2
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Top 5 Steps to Take after Your Child is Diagnosed with Autism It is extremely overwhelming when your child is diagnosed with autism. This is an emotional time filled with questions and concerns. However, it is often in your child’s best interest to begin taking action as quickly as possible. 1. Do the research about effective interventions The media is filled with information about autism regarding causes and treatment options. It may seem impossible to filter this flood of information and determine what pieces of information are most beneficial for you and your child. Although learning more about the cause of autism is important for both parents and professionals, initially it is imperative to submerse yourself with information on bestpractice treatment options so that your child can begin receiving services as immediately as possible. 2. Determine the best services for your child Autism is a “spectrum” disorder, therefore, children with a diagnosis of autism vary greatly in regard to the severity of their symptoms. Therefore, the level of support needed should vary depending on your child’s individualized needs. a). Oftentimes, the least amount of support needed consists of enrolling a child in a regular education classroom, but ensuring that the child has an Individualized Education Plan that specifically states any special accommodations that should be made to aid the child in learning. b). A slightly greater amount of support may consist of organizing a child’s day so that he/she spend approximately half of his/her day in the regular education setting and the other half of the day in the special education setting. c). Even more support may be provided to a child by allocating a one-on-one Aide to assist the child throughout his/her day (or a portion of the day d). Some children may need a significantly greater level of support due to more severe deficits. This support may be provided by enrolling your child in an ABA program that provides either a small-group ratio
(approximately three students to one teacher) or a one-to-one ratio for teaching. 3. Enroll your child in the most appropriate services Once you have had the opportunity to research effective treatment options, and then consider the various levels of treatment intensity that are available, the recommended next step is to begin treatment. Schedule an evaluation with a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) or Psychologist in order to receive a clinical recommendation regarding the intensity of the services most appropriate for your child. 4. Monitor your child’s progress Once your child has begun treatment it is essential that his/her progress is closely monitored through careful data collection and analysis. Your child’s goals should be clearly stated by the service provider with a specific plan in place to ensure your child has the opportunity to meet those goals. 5. Get the training you need Seek out training to learn more about how to interact with your child. Children with autism often have significant delays in language and/or maladaptive behaviors. As a result, it can be tremendously challenging to communicate with your child and understand why he/she behaves in certain ways. Therefore, additional training and support to learn how to best communicate with your child and how to respond to maladaptive behaviors will greatly benefit your relationship with your child. For more information on steps to take after your child is diagnosed with autism, or for information regarding effective treatment for children with autism, please contact the Verbal Behavior Center for Autism (VBCA) at 317-848-4774 or www.vbca.org. Dr. Breanne Hartley, Clinical Director of the Verbal Behavior Center for Autism
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
3
Ages 3-12
4
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
5
Ethan’s Story
When you become a parent, you have wonderful hopes and dreams of the person your child will become. You can’t wait for their first smile, first word, crawl, walk, even sleep through the night. As they grow, you hope to have bragging rights to all of their firsts. Then you start to notice that they are not like their peers developmentally. That is what happened with my sweet boy, Ethan, who was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, ADHD and Generalized Anxiety Disorder at the age of 4. When you sit across from someone and hear those words, it can be heartbreaking. You learn to fight for anything and everything they need.
When we made the decision to enroll Ethan into the Brain Balance Center of Indianapolis, this was our last resort. I would learn that it should have been our first. For years, we had gone to multiple doctors and therapists, each time walking away never really feeling complete or like we were getting anywhere with his treatment. I had started to come to terms with the fact that Ethan may always need to live with me. That even though he could make great strides, he would always need that extra support. Since starting Brain Balance, Ethan has had significant improvements in his behavior, social interactions and overall sensory functions. He has learned to advocate for himself. We eliminated 2 of the 3 medications he was on. He is confident, has friends, enjoys being around others and smiles. The best part is that for the first time Ethan wants to sincerely hug me! I have bragging rights now, and I owe it all to Brain Balance.
www.brainbalanceindianapolis.com 6
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
7
8
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
9
10
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Tough Decisions for Parents In today’s world parents need to be a lot more alert and savvy to keep their child safe. It is no wonder that they come into the office with a dilemma that they want to run by a professional because they feel polarized about it. After talking about how special their child is and singing their praises.... they then describe some behavior that is problematic and they wonder if they should “monitor or spy” on them to double check and make sure they are safe. Now I am a big believer in giving your child the independence they need to make good decisions and yet I know that it is imperative to pay attention to your gut and go to any means possible to insure their safety. I am the type of counselor who advocates that a client check in with the parent of a child who is hosting a sleepover or party to inquire about supervision, rules and expectations regardless of the concern of your child that you are being over protective or smothering. Now that the world is digitalized, it poses the need for extra scrutiny. I tell parents that if your child has a Facebook, Instagram or Twitter account, it can only be approved if you have full accessibility to it at all times including your child’s passwords. I believe this is a better choice than parents who would like to use surveillance software to monitor their child’s peer communications or interests. That way if the parent sees something concerning, they can address it and use it as a teachable moment for their child. The dilemma gets tougher when your teenager decides to opt for more control and opens multiple accounts and you figure out that he or she has outsmarted you (temporarily) because they are so much savvier than you. If you have reason
to believe that your child has tried to exert this extra independence from you it is absolutely OK for you to use a software system that tracks keystrokes or applications and pictures. I do advise that it is important to “have the talk” prior to any problems, Carol Juergensen Sheets that you will give your child his independence but if you become suspect you will go to any means to make sure they are safe. In other words you explain to your child as you discuss internet expectations that you hope NEVER TO HAVE TO MONITOR ACTIVITY THIS WAY BUT IF YOU NEED TO YOU WILL AND THAT YOU WILL LET HIM/ HER KNOW WHEN YOU ARE DOING IT. Kids need to know that you are not going to match their deceit by deceiving them too. Besides that you need to be able to talk to them about your concerns which require that you share that you have monitored them because you have been suspicious of their actions. Regardless of your child’s age, as a parent you are always looking for teachable moments although the older they get....the angrier they will be about your need to monitor and control their actions. They will likely make you feel really guilty about your actions and they will understandably be incensed that you have violated their freedom. That is why I always advise parents to wait until they have solid reasons to use extraordinary measures to monitor their child’s actions. It is tough being a parent especially when you have to go to extraordinary means to keep your child safe!
Carol Juergensen Sheets LCSW PCC is a psychotherapist and personal life coach. She does motivational speaking and empowerment trainings locally and nationally. To find out more about her services--contact her at www. carolthecoach.com or call her at 317-218-3479. Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
11
12
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
13
14
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
& Applied Behavior Center for Autism See pgs. 16, 17, 32 www.appliedbehaviorcenter.org Locations in Greenwood, Indy West, and Fishers Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) focuses on using proven procedures to increase desired behaviors and decrease unwanted behaviors. BACA Behavior Analysis Center for Autism See pg. 23 Contact Sarah Cox: Scox@TheBACA.com 317.436.8961 High quality, intensive ABA Programs overseen by PH.D. behavior analysts. Brain Balance See pg. 6 www.brainbalanceindy.com 317.843.9200 9510 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis Brain Balance’s Program has changed the lives of kids suffering with ADHD, learning disorders and behavioral issues. We integrate cognitive, sensory-motor and nutritional training into a highly effective, drug-free program that targets your child’s specific challenges. Children’s Dentistry of Indianapolis See pg. 21 www.indychildrensdentist.com 317.580.9199 9240 N. Meridian St., Suite 120, Indianapolis Noblesville Kid’s Dentistry http://noblesvillekidsdentistry.com/ 317.565.4959 9669 E 146th St Ste 260, Noblesville Infants, Children, Teens, Special Needs Children. Kids Abilities See pg. 31 www.kidsabilities.com 317.851.8419 Kids Abilities is a pediatric therapy clinic that provides high quality services for kids.
Proud Sponsors of Resources for Special Needs Children Minds In Motion See pgs. 5 www.mimlearning.com 317.571.8752 879 W. Carmel Drive, Carmel, IN 46032 A Revolutionary Way to Help All Children Achieve FULL Potential! Dramatic Results using Cutting-edge NASA Technology! Noble Summer Camps 2014 See pg. 4 mynoblelife.org d.gann@mynoblelife.org For youth with and without disabilities. Natural Valley Rancy See pg. 7 www.NaturalValleyRanch.com www.NaturalValleyTherapeuticRiding.org Marie@NaturalValleyRanch.com 317-509-3577 Birthday Parties, Trail Rides, Lessons, Petting Zoo Hayride/Bonfire, Therapeutic Riding Pilipis Behavioral Group LLC See pg.13 b.weir@pilipisbg.com www.pilipisbg.com tel. (317) 572-1313, fax (317) 572-9999 152 S 9th St., Noblesville, IN 46060. Specializes in School Social Work and provides support and guidance to families and children. The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism See pgs. 2, 3 www.vbca.org 317.848.4774 9830 Bauer Drive Indpls., IN 46280 The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism provides year- round services offering one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis therapy to children with autism ages 2 -12. All programs are overseen by Board Certified Behavioral Consultants who together have a combined 45 years of experience. Tour our center, call us or view our website today!
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
15
16
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
ABC Swim Program The Applied Behavior Center for Autism is opening its doors to children and teens with any developmental disabilities for one-on-one private swim lessons. Because each child is unique, our swim program develops customized swim lesson plans in accordance with each child’s abilities and preferences in mind. We break down the swimming process as needed into small and achievable steps. For some, this even includes the tolerance of putting feet in the water. Some children cannot wait to get into the water while others require initial lessons that focus on steps to conquer fears. With patience and grace, our instructors teach swimmers the importance of water safety. Whether your child has a fear of water, sensitivity to the smell of chlorine or any other reservations around swimming, we will work with them through every step of the process through a carefully customized program.
History of ABC Swim In 1995, ABC CEO and Founder Sherry Quinn’s son Michael was diagnosed with autism. After searching nationwide for the care that he needed, Sherry discovered ABA therapy. Because this programming was not offered in the Midwestern United States at the time, she decided to open her own company based out of the pool in her backyard. The company began as swim lessons for children with autism. Hundreds of children and teens went through the program and successfully learned to swim. The program expanded and eventually developed into The Applied Behavior Center for Autism. The company is now the largest ABA autism treatment center in Indiana.
Importance of Water Safety For all children, water can be highly dangerous if not fully understood. Children with developmental disabilities are at an even higher degree of risk around water. Recent studies show that drowning is the leading
cause of death for children with Autism, the highest injury-related cause of death for children ages 1-4 and the third highest cause of death among all children and teens. Teaching water safety to your child should focus on two different concepts. The first is that water safety needs to be respected. Children need to understand the importance of asking permission to swim and having supervision while doing so. The second aspect of water safety is knowing what to do when they encounter water. The individual needs to know how to remain calm and not panic while in the water. Water Safety Checklist (www. RedCross.org) • Teach your child the importance of water safety. • Swim in designated areas supervised by lifeguards. • Always swim with a buddy; do not allow anyone to swim alone. • Ensure that everyone in the family learns to swim well. • Never leave a young child unattended near water and do not trust a child’s life to another child. • Teach children to always ask permission to go near water. • Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone. • Establish rules for your family and enforce them without fail. For example, set limits based on each person’s ability, do not let anyone play around drains and suction fittings, and do not allow swimmers to hyperventilate before swimming under water or have breath-holding contests. • Even if you do not plan on swimming, be cautious around natural bodies of water including ocean shoreline, rivers and lakes. Cold temperatures, currents and underwater hazards can make a fall into these bodies of water dangerous. • If you go boating, wear a life jacket! Most boating fatalities occur from drowning.
Enroll Today Schedule: 15 One hour sessions, once a day Monday through Friday for 3 weeks. Cost: $900 – SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! Contact: JennyL@appliedbehaviorcenter.org (317) 573-KIDS ext. 112
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
17
June Calendar of Events Thursday, May 15 – Saturday, June 29Mary Poppins at Beef & Boards Dinner Theater. Flying in to Beef & Boards for the first time is that practically perfect nanny. With a little magic and a lot of common sense, Mary Poppins is a nanny like the troubled Banks family has never seen before, and she teaches them to value each other again. This recent Broadway hit is based on the books by P.L. Travers and the classic Walt Disney film. www. beefandboards Monday, June 2, 7:30 pm WWE Raw at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. For the first time in 2014 see WWE RAW back in Indianapolis! See your favorite WWE superstars including Randy Orton, John Cena, Daniel Bryan, and many more! Tuesday, June 3 – July 15 Summer Concert Series Begins Nickel Plate District Amphitheater in Fishers: Soulstreet; www.visithamiltoncounty.com Thursday, June 5 – June 26 Summer Concert Series Begins Dillon Park in Noblesville: The Bishops; www. cityofNoblesville.org Gazebo in Civic Square in Carmel: Endless Summer Band; http://www.visithamiltoncounty. com Friday, June 6, 7:00 pm Yogi Bear at Thatcher Park. IndyParks will be screening Yogi Bear at the Thatcher Family Center on June 6. This movie follows a documentary filmmaker to Jellystone Park, where he runs into Yogi Bear, Boo Boo, and Ranger Smith. Starring Dan Aykroyd, Justin Timberlake, and Anna Faris. www.indy.gov Saturday, June 7, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm Kids Fishing Derby at Eagle Creek Park Waterfowl Sanctuary. IndyParks will be hosting a free fishing derby. Indiana residents can enjoy fishing this weekend without purchasing a fishing license. www.indy.gov Friday, June 13 – July 18 Summer Concert Series Begins Cool Creek in Carmel: Polkaboy; www. visithamiltoncounty.com Friday, June 13, 7:00 pm – 12:00 am Indianapolis Zoo Zoobilation 2014: Rock Your Orange. Join the party for the orangutans to help save these amazing creatures from
18
extinction. Enjoy unmatched entertainment brought to you by Bose McKinney & Evans LLP and indulgences from across the city all in one place, for one night, all for you! Zoobilation is the largest black-tie fundraiser in Indiana. This sold-out event features drinks and delicacies from 70 of Indiana’s finest restaurants along with entertainment from some of the area’s top musical acts! www.indianapoliszoo.com Saturday, June 14 – Sunday, June 15 Talbot Street Art Fair. The 59th Annual Talbot Street Art Fair will take place with over 270 artists from across the nation. This juried art and fine craft fair continues to be ranked as one of the finest fairs in the country and is located between 16th and 20th Sts. to the north and south and Delaware and Pennsylvania Sts. to the east and west in the historic Herron-Morton Neighborhood. This is a free, family-friendly event with plenty to see and do for everyone. www.talbotstreet.org Friday, June 20 All Day Indian Market & Festival at the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians & Western Art located in White River State Park. Experience the work of more than 130 Native artists, plus unforgettable cultural performances and more, at this enduring, popular summer event. http://eiteljorg.org/ Friday, June 20 & 27 Zoolapalooza Concert Series at the Indianapolis Zoo. This Friday night concert season keeps the Zoo open late and features great local bands performing your favorite hit music, specialty food options in addition to regular Zoo fare, and drinks specials.www. indianapoliszoo.com Saturday, June 28 – Sunday, June 29 1st Annual Indy Mega Pet Adoption Event at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Meet your new best friend at this event bringing together adoption and rescue groups from all over the greater Indy region. Adoptable dogs and cats will be ready to find loving, forever homes. Sponsored by PetSmart Charities.
If you would like your event included in our monthly calendars, submit it by going to wwwIndyKidsDirectory.com.
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
19
20
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
21
Monday
Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu - 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 Chick Fil-A 3360 W. 86th St. The Pyramids Indy
Tuesday
Scotty’s Brewhouse 3905 E. 96th Street Indianapolis, IN & 1 Virginia Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204 CR Heroes 10570 E. 96th St. Fishers, IN 46037 - Cancun - 6714 E 82nd St, Indianapolis, IN Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu - 2301 Conner St. Noblesville, IN 46060 Massey’s Pizza Kids’ eat free w/ adult from pizza buffet - 172 Melody Ave., Greenwood, IN Chick-fil-A Southport Rd. Indy Kids eat free Tuesday Evenings Chick-fil-A 6020 E. 82nd Castleton Mall Kids’ Eat Free Tuesday’s 4 to 8 Chick-fil-A Noblesville Buy one Get one Free Tuesday 5-9 Chick Fil A Carmel 14647 US 31 North Family Night each Tuesday from 5-8pm Hellas Café 8501 Westfield Blvd Indy Champps Indy Northside 8711 N. River Crossing Blvd. 2 children eat free with 1 adult meal all day Tuesday Bob Evans’ Family Night DJ Barker Jammin’ with Biscuits & Gravy from 5-8pm One kid eats free with each adult meal purchase. 91 Byrd Way, Greenwood in 46143
Wednesday
CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free Michaelangelo’s 550 Westfield Rd, Noblesville, IN Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 Chick-fil-A 3802 E. 82nd Indy at the Crossing Indy Kids’ Eat Free Wednesday’s 4 to 8
Thursday
Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060
Friday
Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 Chick-fil-A Avon 10791 East US Highway 36 June 6th: Hero’s Night, 5:00-8:00pm
Saturday
Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 Steak N Shake all Indianapolis locations
Sunday
Scotty’s Brewhouse 3905 E. 96th Street Indianapolis, IN & 1 Virginia Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204 Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 Steak N Shake all Indianapolis locations (Please call ahead to verify details)
22
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
23
24
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Addressing Behavior Concerns What is Behavior? Full Definition of BEHAVIOR (from MerriamWebster.com) 1 a : the manner of conducting oneself b : anything that an organism does involving action and response to stimulation c : the response of an individual, group, or species to its environment 2: the way in which someone behaves; also: an instance of such behavior Let’s take a look at behavior as defined above in 1c. If you can look at behavior as a form of communication, you can begin to untangle the mystery of why children behave as they do. If a certain behavior is repeated despite the consequences that are imposed, the behavior is providing the result that the child desires. Find times that your child is behaving appropriately for the situation. Acknowledge his good behavior; praise him for the specific behavior that has been targeted (sitting quietly, sharing toys, finishing dinner, etc.). It doesn’t have to be elaborate, a simple “I like the way you are sharing” Is sufficient. Let’s define misbehavior. It is often described as “I know it when I see it.” That’s very true. We each have ideas about what behavior should and should not be. What one might consider to be a problem may not bother another person at all. A good definition for misbehavior is “when someone is doing something I don’t want them to do, or someone is not doing something I do want them to do.” When are looking at it this way it is easy to see that behavior expectations become very personal and subjective. A parent’s expectations should be stated in a positive manner and should be limited to no more than five (fewer for younger children). The expectations might be to use: • LISTENING EARS, • WATCHING EYES, • QUIET MOUTH,,
• GENTLE FEET AND HANDS, AND • SMILING FACES. There are other rules that might apply to specific situations, but these are universal and can be used for a variety of ages in a variety of settings. Now you have a set of behavior expectations that are used at home and school, what happens next? The consequence of the behavior needs to be natural and used consistently in all settings. There are a variety of positive consequences that can be put into place. Whatever you decide to use, make sure it is delivered as soon as possible after the behavior has been demonstrated. Having a young child wait until the end of the week to earn a reward is extremely difficult. The parents have these positive consequences, but what about something when he purposely does something he is not supposed to do? Think about what would be the natural and logical consequence of a behavior. If your child purposely throws food on the floor, it is logical that he would be required to clean it up. If he is not playing with a toy safely, the toy is removed. If the dishes need to be put in the sink, he may receive hand-over-hand assistance in completing the task. Regardless of whether the consequences are positive or negative, they must be imposed as quickly as possible following the good/ bad behavior and they must be implemented consistently. It does no good to set up a basic behavior plan with rewards and negative consequences if it is not followed with fidelity. Teaching behavior is not a sometimes thing. “Wait until your father gets home” helps neither the child nor the father!
Mika Adams
Autism Consultation, LLC
www.autismconsultation.net
866-968-3698
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
25
See pg 20 See pg 20
See pg 21
See pg 10
See pg 29
26
See pg 5
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
See pg 4
See pg 27
See pg 8
See pg 29
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
27
28
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
29
30
www.IndyKidsDirectory.com
Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks!
31