Tip of the Week: In her words – Chloe

 

At 12 years old, Chloe is wise beyond her years. She has the energy and enthusiasm to fill the room and she’s the first person to try to help a friend in need. Chloe requested that she be interviewed for the Latham Tip of the Week because, as she said, “I have a lot to say and people should hear it.”

Patrice: What do you want to tell the people who read the blog?

Chloe: I want to tell them that Latham is a good place to learn to be better, and to learn how to not do things that you shouldn’t do.

Patrice: Do you think you’ve learned to be better since you came here?

Chloe: Yeah, I don’t hit people anymore and I use my words and express myself.

Patrice: That’s impressive! How did you learn all that?

Chloe: I have staff that taught me, especially my teacher Jess. She’s my favorite staff and she teaches me to focus and to be in the moment and if I can’t use my words then write it down. If it’s too hard to say it—write it!

Patrice: That’s really good advice.

Chloe: I know! Staff here must go to school for good advice because they always have good advice when you need it.

Patrice: What’s the best thing about you?

Chloe: I’m good at sports and I’m getting better at listening.

Patrice: Is there anything you want to work on?

Chloe: Well, I could get better at using my words.

Patrice: That’s a good thing to work on.

Chloe: I know! I think that’s true for everyone. If everyone used their words, people wouldn’t have to guess so much about how other people feel.

Patrice: You’re absolutely right about that. What should we do about that?

Chloe: We should write a blog every week called “use your words or else”.  Or maybe “if you don’t use your words, don’t be mad at me for not knowing how you feel.”

Patrice: I think you’re the smartest person that I know.

Chloe: You make kids feel good about themselves.

Patrice: I’m just telling the truth. What would you tell kids who are still having a hard time?

Chloe: To be strong and listen to your parents or your staff, and to always focus and be in the moment. If you’re mad, don’t hit anyone; use your words and find nice things to think about. If you don’t have coping skills then find someone who can teach you some. Be nice to people, and if you’re in a bad mood then walk away and don’t give other people your bad mood.

Thank you, Chloe!

Words to live by….

 

 

Patrice Carroll is Latham Centers’ world-renowned Prader-Willi Syndrome specialist. She works with Latham Centers’ residents with PWS, their families, and consultants, continuously learning and teaching about PWS best practices.