper on my chest. I was holding him so closely that I could feel his heart beat. I was told that this connection will help me bond with him creating a safe and nurturing feeling for Anthony. It could also help with his growth and development. I continued this everyday and everynight once I brought him home. I truly believe a loving nurturing environment can only have positive effects. When there is tension around my son for any reason it autimatically effects his personality in a negative way. Knowing this I always try to give him positive reinforcement, love and guidance to help him continue to grow and progress.