Trouble's PreK Learning Tools

Blogger's photo uploader crashed over the weekend, so I've not been able to get this post up. I've been hesitating to blog too much, but I know there are other parents out there that struggle with what to do and how to teach their children who don't follow a normal learning curve.

Over and over medical professionals tell me what a miracle it is that Trouble walks, talks, and breathes. Recently, Trouble was examined by an older doctor - someone who has been in this business a long, long time. He told me, "When I read his medical records, saw this boy's history... well, this is not the boy I expected to see. He is a medical miracle."

And while it takes my breath away each and every day the boy who he is, I am still the one (along with the loving support of Handy Man) who has to help guide and teach him to become the man he is meant to be.

This task feels gargantuan.

I have been pouring myself into forgetting everything I once knew about early education, and trying to relearn from the perspective of a special little boy who needs *more*. Most kids pick up things like letters, numbers, and skills necessary for life from everyday life. This boy has proven over and over that he is not just any little boy. ;)

I have researched Montessori, independent learning centers, tactile learning, and incorporating advice from his occupational therapist. This is what we've come up with so far:

Abadaba Alphabet, book and CD

School Zone, Same or Different?

Kumon's First Book of Tracing

Kumon's Amazing Amazes

Kumon My 1st Cutting Book

Textured Tactile Letters and Numbers


Touch Boards

Zip Snap Button Buckle Lace Tie Manipulatives

Jumbo 15" letters for decorating

Handwriting Without Tears PreK and K materials





Lauri foam lacing, puzzle, tactile Primer Pack and Math Discovery Kit


My Little ABC Coloring Book

Bead and Rod Sequencing, Pattern Kit

Shape Sorting Clock

Window Clings to practice letters

Glue dots - fine motor

ETC Get Ready for the Code

ETC Get Set for the Code

ETC Go For the Code

Besides the regular preK skills, we will be focusing on life skills: dressing independently, brushing his teeth (without the tears), bring able to think through the steps of getting ready to leave the house, getting ready for bed, etc.

I will be adding Montessori resources, and hopefully incorporate the life skills from June Oberlander's Slow and Steady, Get me Ready.

It's a big task, it'll be a big year, but I think both he and I are ready.