We had a terrible time at Seven Locks Elementary in Bethesda, to say the least. The IEP experience and treatment of my ASD/ADHD kid and myself was extremely disappointing. The "best" schools in MoCo are all about high achieving test scores...That being said, I've heard other schools in the county aren't as disappointing.

My daughter also has difficulty when I travel. After a tough time this fall during/after a trip, our school OT recommended I draw out my plan (though my daughter can read and is highly verbal). Basically, draw the plane/train/automobile that you will take. Make an agenda for him to view. Review it with him. Have your husband/school/nanny, whomever, review it with him. A fun visual schedule. Make a small one for each day you are gone - and the date when you fly/drive/bus home. For some reason, this helps some kids feel comforting and better comprehend (rather than feeling hurt or sad at the gut level that mom isn't home).

I feel your pain and can relate to much of what you have written. My daughter began guanfacine which is a 24/7 med rather than a 4, 6, or 8 hour stimulant. I'm not a prescribing physician, so obviously you can't take my work for any of this - but I agree with others - it could be a good time to try something else. Tough to hang in these when you're doing it all in the morning (I'm right there w/you). And the schools don't get it either (again, right there w/you). The right med could help get you relief and him (it's not easy for anyone, is it?)

I'm in pharmaceutical market research. I work from home (took my Boston job with me when I moved to MoCo); I negotiated an 80% schedule (9:30-4:00) but often my hours are flex with appointments, various scheduling needs as you all know I have a lot on my plate like all of you - but marketing research, particularly if you can get contracting work, can be flexible. It is client service so the demands can be tough at times- there are busier periods mixed with lighter periods. I try very hard to be present when possible - if i'm not at my laptop, people can text or call me, and i check email on my iPhone. I am communicative about when I'll be OOO, and my teams understand. These jobs are out there. Don't lose hope for a fulfilling career with bumps along the road - as anyone can experience whether you have a kid w/ASD, you are going through a divorce, are living with cancer, etc...everyone has a struggle, so find a job where people are understanding and empathetic..

Starting this month there will be one or two open spots at Bethesda Village Daycare as two beloved families plan to move abroad for work-related opportunities. My son has been going to this in-home daycare since April 2015 and we love it. The main provider is a trained nurse. She is fantastic.

Website: http://bethesdavillage.wix.com/parvin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BethesdaVillageDaycare?ref=aymt_homepage_panel

Thanks,
Ellen
eshaw21@gmail.com

Mom to Daniel (19 mos)

Hi parents, looking for recommendations for social groups for my daughter who needs help getting more comfortable interacting with peers. I will be in Potomac on the border of Bethesda.
Thank you!