J.O.Y.S Yoga Workshop

March 24, 2016 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

A few months ago, I was tasked with writing a piece on kids mental health for the Rhode Island Health & fitness magazine. For years, I have been practicing yoga, coloring and mediation for stress management. Throughout that time, I started sharing my experience with my son. Not only was my stress a little less “stressful” to manage, but so was my sons. Kids are not impervious to stress. So, my article began to write itself in my mind and it turned into a cover story and one I am so proud of. You can read my full article here: Helping Kids Stress Less and Live More.

When I started combining yoga, coloring and visualization into my son’s routine (weekly) I started to see a difference. Even for myself, the change was almost instant. After a quick yoga session or 15 minutes of coloring I instantly felt alive, awakened and an overwhelming sense of calm. This was the type of euphoria I was longing for as I sufferer of anxiety and depression most of my life. Yoga, coloring and meditation are just 3 more tools in the toolbox for coping with stress.

When I was editing my article, I realized that this would make a great program in schools. And then as quickly as the thought popped into my head, it went away. I never thought I would have the courage to branch out that way. About a month after I finished writing and sent the article to the editor, it was published. I received such great feedback. I truly believe the more tools we have at a younger age for combating stress, the easier it gets to recognize our bodies responses and what we can do to help ourselves.

Since the response was so great, I decided to take a leap of faith and present it to my son’s school. I grabbed the thought from the back of mind and J.O.Y.S Yoga Workshop (Journal Out Your Stress) was formed. And let me tell you it has been more rewarding than I could have ever imagined. It has helped me overcome some of my own anxieties’ and fears. The kids (all 15 of them) are so unique and so enthusiastic. We have one session left and they are already asking to sign up for more. Bless their hearts.

I spent 2 1/2 months planning the curriculum. Every session has a different theme and I make sure all activities follow suit, which was only capable by doing the research and putting the time in.

Beginning: Basic stretches and welcomes
Topic: Sleep and Relaxation: How do you feel when you can’t sleep? What do you do? Breathe? Visualize things? Stretch? We discuss our feelings as a group.
Yoga Postures: Go over 6 poses that help calm and are proven to help you sleep better. Invite a child up to teach with me.
Journal Prompt: C.A.L.M picture with the 1.2.3 breathe exercise
GAME: Walking Meditation: A simple way for kids to really be present and feel what it is like to be calm, hear calm, think calming thoughts…
Ending: Sun salutation; reduces the feeling of restlessness and anxiety. Hand out sun salutation paper in class to practice at home.

Of course, the children are the reason I am doing this, so I listen to the cues they give me. I might spend more time on something and skip something all together. I have made slight adjustments here and there. The kids asked for more journaling right from the beginning so I added an extra journal prompt. I am thankful for this opportunity to share my experience with them. I am grateful for their open minds and willingness to share their own feelings with me. I look forward to our final session and can’t wait to share a full report of the program when it is all said and done.

The light within me honors the light within you!

Namaste

Where Rhode Island Bloggers Suggest To Visit

February 24, 2016 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

What to do in Rhode Island by Rhode Islanders

Photo by Jamie Italiane at The Daily Adventures of Me

Who better to help you plan your trip to Rhode Island than Rhode Island Bloggers? Here is a collection of posts from us for you!

Photo by Tamara Gruber at We 3 Travel

Planning a Family Weekend Getaway to Providence Rhode Island from We 3 Travel

Photo by Nicole Estrella at Playing All The Way

Jumping for Jamestown from Playing All the Way

Photo by Jamie Italiane at The Daily Adventures of Me

A Local’s Guide to 48 Hours in Rhode Island by The Daily Adventures of Me

Collage by Joy Adamonis from My Sensational Kid and Me

A Little Rhody Summer by My Sensational Kid

Photo from The Mommyhood Chronicles

My Top 10 Attraction Areas in Rhode Island by The Mommyhood Chronicles

A Little Rhody Summer

February 22, 2016 / mysenkid / 1 Comment

Summer is almost upon us! Well, not really, but one can dream. We need to get through Spring first (and that IS upon us), but if you are like me you are already planning your summer weekend getaways, road trips and/or a list of all the places to see & things to do! Should you find yourself heading up to “Little Rhody” (or even passing through it), there are so many fun & unique things to do here. Summer is the best time to visit Rhode Island; we aren’t labeled the Ocean State for just any old reason! Below are my Top 5 activities you should consider when visiting RI in the summer! You could pack these into 1 very long day, but I suggest planning a weekend getaway to really enjoy these activities.

Roger Williams Park Zoo

This is a perfect cloudy day or late afternoon trip idea for the whole family. This zoo has more than just animals. Kids can cool off in the Drip Drop Water Garden, climb the treehouse where there are things to see & hear or build a creation at the Sticks & Stones Building Zone. There are even camel rides, giraffe feedings, rock climbing & a butterfly garden! At $14.95 for adults/$9.95 for children, it’s a great price for all it offers. Plus, you can bring in your own picnic lunch (some zoo’s do not allow outside food), which is amazing!

Rustic Drive-in Movie Theater

There is something to said about sitting under the stars on a cool, breezy summer night watching your favorite movies with a bunch of friends! It just screams SUMMER to me! This authentic 1950’s drive-in has 3 screens, with 2 shows playing on each screen. Outside food can be brought in (or purchased there) and it is only $27 per carload! With movie tickets at almost 12$ per ticket, per show- this is a great bargain! Kids & adults will love this place! And it’s dog friendly! Furry animals deserve some summertime fun as well!

Newport, RI

Visiting Newport can be broken into many parts. 1. A visit to one of the 11 mansions, which were built during the Colonial era through the Gilded Age. 2. A visit to one of the popular beaches. 3. Shopping & dining along the harbor that boast spectacular views. You can visit Newport during the day and have a completely different experience at night. There is truly something for everyone.

2. Waterfire

Waterfire is a non-profit arts organization whose goal is to bring to life the downtown urban area and revitalize it with art, music and more. Over 80 bonfires are set amongst the water at WaterPlace Park. Visitors walk along the banks enjoying local music, watch performances, grab local fare from food trucks as well as the sites & smells of the burning embers. It’s always free admission and it really is a site to see. Check their schedule online for more info.

Galilee & Point Judith

This quaint fishing village is home to the largest fishing fleet in RI, as well as home to the Block Island Ferry. The beach is small yet gorgeous. A jetty formation lines the beach where onlookers wave to all the ferries that pass by. George’s of Galilee serves the best clamcakes & chowder and there are tons of places to buy fresh fish & lobster right from the boat. The view from their upstairs outdoor terrace is amazing. Small shops, ice cream parlors & other eateries make this #1 on my list!

Your “Little Rhody” Summer is awaiting your arrival…

Foxwoods Resort Casino: Fun For Everyone

February 5, 2016 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

Right before the Christmas holiday I attended the Merry Mingle event at Foxwoods Resort Casino. This event was hosted by two fabulous ladies, Audrey and Vera. Other local bloggers like myself traveled there to learn more about the Tanger Outlets that had recently opened. We were also treated to some fun on their outdoor ice skating rink and a fabulous lunch. Let’s talk about the food the team at Foxwoods treated us to: mini sandwiches, a crudité platter that was almost too pretty to eat, delicious salads and the most divine cupcakes ever! The glass of champagne didn’t hurt either.

Tanger Outlets: Discover Your Style

The Tanger Outlets are packed with stores for everyone on your shopping list. Over 80 stores to be exact. The sales; well, they were incredible. I love shopping outlets because I like to score a deal. I mean, who doesn’t? In the winter, do you want to walk from store to store in the frigid temps? Not me! Tanger Outlets is an fully enclosed outlet, connected right to Foxwoods! Did I mention free covered parking too? I can only imagine all the sales for the upcoming President’s Day holiday. Plus, spring is around the corner which means they need to make way for new merchandise. I suggest a trip

Foxwoods Rink & Winter Patio

Ice skating was a hoot. The ladies were a blast. We laughed and laughed. I particularly laughed at how terrible I am was on skates. I have stronger talents. Some were incredible on the skates. I met new and old friends. The rink is such a fun addition to the already jam-packed venue. Plus, it is gorgeously decorated! Adirondack chairs and fire pits add such a fun element as well!

Family Fun At Foxwoods

While the day was about the ladies: I was surprised to learn how family friendly Foxwoods Resort Casino really is. I’ve have included my son on some trips to Foxwoods in the past, but they have some nice family friendly additions I wasn’t aware of. I know I will be taking Landon one day during February vacation. The arcade, ice-skating, buffet lunch and shopping sounds like a great mother/son day to me! Take a look at some of the family friendly activities and events Foxwoods Resort Casino has to offer.

Tree House Arcade – Open 7 days per week. The best video games of yesterday and today are all here, including favorites that appeal to adults and kids alike: Candy Crush, Ms. Pac-Man, Wheel of Fortune, Connect Four, air hockey and more.
High Rollers Bowling Alley – 20 lanes of fun for all ages! Boasts fun décor and serves casual food options for everyone.
Kid-centric Tanger Outlets: Old Navy Outlet, Gymboree Outlet, GO! Toys and Games, IT’SUGAR
Foxwoods Ice Rink and Winter Patio– The regular cost for adults is $10 ice fee, $5 skate rental; the regular cost for kids is $6 ice fee, $2 skate rental – making this a fun, affordable activity for the entire family.
Disney’s Fantasia –Feb 20th 2016 A live concert experience with music from the classic Disney film performed by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra – and paired, of course, with stimulating Disney animation and everyone’s favorite character – Mickey! Purchase tickets here
Clifford the Big Red Dog – A musical extravaganza for the whole family, featuring everyone’s favorite canine! Two shows on April 19: 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. Purchase tickets here
April Vacation – Kids Week! Kids Week will include free movies, arts and crafts, face painting, meet and greets with favorite characters, air brush tattoos, a Kiddie Game Lounge with video games and old favorites, like Checkers and Gladiator Joust. Parents can bring their kids and enjoy the affordable festivities.

Visit Foxwoods Resort Casino

Foxwoods Resort Casino is the largest resort casino in North America, with over 9 million square feet and so much to do. They have world-class gaming with six casinos, four hotels, 30 plus dining experiences, two luxurious spas, two theaters, six nightclubs, a luxury bowling alley and two golf courses. There truly is something for everyone. When are you planning on going? With so much under one roof, you will surely have a great time! I know I did!

The Magic of Edaville’s Festival of Lights

December 21, 2015 / mysenkid / 1 Comment

The magic of the holiday season is something as a parent I never take for granted. Witnessing Christmas through the eyes of a child, especially your own is just, magical! I was so blessed to be given the opportunity to attend Edaville’s Festival of Lights this holiday season (as well as a lucky winner from my giveaway). I had been to Edaville before the renovation of Thomasland began, but never attended a Festival of Lights. On this visit I was able to see all the amazing improvements and additions to the park since my last visit 3 years ago. My family and I also had an amazing time enjoying the lights, visiting Santa, having fun on the rides, sipping on hot cocoa (and eating fried Oreos) and ended it all with a magical train ride through the cranberry bogs.

Edaville USA’s Festival of lights has been a tradition for over 70 years. Generation after generation returns to the park to recreate priceless family memories. Young and old alike enjoy the park from the train ride to the Ferris Wheel and don’t forget the newest addition troublesome trucks! There is something for everyone!

I was so surprised with Thomasland. I really thought the rides were going to be aimed at the wee-little ones. While little ones can ride, they really are fun for any age. The Troublesome Trucks Runway Coaster was our favorite! And I love that they allow passengers to ride it twice in a row! Cranky’s Crane Drop was our next favorite. We literally laughed and giggled the whole ride. Can’t forget about the famous ferris wheel! Be sure to ride the ferris wheel once it is dark. You get an spectacular panoramic view of the park all lit up. Last but not least, you can’t leave without a ride on the train; pulled by Thomas himself!

I was so pleased with our visit. There were plenty of quiet areas to take a break. As you are aware, Landon and I don’t handle crowds or loud noise well. Sensory Processing and anxiety like to wreck havoc during amusement park visits. Having a quiet corner to regroup and refresh is key for us. Also, we asked about food allergies in the Dockside Diner and they had all the information we needed to make an informed decision on what we could eat. They even had pre-packaged nut free cookies as well! We are so thrilled that they offer alternatives and took our inquiry seriously.

I could seriously go on and on about this park. It really is a hidden gem in New England. It has a hometown feel. I can’t wait to hopefully go back this Spring and tell you about all the new rides they were building! A water ride, a ride in the dark and bumper boats are just some of the rides we saw being built. Dino Land was closed on our visit, so I can’t wait to see that too! If you are looking for some fun this holiday season and what perhaps might turn into an annual tradition: Visit Edaville!

They are open daily from now until January 1st 2016 (closed Christmas)
Weekdays 4-9pm
Weekends 3-9:30pm
General Admission $29 Children under 2 Free

Moisturize naturally with Block Island Organics

December 15, 2015December 15, 2015 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

I was so excited to be given another opportunity to test and review a product from Block Island Organics. They are a local company whose goal is to provide affordable and safe skin care to everyone. Last summer I rreviewed their sunblock, which was AH-MAY-ZING! It came in handy on our trip to Disney a few weeks ago! So needless to say when they contacted me about reviewing their new Natural Face Moisturizer SPF 30, I didn’t hesitate. If you are conscientious about what you put on your face like I am, then look no further! It is a great 2-in-1 antioxidant rich product that offers both daily skin hydration and transparent broad spectrum SPF 30 sun protection. Perfect for the fair maidens like myself!

Our moisturizer features organic and natural ingredients like aloe, shea butter, green tea, sunflower seed and pomegranate. As with all of our products, it’s free of parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, phthalates, dyes and artificial fragrances. We also don’t do animal testing and use vegan-based formulas.

I thought what a better way to test out this product was to go out for a run along the beach. It’s sunny and super windy and I always come back red-faced from windburn and the sun’s rays. I even have the pictures to prove it. I no longer leave the house for a run without this product on my face. The colder temps are coming and with that brings outdoor sports enthusiasts! This would be perfect for a day on the slopes or those outdoor hikes. But of course, it is positively perfect for everyday use; Naturally!

No moisturizer: Red-faced from the sun and wind

Moisturizer: Who is the fairest one of all? ME!

Block Island Organics can be found online at both their online store and Amazon. They are offering my readers a 25% coupon when you purchase from their website and use code joymarie. The coupon code is good from December 15th-December 23rd 2015. What a great stocking stuffer for a friend or perhaps yourself!

Namaste~ Joy

Top 5 Toys For Sensory Kids

December 11, 2015 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

I have put together a list of my Top 5 toys for sensory kids. Why? Because it’s that time of year! If you have a sensational kid you might have noticed they sometimes don’t play with certain toys. Whether it’s the sound it makes, they way it feels or even how it looks, they are turned off. I remember getting so frustrated around Landon’s birthday and holidays when he was little because he rarely would play with anything we bought. Once we learned what his preferences were, toy shopping wasn’t so bad. While every toy doesn’t have to have an educational component to it, I do tend to choose ones that encourage creativity, problem solving and that require him to use his tactile sense.

My TOP 5 TOYS for Sensory Kids

Legos– Great for any age! You can start with the Duplo set and move along to the standard size Lego as they age. While each set builds a specific design, you can custom create just about anything you want with Legos. Landon and I have built castles, upside down houses, double-decker boats and more all using our own imagination! Blocks of any material can work as well, but we are a Lego family! Great for kids who need to work on their fine motor skills among other things! My favorite gift to give any child!

Playdoh: Landon is 8 years old and stills plays with playdoh occasionally. Now that he is older he prefers modeling clay (same type of concept)- but this is great for working with their hands. It helps develop fine motor skills and creativity. You don’t even have to buy a special set. Grab a few tubs of playdoh, and look in your own cupboard for cool tools to use. Cookies cutters, frosting spreader, rolling-pin and other everyday items around the house. Create!

Books: While books in any form are amazing for kids, I find that touch and feel, pop up books and books with sound are our favorite. I love Usborne look inside books. They have all sorts of topics for different ages. Starting with a simple book on barnyard animals to space facts or Egyptian mythology. At 8 years old, he still loves a good lift up book.

Puzzles: I love Melissa and Doug for this category. They have so many puzzles to choose from. Chunky block puzzles for the toddler all the way up to 100+ piece for the older child and everything in between. They have even have puzzles where you open doors and puzzles that make noise. This is great for kiddos needing to work on their fine motor skills and those who like toys with sound!

Magnatiles: I love these translucent color tiles that kids use to create endless 3D and 2D designs. They hold together by the power of magnification. They even come with pre-designed templates for kids to follow to build a specific design. Following the templates helps with the skill of following step by step directions!

There are a ton of great gifts for our sensational kids but these are just some of our favorites. Landon goes back to these year after year. And these gifts are great for any kiddo in your life! All these toys I found on Amazon- and offer free shipping, what’s better than that! Happy Shopping!

Namaste~

Planning your pregnancy is key when you have a genetic disorder

November 28, 2015 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

Nov 19th 2007 Landon’s Birthday

My son just celebrated his 8^th birthday and I thought, “Damn, I am old!” No, not really, it instead got me thinking how unconventional my pregnancy actually was. Most of my friends are surprised by the news they were expecting and for them that’s ok. For others, including myself, extra care and planning must come into play before you conceive.

I have a genetic disorder called Phenylketonuria, PKU for short. To keep it simple, my body doesn’t break down protein correctly. For pregnant women with PKU, it is essential to maintain low Phe levels, which happens when you limit the protein you intake. Without proper treatment before and during pregnancy, developing congenital heart disease, growth retardation and microcephaly are just some of the concerns you face.

At our pre-conception appointment at the Maternal Fetal Medicine Clinic at Women & Infants, the doctors gave us a round of applause. Literally, clapped for 1 minute while we stared in disbelief. They wished other perspective parents who had genetic concerns would come in sooner like we had. Thanks to screenings such as Horizon genetic carrier screening, more couples at risk of having a child with a genetic disease are being detected earlier. This allows for diagnosis in the newborn period, prenatally and even pre-conception. To learn more about the benefits of Horizon genetic screenings click here.

For 7 months prior to conception, I was poked and prodded weekly. I ate only 3-5 grams of protein a day from natural food. The rest was medical food that tasted like cardboard! Now that I think of it, I think actual cardboard might have tasted better. I drank a putrid amino acid formula and took 100 pills a day! I HATE pills period. Even at 32, I still ask for some medicine in liquid form. Finally, my Phe levels were safe. Although my levels were “safe” for a fetus, it did not mean our child would not inherit PKU. However, the chance was indeed lower.

Like I said before, some people plan in advance to start their families – for some, it’s a big surprise! When you’re thinking about starting your family, your doctor will often ask you about your family history. Since I am adopted, I don’t much about my family medical history. However, I am so thankful I did know about my PKU, which made me pro-active in my attempts to start a family. Did you know there might be surprises in your family tree? Genetic carrier screenings can help you make informed reproductive decisions as you start your family.

Because of my PKU, a genetic carrier screening was done to uncover a more accurate percentage that my unborn child would have PKU. At our genetic screening we learned our son could be born with a heart malfunction or cerebral palsy, among other things. I didn’t know it’s common for people to be carriers of 4-6 different recessive genetic conditions.

Flash forward to Nov 19^th 2007; Landon John Friedman was born without PKU, although he is a carrier. This journey tested us physically, emotionally and financially. It was the journey of a lifetime, for it brought us to Landon. The moment you decide parenthood is for you, take control of your future pregnancy. You can never be too-informed, especially when it comes to the health of your unborn child.

Namaste ~ Joy ( Landon’s Proud Mom)

Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Sensitive Santa Programs Are A Breath Of Fresh Air For Special Needs Parents

November 21, 2015 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

The holidays are just around the corner. Menu’s are being planned, family is coming to town and gifts are being purchased. If you have children, then I am sure planning a visit to Santa is in the works too! For some, a visit to the jolly-old-elf is no biggie, while for others it can be overwhelming. This is especially true for those with special needs children. The lines, the noise and the crowds are sometimes just to intense for a sensory kiddo, just like my Landon. Heck, I don’t even like lines, waiting and loud noises…

If you share my same sentiments, then you are in luck! Starting this Sunday November 22nd, over 120 Simon malls will be offering the Caring Santa Program. This program is made possible thanks to Autism Speaks and their association between Noeer Corporation and AbilityPath. This program allows families of children with special needs to enjoy their experience with Santa in a more controlled and welcoming environment, usually before the mall opens. As a mom to a sensational kid, I am so thankful to these companies for providing this program for the special needs community.
If you think this event would be something that would benefit you and your family, I urge you to register for the Caring Santa program at your local Simon mall. Most time slots will be 2 hours before the mall opens to the public on November 22nd or December 6th. For my local friends, Emerald Square Mall will be offering their Caring Santa program on December 6th from 830-1030am, with some time slots already filling up. It is FREE to register- and you must have a reservation to take part in this program.

To learn more abut the Caring Santa Program and to see other malls participating click here. It was only about a few years ago that I found out abut this amazing program and boy would it have came in handy during Landon’s early visits with Santa! If you can’t find a sensory-friendly event near you, I urge you to contact your local mall to request one for next year. You never know if your request will be heard unless you try!

Merry Holidays

Landon, Christmas 2008

Embrace the holiday spirit at Edaville’s Festival of Lights- Giveaway

November 16, 2015 / mysenkid / Leave a comment

Nothing gets me in the mood more than seeing the twinkling lights that illuminate neighborhoods and stores this time of year. The lights seem to bring my “inner child” out and help me embrace the true meaning of the holidays. After all, the holidays seem to be the busiest time of the year and sometimes we forget to slow down and just enjoy everything that it brings. Family, love, joy, hope and togetherness are just some things we should hold on to during this magical time. Edaville hopes you will enjoy this time with your family while visiting their park and taking in the splendor that is over 10 million lights on display!

Edaville USA’s Festival of lights has been a tradition for over 70 years. Generation after generation returns to the park to recreate priceless family memories. Young and old alike enjoy the park from the train ride to the Ferris Wheel and don’t forget the newest addition troublesome trucks! There is something for everyone!

Passengers relax comfortably in warm and dry coaches while riding through a spectacular holiday setting featuring an explosion of lights pulled by Thomas the Tank Engine! Kids of all ages will enjoy an array of vintage amusement rides, Thomas Land rides, and a visit with Santa in one of our indoor play areas. Stay for a delicious full meal or enjoy seasonal treats while roaming our sprawling and beautifully decorated grounds featuring thousands of Christmas displays.

The tickets are available any day except Saturdays and do not include the Polar Express or VIP Santa visit

November 20 – January 1, 2016 (closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day)

4:00PM – 9:00PM Weekdays

3:00PM – 9:30PM Weekends

General Admission $29.00, Children under 2 are Free

I am honored, thanks to Edaville, to offer two FREE admission tickets to the Festival of Lights to my readers as a giveaway! And in honor of my son’s 8th birthday- I will choose a winner this Saturday Nov 21st and announce it that very same day! I hope this will become a new family tradition that you can enjoy for years to come!

CLICK HERE TO ENTER TO WIN 2 TICKETS TO EDAVILLE’S FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS

Joyful Noise, by Joy Adamonis

Joyfully Me raising a Sensational Kid