Friday, February 20, 2009
We survived week 1!
It took some work (and forcing ourselves to stay up past 8), but we got through week 1! Everyone seems very interested in the materials we have prepared, and a few people have contacted the MTI office here to say what a good job we've done- that definitely encourages us to keep working!
Yesterday was more emotionally exhausting than anything, as caregivers were starting to bring us kids with very severe disabilities that we are unable to do much about at this point (e.g. 17 year old with scoliosis and seizure disorder). Sometimes we wish we had an MRI to know exactly what is going on inside kid's brains... Also, a neurologist to do seizure management would be great- right now they just heavily sedate the kids as soon as they have a seizure. Then the caregivers are surprised that the kids can't move for the next 3 days... Torri emphasized the need for being aware of kid's sensory needs so that we can at least keep them comfortable. So far I don't feel like I'm getting far, but I have explained that I will go into a lot more detail next week, so hopefully that will help.
This morning we got to work with one of the most outgoing kids we've seen yet:) He is 8 and understands both Russian and Uzbek, and has devised quite a system of sign language since he is non-verbal. Stephanie got him up and walking while Torri took video tape- later (for motivation to keep working), Torri showed him the video. We can't even put into words how awesome it was when he realized that he was watching HIMSELF on "tv"- he pointed out everyone he could see in the video and laughed and shrieked the whole time. The whole room started laughing and was happy to see such emotion! We wish we had been able to take video of that moment as well:)
At the end of the day, caregivers started asking about body mechanics for themselves when lifting children because ALL of their backs hurt! We had an impromptu body mechanics lesson, followed by strengthening and stretching. The women started asking for ways they could strengthen their own muscles (especially their abs- apparently it's a worldwide obsession). We found it interesting that until now none of them had even thought about doing any sort of exercise at all- women don't have any opportunities to exercise here (other than dancing). But, when we mentioned the idea of creating a 10 minute strengthening set the women could do at work, they all seemed interested. So, looks like we'll be leading them in exercises, too:)
One of the things that has struck us the most thus far is how invested the caregivers are in our teachings. They are always asking questions and want to try the techniques we have taught. Today they even let Stephanie demonstrate facilitation techniques on their bodies. It's very encouraging to see their positive response and know that we really are here for a reason.
We're off to Samarkand for the weekend, an Uzbek tourist destination- time for some sightseeing and shopping!
Stephanie and Torri
Yesterday was more emotionally exhausting than anything, as caregivers were starting to bring us kids with very severe disabilities that we are unable to do much about at this point (e.g. 17 year old with scoliosis and seizure disorder). Sometimes we wish we had an MRI to know exactly what is going on inside kid's brains... Also, a neurologist to do seizure management would be great- right now they just heavily sedate the kids as soon as they have a seizure. Then the caregivers are surprised that the kids can't move for the next 3 days... Torri emphasized the need for being aware of kid's sensory needs so that we can at least keep them comfortable. So far I don't feel like I'm getting far, but I have explained that I will go into a lot more detail next week, so hopefully that will help.
This morning we got to work with one of the most outgoing kids we've seen yet:) He is 8 and understands both Russian and Uzbek, and has devised quite a system of sign language since he is non-verbal. Stephanie got him up and walking while Torri took video tape- later (for motivation to keep working), Torri showed him the video. We can't even put into words how awesome it was when he realized that he was watching HIMSELF on "tv"- he pointed out everyone he could see in the video and laughed and shrieked the whole time. The whole room started laughing and was happy to see such emotion! We wish we had been able to take video of that moment as well:)
At the end of the day, caregivers started asking about body mechanics for themselves when lifting children because ALL of their backs hurt! We had an impromptu body mechanics lesson, followed by strengthening and stretching. The women started asking for ways they could strengthen their own muscles (especially their abs- apparently it's a worldwide obsession). We found it interesting that until now none of them had even thought about doing any sort of exercise at all- women don't have any opportunities to exercise here (other than dancing). But, when we mentioned the idea of creating a 10 minute strengthening set the women could do at work, they all seemed interested. So, looks like we'll be leading them in exercises, too:)
One of the things that has struck us the most thus far is how invested the caregivers are in our teachings. They are always asking questions and want to try the techniques we have taught. Today they even let Stephanie demonstrate facilitation techniques on their bodies. It's very encouraging to see their positive response and know that we really are here for a reason.
We're off to Samarkand for the weekend, an Uzbek tourist destination- time for some sightseeing and shopping!
Stephanie and Torri
Thursday, February 19, 2009
pictures?!?
Sad news - for some reason we can't upload pictures using blogspot here. We will try again another day, maybe the computer is just being crazy. Otherwise - pictures might have to wait till we reach Istanbul. Just wanted to give you all an update.
We're headed back to the hotel now (where former communist leaders stayed) and then to the market for some food. Ate too much yesterday - so still digesting...
We're headed back to the hotel now (where former communist leaders stayed) and then to the market for some food. Ate too much yesterday - so still digesting...
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Adjusting to life in Tashkent
First off, driving as you can expect is crazy! The lines are for decoration only. Seatbelts aren't even available in the backseat. Never run a red light, because the other direction will have already started moving. Turning left means drive into the middle of the intersection and wait. Honking your horn is a necessity - to say get out of my way, or to claim your right of way on a narrow street. (or maybe a friendly greeting?!?) And always be aware of pedestrians - they never have right of way (unless you feel like giving it to them) but will cross the street at any given place and stand in the middle of the road until there is an opening.
Last night we walked to a small market down the road from our hotel (kind of like a plaid pantry). Funny thing is more than half of it was filled with sweets, desserts, candies, etc. And not one Coke Light to be found :) On our walk back - we saw one of the first American things in Tashkent....a 7-11! Although we've been told that it may just be a copy cat.
As for entertaining ourselves....there is absolutely no english channels on the TV. A few shows that are dubbed over in Russian - unfortunately you can't hear the english underneath. But we are educating ourselves on sports such as - rugby, fencing, biathalon (cross country ski & shooting) and of course hockey! But the best news was seeing the end of the NBA all star game this morning. Go West and B-Roy was awesome :)
Today at the orphanage started a little earlier, but we were also able to integrate more hands on application of the material. Most of the caregivers seem to be really invested in these kids and want to learn how to best help them. I think one of the hardest parts is that they want to bring us the most challenging kids for help - which is great, but sometimes we can't show them an immediate answer and the process may be slow - which is hard for them to understand. Many of the kids have serious orthopedic impairments - kyphosis, scoliosis, subluxed hips - making them very difficult to work with developmentally. There are definintely many barriers in explaining more abstract concepts when working with kiddos - especially with sensory processing or starting with head control before moving onto standing/walking. But they are all eager to learn, so we are hoping to work past some of these barriers!
It is very fun to be able to see results right away, or at least be able to demonstrate how to advance a kiddo's skills. This morning I (Stephanie) was talking about how to teach a child to sit and advance those skills to include trunk rotation and reaching across midline. The staff brought down a little girl this afternoon who could sit on her own - but do NOT ask her to reach outside of her base of support. I was able to show staff how to encourage her to bear weight through one arm while reaching across. She was even able to side sit and hold this position with hands free! It was great to show them each step of the process and tomorrow we will use these skills with her to work on transitions!!! :)
I (Torri) was able to work with Roma, the sensory kiddo from yesterday again. He calmed much more quickly this time, although still burst into tears as soon as he entered the therapy room. Roma is a kiddo who loves extension and reverts back to this position when he is startled or becomes upset for any reason. This afternoon, I was able to get him out of this pattern much more frequently - while trying to explain to caregivers how his sensory defensiveness impairs his ability to make progress motorically. The staff was able to try joint compression and feed how he responded to deep pressure input. However, at the end of the session they still very quickly picked him up and rushed him over to his chair. A task to address as the days go on....
For lunch today we went to a small house, where a family also runs a restaurant. Yulduz (one of the staff members) highly recommended it and took us there. Very good food! We had bread and tea (all of us). While Torri had lamb soup (without lamb)....not sure how that worked. While I (stephanie) had noodle soup with lamb and lamb kabobs - fabulous!!! All our food for $2 each or 6000 suls. Tonight we are off to Chineese food, being as we are so close to China - we're excited to see how this tastes. It's a very expensive local restaurant (which does serve wine & beer) - our dinner should cost roughly 15000-20000 suls or $10-13. We'll let you know....
Sorry for the therapy talk in the middle - but gives you a good picture of our day :) You can tell we had plenty of time today on the internet....
Steph and Torri
Last night we walked to a small market down the road from our hotel (kind of like a plaid pantry). Funny thing is more than half of it was filled with sweets, desserts, candies, etc. And not one Coke Light to be found :) On our walk back - we saw one of the first American things in Tashkent....a 7-11! Although we've been told that it may just be a copy cat.
As for entertaining ourselves....there is absolutely no english channels on the TV. A few shows that are dubbed over in Russian - unfortunately you can't hear the english underneath. But we are educating ourselves on sports such as - rugby, fencing, biathalon (cross country ski & shooting) and of course hockey! But the best news was seeing the end of the NBA all star game this morning. Go West and B-Roy was awesome :)
Today at the orphanage started a little earlier, but we were also able to integrate more hands on application of the material. Most of the caregivers seem to be really invested in these kids and want to learn how to best help them. I think one of the hardest parts is that they want to bring us the most challenging kids for help - which is great, but sometimes we can't show them an immediate answer and the process may be slow - which is hard for them to understand. Many of the kids have serious orthopedic impairments - kyphosis, scoliosis, subluxed hips - making them very difficult to work with developmentally. There are definintely many barriers in explaining more abstract concepts when working with kiddos - especially with sensory processing or starting with head control before moving onto standing/walking. But they are all eager to learn, so we are hoping to work past some of these barriers!
It is very fun to be able to see results right away, or at least be able to demonstrate how to advance a kiddo's skills. This morning I (Stephanie) was talking about how to teach a child to sit and advance those skills to include trunk rotation and reaching across midline. The staff brought down a little girl this afternoon who could sit on her own - but do NOT ask her to reach outside of her base of support. I was able to show staff how to encourage her to bear weight through one arm while reaching across. She was even able to side sit and hold this position with hands free! It was great to show them each step of the process and tomorrow we will use these skills with her to work on transitions!!! :)
I (Torri) was able to work with Roma, the sensory kiddo from yesterday again. He calmed much more quickly this time, although still burst into tears as soon as he entered the therapy room. Roma is a kiddo who loves extension and reverts back to this position when he is startled or becomes upset for any reason. This afternoon, I was able to get him out of this pattern much more frequently - while trying to explain to caregivers how his sensory defensiveness impairs his ability to make progress motorically. The staff was able to try joint compression and feed how he responded to deep pressure input. However, at the end of the session they still very quickly picked him up and rushed him over to his chair. A task to address as the days go on....
For lunch today we went to a small house, where a family also runs a restaurant. Yulduz (one of the staff members) highly recommended it and took us there. Very good food! We had bread and tea (all of us). While Torri had lamb soup (without lamb)....not sure how that worked. While I (stephanie) had noodle soup with lamb and lamb kabobs - fabulous!!! All our food for $2 each or 6000 suls. Tonight we are off to Chineese food, being as we are so close to China - we're excited to see how this tastes. It's a very expensive local restaurant (which does serve wine & beer) - our dinner should cost roughly 15000-20000 suls or $10-13. We'll let you know....
Sorry for the therapy talk in the middle - but gives you a good picture of our day :) You can tell we had plenty of time today on the internet....
Steph and Torri
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
We are here!!!
So we have made it to Tashkent and finally have some time (and energy) to update our blog. It is Tuesday afternoon, just a little after 4pm local time - which makes it 3am in Oregon. We had quite the experience getting here - here's a few short tidbits....
* European airplanes at night are LOUD and bright (all the lights are on). They also serve full meals no matter what time of day and everyone buys the duty free items as the cart passes. Needless to say not very easy to get some sleep.
* We spent 18 hours in the Istanbul airport...we were so tired that Torri couldn't even update her facebook status correctly. We really slept at gate 207, not C-17 :) Oh well - we were very sleep deprived and thankful to at least have free internet to poke around and do useless things! Also very expensive - $8 for two cups of Lipton tea. CRAZY!!! But we did catch the last few minutes of the slam dunk contest - dubbed over in Turkish of course.
* Our arrival in Tashkent went well - just really early! Our flight finally landed at 3am - passport control, getting our bags and going through customs took about an hour and half. We made it to our hotel by 5am and were very ready for showers and a bed!!!
* Yesterday started around noon with a visit to the MTI office and a short tour of the orphanage. All the staff was great and very helpful. It was definitely tough getting going as we were so exhausted - but finally getting to see the kids was great! We both had huge smiles on our faces as we got to say hello to many of them. Can't wait to get started!!! We headed back to our hotel around 5pm and forced ourselves to stay awake till 7 - when we washed our face, brushed teeth, took our Ambien and went to bed!!!
* Today went really well. Our first official day in Tashkent and at the orphanage. Our hotel has free breakfast - which at first seemed impossible since the menu was in Russian. Fortunately we were able to communicate (and our looks probably helped) that we needed an English menu. We both had Rice cereal (not baby food), bread and cheese. Still a little wary to try coffee or tea for fear that it is made with local water and not bottled. We were picked up at 9am and headed to the orphanage - it takes about a half hour to get there. But we got started quickly once we arrived. From 10am-11:30 we lectured - starting today with typical development, how to control tone and starting in on facilitating motor development. We were able to work with some kids before lunch at 12:30. Then the afternoon was more hands on work. We had so much fun working with the kids and showing the staff how to facilitate their movement. We also had the chance to meet our first total sensory kiddo - definitely a hard concept to explain to the staff. But he was able to calm so nicely to some sensory techniques - I think the staff is starting to get the idea. Hopefully with more time, this will help.
Well - there's the update for 3 days worth of time. We did take some pictures today and hope to get them posted soon! Till next time we get to access the internet....
Torri & Stephanie
* European airplanes at night are LOUD and bright (all the lights are on). They also serve full meals no matter what time of day and everyone buys the duty free items as the cart passes. Needless to say not very easy to get some sleep.
* We spent 18 hours in the Istanbul airport...we were so tired that Torri couldn't even update her facebook status correctly. We really slept at gate 207, not C-17 :) Oh well - we were very sleep deprived and thankful to at least have free internet to poke around and do useless things! Also very expensive - $8 for two cups of Lipton tea. CRAZY!!! But we did catch the last few minutes of the slam dunk contest - dubbed over in Turkish of course.
* Our arrival in Tashkent went well - just really early! Our flight finally landed at 3am - passport control, getting our bags and going through customs took about an hour and half. We made it to our hotel by 5am and were very ready for showers and a bed!!!
* Yesterday started around noon with a visit to the MTI office and a short tour of the orphanage. All the staff was great and very helpful. It was definitely tough getting going as we were so exhausted - but finally getting to see the kids was great! We both had huge smiles on our faces as we got to say hello to many of them. Can't wait to get started!!! We headed back to our hotel around 5pm and forced ourselves to stay awake till 7 - when we washed our face, brushed teeth, took our Ambien and went to bed!!!
* Today went really well. Our first official day in Tashkent and at the orphanage. Our hotel has free breakfast - which at first seemed impossible since the menu was in Russian. Fortunately we were able to communicate (and our looks probably helped) that we needed an English menu. We both had Rice cereal (not baby food), bread and cheese. Still a little wary to try coffee or tea for fear that it is made with local water and not bottled. We were picked up at 9am and headed to the orphanage - it takes about a half hour to get there. But we got started quickly once we arrived. From 10am-11:30 we lectured - starting today with typical development, how to control tone and starting in on facilitating motor development. We were able to work with some kids before lunch at 12:30. Then the afternoon was more hands on work. We had so much fun working with the kids and showing the staff how to facilitate their movement. We also had the chance to meet our first total sensory kiddo - definitely a hard concept to explain to the staff. But he was able to calm so nicely to some sensory techniques - I think the staff is starting to get the idea. Hopefully with more time, this will help.
Well - there's the update for 3 days worth of time. We did take some pictures today and hope to get them posted soon! Till next time we get to access the internet....
Torri & Stephanie
Saturday, February 14, 2009
End of day 1 traveling...
Well it is 6:30pm in Amsterdam and we have explored a bit of the city this afternoon. Really forcing ourselves to leave the airport and not just find a bit of floor to crash on. Needless to say, although the Ambien probably did help a bit - it was not good or enough sleep!!! We were lucky and each had 4 seats in the middle to ourselves to sprawl out on - but it sure isn't a bed! Oh well - few more hours and we board yet another plane to Istanbul, arrive at 1am and hoping to find a lounge or hotel to get a few hours of sleep before our 16 hours of waiting!
Here are a few pictures so far....
(above) Along one of the beautiful canals :)
(below) This one is just for Yasmin....
Checking in at Portland Airport - hoping our bags make it all the way to Uzbekistan!!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Preparations and Prayer
Uzbekistan here we come....Torri and I leave this Friday - February 13th. Our flight leaves Portland at 3:50pm. And FINALLY arriving in Tashkent, Uzbekistan on Monday morning - February 16th at 2:30am. We have plenty to do before then and would love to ask for specific prayers as we get ready.
1) Pray that we might be able to get through this week as stress-free as possible. Get everything done and feel ready to leave on Friday
2) Pray for our traveling safety and energy. We have 42 hours of travel - including a 9 hour layover in Amsterdam and a 16 hour layover in Istanbul. We are a little nervous about all this downtime in airports, especially in the middle of the night.
3) Pray for teaching time/preparations. All our material is in and being translated. Pray that the material would be clear, helpful and that we might be able to communicate it to the caregivers/staff.
4) Pray for our time with the kids at the orphanage - that we would be able to pull all our knowledge and help them!
I know we will have more specifics as we get there, but it's a basic start. Thank you all for your support and we will try to keep you posted on our trip!
Love,
Steph
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