The Parents View Kim Green Mother of Sam Green 10 Year Old Fifth Grader Wasena Elementary School, Roanoke City

Sam was adopted at birth.

Diagnosis & Medication Mood Disorder Attention Deficient Hyperactive Disorder Oppositional Defiant Disorder Family History of Bipolar Daily Medications 1,200 milligrams Lithium 60 milligrams Strattera 2.5 milligrams Melatonin

First & second grades had challenges, but third grade things changed dramatically. First GradeSecond Grade Third Grade

Reasons for Services Reasons for Services 3 rd grade – Late October 2008 Sam tried to strangle himself at school. Hospitalization followed Homebound for three months February 2009 was contained in Special Education class full time IEP was written with safety plan After only 2 weeks back at school an episode resulted in calling 911 and Sam taken in handcuffs and police car to Courthouse.

Intensive Care Wrap around care through Roanoke City IFAPT Program In-home therapy through National Counseling Group Attended parenting classes with emphasis on children with special needs Dr. Felicity Adams, Psychiatrist Constant communication with school

Fourth grade taught us all lessons. Fifth grade brings more change. Fourth GradeFifth Grade

Things We Had To Change Stop blaming ourselves and each other Stop giving in Stop arguing with Sam Stop arguing with each other Stop aggressive behavior Stop spanking

Things We Know Now Acknowledge Sam is different Stay calm Learn new coping skills Setting up a structure or schedule Give choices Don’t isolate—Have a support system Emphasize the positive Nothing will stay the same

Measurement of Progress Sam’s escalations at home are under control. Defiant behaviors are more manageable. Sam relates to Mom & Dad 100% better. He is able to get himself together when he gets angry at school and remain there.

Where We Are Now Get him through Fall Season Altered scheduled at school Home bound teacher 5 hours per week Mom or Dad visiting school to help avoid escalations and stay in school if needed Constant communication with school Day Treatment at School

Lesson of the Five Balls The Five Balls Work Family Health Friends Integrity