Sometimes it feels like we’re parenting in a fish bowl. This is where our instincts tell us that there are still some things Charley can’t do. This is where the Down syndrome community will shake their fingers. What do…
Monthly Archives: January 2016
Q21: Life With Charley – PermaShave
Everyone wants to be able to make their own decisions, especially when it comes to grooming and personal hygiene. It may take us a little longer, but as parents, we want our children to get to that point too. Charley…
Q20: Life With Charley – No Boundaries
Many people with Down syndrome are known to be huggers. “Charley, you might want to wait and let people hug you first,” I said. “Why?” “Because people will like you better if you let them come to you,” Brad said.…
Q19: Life With Charley – Pwomp and Circumstance
Romantic relationships can be difficult, for parents. Unfortunately, the object of your affection doesn’t always love you back, as Charley found out. “Jamie got boyfwent,” he announced one day while watching a movie. “Dat guy cherk.” Welcome to the world…
Q18: Life With Charley – Graduation Day
Sherry brings up the issue of feeling alone and connecting – or not – with other parents. I started writing about Charley so long ago that I don’t remember when. Back then it was my way of coping with the…
Q16: Life With Charley – The Look
In this chapter, Sherry unveils a part of herself – she’s brutally honest about her feelings and how the world responds to her and her family. One church selection committee just sat and stared at Charley while they were talking…
Q15: Life With Charley – Freezing with a Chance of Charley
This is one of my favorite chapters! First, Sherry explains how SLOW life with someone who has Down syndrome can be: Individuals with Down syndrome cease to function when others are upset. Here’s the low-down on the slow-down. Want movement?…
Q14: Life With Charley – Operation Dental Drop
Dental disease is one of the main health concerns for adults who have Down syndrome. In this chapter, Sherry describes how hard it is to get Charley to comply with brushing his teeth. It’s a scene that involves crying, stomping,…
Q13: Life With Charley – Mr. Fix It
One of the best gifts we can get as parents is someone who “gets” our kid, someone who understands and appreciates them for who they are. The Palmer’s friend Calvin was one of those people. Fixing things wasn’t Calvin’s only…
