Educational Media Reviews Online

This documentary is about the Puddington family and how they cope with Mark, who is both mentally and physically disabled. During the period of taping, Mark, who is 18-years old, is preparing for his Bar Mitzvah.

Mark has been living in New York City with his parents and brother. Because he is disabled and grew up in the neighborhood, people in the community tend to cater to his needs and wants. There was a segment at a carnival/festival where people were just giving him stuffed animals and hats. He was never challenged to earn these items.

Mark attends school where he communicates by signing. He is very helpful in school and is even sent on errands. His behavior in school is different than his behavior at home. In school, he is chastised when he does something wrong. However, when he is home his mother has a tendency not to scold Mark. She tends to allow him to do whatever he wants. This is not preparing him for the outside world, which is now a concern for her because she recently suffered a heart attack and Mark’s father is going blind. Mrs. Puddington is so used to caring for him; she dresses him, brushes his teeth, and shaves him.

Even though they were reluctant because of his disabilities, the Puddington’s sent Mark to a sleep away camp for a few weeks. He returned safe and sound. This outing was instrumental in helping Mrs. Puddington realize that her son can live and get along without her support.

Recommended, this program provides insight to parents on how to raise a disabled teenager. Although this documentary is about Mark, it focuses on parents with disabled children and how they can hamper their child’s development by giving to much love and not allowing him/her to grow up. Giving a child responsibility, holding them accountable for their actions and teaching them independence are keys to their development and future life.