The word that distinguishes spirited children from other children is more. They are normal children who are more intense, persistent, sensitive, perceptive, and uncomfortable with change than other children. All children possess these characteristics, but spirited kids possess them with a depth and range not available to other children.
The dreadful days are another story. On those days you’re not sure you can face another twenty-four hours with him. It’s hard to feel good as a parent when you can’t even get his socks on, when every word you’ve said to him has been a reprimand, when the innocent act of serving tuna casserole instead of the expected tacos incites a rite, when you realize you’ve left more public places in a huff with your child in five years than most parents do in a lifetime.
I'm going to check that book out because I have been wondering if my son is more spirited than SPD. He seems to fit both descriptions. I struggle with how to deal with him because I can't pinpoint what the issue is. I wonder if its possible to be a combination of the two.
LaToya – I can't speak for your situation but it became very obvious that I wasn't dealing with just an over-active child with Bubs. I realized that there were certain circumstances that he truly couldn't control due to his surroundings. I needed help to teach him control. Little Man is just 150 miles per hour. Although there are some sensory issues in some "spirited kids", it more about "more". Hope this helps.
I came across your blog today, and I am so pleased and grateful to find you:) Thank you for the information you send out, and for your opinions and life experiences that you write about:) I look forward to reading your older posts and to reading the new ones as they come out! We've got 5 kids, several with sensory and some (very wearing) behavioral issues, so I really appreciate the tips and books you write about!