Question about IEP/Transition

[me-n-mykids]

How would you insert kenisthetic activities into an IEP for teenagers?

Would that be asking to much?
I find that my son needs the heavywork type thing to ground himself.  He likes to look after our goats and chickens.  He also likes to garden.  Right now we are working on a new chicken yard and he is digging post holes and we do a lot of nature walks.  But how can those type of things be incorporated into an IEP?  He would need someone to be with him and he isn't approved for a 1-on-1.

Any suggestions welcome!!!!

Michele

[Cindy]

I don't know what kinesthectic activities are and my 1978 Websters wasn't any help.   Does it deal with sensory issues?  If so, you can determine what need the activities provide- like maybe the digging helps give him proprioceptive input.  If that's the case, then you can create a goal using other sensory activities that he enjoys. 

[me-n-mykids]

It does deal with sensory issues in a way.  It means movement basically.  Any kind of movement.  From digging to cross-stitching can be used it just depends on what grounds the child and gives them a sense of well-being.  With my son it is difficult because the activity has to have a specific purpose.  PE is to exhausting and he doesn't have enough stamina to perform the sport type activities, but digging and carrying feed for the animals helps him to be grounded/centered.

Thanks,
Michele

[Cindy]

Just thinking off the top of my head here....  Maybe instead of a goal about doing an activity, it could be used as a reinforcer.  For instance, if he has a meltdown due to stress built up by the lack of purpose driven activities make it a goal that he appropriately indicate the need or successfully remove himself to an approved activity.  You would need a long list of activities that he can rotate like moving a/v carts, stacking chairs, moving desks, etc within the classroom.  Maybe you can brainstorm with the office staff for things he can do for them.  Load reams of paper into the copy machine, move boxes, help with set up and break down of tables, etc in the MPR or cafeteria. reshelve books and reference materials in the library. 
Maybe these types of activities could be worked into lifeskill goals as well.  Or maybe they could be set up aS sort of a sensory diet, where a list of things would be his responsibilities to be performed at particular intervals during the day.
If you haven't already, you might consider having him evaluated by an OT for an additional perspective.  The good ones can be very creative.
HTH

[me-n-mykids]

That is a really good idea.
I will definately mention that to his team.
Thanks,
Michele