u/dream-climb

My FASD adopted middle school teen has refused to get their blood drawn. The pediatrician has wanted blood drawn for several years. Today, I bribed with a new toy.

Still, my kid carried on like they were about to have a limb chopped off. In the process, my back got injured. I tried to walk away from their assaults (while waiting our turn in the lobby), and my child pulled me back violently twisting my back.

How do you provide support for a brain based disability, while keeping everyone around you safe?

The world isn't going to be as forgiving if my child had hurt one of the medical staff or another child in the lobby, which was very close to happening.

We prepared for this ahead of time. Got numbing medicine first. Talked about it for days. It was manageable until we got to the lobby. I think next time, we will just leave if they start being aggressive towards me again. I can't risk anyone getting injured.

Any ideas?!

My son craves hugs. Lots of hugs. As his adoptive parent, I am getting hugged out. My son is a middle school teen, but is developmentally much younger. I know there must be a sensory need for all the hugs. He asks for a hug at least 20 times a day. Some days it is nearly every 5-10 minutes. He refuses a weighted blanket or vest.

We've talked about boundaries and consent. That no, means no. That it is not appropriate to ask a stranger for a hug.

He's done O.T with minimal improvement.

Has anything worked for your special needs FASD kids to meet their sensory needs for touch, while not making those around them uncomfortable?