PDD & Siblings

In All You Want and Then Some, Katie is aware that her parents are not spending as much time with her as they have in the past and is feeling resentful that her younger brothers are monopolizing their time. 

This was in fact an accurate observation.  It was during this time that Parker, the middle child, was diagnosed with epilepsy and the developmental disorder, PDD/NOS.  This concern, compounded by the demands of a newborn, was both physically and emotionally draining.  We were blessed with a supportive church family and Bella, a special friend to walk side-by-side with us during this tumultuous time. 

What is PDD/NOS?

Pervasive Development Disorders, "PDD", is a term widely used by professionals to refer to children with autism and related disorders. A child is diagnosed with PDD-NOS if he or she has some behaviors that are seen in autism, but does not meet the full criteria for having autism.

For more information on PDD/NOS, please visit the following web sites

Autism Society of America - Pervasive Development Disorder

Emory Autism Center - Characteristics of Autism and
the Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDD)

Characteristics of Parker's PDD/NOS

• Lacks fear or appreciation of dangerous objects
• Raids lunch boxes of picnicking strangers
• Believes he is a Superhero and his goal is to Save the Day!
• Doesn't leave home without his cape.
• Has been known to eat Christmas lights
• Is forgiving and never holds a grudge
• Is undersensitive to pain; likes his bath "monster hot"
• Loves music and knows lots of songs
• Delights in simple pleasures, like purple balloons
• Has taught siblings much about compassion
• Often communicates in riddles
• Likes unusual foods: sauerkraut juice, seaweed, onions
• Gives unconditional love

The Siblings' Perspective:

"Living With Parker"

 A First Grader's Perspective

read the rest of "Living with Parker"

A Fifth Grader's Perspective

"Carolyn knows first hand the challenges of raising a family to walk in the ways of Jesus. This book shares not only her love and understanding of children, but her wisdom that it takes a village to raise healthy children."

Rev.Sue Pizor Yoder

Senior Pastor of The Barn (Allentown, PA