Ideas for my 13-year-old?
Wow, I really like all the advice so far! Everyone has had GREAT ideas!!
I really think the Wii is a great idea if used responsibly. My (oldest) son has one and all the kids LOVE it! Even the guitar hero game- they may not really get exercise, but they are not just sitting there doing nothing. They are usually UP and moving some.
You mentioned that your son is not biologically related to you... is he adopted? Sorry if that question seems a little forward.... we adopted our last child and we're finding things can really be different in the biological lines. The school is talking about sensory issues as well with her. I have read that a small trampoline is GREAT for kids with sensory issues! I can't remember the reason off hand but it is suppose to be quite helpful.
Will your son eat FRESH veggies at all? I have found that if I keep fresh cut veggies (mushrooms, broccoli & cauliflower, carrots etc.) in the fridge- AND a tasty dip (I use "Uncle Dan's Original" mix, with 1 cup FF sour cream, 1 cup FF cottage cheese & 1 cup low fat mayo) My kids (and day care kids!) will mow those down before junk or breads. Cooked veggies- all I can get them to eat is usually green beans :(
And yes, I've heard that depakote WILL cause an increase in appetite- my neice is on it as well and she really packed on the weight :( Could it be that it causes more weight gain after/during adolescents? I wonder? I think my neice was about that age as she was put on it (she is developmentally disabled and has seizures)
Good luck on this- I think you are on the right track and everyone here has had great ideas. Keep us posted on what you end up working into your kiddo's lifestyle. They can be so blasted STUBBORN that you really *have* to make it FUN & GAMES- or they just won't DO IT :)