You are in a unique situation with a special needs child where their care impacts the whole family in different ways. This research doesn’t talk about the interactions in a special needs family, although I’m sure the findings can be applied you’d have to look specifically at the family.

What is good is that you’re thinking about what you can do. Changes however small make a difference. It’ll be hard probably at first with the TV off at dinner. Being prepared with conversation starters or substitute the TV for low key subtle music might help ease the transition. Won’t know until you try if this is doable for your family.

It might be interesting to know how this research is received in your special needs community and with the health care professionals. What if anything is recommended for a family like yours with mixed needs.

Sensory rooms are a lot of fun to design and set up. How exciting! Will it be his bedroom or a separate room.

Thanks for your reply.

What a connundrum I’m in. We are TV people. I grew up that way, my husband didn’t but enjoys it; although he’s quicker to put music on. We just like things on in the background. Then, there’s the part where are family isn’t the usual family. Our son and his special needs make our family a little different. The TV calms him. It helps balance him, gives him a release of sorts…and helps him eat better. So…we also have 2 younger children growing up in our home now and I have to worry about them with the TV.

Sigh.

So, I guess one of my 2 New Years resolutions is to change some of our not so positive household habits. TV off at dinner. Earlier dinner so my son can get his TV afterward…not to mention that he’s getting a new sensory room.

Thanks for posting this.