Just Kids 2012 by Atlanta Parent

just kids Atlanta’s Family Guide to Special Needs

Ready, Set, Play!

Places to Zip, Scale and Soar Meet Some Amazing Kids Strategies for Handling Meltdowns Experimental Therapies Offer New Hope for Pediatric Brain Tumors

Brought to you by Atlanta Parent Magazine Current through July 2012

Inside justkids Information and Resource Guide

2011-12

An Atlanta Parent Magazine Publication

Sensations TheraFun

20 Ready, Set, Play!

Area play centers welcome children with special needs.

22 Cover Kid Winners, Audrey Trujillo and McKenzie Fishback. Photos by Eric Zhang, Arion Pro Photo. arionprophoto.com

Kids and Brain Tumors

Brain tumors are the No. 1 cause of death due to cancer in children. But experimental therapies offer new hope.

Our Amazing Kids

This year’s Cover Kid winners blew us away with their energy and spirit. Meet our fabulous winners and finalists.

Navigating Special Education Being an effective advocate means knowing your rights, the system and your child’s learning style.

Before the Storm Strikes

Strategies for handling meltdowns at home, school or in public.

Siblings are Special, Too

Parents of a disabled child need to make time for their other children.

27 Spotlight on

Special Needs (Businesses share their stories in this special advertising section.)

37 Resource Guide

If you’re seeking medical services, day camps, support groups and everything in between, our directory contains the most comprehensive listings of local resources for your special needs child. justkids magazine

justkids Staff Publisher Liz White lwhite@atlantaparent.com associate Publisher Laura Powell lpowell@atlantaparent.com eDitor ann Hardie ahardie@atlantaparent.com eDitorial intern Mary Kate Hoban aDVertisinG sales Director Liz White lwhite@atlantaparent.com business DeVeloPment manaGer amy Smith asmith@atlantaparent.com account executiVes Julia Sparks andi Levine Wendy Renfroe eDitorial art Director Sheri taylor-Emery ProDuction manaGer trysh Clark coPy eDitor Glenn Emery office coorDinator Caroline Ward aDministratiVe assistant Marie Phelan

You can find a copy of justkids at Whole foods, School Box and selected locations throughout the atlanta area. to receive a copy by mail, send $3 (for postage and handling) with your name and address to justkids, c/o atlanta Parent Magazine, 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, atlanta, Ga 30341. If your business or organization needs copies or would like to distribute justkids, please call Caroline Ward at 678-222-1907 or email her at cward@atlantaparent.com.

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Publisher’s Letter

Amazing Kids, Amazing Parents

he cover of this issue makes me smile. It reminds me why we call our magazine for families with children with special needs “Just Kids.” It is immediately apparent that our Cover Kid winners, these two beautiful and happy little girls hugging in a genuine moment of friendship, are, after all, just kids. The photograph also makes me think of their moms and dads. Every year, as I pore over the entries of our Cover Kid contest, I am in awe of the pride and joy that parents express about their children’s accomplishments, no matter how big or small. Even with the disabilities or chronic medical problems their children face, and some are immense, these parents have hopes and dreams for their kids. Their hearts soar at their children’s successes. Those same hearts break at the failures. My own experience with special needs children started when I was in seventh grade. My Girl Scout troop did volunteer work at the cerebral palsy clinic. I then went on to become a special ed teacher, then a director

of therapeutic recreation programs. This taught me that parents with special needs children are different in some very profound ways. They have to work harder to help their children get to the next level. They have to be more resourceful – and often more demanding – to get their kids the services they need. And they face challenges and roadblocks other parents never will. And yet, they take these challenges on willingly and lovingly and selflessly. I am reminded of the African proverb, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Though ancient, it rings true today. At Atlanta Parent and Just Kids, we are doing our small part to help families find resources and services. At the same time, we welcome input from the front lines. We want to hear any ideas you might have on what you would like to see in the magazine. Always feel free to contact us on our Facebook page or email editor@atlantaparent.com. Our Cover Kid contest introduced us to some amazing children – a few of them are profiled in this issue. We also met some amazing parents. They make me smile, too.

Our Mission Parenting and educating a child with special needs can be a challenging and sometimes overwhelming responsibility. Just identifying a child’s special needs and finding the right services and supports to meet those needs can be difficult and time consuming. Just Kids is the annual resource guide for parents and caregivers of children with special needs in the metro Atlanta area. We define special needs broadly to include physical, mental and emotional disabilities, sensory impairments,

Tel: Fax:

770-454-7599 770-454-7699

learning differences, developmental delay and life-threatening illnesses. Our mission is to provide you with useful articles and information on local and national disability organizations, schools and summer camps, medical facilities, agencies and businesses that best meet your special needs. Just Kids is not only about children, it’s about families. It is also our hope that this magazine supplies the information and inspiration you need for your very special family. Email: atlantaparent@atlantaparent.com Mail: 2346 Perimeter Park Drive, Atlanta, GA 30341

justkids magazine

The Effective Advocate:

Navigating the waters of special education

by Ellen Notbohm and Veronica Zysk

The Rolling Stones wrote songs about raising a special needs child, didn’t they? I Can’t Get No Satisfaction and You Can’t Always Get What You Want were anthems of the 1970s. But don’t forget the rest of the song: if you try sometime, you just might find, you get what you need. Government agencies, school districts, individual schools within the same district – each operates differently. So do parents, so each experience advocating for a special needs child will be different. What remains constant is the value a parent derives from 1) knowing the law, and 2) understanding the social, emotional and organizational politics at play. Knowing and practicing the elements of effective advocacy can save time, tempers and money spent on lawyers, mediators and other intervention specialists.

Always start by obtaining a clear understanding of your rights. Local, state and federal agencies that administer special education and other services for which your child may be eligible can provide you with written materials regarding 1) evaluation and determination of eligibility for services, 2) through what means and entities those services will be delivered and 3) the mechanisms for filing complaints or appealing decisions. Working your way through the bureaucracy is challenging enough without finding out that you’ve spent countless hours fighting for something that is not handled by the agency, or not covered under the law. Understanding your rights means understanding the laws involved. Do not assume the personnel involved in an agency or even the school system know, or correctly interpret, state or federal special education legislation. Many a parent has walked away from a negotiation trusting the information offered as accurate, only to find out later it was misleading or incomplete. Sadly, no school or agency can do everything for your child. School personnel do not always receive training in special education law. On every parent rests the responsibility of knowing the law and what they are entitled to request. Equipped with a solid understanding of your rights and the law, you are now prepared to advocate for your child. To do so effectively:

Adapted from 1001 Great Ideas for Teaching and Raising Children with Autism or Asperger’s, 2nd edition (2010), Ellen Notbohm and Veronica Zysk

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Be assertive, not aggressive. If

Effective advocates are clear about their child’s strengths and challenges, the child’s learning style and what strategies may be more effective for helping him learn and grow.

you are not sure of the distinction between the two, check a few dictionary definitions. Assertive is generally defined as being resolute and confident, whereas aggression is defined as hostile or destructive behavior caused by frustration. Assertive means being informed, focused, tenacious, firm but respectful. It’s much more likely you’ll be heard when communicating in this manner than in the attack mode, where the listener’s natural tendency will be to tune out/avoid/ defend and/or engage in similar reciprocal behavior – none of which will be productive.

you are involved in a negotiation, working towards a partnership where all parties feel positive about the outcome. Body language, voice tone, eye contact, language – all affect how successful you will be as an advocate. Don’t let your emotions lead the conversation.

Know what you want and come prepared. Effective advocates are clear

Schedule meetings allowing enough time for adequate discussion

about their child’s strengths and challenges, the child’s learning style and what strategies may be more effective for helping him learn and grow. If needed, present professional assessments or recommendations as back-up to the services or options you are negotiating. Anticipate information you may need to present to make your case, and come prepared with it.

Leave your emotions at the door. Your job is to do your best to secure

individualized and appropriate services for your child. Be professional, cordial and respectful, and keep in mind at all times that

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of the issues, or schedule several shorter meetings. Rushing through too many items in too little time increases opportunities for misunderstanding and dissatisfaction, and almost guarantees that future meetings will be necessary.

Maintain good written records.

File all documents in a chronological binder. Keep notes from phone conversations in a binder or folder, and mark each one as soon as you end the call as to date, time, who you spoke to, what you requested, actions promised or conclusion reached. If you are not a good Morningstar welcomes all children regardless of race, religion, gendor or national origin.

s. for childre e e i c t i n of all abil pla A

note-taker, consider getting a phone recorder to record conversations. (You must inform the other party you are recording.) Bring a voice recorder to face-to-face meetings. Don’t trust your memory on this, no matter how sharp you think you are. Phone calls and details pile up, and you may need to refer to specific details of these conversations at some point, especially if services promised do not materialize.

Address issues specifically:

“Amy’s IEP calls for adult assistance during reading and math time. She tells me an aide came for the first two weeks and hasn’t been back since. How do you plan to reinstate this assistance and when?”

Follow through and follow up. Always supply what is asked of you in an efficient and accurate manner. When following up on action promised by others, be persistent but reasonable.

Cont’d on page 8

Your child can succeed in the right environment.

Porter Academy

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675 Holt Road  Marietta 30068  678-213-0844 www.msmontessorischool.org

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justkids magazine

The Effective Advocate

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8 justkids magazine

section in the february, May, august and November issues of atlanta Parent magazine.

■ When a promised callback doesn’t come, allow a reasonable amount of time, then you call. “When we spoke on Tuesday, you were going to fax me the meeting times. I know how busy you are, but I am anxious to address these issues and really want to get those dates on my calendar.” ■ Email and texting are not perfect communication tools. Emails get lost or diverted into spam files, and many people are buried in email and cannot answer it all efficiently. Text messages are especially easy to ignore. If your emails and text messages are getting no response, attach receipt tags to them. Keep messages as succinct as possible; we’ve all opened messages so lengthy that we just sigh and move on. ■ Paper letters. This old-fashioned method may work where electronics fail, especially if you include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the reply. ■ When all this fails, escalate – politely. Go to the next level of administration with a respectful request: “I’ve made several attempts to schedule these meetings, with no response. Can you advise me as to how we can get the process moving again? I will call you tomorrow to get your thoughts.” ■ Reach out. Joining a support group, starting a mom’s or parents group, blogging, contacting your representatives in local, state and federal government – all these activities will put you in touch with others who are going through similar experiences and help you create a pool of ideas and support from which to draw. Always remember that there are no stupid questions if you don’t know the answer, and that most people like to help others. Ask caseworkers, doctors, teachers, family members, neighbors, and friends for information, support, suggestions, help with tasks. There is rarely any harm in asking for help, and even more rarely any advantage in trying to handle your child’s special education challenges alone. JK Award-winning author and columnist Ellen Notbohm is a three-time ForeWord Book of the Year finalist and a contributor to numerous publications and websites around the world. To contact Ellen or explore her work, visit ellennotbohm.com

Understanding the Individualized Education Program (IEP) If you have a child with special needs, there’s no doubt you’ve heard the term IEP, either in meetings with teachers, appointments with therapists or in literature about educational funding. If you’re still a bit foggy, read on. The term “IEP” stands for Individualized Education Program. In short, the purpose of an IEP is to develop goals and objectives for a child who receives special education. According to the U.S. Department of Education, each child who receives special education instruction must have an IEP. The IEP lists details of the services and aid that school systems provide to each special needs student. An IEP is developed in a meeting by a team that often includes the child and his teachers, parents, therapists and school faculty. Together, this team works to design an education plan that will help the student excel in the general curriculum. Both medical and educational records are often helpful references that can guide the preparation of an IEP. Each student’s IEP is frequently revisited and, if necessary, revised to ensure that goals are being met. Here are some tips from the Georgia Advocacy Office on how to make your IEP meeting productive and successful.

Before the Meeting

■ An IEP meeting can be intimidating to the parent, so plan to stay calm. Remember that everyone wants what is best for the child. ■ You are a member of the team that makes the crucial decisions about your child’s education. Approach the IEP as a team player. ■ Bring someone with you. Another parent, friend or neighbor can take notes and support

you. You may want to use an audio recorder during the meeting. Be sure to inform the school of your plans. ■ If your child is old enough and capable of being involved, bring him. ■ Keep the meeting positive for your child. Remember to focus on gifts, strengths and progress. ■ Make sure that the IEP goals for your child are reasonable and measurable. Scrutinize the goals and identify strategies to achieve them. ■ Discuss modifications, disciplinary programs, non-academic activities, transitions or supplemental services. The IEP and placement should be established according to your child’s needs. If your child needs a program or therapy not offered, ask for it. ■ Make sure everything is written down and a parent-school communication plan is established. If you are not satisfied or certain, take a copy of the plan to review before you sign the agreement.

After the Meeting

■ Explain any changes to your child. ■ Communicate regularly with your child’s

teachers and therapists. ■ Stay involved by visiting the school regularly and observing who is doing what with your child. ■ Make sure progress is being achieved throughout the year. Don’t wait until the next IEP meeting to see if objectives are being met. JK

For Children With Learning Disabilities

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770-774-8001 5665 Milam Rd. Fairburn, Georgia 30213 www.thebedfordschool.org The Bedford School maintains a non-discriminatory policy concerning admissions, scholarships, use of facilities and employment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex or creed.

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just kids

Meet Some Special Kids

This year we were lucky enough to spend a delightful afternoon in the park with four amazing kids with incredible stories. Our Cover Kids finalists wowed us with their energy and spirit. Meet our two winners and the other inspirational finalists. by Mary Kate Hoban / Photos by Eric Zhang, Arion Pro Photo

Audrey Trujillo Age 6, Decatur

udrey, a social 6-year-old, loves school. She loves it so much, in fact, that she cried when she couldn’t go after having her tonsils out. She recently completed kindergarten at Oakhurst Elementary in Decatur, and her parents hate to see her move on to other teachers because of the incredible year she had. She has tons of friends, loves running around and playing sports with the boys, and participates in track club. Her mom, Mary Lynn Trujillo, describes her as a “chatty Cathy and social butterfly.” Most recently, Audrey has learned to read, and her parents could not be prouder! Audrey was born with Down syndrome. When the AFP (alpha-fetoprotein test) levels came back slightly elevated during pregnancy, Mary Lynn and her husband Raul knew that there was a possibility of Down syndrome. So they did the only thing they knew to do. Pray a lot. “We fell in love with Audrey the moment we met her in the hospital,” says Mary Lynn. “I can honestly say, and it sounds so trite, I would not change a thing about her. She’s everything I wanted in a daughter.” Audrey, like many children with Down syndrome, has received a lot of help throughout her life. This may be why she cherishes her new role as a big sister to Sophie, who is 10 months old. The Trujillos were nervous about having another child for many reasons, but their fears were soon alleviated when Audrey formed an instant bond with her younger sister, with no prompting from her parents. “I can’t imagine a better big sister than what she’s being,” gushes Mary Lynn. With encouragement from her teachers, Audrey has become increasingly independent. She plays soccer in the Decatur Rec league. She even got the chance to run in the Tour Decatur this past year. And she isn’t a complainer. In fact, the day of the photo shoot Audrey wasn’t feeling well, but she good-naturedly played and posed for pictures for over an hour, before falling asleep on the way home. Later, her mom took her to the doctor and found out that she had strep throat and scarlet fever. “But she doesn’t ever tell me,” Trujillo says. Watching their daughter sweetly taking the hand of McKenzie Fishback, another contestant at the photo shoot, and embracing her with a heartfelt hug, you can see why the Trujillos say that as a sister Audrey has been “a blessing beyond belief.”

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“We fell in love with Audrey the moment we met her in the hospital. I can honestly say, and it sounds so trite, I would not change a thing about her. She’s everything I wanted in a daughter.” – Mary Lynn Trujillo

Clarence Amari Kelsey Age 5, Acworth

larence loves anything that moves: boats, cars, trains, planes and bicycles. Ironically, Clarence has always had problems with his own motor skills. When he was younger, he couldn’t walk without repeatedly falling down or catch a ball to save his life. He used two-word sentences for everything. His doctors referred him to a speech therapist, but it wasn’t until May 2010 that Clarence was finally diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Since then “it’s been like night and day,” says his mom, Kimisha Littlejohn. Speech, occupational and physical therapy – as often as four times a week -- have kept Clarence on the path of continued progress. Luckily for his mom, the frequency of the therapy doesn’t seem to frustrate him. His good-natured spirit has been “such a blessing,” she says. A friend to everyone at his preschool, Clarence will start kindergarten at McCall Primary School in Acworth next year. One minute Clarence wants to be a firefighter when he grows up. The next day he is talking about being a doctor. But for now he is content to watch “SpongeBob SquarePants,” play one of his many favorite sports outside or read with his mom. Cerebral palsy may have affected his motor, speech and developmental functions, but it hasn’t affected his energy or ability to interact with other children. “Slow down!” Littlejohn yells as she watches her son ride his bike around in circles for the cameraman on the day of the photo shoot. It’s hard to imagine a time when Clarence couldn’t move this fast. The toughest part of the day can be getting Clarence, who has an infectious smile and an endless supply of energy, to slow down.

McKenzie Fishback Age 3, Suwanee

On Sept. 8, 2007, McKenzie was born by emergency C-section at 24 weeks. Weighing 1 pound, 8 ounces, she was considered a micro-preemie – her father’s wedding band could slide all the way up her arm to her elbow. That first day, her doctors at Northside Hospital gave her a 10 percent chance of survival. The next day, it climbed to 20 percent, then eventually to 50 percent. And finally they gave her parents, Christina and Clint Fishback, the OK to have a baby shower. Still, when McKenzie was 3 months old, doctors were continually having to call codes and dealing with a handful of issues, such as severe respiratory distress, hydrocephalus, brain bleeds and heart problems, common in a newborn that size. “One minute you’re playing with your baby and the next you are being shoved out of the way by nurses and doctors,” Christina remembers. But, on Christmas Day 2007, “Baby Zie,” as they call her, finally got to come home. And home is where she had to stay for the first two years of her life because of severe respiratory problems and a compromised immune system that made her too fragile to leave the house. Being homebound affected McKenzie’s social development. In addition, for the first year of her life, she suffered from undiagnosed kidney stones, three times the size most adults can handle. Through a series of surgeries, the stones were removed, and at 2 years old, McKenzie finally began eating solid food. A shunt placed in McKenzie’s brain this past January to relieve pressure also has helped with speech troubles and vacant expressions. Her parents believe the increased brain pressure also had been causing severe migraines. McKenzie now speaks in full sentences. The journey that McKenzie has been on in her three short years has not affected her sweet nature. Her parents say it broke the nurses’ hearts because McKenzie would say “thank you” after the nurses stuck her with an IV. “She knew they were just doing their job,” says Christina. Dressed in pink, laughing with her dad as she plays with bubbles, McKenzie is a happy 3-year-old. She is thoughtful and loves helping

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others. People have been flocking to her since those first days in the NICU, where her parents overheard the nurses fighting over who got to take care of her. Recently her parents found out that McKenzie will be in a regular class with support. She will continue to get occupational and speech therapy. As proud as they are of how far McKenzie has come, and acknowledging the need to push her to keep improving, they continue to be amazed by their inspiring fighter of a daughter. People don’t believe the Fishbacks when they say that McKenzie laughs when she has to get her nightly allergy shot, the result of another recent diagnosis. “She has been on such a journey, and we’re real excited with all the progress she has made, regardless of whether she catches up or not,” her mom says. Cont’d on page 12

justkids magazine

Meet Some Special Kids Sam Weinreb

Age 12, Douglasville

f you meet Sam Weinreb, he will most likely tell you all about Oct. 12, 2009, the day he got to meet Drew Carey and sit through a taping of The Price is Right. What he probably won’t mention is that earlier that day he suffered a seizure, just one of the reminders of his incredible story that began months before he was born. An extremely rare stroke while in utero left Sam with numerous disabilities, including hydrocephalus, mild autism, cerebral palsy, hemiparesis (weakness on one side of his body), nystagmus (involuntary eye movement), sensory issues and seizures. As a result, Sam never crawled and didn’t say his first words until he was almost 3 years old. He has been developmentally delayed his entire life. His mom Kim Weinreb didn’t suspect anything was wrong when she went for her eight-month checkup. She knew that her belly was lopsided and there were two bumps, but she assumed that the baby was turned on its side. After a series of tests and an MRI, doctors determined that Sam had suffered a stroke. Their guess was that it occurred between five and six weeks gestation. Because of the unusual circumstances, Sam

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was part of a study with the National Institutes of Health. Still, 12 years later, Kim and her husband Todd still don’t know the cause. Most of the time, Sam loves school. He attended a public school until fourth grade, when his parents found ClearWater Academy, a private school in Tyrone (south of Atlanta) for children with learning differences., He had been attending therapy six days a week. Now, all of his therapy except for physical therapy is done at the school. This leaves more time for the things that Sam loves, like watching game shows and the news. He carries around old hotel key cards and gift cards and pretends he is a game show host. Or he speaks into a microphone and pretends he is doing a newscast, like his idol Russ Spencer from Fox 5, whom he also got to meet when he was younger. Sam loves practicing sports with his dad. His favorite sport right now is golf, and he can hit the ball an impressive 160 yards. Today, Sam is a bundle of energy and questions, and much like other 12-year-olds, hates being told what to do. He stops for just a second to introduce himself. Sticking out his hand for a handshake he blurts out, “I’m Sam. Have you met my sister Abby?” Then he is off again, occasionally posing for the camera as though a professional.

While the therapy sessions act as a constant reminder of the struggles Sam must endure, it’s tough not to believe him when he talks about being a game show host one day. Sam’s mom acknowledges that he will have to deal with a lot throughout his life, but she remembers the 50 percent chance of survival that doctors gave him a dozen years ago. JK

Special Blogs for Special Needs For three metro Atlantans, each a parent of a special needs child, writing can be therapeutic. Jump into the blogosphere to follow their heartbreaking, philosophical, even funny conversations. Brenda Rothman, Grant Park ■ Mamabegood.blogspot.com

When Brenda Rothman’s son Jack was diagnosed with cerebral palsy in 2005, then autism in 2007, she felt an overwhelming need to “get out” everything she had to say. Now she considers her blog a form of weekly therapy. The blog tells funny and touching stories about life with her son, now 6. She appreciates when other parents chime in and comment on her posts. “You feel isolated when you’re with your child 24/7… So it’s nice to hear other parents’ comments, like ‘My kid does that too,’” she says.

Comfort. Hope. Fun.

Embracing Strengthening

Metro Atlanta Families since 1983

FOCUS understands and supports the unique needs of families with children who are medically fragile or have significant developmental or physical disabilities. FOCUS offers comfort, hope and information to parents; accessible recreational and social programs for children and teens; and fun, inclusive activities for the entire family.

Asher Vilensky, Atlanta ■ After-e.blogspot.com

Liam Vilensky, born with a malformation of the left hemisphere of her brain, was just 15 when she died. Her father started to blog in September 2009 as her health was deteriorating. When Liam died a year later, Vilensky started a new blog, after-e.blogspot. com, which mixes memories of Liam with random musings, essays, photos and video clips. “I didn’t feel right posting information about her death and her funeral right there in the same place where I’d written about her life for the past year. I wanted to respect her and just put a lid on it of sorts,” he says.

770-234-9111

www.focus-ga.org

Suzanne Musial, Alpharetta

■ BestdressedbabyintheICU.blogspot.com

Ella Grace Musial was diagnosed at birth with Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS), a rare condition caused by genetic mutation. CdLS is marked by low birth weight, slow growth, small stature and head size, and a slower rate of physical and cognitive development. Ella Grace, now three years old, uses a feeding tube and tracheotomy. The blog’s name comes from Ella Grace being all dressed up for trips to the hospital. “The blog is my way of answering people’s questions about Ella Grace, and letting them know that it’s OK to ask me about her.” Suzanne Musial says.

Also check out: ■ Hopeful Parents, hopefulparents.org ■ Shut Up About Your Perfect Kid,

shutupabout.com

■ Support for Special Needs,

supportforspecialneeds.com JK justkids magazine

Photo by Kristin Fleis

Siblings Are Special, Too When one child has a disability, parents must work harder to balance time and attention for the rest of the family. by Julia Garstecki

Comparing our children is a no-no, but we all do it. In passing conversations, we might say, “Oh, he’s my quiet one.” Or, “He took all of the athletic genes and left her with none!” Siblings whine about the injustices of life, and they keep a keen eye on which child gets what and when. If one child has a disability, however, and one child doesn’t, a unique set of questions arises. How much information should you share with the “typically developing” child? How do you talk to your child with the special need about his disability? Communication is a must for all siblings. Toby Glick, a school

psychologist, presents workshops titled “Sibling Relationships in Special Needs Families” and consults with parents regarding this issue. Because most children sense that they are developing differently from their siblings, she suggests that parents discuss the disability with the typically developing child early on. Explain why the brother or sister with a disability may need extra help or attention in certain areas. As the children get older, the parent can start to discuss the diagnosis and what it means. By talking openly about it, Glick says, individual family members’ feelings of anger, guilt, shame and fear can and should be recognized and accepted. Laura Shumaker, parent of an autistic son, agrees. She discussed her oldest son’s

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Sarah and Hannah Foy

disability with his younger brothers from a very early age. She kept things simple in the beginning, explaining that their older brother’s brain “worked differently and that it made it hard for him to learn and make friends.” By discussing what their older brother may need help with and why, she clears up any questions or misconceptions the children may have. She then teaches her younger sons how to assist their older brother. Beth Foy’s daughter Hannah was born with Down syndrome and a handful of other medical problems. The Atlanta mom bought her older daughter Sarah, who was in preschool, a book to help explain the challenges facing her newborn sister. As questions arose over time, she went into more detail. “Kids seem to accept it and move on. It’s the adults who have the harder time,” Foy says.

Play up the strengths, says expert Mary Calhoun Brown, award-winning author of There Are No Words, who has a son with Asperger’s syndrome and Sensory Integration Dysfunction. She and her husband were always honest with their son about his disability. Although she was concerned when play dates and invitations were not reciprocated, “our oldest son was so confident in who he is and the life he had settled into that he was very supportive [of younger siblings being invited to parties]. … He has wrapped his self-esteem up in being an excellent student, and even attended Harvard Summer School this past summer as a 15-year-old.” Many parents advise finding one thing that each sibling has a passion for, and is competent at, whether it is theater, building, music, art or sports. The goal is

not perfection or even winning awards, it’s finding a natural love and talent so each child has something that gives him fulfillment.

Celebrate the differences.

Teaching empathy and diversity will give your child a head start in a multicultural world. Mary Gardner, mother of an autistic son, encourages her family to expect, welcome and appreciate the differences in people. “My son knows he’s different. But he knows that everyone is different.” Kirk Martin whole-heartedly agrees. He is a behavior therapist and the author of Celebrate! ADHD! As a consultant to school districts, he has encouraged the 100,000-plus teachers he’s worked with “to proactively celebrate each child’s gifts and passions … rather than focusing on the disability.” When people are taught to focus on “what each child can contribute with his particular gifts,” it keeps the focus on the positives, he says. Foy believes that growing up with a younger sister with special needs has shaped Sarah into the well-rounded, compassionate person she is today. Sarah treats Hannah “like any other kid,” which has helped her understand and deal with diversity. The Foys made an effort to schedule play dates for Sarah at their house so that her friends could be around Hannah. Now including Hannah in games is second nature to them. Siblings often develop their own special relationships. Ivan Antorian, who is 10 and has autism, will talk to his 14-yearold sister Sarah Jane about things he will not tell his parents, says Atlanta mom Angela Antorian.

Make time for each child, and don’t let the disability run the house. Glick says that at times the needs

of the typically developing child might go unnoticed because of the demands of the child with the disability. This can cause resentment and anger, and parents shouldn’t let it happen. Shumaker is careful not to let any of her boys get lost in the shuffle of autism. Whether it is making sure to attend sporting events or have a one-on-one meal, all children in the family need to feel special and unique simply by being themselves. The Foys make it a priority to keep Sarah’s life as normal as possible. Beth Foy’s advice: “Family time above everything – including therapy. I think if you do that from the beginning it’s easier to have a cohesive family.”

Find a support system.

Whether it’s family members, friends and neighbors, school friends, or a formal parent or sibling group, finding a support system can be key to maintaining normalcy. Antorian emphasizes the importance of sibling groups. And she advises other parents to “try not to be so isolated.” Groups such as Parent2Parent and Lekotek have really helped her family, she says. There is no denying that if one of your children has a disability, challenging situations will arise. Keeping communication lines open, focusing on skill sets and modeling mutual respect will help the entire family. JK

Give siblings tools to deal with teasing. Whether the disability

is visible or not, teasing may occur at times. Although this is unfortunate, it is also the reality, as teasing is not isolated to children with disabilities. Laura Shumaker believes in helping children cope if and when this takes place. Not only does she keep lines of communication open so her boys can discuss it, but she also helps them with comeback phrases (“takes one to know one”) to help her sons use at the time the teasing occurs. She also encourages her non-disabled sons to educate others about her son’s disability. It is also important for parents to set an example when other moms and dads offer up criticism or unwanted advice. “Often it’s the parent who needs to change more so than the kid,” Antorian says. Nevertheless, it is difficult but necessary to model appropriate behavior in front of the children when dealing with other adults.

Siblings often develop their own special relationships. Ivan Antorian, who is 10 and has autism, will talk to his 14-year-old sister Sarah Jane about things he will not tell his parents. Sarah Jane and Ivan Antorian

justkids magazine

The Insider’s Guide to Special Needs Resources by Amanda Miller Allen

Families who have children newly diagnosed with a physical or developmental disability often don’t know where to turn. We asked these experts what resources and guidance their organizations can provide. ■ Susan Adams

Assistant Commissioner for Pre-K ■ Jennie Couture Statewide Inclusion Coordinator Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Childcare and Development decal.ga.gov, 877-255-4254 Bright from the Start is the state agency that oversees services for children ages 0 to 5. Included in that is childcare licensing, the Georgia Pre-K programs, federal nutrition programs for children and adults, and partnering with Head Start and childcare resource and referral agencies throughout the state. We provide training and professional development for teachers and childcare providers. Through a statewide network of inclusion coordinators, we help families find resources in their communities and programs

■ Laurie Smith

Webinar Supervisor and Regional Coordinator Parent to Parent of Georgia p2pga.org, 800-229-2038 Parent to Parent offers many services to help families who have children with disabilities or special health care needs. All of our services, which cover the child from birth to age 26, are free. We are the central directory for Babies Can’t Wait and can help any parent who needs contacts for evaluation services. We have a special needs database online with more than 5,000 providers in 140 categories so parents can look on their own for help. Our easy to navigate Roadmap will provide helpful advice to parents as they navigate Georgia’s disability, health and education systems. We also offer one-onone assistance over the phone. We help parents talk through what they need, whether it’s literature, services or peer support. We have a Supporting Parent program

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Susan Adams

Jennie Couture

that can serve their child with disabilities. We have a list of those coordinators on our website with their contact information, so families can contact them for individual help. Families can search our website database for childcare learning centers or childcare providers in their community. We also have numerous other resources on our website, including links to state and national resources.

that matches parents who have children with the same disability. It can also help a family know what to expect and guide them to resources. We offer Hispanic and Ethiopian/East African support groups. We also have Navigator Teams, communitybased volunteers who help connect parents to educational activities or even fun sporting events. We offer eight two-hour training classes for parents, including one on the Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act so they will understand what the law covers. Other programs cover a wide range of information, from Medicaid to assistive technology for children with special needs, from computers to something as simple as a pencil grip that makes it easier for a child to write. We also have more in depth four-hour workshops, including Dream Bigger, Aim Higher – Beyond Advocacy, Empowerment from Infancy to Adulthood. This workshop helps parents to determine their dreams for their child and to create an action plan for the future. We do webinars for online training, from noon to 1 p.m., called Parent to Parent Lunch and Learn. All of these are archived on our website so a parent can search by topic and access them anytime.

■ J-Jaye Hurley

■ Helene Prokesch

Autism Speaks provides multiple resources free of charge for families who have a child with autism. One of the most important resources we have for families with a new diagnosis is a 100-Day Toolkit. It’s a printed roadmap to help them get started after a diagnosis and find resources to help their child. You can download it from our website, or call and it will be sent to you within a week. We also have one of the largest online databases in the country, covering everything from where to turn for a diagnosis, to support groups, to information on summer camps, to therapists, to caregivers and respite care. Another tool kit we have is a haircutting and dental guide that has stories to help children and their families when they go for these services. And we have a School Community Tool Kit to share with teachers to help them be better informed about children with autism. We have two monthly e-newsletters, E-Speak and Community Connections, to keep parents informed about topics valuable to their families, including news, research and issues regarding autism. We have online support groups and social networks that connect parents and families. Our online resource directory covers everything from the recommended toys and games to grants for families whose child might need a therapy not covered by insurance. We encourage families to get involved in fundraising walks in their communities as a way to meet and get connected with other families. And families can contact our Autism Response Team for individual help by phone or at familyservices@ autismspeaks.org for help.

When a family learns about a lifelong special need that a child has, they find themselves in doctors’ offices and waiting rooms and therapy sessions. Lekotek focuses on what a child can do. Our basic mission is inclusion. We give families information and resources to accomplish that mission. If a child has a physical disability, we help adapt toys or have special adapted toys or computer devices. All children have a right to participate in play. We conduct monthly play sessions where families use these materials and we loan out these materials. In addition, we have family events. We will go to the pumpkin patch. Just because a child uses a wheelchair doesn’t mean he can’t enjoy hopping on a wagon and going to the field and picking out a pumpkin. Some families may choose not to come to Lekotek because they are so inundated with therapy and medical appointments. But children with disabilities should not lose out on childhood. All children learn through play. And play helps them develop self-esteem and self-confidence, the sense that “I can do many things.” Annual dues are $240; scholarships are always available. JK

Autism Response Team Coordinator Autism Speaks autismspeaks.org, 888-288-4762

Founder and Executive Director Lekotek of Georgia lekotekga.org, 404-633-3430

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Common Types of Therapy

by Kate Wicker

Numerous types of therapies exist, from physical therapy to play therapy. Founded in 1986, nonprofit organization FODAC has provided durable medical equipment (DME) and medical supplies to thousands of disabled children at little or no cost to their parents or guardians.

• Wheelchairs • Standers • Strollers • Corner chairs • Gait trainers • Shower supports • Toilet supports • Walkers • Hoyer lifts • Pediatric crutches • Therapy aids • Hospital beds • Specialized mattresses • Medical supplies such as incontinence products, bandages and splints FODAC takes donations of used medical equipment and can repair or refurbish almost any model or make of wheelchair. Donate your time – call us about volunteer opportunities.

American Speech Language Hearing Association

Occupational therapy (OT) ■ What: Focuses on helping children of

all ages cope with emotional, social and physical difficulties. ■ Claims: What sets OT apart from other allied health disciplines is that it analyzes the emotional and social, as well as physical, aspects of the patient. Through personalized treatment plans, an occupational therapist helps build a foundation for the types of skills that children need to accomplish everyday tasks. ■ Treatment: OT treatment varies widely depending on a child’s physical, emotional and social needs. For instance, a treatment program for children who have trouble sitting still in school, tying their shoes and dressing themselves may involve an obstacle course that helps improve hand-eye coordination. ■ Where Offered: A variety of settings in the Atlanta area, including hospitals, private clinics, early intervention programs and schools. Homebased therapy also is available. ■ To Learn More: American Occupational Therapist Association, aota.org

Physical therapy (PT)

4900 Lewis Road Stone Mountain, Georgia 30083

770.491.9014 www.fodac.org

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■ What: Through the use of exercises and physical activities, PT manages and improves patients’ physical limitations and helps them return and/or achieve the highest level of function possible. ■ Claims: PT is a tried-and-true form of therapy for children with conditions like cerebral palsy, spina bifida or traumatic brain injury, and it can benefit almost any child who has physical limitations, including children who have suffered a sports-related injury. ■ Treatment: Children typically meet with a physical therapist once or twice a week for 45 to 60 minutes. Therapy sessions may

include mobility training, activities designed to boost gross motor coordination, ambulation training (activities that help with children’s walking skills), balance training and wound care. Physical therapists also can help parents choose the appropriate wheelchair, walker or orthotics for their child, if needed. ■ Where Offered: A variety of settings in the Atlanta area, including hospitals, private clinics, early intervention programs and schools. Homebased therapy also is available. ■ To Learn More: American Physical Therapy Association, apta.org

Speech therapy ■ What: Any form of therapy that assists children who are experiencing difficulties with communication, language skills and social interaction. Children with speech delays, past hearing loss, craniofacial disorders such as a cleft palate, functional articulation and/or phonological disorders often benefit from speech therapy. In addition, specially trained therapists often are part of a team that provides feeding therapy to help children with feeding and swallowing difficulties (also called dysphagia). ■ Claims: Pediatric speech-language pathologists can help maximize children’s communication abilities in everyday situations and environments. ■ Treatment: Speech-language pathologists generally work with children for 30 to 60 minutes once or twice a week. Treatment may incorporate reading, recognition games and other activities designed to advance communication skills. ■ Where Offered: A variety of settings in the Atlanta area, including hospitals, private clinics, early intervention programs and schools. Homebased therapy is sometimes available. ■ To Learn More: American Speech-LanguageHearing Association, asha.org

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) What: A form of psychotherapy that emphasizes the role of thinking in how people feel and behave. CBT is used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, phobias and other mental disorders. ■ Claims: CBT is based on the idea that our thoughts, rather than external influences, cause our feelings and behaviors. CBT provides long-term results because treatment stresses education and helps patients unlearn unwanted reactions and behaviors, discovering new ways of responding to situations. In particular, children suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder experience positive outcomes with CBT. ■ Treatment: CBT is a structured form of therapy that encourages the Socratic method, meaning therapists ask a lot of questions to fully understand a patient’s concerns. Patients also are persuaded to ask questions about certain situations. For example, a child who is experiencing social difficulties from being teased at school might benefit from asking questions like, “How do I know the kids are laughing at me? Could they be laughing at something else?” ■ Where Offered: Certified cognitivebehavioral therapists generally work in private practices. ■ To Learn More: National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists, nacbt.org

In addition to the more common therapies listed above, other specialized forms are also available to children with a variety of special needs.

American Hippotherapy Association

■ Hippotherapy: Hippotherapy

literally means “treatment with the help of the horse” and is often used to help improve posture, strength, balance, coordination and attention span.

Play therapy What: A form of counseling that draws on the curative powers of play to help children with various problems. ■ Claims: Since open and free communication is inherent in play, a broad range of social, behavioral, emotional and other developmental issues can be addressed through play therapy. Play therapy has been shown to promote creative problem solving, improve social skills, encourage communication and foster learning and acceptable behaviors. ■ Treatment: Play therapists use toys and activities Play Therapy International to help children communicate. Sessions are typically 30 to 50 minutes and are held weekly. Research suggests that it takes an average of 20 play therapy sessions to resolve the problems of the typical child referred for treatment. ■ Where Offered: Licensed or certified mental health professionals who are also play therapists practice in both private and public settings throughout the metro Atlanta area. ■ To Learn More: Association for Play Therapy, A4pt.org

■ Music therapy: A creative therapy

that uses music and music activities to address an individual’s physical, emotional, cognitive and/or social needs. ■ Aquatic therapy: Also known as hydroptherapy, this discipline uses the unique physical properties of water to facilitate rehabilitation and helps children achieve a greater range of motion than with land-based therapy. ■ Dance therapy: A creative therapy that uses choreographed or improvised movement to promote healing, this type of therapy releases tension and anxiety and helps develop gross motor skills, coordination, balance and flexibility. ■ Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT): A medical treatment that delivers pure oxygen at higher-than-normal pressures to patients sitting or lying in a special chamber. It helps to improve speech, memory and other cognitive abilities in patients with brain deficits. JK

Helping Hands pediatric tHerapy, inc. • Developmental delays • Genetic disorders • Autism spectrum disorders • Cerebral palsy • Speech delay • Oral motor/feeding concerns

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www.helpinghandspediatrictherapy.com

Tender Ones Therapy Services

Pediatric Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy  Intensive Therapy

www.tenderones.com therapy@tenderones.com P: 770-904-6009  F: 770-904-2357

2089 Teron Trace, Ste. 120  Dacula, GA 30019

justkids magazine

Places To Play

As with all kids, children with special needs like to whiz on zip lines, climb rock walls and jump high in the sky. Luckily, Atlanta has some great places for them to zip, scale and soar. Here are a few. Places that Cater to Kids with Special Needs ■ Champion Kids

1465 Canton Rd., Suite 100, Marietta, 770-874-5200 championkids.net; Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-1 p.m. This multisensory gym is owned and operated by therapists who specialize in working with kids with special needs. There are trampolines, a foam pit, bounce houses, large slides, swings, a zip line, climbing equipment and more. Participate in recreational and play therapy, floor time therapy, social skills groups and more. Babies/crawlers, $4; walkers, $6; siblings, $4.

■ Sensations TheraFun

1704 Chantilly Dr., Atlanta, 404-634-3500 Sensationstherafun.com Mon.-Thurs., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.-6 p.m. A multisensory activity center great for kids on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorders, ADHD, Down syndrome or Asperger’s syndrome. Sensations TheraFun has a zip line, climbing wall, mini trampolines, monkey bars, rope ladders, balance beams and much more. $15/day per child; additional children, $5/day.

Champion Kids

■ Under the Umbrella

8560 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Alpharetta, 770-642-4040 Playundertheumbrella.com Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., noon-4 p.m. A drop-off play center for autistic children and their typical siblings, Under the Umbrella features bubble tubes, fiber-optic light sprays, a Snoezelen room (which uses lighting effects, color, sounds and scents to deliver stimuli to people with mental disabilities), and other tactile equipment for children ages 2-12. $10/hour per child. Parents’ night out, $60/four hours for a child with autism; $25 for typical sibling.

Sensations TheraFun

Farms

Trillium Ranger, GA

www.trilliumfarms.com • (706) 337-2165

CHILDREN USE THE LANGUAGE OF PLAY TO EXPRESS AND RESOLVE THEIR PROBLEMS. Trudy Post Sprunk

www.gapt.org 770.491.7423

20 justkids magazine

An Interactive Learning Center with emphasis on those with special needs through animal therapy & nature. Come enjoy a day on our farm & get up close to exotic & friendly animals!

Open Sundays

Places that Welcome Kids with Special Needs ■ DACKids Pirate Cove

3102 Loring Rd., Acworth, 770-966-9900; DACkids.com Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. This pirate-themed adventure play center offers an indoor beach with real sand, a cool pirate ship to climb on, and plenty of inflatables to burn off some energy. May not be suitable for children with limited mobility. $7.99 ages 3 and up; $4.99 walking children ages 2 and younger; non-walkers, free.

■ HippoHopp Indoor Playground

1936 Briarwood Ct., Atlanta (located on the access road of I-85 between Clairmont Rd. and N. Druid Hills Rd.), 404-634-4964 Hippohopp.com Sun.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m.- 7 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.- 8 p.m. Visit this indoor playground for hours of inflatable fun – toddlers even have their own special area. There are slides, play mats, a café and more. Plus, HippoHopp hosts a Special Needs Night the last Tuesday of every month from 4-7 p.m. Kids ages 3 and older, $8; ages 1-2, $4; under 1, free.

■ Little Bears Indoor Playground

2655 Cobb Pkwy., Suite 105, Kennesaw, 770-429-0331; Lilbears.com Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; closed Mon. This indoor playground is specifically geared toward young children still developing motor skills. The space is low-key and plush, welcoming children of all abilities into a safe play area. Plus, each month Little Bears offers one free hour of play for special needs kids and their families. Just remember to wear socks; Little Bears is a shoe-free environment! Children ages 1 and up, $8.50; siblings, $7; children under 1, $6. Parents and caregivers, free.

■ Jungle Jumpers

192 Picklesimon Rd., Winder, 770-307-5867; See Facebook page Tue.-Thurs., 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Fri.-Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 2-6 p.m. First Friday of every month, facility is open to families of children on the autism spectrum, 6-9 p.m. Family-oriented facility with inflatables. $7/child; $5/child on Fridays before 2 p.m.; adults, free.

■ Play Activity Center

10930 Crabapple Rd. (Hwy. 92 and Crabapple Rd.), Roswell, 770-650-0122; Playactivitycenter.com Drop-in classes: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Hour-long playgroup for children with special needs Wed. at 5 p.m. and Sat. at 9 a.m. Register at 678-469-0155. Includes two gyms featuring foam pits, trampolines, inflatables, slides and more. Also offers a creative play area. All children welcome. The playgroup for special needs kids focuses on strengthening gross motor skills using the trampoline, foam pit and jump house. Also builds social skills through obstacle courses and game development. $9/child, $6/sibling; $7/child 2 and under. Special needs playgroup, $25/hour.

DACKids Pirate Cove

HippoHopp Indoor Playground

■ Wonder Colors Art Studio

3550 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd., Suite 102, Suwanee, 770-831-7417 Wondercolorsartstudio.com Mon., 4:30-5:30 p.m. Wonder Colors Art Studio offers an arts class for children with special needs every Monday afternoon. Lessons focus on line, shape, color, texture, form and the use of paper, colored pencil, pastels, charcoal, tempera, watercolor, acrylics and oil paints. The lessons help develop hand coordination and intellectual skills. One-time registration fee is $25; then $75/month for weekly one-hour lessons. JK

Jungle Jumpers

We don’t want to leave anyone out. If you know of a great place for special needs kids to play, contact editor@atlantaparent.com.

Dentistry for Developmentally Disabled Over 20 years experience working with special needs children & families.

Provider of HaNDLE® Services Screenings and Evaluations of:

Gentle, empathetic & understanding care.

DK David Kurtzman DDS DDS 611 Campbell Hill St. NW Marietta, Ga 30060 www.drdavidkurtzman.com

to find out more or schedule an appointment call: 770-592-1711 Serving all of metro atlanta and Georgia

aDD ● aDHD ● autism Dyslexia ● tourette’s ● Sensory Integration Disorder ● ●

To schedule an appointment, or receive notice of our next free community information night, please e-mail

s.a.anderson@mindspring.com justkids magazine

When Your Child Has a Brain Tumor

Everything you need to know (but can’t bear to ask). by Melanie Wagner

Brain tumors are the No. 1 cause of death due to cancer in children. The word “tumor” – an excessive growth of abnormal cells – doesn’t necessarily mean cancer. In fact, most brain tumors that appear in children are benign and slow-growing. However, benign brain tumors can similarly cause significant problems, and even death, if located in an inoperable area of the brain. Malignant brain tumors, which are cancerous and aggressive, together with benign ones possess the ability to spread. They are the most common form of tumors, or neoplasia, found in kids, making them the third most common juvenile cancer behind leukemia and related cancers of the blood. But unlike leukemia, which today has an 85 percent cure rate for the most common type found in children, the prognosis following a brain tumor diagnosis is murkier. The severity of brain tumors in children largely depends on what region of the brain the tumor develops in, how aggressive the tumor is, and whether it is benign or malignant. And often for children whose brains are still developing, treatment with therapies such as radiation and chemotherapy can be as dangerous as the tumor itself. Dr. Tobey MacDonald, a pediatric oncologist and hematologist with the Aflac Cancer Center of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, is optimistic about the future. “Atlanta is home to the third-largest pediatric brain tumor center in the country,” MacDonald says. “There is a lot of great research happening now here at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta regarding targeted, specific therapies that allow for drugs to attack the tumor without affecting the surrounding, healthy brain cells.” Today, MacDonald is using several highly promising investigational therapies to treat his patients.

Treatment by Clinical Trial

Abigail is a diehard Auburn University fan who sings solos at Sunday church services, but prefers rocking out to Elvis Presley and Justin Bieber at home.

22 justkids magazine

Eight-year-old Abigail Kelley of Ball Ground is being treated for juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma – several low-grade malignant tumors in her brain and spine. Abigail was diagnosed at 4 years old; she has since undergone several surgeries and four rounds of chemotherapy. (Abigail’s tumors can’t be treated with radiation therapy.) She is currently taking part in one of MacDonald’s clinical trials, which treats the tumors with a year of oral chemotherapy. She started this cycle of chemo in February, and for the first time, her tumors are shrinking. Abigail, who is a third grader, is now homeschooled by her mother Amy Kelley after completing kindergarten and first grade in the local public school. Kelley says the long school days were tough for Abigail, who gets tired easily because of the chemo – though you’d never believe it upon meeting the spunky little girl. Abigail is a diehard Auburn University fan who sings solos at Sunday church services, but prefers rocking out to Elvis Presley and Justin Bieber at home. “Our lives are really pretty normal,” insists Kelley, who is a nurse at Northside Hospital-Cherokee. “We’re used to a schedule full of doctor’s appointments and therapy sessions now.” Abigail does physical therapy to help correct a foot drop problem, or difficulty lifting the front part of the foot, which developed as a side effect from one of her chemo

treatments. She also does hippotherapy (therapy on horseback) to help strengthen her leg muscles and improve coordination. “I go to a lot more doctor’s appointments than other kids,” Abigail says. “But mom takes me to Build-A-Bear afterwards.” Three years ago, the Kelley family started a nonprofit called Cure It for Kids, which raises money exclusively for the Aflac Cancer Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta through an annual yard sale, golf tournament and silent auction. The money helps fund clinical trials, like the one Abigail is taking part in now.

Finding Normalcy Kenneth Stewart also is taking part in one of MacDonald’s clinical trials. Kenneth, now 10, was first diagnosed with medulloblastoma (malignant tumors in his cerebellum and spine) two years ago. Kenneth had been sick on and off for about three months leading up to his diagnosis. His symptoms included headaches, nausea and vomiting. Doctors thought it could possibly be the result of severe allergies, until a trip to the optometrist revealed fluid behind his eyes. When Kenneth’s mother Ana Miles rushed him to Scottish Rite Hospital, doctors found several tumors in his brain and spine within an hour of arriving at the emergency room. Kenneth had about 10 minutes to prepare for a 13-hour surgery. “I wasn’t scared then. I was more just curious,” says Kenneth. After the surgery, which removed two “You take a tumors, Kenneth and his family who can mother relocated from their Dawsonville home to the handle pretty Ronald McDonald House in much anything Atlanta to begin a rigorous life throws at them 18 months of treatment that included six weeks of daily and then add brain radiation and chemotherapy, cancer to the mix and followed by about a year and everything changes.” a half of chemotherapy. During treatment, Kenneth – Ana Miles, Kenneth’s mom had to leave school. But the little athlete never missed a baseball game; every weekend Miles drove Kenneth back to Dawsonville, dressed him in his uniform and let him remain a part of his little league team. (Kenneth’s grandmother pitched in to care for his younger brother.) “You take a family who can handle pretty much anything life throws at them and then add brain cancer to the mix and everything changes,” Miles says. “But you quickly become accustomed to life with cancer. The doctors’ appointments, the blood tests, the medicine. It all becomes normal in a sense.” After Kenneth completed the 18 months of treatment, he was well for a little less than a year. A brain scan in January 2011 revealed new spots on his brain. By March, his cancer had officially relapsed. MacDonald and his team of doctors decided to make Kenneth part of a clinical trial for medulloblastoma – this time treating the tumors with a year and a half of chemotherapy, and no surgery or radiation. So far, this round of treatment has left Kenneth feeling tired with little appetite. But when he is feeling like his old self, his favorite activities involve playing baseball and Xbox, watching iCarly, and chowing down on a Big Mac or CiCi’s Pizza. This summer, he will help his mom plan the family’s third annual softball tournament to raise money for other kids battling brain cancer. “Kenneth has taught me so much about sacrifice and how there is something more powerful than us to believe in,” Miles says. “Even though he did relapse, he got the chance to live and to fight, and for that I feel grateful.”

Why Kids Get Brain Tumors How do kids like Abigail and Kenneth get so sick? Every year, about 3,000 children are diagnosed with pediatric brain tumors. There’s no way to predict who will get a tumor, or why. “There are no environmental causes of brain tumors in children. When a tumor appears, it is most likely because of a developmental or genetic predisposition,” MacDonald says. “It starts with a normal cell in the brain that has genetically gone awry, and begins to grow and reproduce rapidly and abnormally.” The symptoms of a brain tumor can be similar to those of typical childhood viruses – nausea, headaches and fever. But they don’t come on all at once. In most cases, symptoms build up over time, which can make it hard for parents and doctors to make a correct diagnosis. MacDonald says it’s common for tumors to be mistaken for viral illnesses. But when your child is experiencing headaches, nausea and vomiting without a fever present, there is more cause for concern. If your child’s doctor suspects a brain tumor, he will perform an imaging study of the child’s brain, called a CT scan or an MRI, to pinpoint the tumor’s location inside the brain.

A Tricky Diagnosis Sometimes, the symptoms of a brain tumor can be completely unrelated. In the months leading up to her diagnosis, 8-year-old Ana Hardt of Lawrenceville had experienced headaches, a sore throat, difficulty hearing, trouble breathing, a lazy eye and a slight limp. Each of the symptoms was caused by the tumor growing on her brain stem. In September 2010, Ana’s entire left side stopped working, causing her mother Diana Hardt to believe that she was having a stroke. When Ana arrived at the emergency room, she was diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma, a malignant, inoperable tumor on her brain stem, which controls basic vital life functions such as breathing, heartbeat and blood pressure. Cont’d on page 24

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When Your Child Has a Brain Tumor “All of the signs were so sporadic, no one could figure out what was wrong with Ana,” Hardt says. “Every four or five days she would complain about something different.” Ana immediately began a clinical trial treatment procedure that included nearly two months of radiation and chemotherapy. Ana, who was adopted from Guatemala at age 2, seemed to be taking everything in stride. She never complained about treatment, and described the face mask worn during radiation as her “Spider-Man mask.” (The mesh, metal mask protects the face during radiation. During therapy, it is bolted to the table to make sure patients do not move during treatment, allowing kids only tiny mesh holes to see out of.) “Ana doesn’t ask many questions,” Hardt says. “But she understands. When her hair started falling out, she would clean the loose hairs from her brush every day.” But the rest of the Hardt family – the family has two other children – is grappling with which questions to ask and which to avoid. Ana’s 14-year-old brother Nick talked to his science teacher about DNA and cancer, and why some people’s genes mutate. “I don’t ask questions about life expectancy for this type of cancer,” says Chuck Hardt, Ana’s dad. “I just don’t want to know.” In the months since her diagnosis, Ana’s health has yo-yoed from near death in January

“I don’t ask questions about life expectancy for this type of cancer. I just don’t want to know.” – Chuck Hardt, Ana’s dad

to being relatively stable and able to return to school in May. She has battled infections and dangerous swelling of the brain. January was a dark month for the family. “Just as Ana seemed to be getting over one infection, a second, and then a third one set in. The light at the end of the tunnel was not in sight and Ana began sinking into a deep depression,” Hardt says. “She was not talking much, she didn’t want to play anymore and wasn’t laughing. … It was as if she had given up and was just allowing herself to die. The thoughts of death, of having only two children and breaking the news to her siblings, all crept back into my thoughts again.” Ana is in the running for a grant from the Make-a-Wish foundation to go on a Disney cruise (her idea). To help Ana go on a cruise, visit ga-al.wish.org/ways-to-help.

The Hardest Part Despite all the hope and progress, too often the battle over brain cancer ends with heartbreak. Jaquan Taylor was 10 years old on January 11, 2010, when he was diagnosed with a grade 3 anaplastic astrocytoma – a malignant tumor in the cerebellum. He died on January 11, 2011, exactly one year later. Originally from Fort Valley, Ga., Jaquan and his mother Quene Harrison relocated to Atlanta soon after he was diagnosed so he could be treated at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Astrocytomas are the most common type of brain tumors in kids. They can develop in several different regions of the brain, including the cerebellum, and can be malignant or benign. Depending on the grade of the tumor, they are typically treated with surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Jaquan’s tumor, which started in the cerebellum, eventually spread to his brain stem, which made it inoperable. Because Jaquan’s tumor had spread to several different parts of his brain by the time he was diagnosed, MacDonald was able to remove the affected part of his cerebellum. Following the surgery, Jaquan received radiation therapy five days a week for six weeks. During radiation

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“Jaquan was such a fighter – he was such a strong person through all of his treatments,” Harrison says. “But toward the end, he knew he had taken a turn for the worse. He was just so tired. He didn’t like being away from his friends and family. His will had just gone down so much.” Since Jaquan’s death, Harrison and her two other children, Quiana, 17, and Jaylin, 5, have permanently relocated to Atlanta and are living in Clayton County. Harrison says one of the hardest parts of readjusting to life after Jaquan’s death has been helping Jaylin deal with the loss of his older brother. “He talks about death a lot now, which is not normal for a 5-year-old,” Harrison says. “He doesn’t understand why we can’t go visit Jaquan at God’s house.”

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“Jaquan was such a fighter – he was such a strong person through all of his treatments. But toward the end, he knew he had taken a turn for the worse. He was just so tired. He didn’t like being away from his friends and family. His will had just gone down so much.” – Quene Harrison, Jaquan’s mom therapy, he also received chemotherapy intravenously once a week. When the six weeks of radiation were complete, he had chemo treatments every day. A few months before he died, Jaquan was indifferent about his grueling therapy sessions. “They are different from anything I’ve ever done before. But they aren’t scary,” said Jaquan. The family lived at the Ronald McDonald House – a home for pediatric patients and their families close to Egelston Hospital – while Jaquan was being treated. Jaquan remained in school (he was in sixth grade at Shamrock Middle School) until the end of November, when his condition severely worsened. He did homework while receiving chemotherapy, and he played the oboe in the school band. He was a total sports nut, and when he became unable to play basketball – his favorite – he played sports video games.

When kids do beat brain cancer, the aftereffects of treatment can sometimes be just as devastating as the illness. Late effects of pediatric brain tumor therapies can include cognitive delays, seizures, growth abnormalities, hormone deficiencies, and visual and auditory problems. “The effects of radiation on a developing brain can be as subtle as needing educational assistance at school to needing full-time care,” MacDonald says. “Sometimes you’ll see an ‘A’ student drop to become a ‘C’ student. Sometimes kids have psychosocial difficulties like depression or anxiety. The issue is that now, more kids are surviving brain tumors, so we are able to track their progress more than we were in the past.” But MacDonald hopes new, targeted therapies will improve the odds so that kids will not suffer the aftereffects of radiation. He is part of a five-year study funded by the National Institutes of Health regarding the use of nanotechnology and micro-catheters inserted directly into tumors, in place of administering radiation and chemotherapy drugs, so that the tumor can be removed while sparing side effects to the rest of the healthy brain. He compares the study to a Raid ant trap – using “bait” to entice the tumor to “walk” out of the brain through the catheters. “One of the properties of tumors is that they like to ‘walk,’” MacDonald says. “We want to use that property – and the fact that all other healthy brain cells will stay in place – to entice the tumors out of the brain.” Ana Miles is grateful that Kenneth is able to take part in MacDonald’s clinical trials. “It is understandable that parents are nervous when they hear their children will be part of a clinical trial to treat their brain cancer,” Miles says. “But once you get over that fear of being part of a study, you will realize that it is truly the best thing to do. I tell Kenny that he plays a very important role, and thanks to him and other kids like him, we are one step closer to finding a cure.” JK

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The Georgia Special Needs Scholarship Program is for special needs children to apply toward their education, either in a private or public school, assuming the school meets the requirements set by the Georgia Department of Education. If students meet the GSNS requirements, their education will be open to the following options: attendance at another public school within the district that has space and provides the services identified in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP); attendance at an eligible public school in an adjacent district that has space and provides the services identified in the student’s IEP; attendance at a participating private school in Georgia; or attendance at one of Georgia’s three state schools for the deaf and blind. One major plus of the program is that parents do not have to justify why their child’s current education program is ineffective or why they want to switch schools. As long as students meet the specified requirements, they are eligible. Parents must visit the website, public.doe. k12.ga.us/sb10.aspx, where they will receive more detailed information regarding the program and then submit a brief “intent to participate” form, stating that their child is eligible and plans on taking advantage of the program. A scholarship calculator is available on the website for use in determining the estimated award amounts, as well as a list of participating private schools. Note that private schools are not required to participate in the program, so there is a chance that your top choice school will not be available. JK

Spotlight on T

Special Needs Resources

Adaptive Learning Center’s Inclusive Preschool Program for Children with Special Needs

he Adaptive Learning Center (ALC) serves families of children with special needs who ask for flexibility, choices in programming, coordinated therapy and social interaction for their children. ALC is a nonprofit organization maximizing the potential of young children with disabilities and creating awareness and acceptance between typical children and children with disabilities through: • Early intervention programs integrating therapy and education in warm, nurturing, inclusive preschools. • Support services helping family members understand and cope with issues related to raising a child with special needs • Education and consultation to help build resources to foster acceptance and support of people with differences. ALC provides therapy and education for infants and young children with, or at risk for disabilities such as Autism, Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Fragile X, or are medically fragile. ALC provides an inclusive preschool program, outpatient speech and occupational therapy, developmental evaluations, and parent support. ALC is a model program that consults with early childhood programs that seek to integrate children with disabilities through inclusion. These critical programs offer socialization with peers, and support to parents of children with special needs. Together, ALC facilitators and partner preschool teachers support children at the ALC Inclusive Preschool Program

at Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool, First Presbyterian Preschool and preschools of Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta: Sunshine School at Shirley Blumenthal Park, and Weinstein School at Zaban Park. In partnership with these preschools, ALC’s inclusion program supports children with disabilities, enabling them to learn and play alongside their typically-developing peers. Since 1982, ALC has served more than 8,000 children with special needs and their families. For information please contact ALC at 770-509-3909 or www.adaptivelearningcenter.org

Alexsander Academy

Art It Out Therapy Services

lexsander Academy, located in Alpharetta, is an accredited, academically rigorous program serving students who struggle to learn. The students may have LD, processing or sensory issues, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders or cognitive issues. The focus is on academics and how each student learns as an individual. Alexsander Academy believes that every child learns differently, using whatever method works for the individual student. “Programs don’t teach children…people do” says Education Director, Maya Mehanna. This philosophy allows them to match the method to the child, not the other way around. Grades 2nd – 8th. Hours 9:45am- 3:15pm Monday - Friday. Before and after care available. Maximum class size is 8 students to one certified teacher with support staff as needed. Art, music, social skills and drama classes are included. Therapeutic services offered through Psychological Sciences Institute and Kidz Therapy Network. Tutoring available in Alpharetta and Suwanee. Alexsander Academy accepts SB10, offers scholarships through HB1133. Additional programs help parents with tuition costs. Tuitions start at $12,500/ year for 8:1 ratio. Tours held weekly by appointment. For information contact Stefanie Smith at 404-839-5910 or e-mail smith@alexsanderacademy.org. Website www.alexsanderacademy.org.

or children who love and feel comfortable with art, Art It Out Therapy Services will provide them with the tools to communicate and process their inner thoughts and feelings that can otherwise be difficult to express. Through art therapy children gain confidence, self-control, coping skills, and the ability to problem-solve using art as well as verbal communication. Art It Out Therapy Services serves children and adolescents(ages 3-18) with a variety of needs, such as:anxiety, ADHD, autistic spectrum disorders, low self-esteem, difficulties with peers, or anger management difficulties. Art It Out Therapy Services uses art to engage children and focuses counseling interventions on your child’s strengths and specific therapy goals, set by the child, parents, and therapist together. Common goals include: improving self-esteem & confidence; developing anger management strategies; learning to express emotion appropriately; reducing anxiety; learning impulse control; and interacting with peers appropriately. Art therapy sessions are conducted by a licensed professional counselor. Our lead therapist, Teresa H. Woodruff, LPC, ATR, provides individual art therapy, group therapy, and 2-week intensive summer therapy groups. Art It Out Therapy Services is located in Marietta. Visit www.artitout.org or contact 770-726-9589 for information.

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Spotlight on B

Special Needs Resources

Brain Balance Achievement Centers of Atlanta Help Children Overcome ADHD, Asperger’s, Dyslexia and Autism

rain Balance is an after school program that utilizes the latest brain research to help children with neurobehavioral problems such as ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, OCD, ODD, NVLD, Dyslexia, Learning Disabilities, RAD, and even Autism to function better academically, socially and behaviorally. Brain Balance founder, Dr. Robert Melillo is the author of the groundbreaking book Disconnected Kids. When you look at what is actually happening in the brains of children with ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Dyslexia, OCD, Autism, Social Issues, Language Issues or Learning Disabilities, you see a similar problem: Namely, that there are areas in the brain, especially between the two hemispheres, that are not connected the way they should be. As a result, one of the two hemispheres of the brain becomes STRONGER AND FASTER and the other becomes WEAKER AND SLOWER. When this happens the two hemispheres become functionally disconnected and are unable to communicate effectively. It’s as if one hemisphere is using a high speed DSL connection and the other is using an old dial-up modem. The characteristics of the stronger, faster hemisphere naturally become amplified while the characteristics of the weaker,

slower hemisphere are muted. This lack of balance translates into the noticeable academic, social and behavioral issues that these children exhibit. Generally, the Right Hemisphere sees the Big Picture, the whole but not the parts. It controls and moves the big muscles of the body, posture and gait. It is also the spatial hemisphere. The Right Hemisphere houses the centers for non verbal communication and is therefore the social side of the brain; it also likes novelty and becomes bored very easily, it is the creative brain. The Left Hemisphere ignores the whole and concentrates on the details. It is good at pattern recognition and likes routine and repetition. The Left Hemisphere controls the small muscles, likes to systematize things and is linear and logical. Brain Balance can help you child succeed academically, behaviorally and socially. Brain Balance of Atlanta centers offer free educational seminars for parents on Tuesdays. Visit their web site at www.brainbalancecenters.com. For more information call 770-631-3033 in Peachtree City, 770-614-4790 in Suwanee or 770-650-8010 in Roswell.

Atlanta Center for Holistic and Integrative Medicine

The Bedford School

pecializing in pediatrics and women’s health, the Atlanta Center for Holistic and Integrative Medicine offers patients a unique medical experience. Led by Dr. Tasneem Bhatia, the center approaches common medical conditions from multiple perspectives, using both conventional, “western” medicine and medicine from other cultures to create individualized treatment plans for patients. Dr.Bhatia completed her residency in pediatrics in 2000 and has practiced pediatric emergency medicine for almost 11 years. She has had extensive training in the field of integrative medicine. She completed her fellowship in Integrative Medicine with Dr. Andrew Weil in December of 2008 and is also boarded in Holistic medicine and certified in acupuncture and nutrition. The Atlanta Center for Holistic & Integrative Medicine treats pediatric patients with a number of health issues including: Autism, ADD, ADHD, Asthma, Eczema and Digestive problems. Dr. Bhatia also offers the following to all of her pediatric patients: Behavioral Analysis, Immunization Scheduling Options, Routine Well Checks, Motor Skill Testing, Nutritional Counseling, Breast Feeding Support, Growth Charting, Meridian Testing, Needle Free Acupuncture. For a complete list of services and conditions frequently treated, please call 404-814-9808 or visit the website at www.atlantaholisticmedicine.com. 2556 Apple Valley Rd., Suite 175, Atlanta, GA 30319.

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he Bedford School is located on Milam Road in Fairburn, Georgia. The school serves children with learning disabilities in grades1-9. Students are grouped by skill levels in classes of 12 or less. At Bedford, students receive the proper academic remediation,as well as specific remedial help with physical skills, peer interaction and self-esteem. Students must be diagnosed professionally as having specific learning disabilities. The Bedford School is based on the idea that every human being should have the opportunity to become the very best person possible. For the child with the learning disability, this is difficult without proper intervention. The goal of the school is to help each child maximize his potential through a combination of teamwork, structured materials, organized activities and a dedicated staff. The school day is from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. and includes: Language Arts, Math and written expression. Extracurricular activities include basketball, soccer, volleyball, cheerleading and track and field. A four-week summer program is available through Squirrel Hollow, where children can receive tutoring in the areas of Language Arts, Math and written expression. This is all done in a camp-like setting. The summer program is open to students in grades 1-9 who need an academic boost. For more information, call Betsy Box at 770-774-8001 or visit the website at www.thebedfordschool.org.

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Children’s Special Services, LLC

David Kurtzman, DDS Gentle Care for Special Needs

usan Orloff heard stories from parents about how they couldn’t get proper occupational therapy for their children in public schools settings, so she did something about it. She started the Children’s Special Services, LLC, to serve children with all their developmental needs. Recently she has started a two morning a week Modified Developmental Preschool. The mission is to serve children ages 3 to 5 in a sensory-based program to help them transition into typical preschool and elementary school situations. In addition to the preschool, her occupational therapy practice specializes in the Handwriting (W.I.N. TM Write Incredibly Now TM), the Social Skills program (P.O.P. TM Personal Options and PreferencesTM), S.H.I.N.E.TM (Sensory, independence, novel experiences group, sensory group) and programs for groups & individual sensory-developmentally based therapeutic interventions. Complete evaluation and screening services, seminars, consultation and IEP assistance are available. Children’s Special Services, LLC is intent on helping each child successfully reach their full potential. CSS works with children with mild to moderate issues, inclusive of, but not limited to: Asperger’s, PDD, ADD, ADHD, Autism, motor and sensory delays, sensory integrative dysfunction, and more. The Director, Susan N. Orloff, OTR/L, a former resource teacher, has been an occupational therapist for over 35 years. She is the author of the book, “Learning Re-Enabled,” endorsed by the National Education Association and the International Learning Disabilities Association. For more information, visit www.childrens-services.com or call 770-394-9791.

evelopmentally Disabled kids (and young adults) can get the dental care they need! From cavities and gum disease to dental abscesses to pain – everyone requires good dental care and special attention. Dr. David Kurtzman is proud to provide dental care to kids and families with special needs. For over twenty years, Dr. David Kurtzman and Martha Wallace have been caring for Developmentally Disabled citizens in Georgia. Even the most extreme patients are served effectively using modern dental technology in the Kennestone Hospital. Dr. Kurtzman handles patients with a variety of mental and physical limitations including Cerebral Palsy, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Down syndrome, Fragile X Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Mental Retardation and Brain Stem injuries. Scores of kids and their parents have found the gentle, empathetic and understanding care they want and need. Martha provides a personal and caring touch as well as detailed support around insurance, finances and scheduling. Each patient’s safety is attended to not only by Dr. Kurtzman and Martha but by the highly trained Physicians and Staff of the hospital operating room. Taking care of these very special kids is our mission and joy. For more information and an appointment call 770-5921711. Serving all of metro Atlanta and Georgia. 611 Campbell Hill St., NW, Ste. 101, Marietta, GA 30060.

Michael P. Healey, D.D.S., P.C.

Eckerd Academy

ediatric dentist Dr. Michael Healey has been in private practice in Sandy Springs since 1982. A graduate of the Case Western Reserve School of Dental Medicine, Dr. Healey began his career with a year of oral surgery training and two years general practice in the U.S. Army. He later attended a three year pediatric residency program at the University of Connecticut. Since moving to Atlanta, he has been an active staff member at both Scottish Rite and Egleston hospitals. At Dr. Healey’s practice, each Thursday morning is dedicated to special needs patients. Versed sedation is offered where applicable in office, and parents are encouraged to be with their children for all visits. Hospital treatment is scheduled on an as-needed basis. Orthodontic care is available as cooperation permits. All non-discounted insurance plans are accepted and filed electronically. Unfortunately, Medicaid and Peach Care are not presently accepted as payment. Dr. Healey’s features a fully-restored, 1928 Parker Carousel, attached to the office in a carousel house. This county-fair style carousel has 20 jumping horses and two carriages. It is open for rides twice annually. Dr. Healey’s practice is located at 1145 Hightower Trail, off exit 6, Ga. 400. See www.dochealey.com or call 770-993-9395 for details.

ince 1968, Eckerd Academy has provided highly effective instruction and therapy to help children with emotional and behavioral issues reach their full potential. Eckerd Academy specializes in helping children ages 10–18 who have struggled at other schools or with traditional counseling efforts. The typical Eckerd Academy student is making poor peer choices, having difficulty with anger management, has self-esteem issues, and may be experimenting with drugs and alcohol. Common diagnoses of our students are: ADD, ADHD, depression, ODD, bi-polar disorder, substance abuse, impulse control disorder, and general anxiety and social anxiety disorders. Eckerd Academy has two campuses – in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Suches, GA and in the rolling woodlands of Brooksville, FL – and both are considered to be among the nation’s leading schools for troubled youth, where children learn to re-direct their behavior, take responsibility for their actions and return home as better daughters and sons. Eckerd Academy offers a fully-accredited educational experience for each student that is coupled with an individualized treatment plan combining individual, group and family counseling, therapeutic outdoor adventures and social and life skills training. Our students’ success is enhanced by a very low 10:1 student-teacher ratio, gender-specific learning and residential groups, state-of-the-art instructional technology including online computer labs, electronic libraries and more. Eckerd also builds knowledge, character, and self-esteem through outdoor adventures such as therapeutic ropes courses, nature hikes and canoe trips. For more information, visit EckerdAcademy.org or call 800-914-3937.

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Spotlight on FODAC

Special Needs Resources

(Friends of Disabled Adults and Children)

Hayden’s Way

ounded in 1986, nonprofit organization FODAC has provided durable medical equipment (DME) and disposable medical supplies to thousands of disabled children at little or no cost to their parents or guardians. Located in Stone Mountain, FODAC’s 64,000 square foot facility houses a full-service shop that repairs and refurbishes current and older model wheelchairs as well as a warehouse with an inventory of supply items such as pediatric crutches, incontinence products and bandages. FODAC operates as a “green” company, leading the way in recycling and reuse in the DME community; the organization takes donations of used DME, no matter the condition, and annually recycles over 185 tons of metal and batteries. Whether dealing with a permanent or temporary disability, FODAC provides home health (mobility and daily living) equipment to any child or adult to address medical issues but also to improve quality of life. Schools are required to supply equipment to special needs children, but often these children do not have access to this equipment at home or over the summer. A child may be underinsured, have no insurance at all or simply be waiting for the start of benefits. As children outgrow their wheelchairs, strollers, gait trainers or other equipment, FODAC can provide replacements, no matter the child’s size, age or gender. For more information, visit www.fodac.org or call 770-491-9014.

ake your child’s learning come alive by engaging all his senses with a multisensory education. At Hayden’s Way, the teachers integrate multisensory techniques into each subject to practice and promote creativity, art, writing, critical thinking, problem solving and deductive reasoning. By engaging all the senses in the learning process - visual, auditory and tactile - we help students with all learning styles and differences reach new heights. Understand math with manipulatives that help foster logical and mathematical thinking. Learn grammar and composition with hands-on projects that make literature come alive. Discover science through investigation and experimentation. Uncover history through projects that make history tangible. Build character in a nurturing and caring environment. Hayden’s Way is a fully accredited private school and receives SB 10 funding. They operate on a three day school week and offer optional social activities such as Improvisation, Chess and Field Trips on a fourth day. Hayden’s Way teachers are trained in Orton Gillingham tactile learning techniques and incorporate Lindamood-Bell visualizing and verbalizing techniques to help our students reach their highest academic potential. Teachers and tutors are available for one on one math and language arts tutoring throughout the week. For information, please contact Lei Rhyne at 770-351-6304 or www.haydensway.com.

Hearts and Hands Therapy Services, Inc.

Institute For Behavioral Medicine Bipolar Disorder Studies

earts and Hands Therapy is proud to announce the opening of a new clinic in Henry County in the summer of 2011! There is also a Woodstock location. Services include occupational and speech therapy services to children with various special needs. A team based treatment approach is used to provide the best possible services. Services target skills needed for coordination, self-help, safety, play/social interaction, eye-hand coordination, focus, attention, school readiness/ performance, sensory processing, calming/regulatory behaviors, articulation difficulties, pragmatics, augmentative communication devices and more. Children develop these necessary skills so their transition into adulthood becomes a path to an independent, rewarding life. Some of the reasons your child may need occupational therapy include: defensive to textures, poor attention, poor/immature fine and gross motor skills, difficulty selfcalming, exaggerated behaviors, limited play skills, poor social development, limited independence in self-care skills, difficulty transitioning/accepting change in environment or routine. Handwriting Without Tears, Therapeutic Listening Program, AAC device training/programming, sensory integration, fine motor skills development, coordination/ gross motor skills, oral motor/feeding, and Interactive Metronome are offered. Call 678-462-1342 for details,visit www.heartsandhandstherapy.com.

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oes your child have behavior or mood symptoms that impact school performance, relationships, and family life? Have you considered clinical trials? Clinical Trials are scientific evaluations conducted with volunteer adults, teens or children. Medications currently used to treat behaviors and symptoms of psychiatric disorders are available because people volunteer to participate in clinical trials. Clinical trial participation is an alternative to outpatient treatment, offering evaluations, close monitoring, and study drug at no cost to the participant. Clinical trials answer important medical questions about potential treatments, including what drug to use, its effective dose, if it works better than medicines that are already available, what side effects it causes, and asks if the benefits outweigh potential side effects. Information obtained through research often leads to new and improved therapies. Volunteering to be part of studies is one way you can contribute to further understanding and treatment of bipolar disorder. Evaluate alternatives. There are benefits and risks associated with participation in clinical trials that your family will want to consider before choosing to volunteer. Talk with your physician to see if study participation is right for you. For information, contact the Institute for Behavioral Medicine at 770-319-8025.

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Law Offices of Mark E. Biernath, P.C.

Morning Star Montessori

ven with volatility permeating our economy, unprecedented governmental spending, and skyrocketing healthcare costs, there are steps you can take to protect your children’s future. What will happen to your children when you cannot care for them? This firm focuses on creating and implementing estate plans that address the needs of all your children and will preserve eligibility for important government programs like SSI and Medicaid for your child with special needs, yet still allow them to benefit from all that you are able to leave for them. The Law Offices of Mark E. Biernath create customized, integrated plans to protect your family, give you flexibility, and empower your trusted family or friends to meet your needs, and the needs of your children. From a foundation of a special needs trust, tailored to meet your child’s unique needs, they build a plan utilizing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other advanced legal documents. Now, more than ever, you need to plan to meet the needs of your children, don’t leave it up to a court. A simple call to 770-455-0535 to schedule your no-cost initial consultation will get you started. Visit their website at www.biernathlaw. com for more information. There are 7 locations to serve you: Kennesaw, Alpharetta, Duluth, Buckhead, Cobb/Galleria, Dunwoody and Doraville.

alerie left the director’s office with her son’s backpack and cubbie items. “I’m sorry, we can’t meet your child’s needs.” The preschool director’s words stung as the message was unmistakable that Valerie’s child was the “problem.” This was the 3rd school this year that had dismissed her son. Immediately she started looking for a school where her son fit in with other children for the early intervention that experts say is so important. Finding a school for a PDD/autistic preschooler is difficult. Placement seems unattainable for a child who has trouble speaking, wearing socks, has a distant gaze, and refuses certain foods. The symptoms vary by child, but more and more young children are asked to leave traditional preschools. Valerie found Morning Star Montessori School, a Christcentered, special needs preschool that uses the foundations of Montessori education and the therapeutic approach from The HANDLE Institute. Located in East Cobb, the staff welcomed the family and loved their son. This unique program is committed to seeing each child as a whole person, not just a label. “My child flourished here. After a year and half at Morning Star, he is moving to his new school next year; one for ‘typical’ little boys!” Visit their web site at www.msmontessorischool.org.

The Pediatric Vision Development Center of Gwinnett

he Pediatric Vision Development Center of Gwinnett was founded with the mission to help children who suffer from learningrelated vision problems that may affect their performance in school and other daily activities. Dr. Nadira Shadeed is a developmental optometrist who is residency trained in pediatric optometry and received her fellowship in vision development and vision therapy. Along with her professional skills, Dr. Shadeed excels at working with kids and takes time to get to know each child in order to get their best performance during every session. Dr. Shadeed evaluates and treats Amblyopia (lazy eye), Strabismus (eye-turn), Binocular (eye-teaming) dysfunction that can interfere with depth perception such as catching a ball, Ocular motor (eye-tracking) dysfunction that can interfere with reading and comprehension, and visual processing dysfunction that can interfere with academic performance such as spelling and math. Dr. Shadeed performs in-depth testing for functional and developmental visual skills to determine how well the child’s eyes work together and to evaluate their visual perceptual skills. One-on-one in-office vision therapy is the primary treatment as improvements in a child’s visual performance is Dr. Shadeed’s primary goal. For more information, call 770-904-0979 or visit their website www.visiontherapy4kids.com.

Porter Academy

orter Academy’s mission is to create the right environment where children can succeed. They serve students PreK - 8th, who have difficulties with attention, sensory processing, auditory discrimination, language processing, dyslexia, motor skills, visual processing, social interactions and self-esteem. At Porter Academy, students take on responsibility for their own learning and become active participants, rather than passive recipients, in the learning process. They help students realize their strengths and build self-confidence. In order to develop a comprehensive understanding of each child, all students are assessed in the areas of speech/ language, OT, PE, and academics. Speech and language classes develop receptive and expressive language and processing skills. OT’s coordinate the iLs (Integrated Listening Systems) program with sensory, visual, and motor activities which help students build foundational skills. Daily bilateral movement exercises in the classroom, PE, and OT develop physical aptitude and strengthen the pathways that allow faster communication between the two hemispheres of the brain, thereby improving processing abilities. The goal at Porter Academy is to help each child develop the skills and confidence that serve as a foundation for lifelong success. For more information, or to take a tour of the school, call: 770-594-1313 or visit: www.porteracademy.org.

[ Special Advertising Section ]

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Spotlight on

Special Needs Resources

Professional Family Consultants

Tender Ones Therapy Services

rofessional Family Consultants is a domestic staffing agency specializing in matching highly-qualified nannies with families who have children with special needs. Examples of the types of needs their nannies are trained to care for are: ADHD; Autism; Sensory Integration Disorder; Developmental Delays; Behavioral Issues; and Physical Disabilities. Each nanny is college-educated in a child-focused discipline and has exceptional childcare experience. Your family will personally meet with a matching consultant to fully understand your individualized childcare needs and to ensure they meet your expectations. After the initial consultation they review potential matches and provide candidates for your family to interview. They make all the arrangements for you and will coordinate the interviews around your schedule. All of their nannies undergo extensive background checks. You can rest assured they would not place a nanny in your home that they would not be comfortable with in their own. Please visit www.professionalfamilyconsultants.com for more information. Their office is located at 855 Peachtree Street, Suite 2005, Atlanta, Georgia 30308. To find a special nanny for your special child please email Todd Robinson at info@professionalfamilyconsultants.com or call 404-788-1391.

ender Ones Therapy Services is a complete pediatric therapy center providing Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy. A multi-disciplinary approach is used where therapists coordinate sessions and treatments for children. Services are provided as weekly sessions or through a customized Intensive Therapy Program consisting of three- four hours of Therapy per day, five days a week for two or three week sessions. Physical Therapists are specially trained to provide Suit Therapy using the Therasuit. Many Occupational Therapists are SIPT certified or collaborate with the SIPT certified therapists to provide quality Sensory Integration Therapy. An Aquatic Physical Therapy program will begin this fall and reservations for appointments are available now. Services are provided in a state of the art facility that boasts two Universal Exercise Units providing “spider” therapy, a separate spacious Sensory Gym that is utilizes multiple suspension pieces of equipment, two LiteGait Systems for Partial Weight Bearing Treadmill training, the Interactive Metronome and more. A well equipped facility allows therapists to maximize time during a treatment session with children. Tender Ones provides an exceptional level of Pediatric Therapy to a wide range of diagnoses. Located off of I-85 at exit 120 in Dacula. For more information visit www.tenderones. com or call 770-904-6009.

[ Special Advertising Section ]

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32 justkids magazine

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Before the Storm Strikes A Team Approach to Meltdowns Lessens Their Impact

by Ellen Notbohm

Meltdowns are frequently part of the landscape when you have a child with autism in your classroom or home. Understanding that this behavior is the result of a sensory or emotional overload, not deliberate or malicious sabotage, is the first step toward constructive handling of an incident when it occurs. And having a plan in place is essential to minimizing the impact of these events to both child and his environment, wherever the meltdown occurs.

The keys to success? Good leadership, planning, rehearsal and doing it all together. Parents might take some pointers from an article published in Children’s Voice, a bi-monthly magazine that covers news and issues that affect children, youth, and families. The article, “Preparing for a Natural Disaster,” cites areas for pre-planning to handle a storm. Those areas seem, eerily, to parallel our children’s meltdowns. Look at the following and see if you don’t agree: ■ What a storm (meltdown) is and what it can do (what the child might do during a meltdown) ■ How to address a storm’s (meltdown’s) many challenges: how to detect its approach, how to prevent some of the damage, how to keep children and property safe, steps to recovery ■ That expectations may turn out wrong during the actual event (your Plan A handling of the meltdown is not effective) ■ How each person on the staff (not to mention the child!) thinks and acts, especially under pressure ■ Who within and outside the agency (classroom, school, home) can be counted on ■ Know that leadership is a chain of command and that you might have to be in command if others are incapacitated (or if Plan A doesn’t work, you want to be able to move swiftly to Plan B, C or D) Having a plan in place to handle meltdowns is not a substitute for what should be the ongoing process of trying to identify the source of the meltdowns. Frequent triggers include sensory overload, inability to communicate needs, unarticulated physical pain or inability to meet academic or social expectations. But being able to act calmly and compassionately to help the child when the storm does strike is a huge piece of building the trust in both you and in himself. Ultimately, this will give him the tools to overcome such obstacles.

Heed possible warning signs of an impending meltdown. ■ Inappropriate movement: out of seat, moving around room, leaving room, walking away when someone is talking to him ■ Destructive behavior: tearing books or paper, breaking pencils or rulers, kicking over chairs ■ Abusive language: swearing, shouting, insulting others, making threats ■ Physical signs: crying, hyperventilating or holding breath, sweating, loss of balance or orientation, skin flushes or goes pale ■ Covering ears or eyes ■ Pushing persons or objects away ■ Hurting self or others Cont’d on page 34

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Before the Storm Strikes Having a plan in place to handle meltdowns is not a substitute for what should be the ongoing process of trying to identify the source of the meltdowns. Designate one or more “safe haven” recovery areas. These

would be sensory-friendly areas where the student can go to regroup and calm himself, such as a sensory corner of the classroom with pillows, bean bag, rocking chair, head phones, books, fidgets. Other possibilities might include a quiet office (principal, nurse, counselor) or room in the house, an outside area (with adult supervision, and only if the child can be contained and kept safe), or another area of the school (gym, cafeteria, resource center).

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Establish a chain of command and a deescalation process so that the child is never being double or tripled-teamed by multiple adults who are all talking at him at once. This makes it impossible for him to comply and may actually escalate rather than defuse the situation. All team members should be familiar with the de-escalation plan, as any member may be called upon to step in at any time. In the school setting, the chain of command for intervention might look like: paraprofessional, teacher, special educator, another teacher familiar to student, counselor or school psychologist, principal, other school staff. Once the team and the plan is in place, a periodic rehearsal or dry-run will ensure your readiness on a moment’s notice. We all remember what it’s like to be shown how to change a tire in Driver’s Ed, only to encounter our first flat tire 10 years later and find that the knowledge has lain dormant for so long as to be effectively gone. Good planning must include regularly “hitting the refresh button.”

Teach him steps to rejoin the class. Engage the child in pre-taught

stress reduction techniques. Never try to teach when a child is angry or otherwise distraught. When the meltdown subsides, let the student know he may rejoin the class or family when his voice is quiet like yours, his body is under control and he is able to follow directions from his teacher or parent. Check for comprehension of these conditions.

Help him make restitution.

He can: ■ Restore disrupted areas ■ Repair, replace or dispose of broken items ■ Apologize if appropriate: saying “I’m sorry,” writing a note, drawing a picture, using an “I’m sorry” card

At a time when the child is calm (but not too long after the episode), review the incident in a supportive – not punitive – manner.

Follow up With the child: At a time when the child is calm (but not too long after the episode), review the incident in a supportive – not punitive – manner that ensures he understands: What he did wrong How he can handle it differently next time (present information visually if possible) And what he did right! “That was a nice note you gave to Teddy. He knows you didn’t mean to hurt him and now he feels better.” Talk about or create a short story with visuals to help the child identify and understand his own feelings, how our feelings affect our behavior, and how everyone – not just him – experiences and must cope with these types of feelings at times. With the team: One of the basic tenets of social work is that you must take care of yourself if you are to be able to effectively

care for others. Dealing with meltdowns is stressful. Team members’ support of each other is important. ■ Meet as a group and review what worked and what didn’t. Brainstorm any new ideas that may have arisen as a result of the incident. When you handled it well, give yourself credit. ■ Air personal feelings. Adults and children both push each other’s buttons without realizing it. Internalizing these feelings may be natural, but ultimately the team will be stronger if such feelings can be put on the table and acknowledged in a constructive manner.

■ Know when to ask for outside help. A fresh set of eyes or a different skill set may offer new perspectives. ■ Encourage each other to build self-care into your life. Many teachers are parents too, and go home to a second shift similar to what they have been doing during their work day – nurturing and teaching. And all parents are teachers too. It’s important to take time to nurture yourself. JK

Three-time ForeWord Book of the Year finalist Ellen Notbohm is author “Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You Knew” and three other award-winning books on autism. To contact Ellen or explore her work, visit www.ellennotbohm.com.

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Specialists for Children with Special Needs Following is a list of health professionals with whom you may find yourself working or consulting in conjunction with your child’s special needs. Adaptive Physical Education Teacher/Therapist: Physical education practitioner with additional training in adapting activities to the needs of children with disabilities and/or special learning needs. Assistive Technology Specialist: Advanced level professional who is knowledgeable about compensatory strategies and devices, including computer technology, that are used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability in school, home and/or other community environments. Audiologist: Licensed professional trained in the evaluation and rehabilitation of persons with disorders of hearing, including services such as comprehensive audiologic testing and design, selection and fitting of hearing aids and classroom amplification systems. Developmental Pediatricians: Pediatrician with special training in the prevention, detection and monitoring of disorders of emotional, social, motor and cognitive development in infants, young children and adolescents. Early Intervention Specialist: Advanced-level professional with education and/or nursing background providing diagnostic, and intervention services to high risk infants, toddlers and preschoolers and their families aimed at enhancing potential development. Genetic Counselor: Health professional trained in advising families on what is know about hereditary conditions; conducts history taking and acts as a resource to support services; may specialize in pediatrics and works closely with a geneticist, the medical specialist.

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Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW): Professional who assesses, diagnoses and treats social, mental and emotional disorders in individuals, groups, couples and families. Neurolinquist: A professional with advanced training who specializes in linguistics as a subspecialty of neuroscience; concerned with understanding the relationship between brain function and language, including the areas of reading, auditory processing, written language and verbal memory. Neuropsychologist: Professional with specialty postdoctoral fellowship training in how problems and disorders of the brain may affect learning, behavior and social functioning. Occupational Therapist: Health professional who helps people learn or relearn the occupations of daily like, such as writing, eating and dressing, evaluates functional skills and teaches adaptive activities towards self-care; may specialize in children with impaired functions. Ophthalmologist: Medical doctor expert in the evaluation, treatment and surgical correction of disorders of the eye; may specialize in children. Optician: Specialist who fills prescriptions for eye classes and contact lenses. Orthodontist: Dentist expert in evaluation and treatment of abnormally positioned teeth. Orthopedist: Medical doctor focused in prevention and correction of deformities of bones, joints, muscles and connective tissues; may specialize in the care of children. Orthotist: Specialist in design and application of devices to straighten, correct or assist orthopedic disabilities.

Pediatrician: medical doctor specializing in total care of infants through adolescents; many with subspecialities such as allergies, behavior, learning disorders, endocrinology, etc. Pediatric Neurologist: Medical doctor devoted to evaluation and treatment of children with conditions affecting the nervous system. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner: An advanced practice RN specializing in routine well-child care, treatment of minor illness and management of some chronic disorders for infants through young adults; may work in practice with a physician or independently. Pediatric Physiatrist: Physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation who focuses on restoring function to injured infants, children and adolescents. Pedodontist: Dentist specializing in the care of children’s teeth. Physical Therapist: Health professional concerned with movement dysfunction and the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic and neurologic conditions, performing such functions as assessing joint motion, muscle strength and endurance, and providing therapeutic exercise towards performance of activities of daily living. Psychiatrist: Medical physician specializing in the treatment and prevention of mental disorders; frequently medical consultant to mental health counselors, such as psychologists and social workers. Recreation Therapist: Licensed and/or certified professional that selects and provides recreational activities designed to improve function in persons with mental, physical or emotional disabilities.

Rehabilitation Engineer: Biomedical engineering specialist who applies knowledge and skills to the development of assistive devices for people with physical disabilities; works closely with adaptive equipment specialist. Respiratory Therapist: Health professional trained to conduct diagnostic tests, provide treatment and maintain life support for patients with heart and breathing problems. School Nurse/Specialized Physical Health Care Nurse: RN providing comprehensive well-child services in schools and specialized interventions for children with chronic physical disabilities. School Psychologist: Mental health professional serving as a consultant to teachers and parents to help in understanding how children develop and learn; assesses and tests for child’s abilities, academic achievement, social/emotional development and adaptive behavior; and recommends interventions towards maximum functioning. (Related to child psychologist.) Special Education Teacher: Educator with a certified designated speciality of teaching children with disabilities. Speech/Language Pathologist (SLP): Licensed professionals who evaluate, treat and prevent disorders of communication and swallowing in infants through adults, including work with language, memory and speech disorders. Note: Professionals may be school-based, agency employees or independent consultants.

Resource Guide Whatever your needs, you’re sure to find it in our comprehensive resource guide. Within its pages are listings of local and national special needs organizations, including support groups. There’s also information on adaptive equipment, advocacy organizations, education resources, private and public schools, summer camps, therapy services and specific disabilities. Keep the justkids resource guide nearby to help you find everything from schools to recreation programs to therapists.

Therabeat, Inc.

Support Groups and Resource Organizations for Specific Disabilites ......40 General Resources ......40 Adaptive Equipment & Lending Programs Advocacy Childcare/Preschool Dentistry Education Resources Education Support Programs Independent Living & Respite Insurance/Legal Parent & Sibling Support Parks & Recreation Programs Private Schools Public School Systems Recreation & Enrichment Special Needs Publications Summer Day & Overnight Camps Support Services

Therapy and Medical Services ........47 Evaluations & Medical Services General Therapy Services Hippotherapy Music Therapy Nutrition Photography Speech Therapy Miscellaneous BlazeSports

Walk Now for Autism Speaks

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Support Groups and Resource Organizations Support Groups and Resource Organizations The following organizations offer information about various special needs and disabilities. ADD/ADHD/LD The Amit Program. An agency that offers a school program and support services for children with learning and/ or developmental special needs. 6255 Barfield Rd., Ste. 100, Atlanta. 404-9619966. amitatlanta.org. CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Monthly meetings for parents of children in the Atlanta area, and has lending libraries with books, cassettes and videos on AD/HD and co-occuring disorders. Parent meetings are the third Thursday of every month. 4105 Briarcliff Rd. NE Atlanta. 800-518-7298. 404-6332040 chadd.org. Feingold Association of the United States. Offers informational materials, online/telephone support and resources. Helps families implement low-additive dietary programs for children with learning/behavior problems and chemically sensitive adults. 37 Shell Rd., 2nd floor, Rocky Points, NY. 800321-3287. feingold.org. Learning Disabilities Association of America. Offers support programs for parents, an information and referral network, legislation and school program development. 4156 Library Rd., Pittsburgh, PA. 412-341-1515. ldaamerica.org. Learning Disabilities Association of Georgia. Offers information and a referral hotline for children and adults, advocacy, family and individual support, resources and more. 2566 Shallowford Rd., Ste. 104, Atlanta. 404-303-7774. ldag.org. ARTHRITIS AJAO (American Juvenile Arthritis Organization). Provides informational materials, referrals to local resources, national conferences and advocacy efforts. 1330 W. Peachtree St., Ste. 100 Atlanta. 404-872-7100. arthritis.org. Arthritis Foundation, Georgia. Offers wellness programs, health fairs, public forums, research support, and information on swimming classes, programs for children, exercise and more. 2970 Peachtree Rd., NW., Ste. 200, Atlanta. 404-237-8771. arthritis.org. Arthritis Foundation, National Office. Provides literature on all types of arthritis and an information line (800-283-7800). 1330 W. Peachtree St., Ste. 100 Atlanta. 404-872-7100. arthritis.org.

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AUTISM Autism Society of America. Provides services in the areas of advocacy, education, awareness and research. 4340 East-West Hwy., Ste. 350, Bethesda, MD. 800-328-8476. autismsociety.org. Autism Society of America, Greater Georgia Chapter. Provides advocacy, free information and referral services, and membership services including access to a lending library, workshops and conferences. P.O. Box 2662, Suwanee. 770-904-4474 asaga.com. Autism Speaks, Georgia Regional Office. Provides fundraising for autism research, referrals for family services and advocacy. Also hosts events to raise awareness and build a community for affected families. 900 Circle 75 Pkwy., Ste, 445, Atlanta. 770-4510570. autismspeaks.org Bartow County Parent Support Group. Meets the first Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. Cartersville Medical Center. 958 Joe Frank Harris Pkwy. SE, Cartersville. 404-401-6385. autisminbartow.com Cherokee Autism Parent Support Group. Meets quarterly, based on speaker availabilty. 770-345-6551. Cherokee Spectrum Support Group. Meets quarterly. 678-493-4925. Gwinnett County Autism Support Group. Meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Duluth. 2908 Duluth Hwy., Duluth. 770-904-2909. atl-spectrum. com North Fulton Autism Support Group. Offers a message board and monthly meetings at Emory Johns Creek Hospital. 6325 West Johns Xing, Ste. 109, Johns Creek. 678-315-2498. http:// health.groups.yahoo.com/group/nfasg/

BIRTH DEFECTS AND SIDS March of Dimes. Provides educational materials on preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. 1776 Peachtree St., Ste. 100, Atlanta. 404-350-9800. marchofdimes.com.

BLOOD DISORDERS American Diabetes Association, Georgia Area. Provides financial assistance for children to attend summer camps, advocacy and wellness programs. 225 Peachtree St. NE, Ste. 500, Atlanta. 404-320-7100. diabetes.org. The Georgia Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center. Education for patients and medical professionals about news, research updates and resources. 80 Jesse Hill Jr. Dr., Atlanta. 404-6163572. scinfo.org.

Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta For more than 30 years, the Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta has provided education, advocacy and support to parents of children with Down syndrome. Started by a group of metro-Atlanta parents, DSAA is a nonprofit organization that offers information, outreach programs, social events and financial assistance to parent groups. The association also hosts several fundraising events every year, including the Buddy Walk. 4355 J Cobb Pkwy., Ste. 213, Atlanta. 404-320-3233. atlantadsaa.org

Hemophilia of Georgia, Inc. Provides a wide range of services to people with hemophilia, von Willebrandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Disease and other inherited bleeding disorders. 8800 Roswell Rd., Ste. 170, Atlanta. 770-518-8272. hog.org. Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Georgia Chapter. Offers support and programming for families of children with diabetes, provides education for caregivers and hosts fundraising events for diabetes research. 3525 Piedmont Rd. NE, Bldg. 6, Ste. 300, Atlanta. 404-420-5990. jdrfgeorgia.org. L e u ke m i a a n d Ly m p h o m a S o c i e t y, G e o rg i a C h a p t e r. Provides education, funding for blood cancer research and patient services including referrals, financial support and literature about the diseases. 3715 Northside Pkwy., Bldg. 400, Ste. 300, Atlanta. 404-720-7900 lls.org/ga. S i c k l e C e l l Fo u n d a t i o n o f Georgia, Inc. Provides screenings, counseling, emergency financial assistance and summer camp. 2391 Benjamin E. Mays Dr. SW, Atlanta. 404-755-1641. sicklecellga.org.

BRAIN AND SPINAL INJURIES American Spinal Injury Association. Provides information to families, patients and healthcare professionals on spinal injuries. 2020 Peachtree Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-355-9772. asia-spinalinjury.org.

Brain Injury Association of Georgia. Offers 25 support groups for survivors of traumatic and acquired brain injury, their families and their caregivers. Programs include a national brain injury information line (800-4446443), providing information, outreach and referral services. Also provides summer camp opportunities. 1441 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-712-5504. braininjurygeorgia.org. Brain Tumor Foundation for Children, Inc. Provides emotional and informational support to families, public education and awareness, and fundraising for research. Program includes the Butterfly Fund which provides financial assistance for families in need. 6065 Roswell Rd. NE, Ste. 505, Atlanta. 404252-4107. braintumorkids.org. Shepherd Center. A rehabilitation hospital that specializes in treatment of spinal cord and acquired brain injuries, multiple sclerosis and other neurological conditions. 2020 Peachtree Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-352-2020. shepherd.org.

CANCER American Cancer Society. Provides medical information, referrals and treatment decision tools. Offices located throughout metro Atlanta. 800-2272345. cancer.org. American Childhood Cancer Organization. A membership organization that offers support, advocacy, services and education for families of children with cancer, survivors and medical professionals. 10920 Connecticut Ave., Ste. A, Kensington, MD. 800-3662223. acco.org.

Support Groups and Resource Organizations Association of Cancer Online Resources. Offers access to online communications that provide support, information and community to persons affected by cancer. 173 Duane St., Ste. 3A, New York, NY. 212-226-5525. acor.org. CURE Childhood Cancer. Offers educational and support programs for families of children with cancer. Helps fund research for cancer. 1117 Perimeter Center W, Ste. N-402, Atlanta. 770986-0035. curechildhoodcancer.org.

CEREBRAL PALSY United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia. Provides support services to individuals with cerebral palsy and other developmental disabilities including therapy, employee training and placement, after school care and summer camps. 3300 Northeast Expy., Bldg. 9, Atlanta. 770-676-2000. ucpga.org.

CRANIO FACIAL CONDITIONS Children’s Craniofacial Association. Offers information, support and financial assistance to patients and their families, and education for health care providers. 13140 Coit Rd., Ste. 517, Dallas, TX. 800-535-3643. ccakids.org.

CROHN’S DISEASE AND COLITIS Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter. Education and support services for those affected by Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis including summer camps, special events and informational workshops. 2250 N. Druid Hills Rd., Ste. 250, Atlanta. 404-982-0616. ccfa.org.

CYSTIC FIBROSIS C y s t i c F i b ro s i s Fo u n d a t i o n , Georgia Chapter. Provides public and professional education materials, fundraising events and support groups for patients and families. 2302 Parklake Dr. NE, Ste. 210, Atlanta. 404-3256973. cff.org. Emory University Cystic Fibrosis Center. Offers inpatient and outpatient care, social service support, nutritional information and other resources. 1547 Clifton Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-727-5728. emoryhealthcare.org.

DYSLEXIA International Dyslexia Association. Offers information on products, an online store, conferences, support groups and more for children, teens, college students, parents and educators. 40 York Rd., 4th Fl., Baltimore, MD. 800-222-3123. interdys.org.

International Dyslexia Association, Georgia Branch. Provides outreach activities, an online newsletter, a lending library, workshops and fundraising events. 1951 Greystone Rd., Atlanta. 404-256-1232. idaga.org.

Georgia Speech-LanguageHearing Association. Offers a directory of Georgia speech, language and hearing professionals, facilities and resource services. 20423 State Rd. 7, Ste. F6-491, Boca Raton, FL. 561-477-8100 gsha.org.

EPILEPSY Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia. Provides public awareness, support groups, referrals, specialty camps for children and adults, and more. 6065 Roswell Rd., Ste. 515, Atlanta. 404-5277155. epilepsyga.org.

National Federation of the Blind. Provides public education, scholarships, a free audio newspaper, referral services, advocacy and more. 200 E. Wells St., Baltimore, MD. 410-6599314. nfb.org.

HEARING AND VISUAL IMPAIRMENT Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, Georgia Chapter. Provides legal advocacy, educational seminars, fundraising, scholarships and support programs. Atlanta. 404-233-5332, ext. 3146. gabell.org. American Foundation for the Blind, National Literacy Center. Provides referrals, educational materials, advocacy, literacy initiatives, and resources on Braille, assistive technology and low vision. 100 Peachtree St., Ste. 620, Atlanta. 404-525-2303. afb.org. Vision Rehabilitation Services of Georgia. Offers a low vision clinic, vision rehabilitation, a media center, employment assistance and more. 3830 S. Cobb Dr., Ste. 125, Smyrna. 770-4327280. vrsga.org Center for the Visually Impaired. A rehabilitation facility for individuals of all ages who are blind or visually impaired. 739 W. Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta. 404-875-9011. cviga.org Cook Vision Therapy Center. Vision therapy for reading and learning problems. 1395 S. Marietta Pkwy., Bldg. 400, Ste. 116, Marietta. 770-419-0400. cookvisiontherapy.com. Foundation Fighting Blindness, Georgia Affiliate. Provides public awareness, funds for research and a support group for individuals with visual impairments, retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration and other retinal degenerative diseases. 385 Waverly Hall Dr., Roswell. blindnessga.org. Georgia Council for the Hearing Impaired, Inc. Provides advocacy, job readiness, summer camp for teens and youth, GED preparatory classes and more. 4151 Memorial Dr., Ste. 103-B, Decatur. 404-292-5312. gachi.org. Georgia Council of the Blind. Information, referral and advocacy including scholarship assistance to post-secondary students, and public education and awareness training. 850 Gaines School Rd., Athens. 888-519-3988 or 706-208-7132. georgiacounciloftheblind.org.

Georgia Library for Accessible Services. Nine sub-regional libraries statewide provide free library service including circulating fiction and nonfiction books and magazines (in Braille or on tape) for individuals with a visual or physical disability. 1800 Century Pl. NE, Ste. 150, Atlanta 404-235-7155. georgialibraries.org/glass. Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation, Inc. Provides vision and hearing services, including glasses, eye care, corrective surgery and hearing aids for financially needy legal Georgia residents. 5582 Peachtree Rd., Chamblee. 404-3253630. lionslighthouse.org. Georgia Organization of Parents of Blind Children (GOPBC). Affiliated with the National Federation of the Blind of Georgia; this membership organization for parents and friends of blind children provides support, advocacy, free and low-cost literature, scholarships and more. 315 W. Ponce de Leon Ave., Ste. 1020, Decatur. 404371-1000. gopbc.org. Georgia PINES (Parent Infant Network for Educational Services). A statewide early intervention program offering free services to families of children birth to 5 years with hearing and/or vision impairment. 890 N. Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston. 404-2984882. gapines.org. G eo rg i a S en so ry A ssi st a n ce Project. Services for children and youth from birth through 21 years with deaf blindness, including inhome and school consultation, family support, networking, referrals and workshops. Georgia State University, Dept. of Educational Psychology and Special Education, Atlanta. 404413-8312. http://education.gsu.edu/ georgiadeafblindproj.

National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. Administers a free program that loans audio and Braille books, magazines, music scores and specially-designed playback equipment to U.S. residents who are unable to use standard print materials because of visual or physical impairment. 1291 Taylor St. NW, Washington, D.C. 202-707-5100. loc.gov/nls. National Organization of Parents of Blind Children. Parent support and networking, resources and a national pen pal program for youth. 200 E. Wells St., Baltimore, MD. 410659-9314. Northside Hospital Audiology. Comprehensive evaluations of various auditory needs including all basic audiological assessments and auditory processing testing for all ages. Atlanta, Alpharetta and Johns Creek. 404-851-6743. northside.com. Prevent Blindness Georgia. The mission is to prevent blindness a n d p r e s e r ve s i g h t f o r a l l Georgians. Education, training, research, advocacy and screening programs dedicated to preventing vision loss and preserving sight. 739 W. Peachtree St., Ste. 200. 404-266-0071. pbga.org.

HEART AND LUNG American Heart Association, Georgia Affiliate. Community events and educational materials available on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease and stroke. 1101 Northchase Pkwy., Ste. 1, Marietta. 678-224-2000. americanheart.org. American Lung Association, Southeast Region. Provides educational programs and services, advocacy and an overnight camp for children with asthma. 2452 Spring Rd., Smyrna. 770-434-5864. lungga.org

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Support Groups and Resource Organizations • General Resources KIDNEY DISORDERS American Kidney Fund. Provides financial assistance for transplants and kidney patients on dialysis, patient services, public education, clinical strategies, research, summer programs for children and more. 6110 Executive Blvd., Ste. 1010, Rockville, MD. 800638-8299. kidneyfund.org. National Kidney Foundation of Georgia. Programs in research, public information, professional training, organ donation and patient services including summer camp and health fairs. 2951 Flowers Rd. S, Ste. 211, Atlanta. 770-452-1539. kidneyga.org.

LUPUS Lupus Foundation of America, Georgia Chapter. Offers support groups and educational programs for Lupus patients. 1850 Lake Park Dr., Ste. 101, Smyrna. 770-333-5930. lupusga.org.

MEDICALLY FRAGILE CHILDREN Fragile Kids Foundation. Provides medical equipment not covered by private or government sponsored insurance. 3350 Riverwood Pkwy., Ste. 1400, Atlanta. 770-951-6111. fragilekids.org. Variety of Georgia. Variety Freedom Program provides funding for mobility so that kids can get out via wheelchairs, walkers, van lifts, house ramps, adaptive car seats & strollers, specially-equipped bicycles & tricycles and other items necessary to increase a child’s access to and participation in the community. 9800 Medlock Bridge Road, Ste. 1, Johns Creek. 678-994-4210. varietyofgeorgia.org/ programs.html.

MENTAL ILLNESS Mental Health America of Georgia. Offers advocacy services and educational resources for families, health care providers and the public. 100 Edgewood Ave. NE, Ste. 502, Atlanta. 404-527-7175. mhageorgia.org. NAMI Georgia. Provides emotional support and education for families, public awareness, a statewide helpline (800-728-1052) and advocacy services. 3050 Presidential Dr., Ste. 202, Atlanta. 770-234-0855. namiga.org. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). National support group with online discussion groups, advocacy, support and more. 3803 Fairfax Dr., Arlington, VA. 703-5247600. nami.org.

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MENTAL RETARDATION/ DOWN SYNDROME

TURNER SYNDROME A t l a n t a Tu r n e r S y n d r o m e Society. Support with meetings several times a year. 770-483-5194. turnersyndrome.org.

Annandale Village. A private, nonprofit community for adults with developmental disabilities. Offers residential services, day programs and respite care, and provides recreational programs, and job placement and training. 3500 Annandale Ln., Suwanee. 770-945-8381. annandale.org.

General Resources ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT AND LENDING PROGRAMS

Right in the Community. Provides for the needs of families who have children with mental retardation or other developmental disabilities. Support groups, workshops, group homes, day camps, more. 1830 Water Pl., Ste. 120, Atlanta. 770-427-8401. rightinthecommunity.org. The Arc of Clayton County. Offers support, advocacy and information/ referral to existing services for people with mental retardation. 404-281-7322. The Arc of Newnan and Coweta County. Helps intellectually disabled adults live as independently as possible by providing job training, transportation, housing arrangements, money management, recreation and other services. The Rutledge Center, 61 Hospital Rd., Newnan. 770-253-1189. rutledgecenter.org. Down Syndrome Association of Atlanta. Offers public education, advocacy and support to parents of children with Down syndrome including information, outreach programs, social events and financial assistance to parent groups. 4355 J Cobb Pkwy., Ste. 213, Atlanta. 404-320-3233. atlantadsaa.org. National Down Syndrome Congress. Provides informational materials, referrals to local resources, national conferences and advocacy efforts. 1370 Center Dr., Ste. 102, Atlanta. 770-6049500. ndsccenter.org.

Abilitations. A children’s therapy catalog providing a complete inventory of movement, sensory integration, positioning, classroom solutions, adapted play, resources, aquatics, specialty environments and more. P.O. Box 1579, Appleton, WI. 888-388-3224 abilitations.com.

MUSCULAR DYSTRPOHY Muscular Dystrophy Association. Provides informational materials, networking, referrals to local resources, summer camps and an equipment loan program. 2187 Northlake Pkwy., Bldg 9, Ste. 116, Tucker. 770-621-9800 mda.org

MYASTHENIA GRAVIS Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, Georgia Chapter. Provides information to patients, physicians and the general public. Atlanta. 770-973-3269. gamgfa.org.

PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of Georgia. Provides information, education and advocacy, conferences and workshops, and individual and family support. 562 Lakeland Plaza, Ste. 327, Cumming. 770-886-2334. pwsaga.org.

SPINA BIFIDA

Muscular Dystrophy Association. Provides informational materials, networking, referrals to local resources, summer camps and an equipment loan program. 2187 Northlake Pkwy., Bldg 9, Ste. 116, Tucker. 770-621-9800. mda.org.

Spina Bifida Association of Georgia. Provides educational materials and programs, mentoring, prevention programs and advocacy. 5072 Bristol Ind. Way, Ste. F, Buford. 770-939-1044. spinabifidaga.org.

Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, Georgia Chapter. Provides information to patients, physicians and the general public. Atlanta. 770-973-3269. gamgfa.org.

TOURETTE SYNDROME

Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of Georgia. Provides information, education and advocacy, conferences and workshops, and individual and family support. 562 Lakeland Plaza, Ste 327, Cumming. 770-886-2334. pwsaga.org. Spina Bifida Association of Georgia. Provides educational materials and programs, mentoring, prevention programs and advocacy. 5072 Bristol Ind. Way, Ste. F, Buford. 770-939-1044. spinabifidaga.org

Tourette Syndrome Association of Georgia. Provides training, referrals, advocacy services, newsletters for children and young adults and free educational materials. Fall family retreat partnership with Camp Twin Lake. 706248-9784. georgiatourette.org.

TUBEROUS SCLEROSIS Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance. Provides information, access to resources and Georgia contacts and advocates for tuberous sclerosis complex. 801 Roeder Road, Ste. 750, Silver Spring, MD. 800-225-6872 or 301-562-9890. tsalliance.org.

AMS Vans, Inc. Provide quality pre-owned minivans with a brand new 10-inch lowered floor conversion for wheelchair accessibility. 5555 Oakbrook Pkwy, Ste 500, Norcross. 770-729-9878. amsvans.com. Apria Healthcare. Provides durable medical equipment and IV infusion therapy. Conyers, 770-761-6706; Duluth, 678-775-7000; Gainesville, 770-503-0764; Marietta, 770-5650311. apria.com. Center for Assistive Technology a n d E nv i ro n m e n t a l A c c e s s (CATEA). A research center that promotes participation of people with disabilities.Projects are focused on workplace accommodations, disability-related policy, distance education, accessible IT, and wheeled mobility and seating. 490 Tenth St., Atlanta. 404-894-4960. catea.org. East Hall Branch and Special Needs Library. Leisure reading, magazines, large print books, and audio described and closed captioned videos. 2435 Old Cornelia Hwy, Gainesville. 770-532-3311, ext. 161. hallcountylibrary.org. Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too! Non-profit o rg a n i z a t i o n p r ov i d i n g f r e e wheelchairs and home healthcare equipment for the disabled. Other services include ramp building, vehicle lift installation and more. 4900 Lewis Rd., Stone Mountain. 770-491-9014. fodac.org. gTRADE. Georgia Tools for Life. Online database of assistive technology items for sale. 1700 Century Cir., Ste. 300, Atlanta. 800-497-8665 or 404-638-0390. gtradeonline.org. Handicapped Driver Services, Inc. Modifies vans for wheelchair accessibility and customized vans for sale. 1310 Kennestone Cir., NW, Marietta. 770-422-9674. hdsvans.com.

General Resources

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too! Friends of Disabled Adults and Children, Too (FODAC) provides free or low-cost wheelchairs and home healthcare equipment, such as standers, shower supports and Hoyer Lifts. All of the equipment is donated. The group, begun by Ed and Annie Butchart in 1986 in their basement, has issued over 19,000 wheelchairs to date. Other services include ramp building and vehicle installation. 4900 Lewis Rd., Stone Mountain. 770-491-9041. fodac.org

Lekotek of Georgia, Inc. Provides educational materials and computer equipment for disabled children from birth through age 21. 1955 Cliff Valley Way, Ste. 102, Atlanta. 404633-3430. lekotekga.org. Project ReBoot. Provides hands-on training in information technology, a lending library with assistive technology and adaptive equipment for loan to parents and a model home demonstration that shows how tools can assist individuals to maintain independence and health. 4508 Bibb Blvd., Ste. B-10, Tucker. 770-9348432. gatfl.org/reboot. R&R Mobility Vans and Lifts, Inc. Offers a large inventory of wheelchair accessible vans in the Southeast, including new and used handicap vans. Conyers. 770-483-0767. rrvan.com. Tech-Able. Assistive technology resource center that offers a lending library, demonstrations, training classes and referrals. 1114 Brett Dr., Ste 100, Conyers. 770-922-6768 techable.org. Three Wishes, Inc, Wishes on Wheels. Makes electric power wheelchairs available to nonambulatory senior citizens age 65 and up, and the permanently disabled of any age. Specializes in power wheelchairs and provides medical products to qualified disabled patients with medical necessities. 800-535-3063. Wheelchair Getaways. Provides custom vans and mini vans with wheelchair lifts on a daily, weekly and monthly rental basis. Serves all of Georgia. 800-554-6893 or 770457-9851. wheelchairgetaways.com

ADVOCACY American Civil Liberties Union. Provides private, non-profit legal assistance regarding disability-related rights. Legislative advocacy. 1900 The Exchange, Ste. 425, Atlanta 770-303-9966 acluga.org The ARC of Georgia. Unified advocacy for people with cognitive, intellectual and developmental disabilities providing parents with education, support and referrals to resources. Atlanta. 678-7338969. thearcofgeorgia.org. Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities. Provides advocacy, transportation services, life skills training for adults and more. 1440 Dutch Valley Pl., Ste. 200, Atlanta. 404-881-9777. aadd.org. Citizen Advocacy of Atlanta and Dekalb. Volunteer citizen advocates are matched with an individual who has a developmental disability for the purpose of providing protection and advocacy. 376 Oakdale Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-523-8849. citizenadvocacyatlantadekalb.org. Disability Link. Provides advocacy skills training and support, disability awareness and sensitivity training, information and referrals, community outreach, education and other services. 755 Commerce Dr., Ste. 105, Decatur. 404-687-8890. disabilitylink.org. Disability Resource Group. Provides information, resources and advice on disability rights issues. 770-451-2340. gaada.info. Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund. Monitors legislative and educational efforts, conducts research and training programs, and educates people on laws. 3075 Adeline St., Ste. 210, Berkley, CA. 510-644-2555. dredf.org.

Family Voices. Advocates in the areas of health care, financing, medical care, Medicaid and insurance. 3701 San Mateo Blvd., Ste. 200, Albuquerque, NM. 888-835-5669. familyvoices.org. Georgia Advocacy Office. The Protection and Advocacy (P&A) System for people with disabilities in Georgia. 150 E. Ponce de Leon Ave., Ste. 430, Decatur. 404-885-1234. thegao.org. Georgia’s Unlock the Waiting List Campaign. Advocates working to eliminate waiting lists for home- and community-based services for people with disabilities. 2 Peachtree St. NW, Ste. 26-246, Atlanta. 888-275-4233 unlockthewaitinglists.com. Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities. Creates systems of change for people with developmental disabilities and their families. 2 Peachtree St. NW, Ste. 2620, Atlanta. 404-657-2126. gcdd.org. Keenan’s Kids Foundation. An Atlanta-based foundation that raises awareness on child’s safety issues. 148 Nassau St. NW, Atlanta. 404223-5437. keenanskidsfoundation. com. National Council on Disability. Independent federal agency making recommendations to the President and Congress to enhance the quality of life for all Americans with disabilities and their families. 1331 F St. NW, Ste. 850, Washington, DC. 202-272-2004. ncd.gov.

CHILDCARE/ PRESCHOOL A d a p t i v e L e a r n i n g C e n t e r. Therapeutic preschool offering developmental assessments, speech therapy, special education, case management, summer camp and other services. 736 Johnson Ferry Rd., Ste. C-245, Marietta. 770-509-3909. adaptivelearningcenter.org. Atlanta Child Care Guide. Resources for home- and center-based childcare. 3975 Covington Hwy., Decatur. 404288-8980. youratlantachildcareguide. com. CareBest Family Care Solutions. Companion caregiver, nanny referral and home management services. P.O, Box 3082, Peachtree City. 770-4876445. carebest.net. Challenged Child and Friends, Inc. Offers a center-based, school-year early intervention program, infant stimulation, therapy, and nursing and family support. Integrates typical peers ages 6 weeks to 6 years old. 2360 Murphy Blvd., Gainesville. 770-5358372. challengedchild.org. Childtime Child Care. Childcare services for developmentally delayed children. 12 locations around Atlanta. 866-244-6202. childtime.com. Early Childhood School. Centerbased services with an educational focus for individuals with mild developmental delays. SecondPonce de Leon Baptist Church. 2715 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta. 404-2668111. spdl.org.

National Disability Rights Network. Referrals to programs in each state and territory. Advocates for the rights of people with disabilities. 900 Second St. NE, Ste. 211, Washington, DC. 202-408-9514. ndrn.org.

Easter Seals of North Georgia. Special needs childcare center, pediatric therapy services. 12 locations. Corporate Office: 1200 Lake Hearn Dr., Ste. 250, Atlanta. 404-943-1070. northgeorgia.easterseals.com.

Pacer Center. A national training and information center on the Individuals with Disabilities Act and related topics for families of children and youth with all disabilities. 8161 Normandale Blvd., Minneapolis, MN. 888-248-0822. pacer.org.

Elaine Clark Center. Inclusive p r o g r a m w i t h i n d iv i d u a l i z e d curriculum for all disabilities. 5130 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Chamblee. 770-458-3251. elaineclarkcenter.org.

Parent s Ed u ca t in g Paren t s and Professionals. Offers parent advocacy training on national legislative projects and resources on local and national events. 8355 Cherokee Blvd., Douglasville. 770577-7771. peppinc.org. People First of Cartersville. Selfadvocacy group that meets monthly. Woodright Industries. 1595 Hwy. 411 NE, Cartersville. 770-387-3730. TASH. Advocates for inclusive education and family/community support. 1001 Connecticut Ave., NW, Ste. 235, Washington, DC. 202-5409020 tash.org.

Family Private Care, LLC. This caregiver registry provides private care referral services for consumers in hospitals, assisted living facilities, nursing homes and private residences. 6065 Lake Forrest Dr., Ste. 170, Sandy Springs. 404-252-9005. peoplecaring4kids.com. The Frazer Center. Offers an inclusive child development center, adult day services, family and community based services, research and training. 1815 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404377-3836. thefrazercenter.org. Nanny Poppinz. Live-in or out. Full time/Part Time. CPR trained. Experienced staff. Background check. 404-492-5515. nannypoppinz.com.

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General Resources Professional Family Consultants. Specializes in matching nannies with families who have children with special needs. Each nanny undergoes thorough background checks and is trained to care for children with ADHA, autism, behavior issues, developmental delays and physical disabilities. 404-7881391. professionalfamilyconsultants. com. Quality Care For Children. A childcare referral agency that works to ensure infants and young children are nurtured and educated. We offer support to parents and child care providers caring for children with special needs. We also offer emergency childcare assistance. 50 Executive Park S, Ste. 5015, Atlanta. 404-479-4200. qualitycareforchildren.org. St. Jude’s Child Development Center. Provides day and after school care, and summer camp for children including those with special needs ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. St. Jude’s Episcopal Church. 220 Windy Hill Rd. SW, Marietta. 678-309-3871. stjudes. episcopalatlanta.org. Stepping Stones. Program at the Atlanta Speech School for children ages 3 to 5 with speech and/or language difficulties incorporating education and therapy with a speech-language pathologist, learning disabilities specialist and occupational therapist. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta. 404-233-5332. atlantaspeechschool. org.

DENTISTRY The Children’s Dental Center of Atlanta. Specializing in pediatric dentistry including special needs kids. Offices in Atlanta, Buford, Conyers, Douglasville and Smyrna. 770-4551238. childrensdcoa.com. Dave Kurtzman, DDS. Provides full service specialized dental care to developmentally disabled and physically challenged clients. 661 Campbell Hill St., NW, Ste. 101, Marietta. 770-980-6336. drdavidkurtzman.com. DDD Foundation, Inc. Dentistry for the developmentally disabled. 52 Executive Park S, Ste. 5203, Atlanta. 404-942-0086. dddfoundation.org. Dental Hygiene Department, Georgia Perimeter College. Dental hygiene services for special needs kids; appointments are longer in length at this educational facility. 2101 Womack Rd., Bldg. C, Dunwoody. 770-274-5140. Dr. Michael P. Healey. Serves children with special needs. 1145 Hightower Tr. NE, Sandy Springs. 770-993-9395. dochealey.com.

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Department of Labor, Rehabilitation Services, Vocational Rehabilitation Program. Provides employment, independent living and specialized services for ages 16 and up that help prepare for work and personal independence. 1700 Century Cir. Ste. 300, Atlanta. 404486-6331. vocrehabga.org.

Pediatric Dentistry at Vinings. Dental care for infants, children, adolescents and persons with special needs. 3200 Highlands Pkwy., Ste. 110, Smyrna. 678-305-1090.

EDUCATION RESOURCES The Amit Program. Provides educational resources and support services for children with learning differences and/ or developmental disabilities. K-8th grade special needs school, professional development courses, teen social skills groups and monthly speakers. 6255 Barfield Rd., Ste. 100, Atlanta. 404-9619966. amitatlanta.org. Georgia Congress of Parents and Teachers. Services for parents and teachers of all children. 114 Baker St. NE, Atlanta. 404-659-0214. georgiapta.org. Georgia Department of Education, Division for Special Education Service and Support. Helps local school systems provide special education and related services. 1870 Twin Towers E, Atlanta. 404656-3963. gadoe.org/ci_exceptional.aspx. Georgia Learning Resources Systems. Offers training, information and resources to parents and educators of children with disabilities. Atlanta, 678-676-2400; Smyrna, 770-432-2404. glrs.org. South DeKalb Association for Super Special Youth, Inc. Offers support programs and assistance with employment placement, promotes public awareness and hosts social events. Decatur. 770-9699571. http://wix.com/sassyspecialpeople/ sassy VSA Arts of Georgia. Provides access to the arts for people with disabilities and those with low income. Art exhibitions, programming and a summer institute. 57 Forsyth St. NW, Ste. R-1, Atlanta. 404221-1270. vsaartsga.org.

EDUCATION SUPPORT PROGRAMS Bright from the Start. Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning program providing technical assistance, training and support to families and child care providers for children with special needs. 2 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Ste. 754 East Tower, Atlanta. 404-656-5957 or 866-425-0220. decal.ga.gov. BrightStar Tutors. Many tutors certified to work with children who have ADD/ ADHD and other learning disabilities. Serving Alpharetta, Atlanta, Decatur, Duluth, East Cobb, Lawrenceville, Marietta, Roswell and Sandy Springs. 404-373-6161. BrightStarTutors.com. Cerebral Matters. Program offering assessment and cognitive remediation to address learning differences. Summer training programs available. 6100 Lake Forrest Dr. NW, Ste. 108, Atlanta. 404493-0962. cerebralmatters.com.

Destiny’s Child, Inc. In-home personal support for assistive living for adolescents and young adults with developmental, emotional, and psychological disabilities and needs. 2221 Peachtree Rd. NE, Ste. D-621, Atlanta. 404-696-4400. destinyschildinc.com.

Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Services. Provides one-on-one tutoring in the homes, schools or daycares of students with disabilities. Covers all subjects and grade levels. 866-448-8867. clubztutoring.com. Lindamood-Bell Learning Center. Offers individualized instruction in reading, math, spelling, critical thinking, comprehension and more for children with severe learning disabilities and the gifted. 4401 Northside Pkwy., Ste.150, Atlanta. 404-846-2050; 3400 McClure Bridge Rd., Bldg. C, Ste. A, Duluth. 770-476-7066. 800-300-1818. lindamoodbell.com. The Reading and Writing Institute. Provides psychoeducational evaluations and educational therapy for children and adults. 5555 Glenridge Connector, Ste. 200, Atlanta. 678-7319415. rwiga.org. Sarah Anderson, M.Ed. Neurodevelopmental Educator, certified HANDLE Practitioner. Providing HANDLE services including screenings and full evaluations for ages 3 through adults; for ADD, ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s, Tourette’s, LD, sensory processing issues and other neruo-developmental challenges. Dunwoody area. 770-458-5619. handle.org. Spark Thinking Educational Services. Uses research-validated, multi-sensory approaches to “train the brain” of students ages 3 years through adults with Dyslexia, ADD/ADHD, Asperger’s, Autism and Tourett’s. 770-716-0224. sparkthinking.net/ about_us.htm.

INDEPENDENT LIVING AND RESPITE Atlanta Ronald McDonald Houses. Provide temporary housing and emotional support to families of critically ill and injured children who must travel to Atlanta area hospitals. Atlanta, 404-315-1133; Sandy Springs, 404-847-0760. armh.com.

Disability Resource Center. Provides advocacy, independent living skills training, peer support and information and referral for any individual who is disabled. 470-A Woodsmill Rd., Gainesville. 770-5346656. disabilityresourcecenter.org. Douglas County Retardation Association, Inc. Home-based and group home services for individuals with mental retardation, cerebral palsy and autism. Offers day programs and weekend respite. 6497 E. Strickland St., Douglasville. 770-942-1131. douglascountyretardation.org. Dream House for Medically Fragile Children. Temporary, therapeutic foster homes for medically fragile children. 2092 Scenic Hwy., Ste. B, Snellville. 770-717-7410. dreamhouseforkids.org. Georgia Community Support and Solutions. Residential services, respite, family support, day programs, job training and summer camp. 1945 Cliff Valley Way, Ste. 220, Atlanta. 404-6344222. gacommunity.org. Hope House Children’s Respite Center. Provides onsite respite care for medically fragile children and a Saturday “We-Care” program for non-medically fragile children. 7225 Lester Rd., Union City. 770-9698354. swchristiancare.org. Independent Living Research Utilization Program. Center for information, training, research and technical assistance in independent living. 2323 S. Shepherd, Ste. 1000, Houston, TX. 713-520-0232. ilru.org. Institute for Child Health Policy. Supports improved healthcare systems for children with special needs. Focus is on the transition of youth with special needs to work, independence and the adult health care system. 1329 SW 16th St., Rm. 5130, Gainesville, FL. 352-2657220. ichp.ufl.edu.

General Resources Living Independence for Everyone. Offers information and referrals, helps in locating funding, peer support, independent skills training and advocacy. Also provides specialized adaptive equipment purchase, home accessibility modifications in some rural areas. 12020 Abercom St., Savannah. 912-920-2414. lifecil.com. Metro Atlanta Respite and Developmental Services. Offers respite services, as well as an early intervention program, inclusive childcare center and therapy services. 1335 Kimberly Rd. SW, Atlanta. 404-691-5570. mards.org. Pediatric Services of America. PSA HealthCare provides quality, costeffective home care services to pediatric and adult patients and their families. A registry with over 3,500 skilled nurses and respiratory therapists throughout 20 states. 310 Technology Pkwy. Ste.A, Norcross 770-441-1580. psahealthcare. com. Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia. Provide systems advocacy, peer counseling, independent living skills training and information and referrals. 755 Commerce Dr., Ste. 415, Decatur. 770-270-6860. silcga.org. Walton Options for Independent Living. Offers advocacy, assistive technology services, Braille instruction, community education, computer training, independent living skills training and other services. 948 Walton Way, Augusta. 706-724-6262. waltonoptions.org. Zimmerman-Horowitz Independent Living Program. A highly individualized, person-centered supportive living program that enables people with disabilities to live as independently as possible. Clients receive training in money management, cooking, cleaning, household management, laundry, social skills and other areas. 4549 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 770-677-9326. yourtoolsforliving.org.

INSURANCE/ LEGAL Law Offices of Mark E. Biernath, P.C. Providing comprehensive, customized estate-planning utilizing wills, trusts, powers of attorney and special needs trusts. Offices in Kennesaw, Alpharetta, Duluth, Buckhead, Cobb Galleria, Doraville, Dunwoody. 770-455-0535. biernathlaw.com. The Elder and Disability Law Practice of Robert M. Goldberg and Associates. Provides a full range of legal services including special needs trusts, family care agreements, health care proxies and living wills. Serving the metro Atlanta area. 1553 Williamson Rd., Griffin. 770-229-5729. elderlawyergeorgia.com.

Keenan Law Firm. Specializes in handling complex damage cases including birth and day care center/ playground injuries. 148 Nassau St., Atlanta. 404-523-2200. keenanlawfirm. com. MetLife’s Division of Estate Planning for Special Kids. Helps with financial and legal issues concerning lifetime care for special needs dependents. Also assists with finding other resources for advocacy and education. 877-638-3375. metlife.com/desk. The Meyring Law Firm. Wills, trusts, probate, medical directives, special needs trusts and more. 2931 Paces Ferry Rd., Ste. 201, Atlanta. 678-217-4369 ext. 3. meyringfirm.com. The Pollan Law Firm. Providing parents of disabled children with special needs planning advice and services including: planning for long-term care, special needs trusts, wills, Medicaid appeals, child and adult guardianship and conservatorship. 1801 Peachtree St. NE, Ste. 125, Atlanta. 678-510-1358. pollanlawfirm.com.

PARENT AND SIBLING SUPPORT E x c e p t i o n a l Fa m i l y M e m b e r Program. Army community services center helps families of special needs children find community resources. Provides information and referral services, respite care, support groups, advocacy and workshops. Darling Hall, Bldg. 33720, Ste. 224, Fort Gordon. 706-791-3579. 877-310-5741. gordon. army.mil/acs. Family Action Network, Special Olympics Georgia. A nonprofit organization that provides year-round sports training and competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. 4000 DeKalb Technology Pkwy., Bldg. 400, Ste. 400, Atlanta. 770-414-9390. specialolympicsga.org. Families of Children Under Stress (FOCUS). Provides emotional, physical and informational support to families who have children with disabilities or chronic/terminal illnesses. 3825 Presidential Pkwy., Ste. 103, Atlanta. 770-234-9111. focus-ga.org. Georgia Children’s Network. A listserv for parents and grandparents of special needs children to connect with other parents, advocates, special education attorneys and service providers. 1105 Rock Pointe Look, Woodstock. 770442-8357. http://groups.yahoo.com/ group/GA-ChildrensNetwork. Georgia Parent Support Network, Inc. Provides support and referral services, technical assistance in maintaining and starting parent groups and more. 1381 Metropolitan Pkwy., Atlanta. 404-758-4500. gpsn.org.

Georgia Learning Resources Systems Through its 17 centers statewide, the Georgia Learning Resources Systems (GLRS) offers training, information and resources to parents and educators of children with disabilities. GLRS helps parents so that young children with developmental delays receive appropriate services and support in school. It also coordinates with the Georgia Parent Mentor Program to enable parents to be active participants in their children’s education. Metro East Center: 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone Mountain, 678-676-2400. Metro West Center: Rose Garden School, 1870 Teasley Dr. SE, Smyrna, 770-432-2404. glrs.org

Parent to Parent of Georgia. Offers a parent match service to connect parents who have children with the same diagnosis. Also features an online resource guide with information on advocacy, therapy, camps, education and more. 3805 Presidential Pkwy., Ste. 207, Atlanta. 770-451-5484. p2pga.org. Sensory Processing Disorder Parent Connections. Run by parents, support offered through regular meetings that feature group discussions, education and guest speakers. Help to understand that Sensory Processing Disorder is a disorder of the brain, not something that was caused by a parent, and that treatment options are available. 678451-4434 spdnorthmetroatlanta.org. Sibling Support Project. A national program that supports the interests of brothers and sisters of people with special needs. 6512 23rd Ave. NW, Ste. 213, Seattle, WA. 206-297-6368. siblingsupport.org.

Cobb County Parks Therapeutic Recreation. Offers social clubs, field trips, Special Olympics and a summer camp for ages 7-21. 555 Nickajack Rd., Mableton. 770-819-3215. prca. cobbcountyga.gov. DeKalb County Parks and Recreation. Offers youth and adult sports and recreational activities. Mason Mill Center for Seniors and Disabled. 1340-B McConnell Dr., Decatur. 404-679-1349. co.dekalb. ga.us. Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation. Inclusive recreational programs and summer day camps for children ages 6-12 with all levels of ability. 75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville. 770-822-8840. gwinnettparks.com. North Fulton Therapeutics. Therapeutic recreational services, outdoor education, field trips and summer camp. 6005 Glenridge Dr., Atlanta. 404-303-6181. co.fulton.ga.us.

Atlanta Parks and Recreation, Therapeutics. Therapeutic camp for children ages 6-21 with special needs. City Hall East. 1530 Woodvine Ave., Atlanta. 404-371-5008 atlantaga.gov.

Rockdale County Therapeutic Recreation. A.S.P.I.R.E. (All Special People Involved in Recreational Experiences) offers activities for persons with disabilities. Focuses on recreation, adaptive sports, Special Olympics programs and more. 1781 Ebenezer Rd., Conyers. 770-278-7249. rockdalecounty.org.

Clayton County Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Division. Year-round recreational and leisure activities for ages 6 and up, and summer camp for ages 6-21. 2300 Hwy. 138 SE, Jonesboro. 770-4735722. co.clayton.ga.us.

Roswell Parks and Recreation. Yearround adult programs for individuals with special needs including events, art, tennis, aerobics classes and more for ages 18 and up. Adult Recreation Center. 830 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. 770-641-3950. roswellgov.com.

PARKS AND RECREATION PROGRAMS

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General Resources PRIVATE SCHOOLS Alexsander Academy. Caters to children with LD, ADHD, autism, Aspergers and cognitive issues in a small school environment. Grades 2nd-8th. 562 N. Main St., Alpharetta. 770-7770475. alexsanderacademy.org. Atlanta Area School for the Deaf. Full-day instruction for students in preschool through high school. 890 N. Indian Creek Dr., Clarkston. 404296-7101. aasdweb.com. Atlanta Speech School. Therapeutic and educational centers for children and adults with speech, hearing, language or learning disabilities. Academic, clinical and community programs available. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta. 404-233-5332. atlantaspeechschool.org. The Bedford School. Nine-month day program designed for children with learning disabilities. 5665 Milam Rd., Fairburn. 770-774-8001. thebedfordschool.org. Brookwood Christian Language School. Offers classes specializing in language-based learning differences for students in grades 1-12. 4728 Wood St., Acworth. 678-401-5855 brookwoodchristian.com. C e n t e r A c a d e m y. P r ov i d e s accredited college preparatory environment to students who have fallen behind or who want to get ahead. 3499 South Cobb Dr., Smyrna. 770-333-1616. centeracademy.com.

Eaton Academy. Offers customized academic services for students in grades K-12. Enrichment, distance learning, individual study and other programs available. 1000 Old Roswell Lakes Pkwy., Ste. 110, Roswell. 770645-2673. eatonacademy.org. Furtah Preparatory School. Accredited curriculum for children who benefit from intensive phonics and intervention in reading and writing instruction. 5496 Hwy. 92, Acworth. 678-574-6488. furtahprep.org. G a b l e s A c a d e m y. C o l l e g e preparatory for students with learning disabilities in grades 4-12. 811 Gordon St., Stone Mountain. 770465-7500. gablesacademy.com. Georgia Academy for the Blind. Education services to Georgia students with visual impairments or multiple disabilities, including assessments and individualized programs. 2895 Vineville Ave., Macon. 478-751-6083. gabmacon.org.

The Cottage School. Serves students in grades 6-12 with ADHD and special learning needs. Curriculum focuses on developing academic, time management and interpersonal skills, and career planning. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. 770641-8688. cottageschool.org.

Greenfield Hebrew Academy’s M’silot. A program for children who learn differently. Focuses on general and Judaic studies, and remedial strategies. 5200 Northland Dr., Atlanta. 404-8439900. ghacademy.org.

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The Pathways Academy. Offers a multi-sensory, phonics-based program for children with dyslexia and learning disabilities. 4010 Canton Rd., Ste. 120, Marietta. 770-973-5588. pathwaysacademy.org.

Hirsch Academy. Non-profit school for children with learning disabilities, using cirriculum to promote exploration and creation. 705 S Candler St., Decatur. 404378-9706. hirschacademy.org.

Porter Academy. Provides a learning environment for speech-language processing issues, dysgraphia, dyslexia and attention difficulties. Grades pre-K-8. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell. 770594-1313. porteracademy.org.

Hope Springs Learning Center. Small, upgraded classes for learning-disabled students grades K-8. Includes one-on-one NILD therapy. 1239 Braselton Hwy., Lawrenceville. 678-442-8785. hopespringsschool.org.

Clearwater Academy. A private school for children with learning differences that offers an allinclusive blend of therapies, social skills and assistive technology in a sensory sensitive environment. Currently accepting children, ages 6-14, in grades 1-9, with Processing Delays, ADD, ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome, Sensory Integration Disorder, PDD/NOS, Mild Autism and Non-Verbal Learning Disability diagnoses. 210 Greencastle Rd., Tyrone. 770-6313650. clearwateracademyga.org.

Cumberland Academy of Georgia. Provides tailored learning for Asperger’s Syndrome, ADD, ADHD and children who need a small class environment. 650 Mt. Vernon Hwy. NE, Atlanta. 404-835-9000. cumberlandacademy.org.

The Elaine Clark Center. Offers a full day program and after care, and provides academics and functional learning to students with developmental disabilities. 5130 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Chamblee. 770465-7590 elaineclarkcenter.org.

Georgia School for the Deaf. Provides day and residential programs for hearing impaired students. Support services include educational evaluations, hearing/ vision screenings and more. 232 Perry Farm Rd. SW, Cave Spring. 800-497-3371. gsdweb.org.

Hayden’s Way. A primary-middle school program for children with learning disabilities using multi-sensory teaching methods, relationship building skills and other educational tools. 1055 Powers Place Ste. B, Alpharetta. 770-351-6304 haydensway.com

Howard School. Personalized programs to meet individual learning styles. Grades K-12. 1192 Foster St., Atlanta. 404-377-7436. howardschool.org. Jacob’s Ladder Neurodevelopmental Learning Center. A school and clinic for children ages 2 - 18 established to provide services kids need to realize their full potential. 407 Hardscrabble Rd., Roswell. 770-998-1017. jacobsladdercenter.com. Joseph Sams School. Individualized special education plan for children from birth to 22 years old. 280 Brandywine Blvd., Fayetteville. 770-461-5894. josephsamsschool.org. Kaleidoscope ABA School. Private school for children 2-10 years of age with Autism and related disorders. 1:1 ratio using applied behavior analysis instruction, full and half day programs provided year round. 153 Norcross St., Roswell. 770.993.7008 Kaleidoscopeaba.org. Let’s Learn Academy. Elementary school that bridges the gap between therapy and education. 11940 Alpharetta Hwy., Suite 150, Alpharetta. 770-754-0085. The Lionheart School. Relationship-based education for school-age children on the autism spectrum or with other disorders of relating and communicating in a transdisiplinary and comprehensive learning environment. 225 Roswell St., Alpharetta. 770-772-4555. thelionheartschool.com. Mill Springs Academy. Small private school for children with LD, ADD/ADHD. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta. 770-3601336. millsprings.org. Morning Star Montessori School. Combines the principles of Montessori education with the therapeutic approach of the HANDLE Institute to create an environment dedicated to helping children ages 2.5-4 reach their greatest potential. 675 Holt Rd., Marietta. 678-213-0844 msmontessorischool.com The Orion School. Offers monthly thematic units for Kindergarten- 6th grade students who have ADHD and co-occurring conditions. 458 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta. 404-5512574. theorionschool.org.

The Schenck School. Special needs school that serves children with dyslexia. Full-day academic setting for grades K-6. 282 Mt. Paran Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-252-2591. schenck.org. Sophia Academy. Private Christian school offering small class sizes with multi-sensory learning. Grades pre-K-9. 2880 Dresden Dr., Atlanta. 404-303-8722. sophiaacademy.org. Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett. Educational and therapeutic programs for preschool through high school students as well as young adults. Focuses on academic and skill development. 660 Davis Rd., Lawrenceville. 678-442-6262. specialneedsschools.org. Stepping Stones Educational Therapy Center. A therapeutic and educational center for children with special needs. 141 Futral Rd., Griffin. 770229-5511. steppingstonesschool.org. The Swift School. Serves dyslexic students and children with languagebased learning differences. Offers a full day program with a complete curriculum for grades 1-7. 300 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. 678-205-4988. theswiftschool.com.

PRIVATE SCHOOLSBOARDING Eckerd Academy. Whether in Georgia or Central Florida, our campuses are highly effective alternatives to traditional boarding schools. 800-9143937. eckerdacademy.org Stone Mountain School. Long-term residential school specializing in preadolescent and teens with learning disabilities, ADHD, emotional issues and behavioral problems. 126 Camp Elliott Rd., Black Mountain, NC. 888631-5994. stonemountainschool.com. Vanguard School. A remedial, co-educational boarding school for students who have learning disabilities. 22000 Hwy. 27, Lake Wales, FL. 863676-6091. vanguardschool.org.

PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEMS Atlanta City Schools. Exceptional Children. 404-802-2602. atlanta. k12.ga.us.

General Resources Buford City Schools. Denise Swanson, Director of Special Education. 770-9455035, ext. 109. bufordcityschools.org. Cherokee County. Charlette Green, Special Education Director. 770-4791871. cherokee.k12.ga.us. C l a y t o n C o u n t y. B e h a v i o r a l Intervention Program and Special Education Department. 770-473-2700. clayton.k12.ga.us. Cobb County. Peggie Constantino, Director of Special Education. 770-4263309. cobb.k12.ga.us. Coweta County. Gina Murray, Special Education Director. 770-254-2800. cowetaschools.org. Decatur City Schools. Exceptional Student Services. 404-370-4400, ext. 940. decatur-city.k12.ga.us. DeKalb County. Department of Exceptional Education and Support Services. 678-676-1800. dekalb.k12. ga.us. Douglas County. Special Education Office. 770-651-2135. douglas.k12. ga.us. Fayette County. Chris Horton, Director of Exceptional Children’s Services Department. 770-460-3990, ext. 260. fcboe.org. Forsyth County. Sharon Purdie, Department for Exceptional Students. 770-887-2461. forsyth.k12.ga.us. Fulton County. Department for Exceptional Children. 404-763-5600. fulton.k12.ga.us. Gwinnett County. Department of Special Education and Psychological Services. 678-301-7133. gwinnett. k12.ga.us. Henry County. Special Education Department. 770-957-8086. henry. k12.ga.us. Marietta City Schools. Department of Special Education Services and Assistance. 770-427-4631. mariettacity.org. Newton County. Dr. Sarah West, Director of Special Education Department. 770784-4917. newtoncountyschools.org. Paulding County. Exceptional Students. 770-443-8030. paulding.k12.ga.us. Rockdale County. Learning Support Services. 770-860-4231. rockdale.k12. ga.us.

RECREATION AND ENRICHMENT Access To Recreation. Provides exercise and recreational equipment for people with disabilities. 8 Sandra Ct., Newbury Park, CA. 800-634-4351. accesstr.com.

American Association of Adapted Sports Programs. School-based wheelchair sports for kids with physical disabilities in elementary through high school. Atlanta. 404294-0070. adaptedsports.org. Ameri-Kan Karate. Individualized karate instruction stresses balance, coordination, discipline, focus, physical fitness and social skill development. 3020 Edwards Dr., Conyers. 770-388-9858. wcakarate.com. BlazeSports. Sports training, competitions, summer camps, healthy lifestyle programs and other recreational opportunities for youth and adults who use wheelchairs or have visual impairment, amputation or a neurological disability. 535 North McDonough Street, Decatur. 770850-8199. blazesports.org. Boy Scouts of America. Provides an educational and social program for boys and young adults. Children with special needs are placed in inclusive troops. 1800 Circle 75 Pkwy. SE, Atlanta. 770-989-8820. atlantabsa.org. B’Yachad. A buddy program that allows young people with special needs to develop friendships in social and recreational settings. Monthly programs for middle and high school age kids. North Atlanta. 404-9619966. amitatlanta.org. Camp Fire USA, Georgia Council. Children with special needs are taken on an individual basis. Clubs, summer programs, self-reliance courses, outdoor skills and environmental education, and more. 92 Camp Toccoa Dr., Toccoa. 706-886-2457. campfireusa.org. Camp Sunshine. Year round program for children who have cancer and their families. Archery, horseback riding, crafts, water activities. 1850 Clairmont Rd., Decatur. 404-3257979. mycampsunshine.com. Dance and Arts Showcase. Jazz, ballet and tap for children with all types of disabilities. Children must be able to walk. Atlanta, Alpharetta. 770-934-5010. danceandarts.com. Da nc e Fo r Fun. Ch i l d r en ’s Healthcare of Atlanta at North Druid Hills offers a dance program for special needs children led by physical and occupational therapists. 1605 Chantilly Dr. NE, Ste. 200, Atlanta. 404-785-8181 (Cathy Chronic). choa.org. Decatur Yoga and Pilates. Offers a Grounded Kids Yoga program to help children with a variety of disabilities, from autism to ADD. 431 West Ponce De Leon Avenue, Decatur. 404-3774899. decaturhotyoga.com.

Georgia Gymnastics Academy, Inc. Offers professionally tailored and directed programs for every age group at every ability level. 98 Patterson Rd., Lawrenceville. 770-962-5867. 145 Old Peachtree Rd., NW, Suwanee. 770-945-3424. ggacademy.com. Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta. Helps girls self value, social and volunteering skills through troop service. Inclusive and exclusive troops available. 5601 North Allen Rd., Mableton. 770-702-9411. gsgatl. org Little League Challenger Division. Program within Little League Baseball and Softball that pairs able-bodied children with kids who have disabilities. 570-326-1921. littleleague.org. Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. Offers special needs camps, Special Olympics afternoon recreation and theater performances with disabled actors. Also offers full inclusion camp programs. 5342 Tilly Mill Rd., Dunwoody. 404-812-4004. atlantajcc.org. Marietta Enrichment Center. Offers a day program for individuals with developmental disabilities. Art, sign language, music therapy, social events, health and fitness, and other activities. 1395 S. Marietta Pkwy., Bldg. 700, Ste. 700, Marietta. 678354-9144. gacommunity.org. Miracle League Association. Children play baseball with a buddy in a custom-designed baseball complex with turf that accommodates all abilities. 1506 Klondike Rd., Ste. 105, Conyers. 770-760-1933. miracleleague.com. Physical and Leisure Activities for Youth (PLAY). Physical activities and skill and fitness development for children with disabilities. During semesters at Kennesaw State University. Dr. St. Pierre. 1000 Chastain Rd., Kennesaw. 770-4236775. kennesaw.edu/hps/programs/ play Shepherd Center. Offers a program that combines education classes with leisure outings and skill instruction. A sports team program, fitness center and therapeutic recreation specialists with expertise in aquatics, arts, horticulture, music, outdoors and sports. 2020 Peachtree Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-352-2020. shepherd.org. Special Olympics Georgia. Offers year-round sports training and athletic competitions in 24 individual and team Olympic-type sports. 4000 DeKalb Technology Pkwy., Bldg. 400, Ste. 400, Atlanta. 770-414-9390. specialolympicsga.org.

Swim Atlanta. Inclusive swimming programs for children of all abilities. Lawrenceville, 678-442-7946; Suwanee, 770-622-1735. Hamilton Mill, 678-889-2039. Cumming, 770-888-0010. saswimschool.com. swimatlanta.com TOPSoccer, North Atlanta Soccer Association. A soccer program for young athletes who have cognitive, emotional or physical disabilities. Ages 8-19. Metro North Park. 4645 Paper Mill Rd., Marietta. 770-9558700. nasa-ga.org. Trillium Farms. An interactive learning center with emphasis on those with special needs through animal therapy and nature’s bounty. Get up close to many exotic and friendly animals. 983 Pearl Johnson Rd., Ranger, GA. 706-337-2165. trilliumfarms.com. YMCA Happy Club. Year-round social activities for teens and adults with developmental disabilities ages 16 and up. Dance, bowling, arts and crafts and more. Program offered in Atlanta, Decatur and Hoschton 404-687-2521. 404-371-3309, Janice Mathews. YWCA of Greater Atlanta. Provides after school programs, educational and recreational activities, youth outreach and prevention programs. 957 North Highland Ave., Atlanta. 404-892-3476. ywcaatlanta.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS PUBLICATIONS ADDitude Magazine. Quarterly lifestyle magazine for individuals with ADD/ADHD. 39 W. 37th St., 15th Fl., New York, NY. 888-762-8475. additudemag.com. Attention! Magazine published six times a year for families and adults with ADHD sponsored by CHADD. 8181 Professional Pl., Ste. 150, Landover, MD. 800-233-4050. chadd.org. Exceptional Parent Magazine. Monthy publication. Provides information, support, ideas, encouragement and outreach for parents and families of children with disabilities and the professionals who work with them. exceptionalparent.com. Disabled Dealer Magazine of the Southeast. Monthly magazine resource for new and used adaptive equipment, and accessible homes and vehicles. disableddealer.com. JustKids. Published annually by Atlanta Parent Magazine. Includes local articles, advertising and a comprehensive resource guide for parents of special needs children. 770454-7599. atlantaparent.com.

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General Resources SUMMER DAY CAMPS Agape Ranch. Summer recreation program for teens and adults with PDD or autism. Children ages 10 and up enjoy arts and crafts, swimming, music, games, sports, bowling and picnics. Cleveland, GA. 706-3486550. agaperanch.org. Atlanta Parks and Recreation, Special Recreation Services. Oneweek sessions. June-July. Summer day camp for children ages 6-21 with physical and mental disabilities. Coan Park. 1530 Wood Bine Ave., SE, Atlanta. 404-371-5008. atlantaga.gov. Beyond Words Social Skills Camp. Lessons in basic social and nonverbal communication skills enriched with activities and teamwork challenges. Services also available throughout the school year. 1762 Century Blvd., Ste. B, Atlanta. 404-633-0250. beyondwordscenter.com. BSO Camp Chai. Jewish-based camp for students in K-8th grade. Serves all campers including those with Asperger’s Syndrome, autism, d eve l o p m e n t a l d e l a y s , D ow n syndrome and Fragile X Syndrome. Activities include swimming, horseback riding, golf and boating. Shirley Blumenthal Park. 2509 Post Oak Tritt Rd., Marietta. 770-5787532. atlantaajcc.org. Camp Extraordinaire. Weekly themed activties, small group academic enrichment, arts and crafts, OT, PE, music and in school field trips. Porter Academy. 200 Cox Rd., Roswell. 770-594-1313. porteracademy.org. Camp Happy Hearts. Children with mild disabilities enjoy swimming, arts and crafts, games, sports, field trips and more. Ages 6-12. Lionheart School. 225 Roswell Street, Alpharetta. 678-297-6154. alpharetta. ga.us. Camp Kingfisher. Chattahoochee Nature Center. Nature camp for children ages 5 to 14. Hikes, crafts, animal demonstrations, canoeing and swimming. Accepts children with special needs. 9135 Willeo Rd., Roswell. 770-992-2055, ext. 222. chattnaturecenter.com.

Cecil B. Day Sports and Fitness Center. Tumbling and gymnastics camp for children ages 4 to 12. Jungle Jam and Carnival Kartwheelers. Dunwoody Baptist Church. 1445 Mt. Vernon Rd., Atlanta. 770-280-1210. dbc.org. Children’s Special Services Summer Camps. Handwriting and social skills, hiking, rock climbing, swimming and non-competitive games. Held at clinic and several metro Atlanta locations. 770-3949791. childrens-services.com. Circus Arts Social Summer. Circus program that includes juggling, trapeze, rope climbing and more designed for children with special needs. 206 Rogers St. NE, Ste. 214. 404-5493000. circusartsinstitute.com. Clayton County Therapeutic Recreation Day Camp. Camp for mildly disabled children. Skating, swimming, arts and crafts, and field trips. Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center. 770-477-3766. co.clayton.ga.us. The Cottage School Summer Success Program. Offers various summer school programs for middle and high school students as well as a summer sports camp. Camp curriculums and times vary. 700 Grimes Bridge Rd., Roswell. 770641-8688. cottageschool.org. Elm Street Cultural Arts Village. Offers writing and dramatics summer programs and year-round classes and plays for children with special needs. 8534 Main Street, Woodstock. 678494-4251. elmstreetarts.org High Meadows Camp. Offers a full inclusion day camp for campers with developmental disabilities ages 6-18. Swimming, arts and crafts, and more. Atlanta. 770-458-3251. elaineclarkcenter.org. Lekotek Summer Computer Camp. Campers with physical, cognitive and/ or sensory disabilities learn alongside siblings and peers to play using adaptive and innovative technology. 1955 Cliff Valley Way, Ste. 102, Atlanta. 404-633-3430. lekotekga.org.

Camp Sunshine. Serving children with cancer ages birth-23 years and their families by providing educational, recreational and support programs year round. Summer camp held at Camp Twin Lakes. Rutledge. 404325-7979. mycampsunshine.com.

Mark Trail Summer Alternative Camp (ADD, LD). Flexible activitybased program for any student aged 6-18. Morning, afternoon and full day activties available- all of which focus on socialization. Mill Springs Academy. 13660 New Providence Rd., Alpharetta. Sheila Fitzgerald. 770-360-1336. millsprings.org.

Camp Wannaklot, Hemophilia of Georgia. Summer camp for children with bleeding disorders. Camping, canoeing, golf, swimming and more. Held at Camp Twin Lakes. Rutledge. 770-518-8272. hog.org.

MJCCA Camp Billi Marcus. Swimming, pony rides, arts and crafts, music and more for infants to Pre-K. Limited spacing available. 1415 Old Canton Rd., Marietta. 678-812-3720. atlantajcc.org.

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Camp Krazy Legs. Focus is on teaching independence in self-care, organizational skills, life skills, socializing and meeting new friends. Partners with Spina Bifida Association and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Overnight camp also available. Chattahoochee Nature Center, Roswell. 404-785-2490. choa.org.

SUMMER OVERNIGHT CAMPS BlazeSports America Blaze Camps. BlazeCamp is a five-day, four-night residential summer camp that provides youth aged 8-18 with a physical disability an opportunity to become involved in sport and recreation activities. 535 North McDonough Street, Decatur. 770-850-8199. blazesports.org. Camp ASCCA, Easter Seals. One-week sessions for children with disabilities. Aquatic activities, arts and crafts, canoeing, ropes course, horseback riding and more. Jackson’s Gap, AL. 256-825-9226. campascca.org. Camp Barney Medintz. An overnight camp celebrating Jewish culture. Features the Chalutzim (Pioneers) Program for children with developmental disabilities. Cleveland, GA. 770-396-3250. campbarney.org. Camp Lee Mar. A private, co-ed camp for special needs children and young adults ages 5 to 21 who have mild to moderate developmental disabilities. Traditional camp activities, academics, vocational preparation, speech and language therapy, and more. Pocono Mountains, PA. 215-658-1708. leemar.com. Camp Sparrowood. Christian camp for the high functioning, mildly mentally disabled. Nature activities, cookouts, crafts, games, overnight campout, swimming. Dahlonega. 706-864-6181. campglisson.org. Camp Sunshine. For children who have cancer and their families. Archery, horseback riding, crafts, water activities. Held at Camp Twin Lakes. Rutledge. 404-325-7979. mycampsunshine.com. Camp Walk-n-Roll. An overnight camp for children with muscular dystrophy. Archery, ceramics, swimming, fishing and more. Camp Twin Lakes. Rutledge. 770-6219800. camptwinlakes.org. mda.org. Camp Yofi at Camp Ramah Darom. A weeklong camp for Jewish families with children who have autism. Clayton, GA. 404531-0801. ramahdarom.org.

Eckerd Academy of the Blue Ridge’s Summer Academics & Adventure Camp. A six-week residential therapeutic camp emphasizing academic credit recovery and personal growth through outdoor adventures. Suited for boys and girls, ages 13-8, who need to make up a failed course or those who want to get ahead. Blue Ridge, GA. 727-442-5911. http://eckerdacademy.org/campuses/ summer-camp/. Florida Diabetes Camp. Traditional camp in various parts of Florida, with swimming, sports, arts and crafts and diabetes education. Medical care provided. 352-334-1321. floridadiabetescamp.org. Georgia Lions Camp for the Blind. Campers must have a visual loss of 20/70 or greater. Indoor and outdoor activities, field trips and swimming. Ages 4 to adult. Waycross. 888-2971775. glcb.org. SOAR Summer Adventures. Highadventure programs for LD and ADHD youth. Belize, California, Costa Rica, Florida, North Carolina and Wyoming. 828-456-3435. soarnc. org. academyatsoar.org Squirrel Hollow Camp. Four-week program for children who need an academic boost during the summer. Instruction in reading, math and writing skills. Fairburn. 770-7748001. thebedfordschool.org. Talisman Camps and Programs. Summer programs for children ages 8 to 17 and young adults ages 18 to 22 with LD, ADD and ADHD, Asperger’s Syndrome and high functioning autism. Zirconia, NC. Hendersonville, NC. 888-458-8226. talismanprograms.com.

SUPPORT SERVICES DeKalb Community Service Board. Programs include outpatient mental health counseling, acute stabilization and detoxification, psychosocial rehabilitation and residential services, and more. 445 Winn Way, Decatur. 404-294-3836. dekcsb.org. JF&CS. A nonsectarian organization that provides services to people with developmental disabilities and their families in the areas of employment, residential services, family support, transportation, information and education. 4549 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta. 770-677-9300. jfcsatlanta.org. Kennedy Krieger Institute. Providing evaluation and treatment to children and young adults with disorders and injuries of the brain, spinal cord and musculoskeletal system since 1929. 707 N. Broadway, Baltimore, MD. 888-554-2080. kennedykrieger.org.

General Resources • Therapy and Medical Services

CLIMB (Children’s Lives Include Moments of Bravery) CLIMB is a children-only (ages 6-11) support group at the Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University that helps children with parents or grandparents who have cancer before, during and after their treatment. 1365C Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 888-946-7447. winshipcancer.emory.edu/groups. CLIMB: 404-778-5926. The MENTOR Network. Serves developmentally disabled and atrisk youth. Programs include host home living, specialized foster care, education support and crisis intervention. 18 Executive Park Dr., Ste. 1823, Atlanta. 404-728-1567. ga-mentor.com. Siskin Children’s Institute. Four centers for children that specialize in education, outreach, health care and research. The centers diagnose, treat, educate, research and provide support for children with developmental disabilities and their parents. 1101 Carter St., Chattanooga. 423-648-1708. siskin.org. Tommy Nobis Center. Services include vocational and work evaluations, employment services and skills training. 1480 Bells Ferry Rd., Marietta. 770-427-9000. tommynobiscenter.org.

Therapy and Medical Services Many professionals in the metro area offer a variety of treatments, including occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy, as part of their practice. Look under Therapy Services for professionals who primarily offer OT and PT services. Separate categories have been made for hippotherapy, music and speech therapy.

EVALUATIONS AND MEDICAL SERVICES Alliance of Pediatric Therapies. Specializing in physical, occupational and speech therapy services. Links families with services to ensure quality and timely therapeutic interventions are available to all children in Gwinnett County. 678-790-4593. alliancega.com.

Atlanta Center for Holistic and Integrative Medicine. Dr. Tasneem Bhatia provides healthcare through integrative medicine. Methods include acupuncture, supplements, botanicals, manual medicine and chinese herbal medicine. Methods beneficial in treating children with ADHD, Autism, anxiety, headaches, colic, inflammatory bowel disease and more. 2556 Apple Valley Rd., Ste. 175, Atlanta. 404-814-9808. atlantaholisticmedicine.com. Atlanta Integrative Medicine. Provides integrative care for the whole family, specializing in allergies, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, eczema, recurrent infections and numerous other childhood ailments. 45 West Crossville Rd., Ste. 501, Roswell. 770-594-1233. atlantaintegrativemedicine.com. Babies Can’t Wait, Easter Seals o f N o r t h G e o rg i a . P r ov i d e s early intervention for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities. Evaluations and recommendations are given. A lending library with therapy equipment and adaptive toys is also available to families. 5434 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville. 770-822-9115. Behavioral Medicine Institute of Atlanta. Provides psychological evaluations, and counseling for groups and individuals. 1401 Peachtree St. NE, Ste. 140, Atlanta. 404-872-7929. bmiatlanta.com. C h i l d r e n ’s C a r d i o v a s c u l a r Medicine, P.C. Offers pediatric cardiology diagnostic services. 61 Whitcher St., Ste. 4140, Marietta. 404-943-0289. childrenscvm.com. Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Pediatric healthcare system providing evaluations, therapy services and more with two hospitals, 19 satellite locations, and physicians with various specialties. 404-250-5437. choa.org.

Children’s Medical Services (CMS). A statewide program that provides or arranges for specialty medical/family services for children birth to age 21 with chronic conditions. 404-6572726. health.state.ga.us/programs/cms.

Shepherd Center. Programs provide intensive care, speech, language, physical and occupational therapies, as well as extensive family education and training. 2020 Peachtree Rd. NW, Atlanta. 404-352-2020 shepherd.org.

C l a y t o n C e n t e r. P s y c h i a t r i c evaluations and treatment for children and adolescents with mental health disorders, ADHD, PDD and depression. 6315 Garden Walk Blvd., Riverdale. 770-991-7420. claytoncenter.org.

Sherwood Clinical Home Infusion. Offers a wide range of home infusion therapies administered by skilled pediatric nurses, comprehensive caregiver education and oncall support services. 415 Fisk Ave., Demorest. 800-847-3987. sherwoodclinical.com.

DeKalb County Board of Health. Offers a service which provides assistance to children requiring special care. 445 Winn Way, Decatur. 404-2943700. dekalbhealth.net. Emory Autism Resource Center. Provides information, referrals, diagnostic evaluations, medication consultations, family support/parent training, school/program consultations, research, academic tutoring for students with ASD, preschool services and applied behavior analysis therapy. Emory University, 1551 Shoup Ct., Atlanta. 404-727-8350. psychiatry. emory.edu/PROGRAMS/autism. Emory’s Children’s Center. Medical services for pediatric patients, including an emergency shelter home for newborns with special medical needs. 2015 Uppergate Dr., Atlanta. 404-7782400. emory-childrenscenter.org. Emory University Psychological C e n t e r. B e h av i o r c o n s u l t a n t services, counseling and psychology services, developmental evaluation and assessment services, disability organization, education consultations, pediatric diagnostic and evaluation services. 1462 Clifton Rd., Ste. 235, Atlanta. 404-727-7451. psychology. emory.edu/clinical/center.html. Learning Evaluation Clinic. Provides psycho-educational evaluations for children ages 4 to 18. Atlanta Speech School. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta. 404-233-5332. atlantaspeechschool.org. The Marcus Institute. Services include evaluations, a pediatric feeding disorder program, the Marcus Behavior Center, speech language pathology and a mental health psychotherapy clinic for children birth to age 22 with developmental or learning disabilities. 1920 Briarcliff Rd. NE., Atlanta. 404419-4000. marcus.org. The May Institute. Provides community-based behavioral healthcare, educational and rehabilitative services. Serves individuals with autism, pervasive developmental disorder, developmental disabilities, mental retardation, brain injury and behavioral health needs. 280 Interstate North Cir., Ste. 430, Atlanta. 770-956-8511. maysouth.org.

Southern Behavioral Group. Behavioral and psychological services for children with autism, developmental disabilities, and other special needs. 2470 Windy Hill Rd., Ste. 300, Marietta. 678-921-2811. southernbehavioralgroup.com. Wo o d l a w n D e v e l o p m e n t a l Pediatrics, P.C. Private medical practice that provides assessments and monitoring of children and adolescents with a variety of developmental delays/disorders. 3535 Roswell Rd., Ste. 44, Marietta. 678-560-3999.

GENERAL THERAPY SERVICES Advanced Rehabilitation Services, Inc. Occupational and physical therapists, and speech language pathologists in clinical and nonclinical environments. 413 Indian Hills Tr., Marietta. 770-973-3466. arsga.com. All About Kids Therapy Services, I n c . P e d i a t r i c p hy s i c a l a n d occupational therapy, intensive therapy programs, aquatic therapy. 545 Old Norcross Rd., Ste 100, Lawrenceville. 678-377-2833. allaboutkidstherapyservices.com. Allternative Gym. Ideal for, but not limited to Cerebral Palsy patients, stroke survivors, brain/ spinal trauma, Down syndrome and obesity. 110 Evans Mill Dr., Ste. 309/310, Dallas. 678-945-4662. allternativegym.com. Art It Out Therapy Services. Provides art therapy and other therapeutic services to children and adolescents, ages 4-18, families and groups. Clients can participate in individual art therapy sessions and/ or group art therapy to “art out” life’s challenges. 1640 Powers Ferry Rd., Bldg. 2, Ste. 150, Marietta. 770-7269589. artitout.org. Associated Therapies, Inc. Pediatric occupational, physical and speech therapy in a home or clinical setting. 1244 Clairmont Rd., Ste. 108, Decatur. 404-728-9766. associatedtherapies.com.

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Therapy and Medical Services A t l a n t a M e d i c a l C e n t e r. Comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation services including physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech language pathology services. 261 Parkway Dr. NE, Atlanta. 404-265-4634. atlantamedcenter.com.

Devereux Georgia Treatment Network. Community and residential programs for children and adolescents diagnosed with severe emotional behavioral disorders. 1291 Stanley Rd. NW, Kennesaw. 770427-0147. devereuxga.org.

K i d d o ’s C l u b h o u s e . P r ov i d e s occupational, physical and speech therapies for children with special needs, including sensory integration and assistive technology. 11539 Park Woods Cir., Ste. 502, Alpharetta. 678-527-3224. kiddosclubhouse.com.

Beyond Words Center for Social Skills Training. Social skills assessment and training, parent training and psychotherapy. 1762 Century Blvd., Ste. B, Atlanta. 404633-0250. beyondwordscenter.com.

Easter Seals of North Georgia. Pediatric therapy services in-home, at childcare centers or at Easter Seals locations. 1200 Lake Hearn Dr., Ste. 250, Atlanta. 404-943-1070. northgeorgia.easterseals.com.

Children’s Special Services. Occupational therapy services, handwriting, sensory integration, motor development and self-esteem therapy for children who learn differently. Atlanta. 770-394-9791. childrens-services.com.

Essential Communication, Inc. Provides speech language therapy and Relationship Development Intervention Therapy for children to improve thinking skills, problem solving and relationships. 130 Prospect Place, Alpharetta. 770-8170181. essential-communication.com.

Kid’s Creek Therapy. A pediatric rehabilitation clinic offering speech, occupational and physical therapies for children with special needs. Services include aquatic therapy, hippotherapy and Interactive Metronome, a brainbased treatment program. 3905 Johns Creek Ct., Ste. 250, Suwanee. 770-8885221. kidscreektherapy.com.

C h i l d re n ’s T h e r a p y Wo r k s . Occupational, physical and speech therapy. Also handwriting and social skills groups. 11940 Alpharetta Hwy., Ste. 150, Alpharetta. 770-754-0085. childrenstherapyworks.com. Circus Arts Institute. Coordination, balance, strength and flexibility development for children, teens and adults with attention difficulties, behavioral and emotional issues, and physical challenges. 206 Rogers St. NE, Ste. 214, Atlanta. 404-549-3000. circusartsinstitute.com. Clay White, LLC. Activity-based and sensory-driven therapeutic programs including “Outdoor Sensory Adventures,” “PEOTSI,” an adaptive physical education program, the “Social Club Program” and a summer day camp for children with sensory processing disorders. P.O. Box 567042, Atlanta. 770-393-3939. claywhite.us. Comprehensive Psychiatric Services of Atlanta. Trained and experienced doctors help children and adults with ADHD, behavioral problems, school difficulties, mood disorders, eating disorders, PDD, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders and more. 57 Executive Park S, Ste. 360, Atlanta. 404-939-6636. cpsatl.com. Comprehensive Therapy Children’s C e n t e r. A m u l t i d i s c i p l i n a r y outpatient facility specializing in speech language therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy for children with special needs. 212 Riverstone Dr., Canton. 770-3457796. specialkidstherapy.com. Connections Counseling and Development Center. Provides individual, family and group counseling services, along with learning disability and stress management aid, from highly trained health professionals. 2801 Buford Hwy., Atlanta. 404-321-1800. connectionsatl.com.

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Functional Physical Therapy, Inc. Provides physical therapy services for infants to young adults in clinic and non-clinic settings. 2530-B Mountain Industrial Blvd., Tucker. 404-456-3717. Georgia Association for Play Therapy. Children use the language of play to express and resolve their problems. 4893 LaVista Rd., Tucker, 30084. 770-491-7423 gapt.org Greater Atlanta Speech and Language Clinics, Inc. Offers c o m p r e h e n s ive eva l u a t i o n s , occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, and hippotherapy. Suwanee, 770770-831-2313; Marietta, 770-9779457. greateratlantaspeech.com. Hearts and Hands Therapy Services, Inc. A pediatric private practice clinic that provides occupational and speech therapy. Serves children from birth through adolescence with autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome and more. 341 Creekstone Ridge, Wo o d s t o c k . 6 7 8 - 4 6 2 - 1 3 4 2 . heartsandhandstherapy.com. Helping Hands Pediatric Therapy, Inc. Offers occupational therapy and speech therapy for children with special needs. 470 South Hill St., Buford. 678-482-6100. helpinghandspediatrictherapy.com.

Kidsplay Therapy Center. Provides occupational, physical and speech therapies. Also offers music therapy, consultations and evaluations. 311 Cooper Rd., Loganville. 678-205-5437. kidsplaytherapy.com. Ko o l K i d z , I n c . P hy s i c a l a n d occupational therapy for children and young adults up to age 21 in a non-clinic environment. Offers aquatic therapy, therapeutic dance, hippotherapy, sports medicine, neurodevelopment treatment and sensory integration. Marietta. 770517-2480. koolkidzpt.com. Parallel Play, Inc. Provides speech and occupational therapy and physical therapy through gymnastics. Yoga, karate and Therapeutic Listening also available. 4680 Morton Rd., Alpharetta. 770-8866800. parallelplaykids.net. Parkaire Consultants. Diagnostic/ treatment services for children, adolescents/adults needing therapeutic intervention for neurological disorders. Neuropsychologist, counselors, ADD and Life coaches, educational consultants, speech/language pathology, occupational therapy and tutors. 4939 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-5781519. parkaireconsultants.com. Pediatric Occupational Therapies of Cobb and Bartow Counties. Pediatric occupational therapies specializing in the identification, evaluation and treatment of a variety of medical and developmental challenges in children and adolescents. 2655 Dallas Hwy., Ste. 320, Marietta. 404-314-7518. cathyshepherdot.com

Sensations Therafun. Provides an additional place for parents, children and their therapist to interact; features climbing walls, monkey bars, swings, private meeting rooms, after school and summer programs and more. 1704 Chantilly Dr., Atlanta. 404-634-3500. sensationstherafun.com. Therapy on the Square. Pediatric occupational and speech therapy - evaluation and treatment. Neurodevelopmental treatment, sensory integration and Therapeutic Listening. 920 Holcomb Bridge Rd., Ste. 350, Roswell. 770-642-0670. therapyonthesquare.com. Tender Ones Therapy Services, Inc. Physical therapist owned pediatric rehabilitation company that offers physical, occupational and speech therapy to children from birth through age 21. 2089 Teron Trace, Ste. 120, Dacula. 770-904-6009. tenderones.com. T h e r a p y Wo r k s , P. C . O ff e r s Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Physical Therapy, Intensive Feeding Therapy and Mother’s Morning Out in family friendly setting. Lawrenceville, Thompson Mill, Norcross locations. 770995-2379. therapyworkspc.com. Village of St. Joseph Counseling Services. Advocacy services, education workshops, and individual and family counseling for all ages with ADD/ ADHD, mental illness, and emotional, behavioral and learning disabilities. 680 W. Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-3527. catholiccharitiesatlanta.org. Walter’s Rehabilitation Therapies, Inc. Offers alternative options to parents and caregivers of individuals suffering from brain injury with a unique training and teaching process that can be learned and administered in the home. 404-8746672. genelewis.us.

HIPPOTHERAPY AND THERAPEUTIC RIDING Chastain Horse Park Therapeutic Program. NARHA Premier Accredited Center. Offers year-round equestrianassisted activities and therapies for children with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges. 4371 Powers Ferry Rd., Atlanta. 404-252-4244, ext. 27. chastainhorsepark.org.

In Harmony Pediatric Therapy. Offers physical, occupational, speech, music therapy and Kindermusik® programs. 310 Papertrail Way, Ste. 302, Canton. 770-345-2804. inharmonypediatrictherapy.com.

Reinforcement Unlimited. Clinical and behavioral consultants specializing in autism spectrum, assessment program diagnosis, behavioral evaluation, ABA, ABLLS and VBA. Offers in-home services, workshops and training. 335 Parkway 575, Ste. 220, Woodstock. 770-591-9552. behavior-consultant.com.

Coweta Organization for Riding R e h a b i l i t a t i o n a n d L e a rn i n g ( C O R R A L ) . NA R H A P r e m i e r Accredited Center. Free lessons for students with a wide range of disabilities in Coweta County School System Special Education classes. 52 Oliver Potts Rd., Newnan. 770-254-0840. corraltrc.org.

Interactiv Children’s Therapy Services. Home- and clinic-based occupational therapy for newborns to young adults. 2959 Hwy. 154, Bldg. C, Ste. C, Newnan. 770-683-0250. ictsonline.com.

Roosevelt Warm Springs Institute for Rehabilitation. Offers educational, medical, pastoral and vocational services. Aquatic therapy, recreation and assistive technology available. Warm Springs. 706-655-5000. rooseveltrehab.org.

Creative Therapy, Inc. Provides occupational and physical therapy services that specialize in the movement of the horse and horse activities to meet therapy goals. 1 McGarity Rd., Canton. 770-360-9183. creativetherapyinc.com.

Therapy and Medical Services DreamPower Therapeutic Equestrian C e n t e r, I n c . NA R H A P r e m i e r Accredited Center. Offers group and private therapeutic riding sessions. 123 Equest Dr., Canton. 678-762-7880. dreampowertherapy.org.

Therabeat, Inc. Provides music therapy services that focus on motor, communication, adaptive, social development and cognitive skills. 310 Papertrail Way, Ste. 302, Canton. 770-345-2804. therabeat.com.

Driving Magic. Offers therapeutic carriage driving, horsemanship lessons and group workshops. Duluth. 404-3584129. drivingmagicinc.org.

Under Musical Construction, Inc. Uses music therapy as aid for changing/enhancing behavior and developmental stages of growth and learning. Summer camp and ongoing programs. 1569 Cove Creek Cir., Norcross. 770-630-1356. musictherapy.com.

Good Shepherd Therapeutic Center. Provides therapeutic riding services to persons with physical disabilities. 390 Barrest Ranch Rd., Warm Springs. 706655-2354. gbchfm.org. H o r s e Ti m e . NA R H A P r e m i e r Accredited Center. Offers year-round physical therapy, psychotherapy, recreational riding and horsemanship for those with special needs. 10385 Hwy. 278 E, Covington. 770-784-9777. horsetime.org. Parkwood Farms Therapy Center, Inc. Offers hippotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy and therapeutic riding sessions. 2519 Parkwood Rd., Snellville. 678-344-6821. parkwoodfarms.org. Reece Center for Handicapped Horsemanship. Recreational equestrian therapy services. 8280 Wilkerson Mill Rd., Palmetto. 678-423-1734. reececenter.org. Ride a Wish. Therapeutic horseback riding for children and young adults to enhance their cognitive, emotional and physical special needs. 14770 Wood Rd., Milton. 404-457-8518. rideawish.com. Sonora Creek. Therapeutic riding programs offered year-round and summer camps for children with special needs. 1937 Gaddis Rd., Canton. Mary, 678-614-5636. sonoracreek.com.

MUSIC THERAPY Metro Musical Therapy. Provides music therapy services to children, adolescents and adults. Goals addressed in sessions are: social skills, speech and language skills, academic concepts, behavior, rehab and more. Norcross. 404579-8070. metromusictherapyga.com. Music Therapy Services of Greater Atlanta. Individual and group music therapy, adaptive lessons for piano, voice and guitar and programs for toddlers and young children. 114 Bulloch Ave., Roswell. 678-277-2632. mtsofga.com. Music to My Ears Therapy. Uses Integrated Listening Systems’ (iLs) professional programs to address a wide variety of special needs challenges. Integrates auditory, visual, and movement abilities helping the brain become more efficient and effective. 920 Holcomb Bridge Road Ste. 350, Roswell. 678-384-4033

NUTRITION Life Grocery and Cafe. Natural foods market featuring healthy foods for allergies and special dietary needs. Specializing in additive-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, wheat-free, sugar-free, and yeast-free options. 1453 Roswell Rd., Marietta. 770-9779583. lifegrocery.com. The Family Feeding Guide. Registered, Licensed Dietitian provides evidence-based nutrition therapy and food guidance/coaching for busy parents. Specializes in autism, ADHD, food allergies/ intolerances, sensory integration issues, obesity, diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). 10475 Medlock Bridge Rd., Bldg. 200, Ste. 205, Johns Creek. 404-4091747. familyfeedingguide.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY Anne Ledbetter Photography. Specializes in photographing portraits of children, babies, families and pets. 770-431-0646. anneledbetterphotography.com. A r i o n P r o P h o t o g r a p h y. Specializes in kids portraits, indoor and outdoor with a low hourly rate. Proud photographer of the 2011 Just Kids cover. 770-855-4395. arionprophoto.com. Haigwood Photography Studios. Children’s portraiture. 565 S. Atlanta St., Roswell. 770-594-7845. haigwoodstudios.com. Smith Portrait Design, Inc. Family and children’s photography. 770-4695305. smith-studio.com.

SPEECH THERAPY Atlanta Area Stuttering Specialists. Offers evaluation and treatment of fluency disorders. 1874 Independence Sq., Ste. B, Dunwoody. 770-3995455. stuttering-specialist.com. Auditory-Verbal Center. Provides audio-logical services, auditory verbal therapy, early intervention services, mainstreaming consultations and more. 1901 Century Blvd., Ste. 20, Atlanta. 404-633-8911. avchears.org.

First Words Speech Services, LLC. Provides speech therapy and special instruction to children with autism and complex communication disorders, from infants to early school-age children. 1800 Lake Park Dr. Ste. 102, Smyrna. 770-4386928. firstwordspeechservices.com.

Angel Flight of Georgia. Provides free air transport to people who need to travel for specified medical treatment or therapy that is potentially life saving and not available in their local area. 2000 Airport Rd., Ste. 227, Atlanta. 770-452-7958. angelflightga.org.

The Language Group. Provides speech and language therapy, comprehensive evaluations and more. 3756 LaVista Rd., Ste. 1 0 4 , Tu cker. 4 0 4 - 4 7 7 - 9 4 0 0 . thelanguagegroup.org.

Benefits Navigator Project, Georgia. A free service that provides work incentive information for people who receive either Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or both based on a medical condition. Shepherd Center. 2020 Peachtree Rd. NW, Atlanta. 866-772-2726. bpaoga.com.

PediaSpeech Services, Inc. Offers speech, language, feeding, o r a l - m o t o r, a u g m e n t a t ive communication and reading therapies. Decatur and Norcross. 770-209-9826. pediaspeech.com. RS Goldring, Inc. Offers pediatric speech therapy. 415 Fairford Ln., Johns Creek. 404-509-6303. rsgoldring.com. Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Clinic. Offers diagnostic testing and therapy for children and adults on an outpatient basis. Atlanta Speech School. 3160 Northside Pkwy. NW, Atlanta. 404233-5332. atlantaspeechschool.org. Speech-Language Pathology Assoc., Inc. A private practice in speech and language offering diagnostic and therapeutic treatment programs for children and adults. Laurie K. Botstein, M.S./C.C.C.SLP. 3137 Kings Arms Ct., Atlanta. 770-939-9986. slpai.com. Therapy Solutions of Georgia, Inc. Offers pediatric speech, language, feeding, oral-motor, augmentative, occupational and communication therapy services. 3615 Braselton Hwy., Ste. 103, Dacula. 678-377-9634. tsg-inc.net.

VISION THERAPY Pediatric Vision Development Center of Gwinnett. Dr. Nadira Shadeed provides private oneon-one evaluations and therapy with the doctor for kids with visual dysfunctions and impairments. 2098 Teron Trace, Ste. 800B, Dacula. 770-904-0979. visiontherapy4kids.com.

MISCELLANEOUS American Association of People with Disabilities. Membership benefits include a quarterly newsletter, Digital Federal Credit Union, car rental discounts, life insurance and discounted subcriptions to New Mobility magazine. 1629 K St. NW, Ste. 503, Washington, DC. 800-8408844. aapd.com.

Brain Balance Achievement Centers. Services for neurobehavioral/ developmental disorders such as AD/ HD, Austim, Asperger’s, Tourette’s syndrome, processing disorders, dyslexia and learning disabilities. Peachtree City, 770-631-3303; Suwanee, 770-614-4790; Roswell, 770650-8010. brainbalancecenters.com. The Center for Research and Expansion of Assistive Technology Excellence (CREATE). Training, consulting, customized software, IEP support. 3423 Fowler Blvd., Lawrenceville. 770-923-3202. center4atexcellence.com. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Public health education, training and research. 1600 Clifton Rd., Atlanta. 404-639-3534. cdc.gov. Childkind. A foster and foster-toadopt agency for medically fragile children. 3107 Clairmont Rd., Ste. A, Atlanta. 404-248-1980. childkind.org. DNQ Solutions. Diane N. Quintana is a Certified Professional Organizer who specializes in residential and home office organization. Helps busy families organize their papers, their things and their time. Diane has obtained Certificates of Study in working with clients whose lives are affected by ADD, hoarding and other mental health conditions and challenges. 404-250-0321. dnqsolutions.com. Institute for Behavioral Medicine. A research study center for behavioral disorders. Conducts clinical trials and adolescent research studies for autism, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and AD/HD. 4015 South Cobb Dr., Ste. 120, Smyrna. 770-319-8025. ifbm.us. Institute on Human Development and Disability. Performs research to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and their families. University of Georgia. 850 College Station Rd., Athens. 706-542-3457. ihdd.uga.edu. JK

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Know the Lingo W

hen parents first learn that their child has a disability, they suddenly find themselves entering a world with new experiences, unexpected challenges and a language of its own. In order for you to decode what your child’s doctors and therapists are saying, we’ve compiled a list of terms and definitions you need to know.

Adventitious Acquired after birth, accidental.

Activities of daily living (ADL) Everyday skills a person needs to learn to function: eating, dressing, bathing, hygiene skills, communication skills.

At risk Children who could, under some circumstances, develop problems that will affect their learning process.

Acute Sudden onset and lasts a short period of time. Adaptive development How a child compares to other children the same age in regards to such things as motor development, speech and language skills, daily living skills, etc. ADA – Americans With Disabilities Act A civil rights law passed in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in employment, public service and public accommodations. Adaptive behavior An individual’s ability to act appropriately in social situations and to take care of their personal needs. Adaptive physical education/sports Physical education or sports programs designed to meet the needs of special education students. ADHD/ADD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) A medical condition exhibited by poor attention, distractibility, impulsivity and hyperactivity.

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Advocate A person who helps take action on behalf of someone who is not able to. Ambulatory The ability to move around without assistive devices. Assistive technology Technology used to help a person with disabilities.

Augmentative communication Special devices that provide an alternative for spoken language. Cognitive Difficulty in learning in the areas of reasoning, comprehension and judgment. Compulsion A repetitive act that an individual cannot consciously control. Congenital A condition that is present at birth. Developmental history A record of the child’s growth in areas such as walking, learning and talking. Developmentally delayed A child who acquires skills after the expected age. Disability A physical or mental problem that prevents someone from functioning at a normal rate. Early intervention services Identifying and treating children before the age of 3. Free, appropriate public education A requirement that all schoolaged children with disabilities be provided services in the public school system.

Gross motor Coordinated movements of all body parts. Inclusion Children with disabilities receive services in their neighborhood schools and are placed in the same classrooms with typical children. Individualized Education Program (IEP) A yearly education plan written by teachers, therapists, psychologists, etc. and the child’s parents for school age children with disabilities. Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) An education and therapeutic plan written by teachers, therapists, psychologists, etc. and the child’s parents for a child, birth through 3 years old, with disabilities. Language impairment Difficulty understanding and/or using language. Learning disability A child with average or above-average potential that has difficulty learning in one or more areas (such as reading or math) and exhibits a severe discrepancy between their ability and achievement. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) An educational setting that gives students with disabilities a place to learn to the best of their ability and also have contact with children without disabilities. Mainstreaming, integration Some or all of the child’s day is spent in a regular classroom. Mental age The level of intellectual functioning based on the average for children of the same chronological age.

Mental retardation The child’s intellectual level is measured below the average range, usually below 70 on IQ tests. Motor development The ability to move effectively within the environment. Norm referenced tests A child’s performance is compared to others the same age. Range of motion The amount a person is able to move their joints and limbs. Receptive language Understanding spoken and written communication as well as gestures. Related services Other support services that a child with disabilities requires such as transportation, occupational, physical and speech pathology services, interpreters and medical services, etc. Self-contained class A classroom specifically for special education students. Spasticity Tense contracted muscles usually seen in people with cerebral palsy. Special needs A child who has disabilities or who is at risk of developing disabilities that may require special education services. Tactile defensiveness Child overreacts or avoids any kind of touch. Total communication Educating deaf students with a combination of speech and sign language. TTY/TTD Telephone service for the deaf/ hearing-impaired. Visual discrimination Ability to detect differences in objects, forms, letters or words. Visual acuity How well a person perceives an object or letter from 20 feet. Visual impairment Eyesight that cannot be corrected to normal. Source: www.parentpals.com