December 8, 2006
Blooms to Brighten Your Winter: An Activity For You and Your Child.

Living in Portland, Oregon, people assume that winter is a dreary, wet, rainy time. It’s true, some years are more dreary than others. This winter began with record-breaking rain for the Willamette Valley where I live: over 12 inches!

Perhaps that is why I prepared early for holiday gift-giving and winter break. Somehow, it always seems as though I don’t’ think of special projects to do until both Andy and I are bored silly with each other. This year, however, I am ready. We’re planting forced bulbs!

Do in g projects well is always a labor-intense task for us. Because Andy has autism as well as Down syndrome, we use visual strategies and pre-teaching to prepare. I am always rewarded for doing this pre-teaching when we begin projects or go new places. He know s exactly what to do and needs little coaching to get the job done. Andy always loves these projects and is proud when the job is done.

We have now completed our 30 forced-bulb gifts, with the exception of a few gift cards, though I may be finding polish ed rocks around the kitchen for the next few months. Next is watching him deliver them, one at a time, with great glee. I have to admit I enjoy it thoroughly.

For your winter break, consider creating your own forced bulbs to brighten any room this spring. Here are the instructions and tools we used. Everyone will need a different level of instruction. There are two versions included. Please modify the activity so it makes sense and is fun for you and your child.

Click here for the pdf with instructions to create forced bulbs.
(2590 KB)

Last, look for an updated web site, inform action, and new directions for Creating Solutions in 2007.

My warmest wishes to all,

Joan Guthrie Medlen, RD, LD, is the Project Director of Creating Solutions, Founding Editor of Disability Solutions, and the mother of two grown boys, one of whom has Down syndrome, autism, and celiac disease.

PS- Check my fundraising page and Volunteer Page for ways you can support the work of Creating Solutions.

©2006 Joan Guthrie Medlen
(Please email for permission to reprint blogs)