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Business SPOTLIGHT VBCA Hosting 2nd Annual Silent Auction The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism
(VBCA) is proudly hosting its 2nd Annual Silent Auction Fundraiser, “A Night to Put the Pieces Together” on April 12, 2014 at The Mansion at Oak Hill in Carmel, IN. The VBCA is a non-profit organization that has provided high-quality Applied Behavior Analysis services to children with autism and their families since 2003. The annual fundraising event helps to support the treatment of children with autism ranging in age from two through twelve years old who have significant developmental delays. The VBCA’s services allow for a skilled therapist to work one-on-one with each child to help promote the highest level of progress and success. Our team of therapists and Board Certified Behavior Analysts work collaboratively to facilitate progress for each child in areas such as communication skills, adaptive skills, social skills, toilet training, and feeding problems. Our goal is to help children with autism gain their fullest potential and transition into a typical classroom setting where they can naturally learn from their teachers and peers. The VBCA’s 1st annual fundraiser, held in April of 2013, helped to celebrate Autism Awareness Month, and the VBCA’s 10 year
Fundraiser, 2013
anniversary of providing exceptional services to children with autism. Hundreds of items were graciously donated to support the event including an Andrew Luck signed mini-helmet, a Kid Rock signed guitar, Disney World tickets, and David Letterman tickets. The formal evening, including dinner, drinks, and entertainment, gave friends and family of the VBCA an opportunity to celebrate the significant impact the VBCA has had on children and families over the past 10 years. Additionally, recognition was given to the hard working staff of the VBCA who devote their lives to helping children with autism learn. The money raised by our evening of fundraising helped to support tuition assistance programs for many of our children. The cost of providing such high intensity services to treat children with autism can be very high; therefore, the VBCA’s tuition assistance program enables many families to enroll their children, who could not otherwise benefit from this type of individualized treatment. This year’s 2014 Fundraiser is expected to host many more guests, provide many more auction items, and as a result lead to additional funds raised. All money will be used to directly benefit the treatment of children with autism with a focus on providing tuition assistance to families. If you are interested in attending “A Night to Put the Pieces Together”, you may register at https://vbca. ticketbud.com/2silentauction. If you are interested in general information about the fundraiser or in making a donation to the Verbal Behavior Center for Autism, please contact Kerri Butts at 317-848-4774 or
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Ages 3-12
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Minds-in-Motion - Unique Approach to Learning and Behaviors As a 7th grader, Amy came to Minds- in‐Motion impulsive, hyperactive, with social issues, highly sensitive yet quite intelligent. Her reading was just below grade level at 6.5. She had poor focus and poor depth perception. She talked non- stop! Her inability to understand social skills and social cues caused her such problems, she was denied admission to an alternative private school. During Minds-in‐Motion’s 10‐week program, Amy’s behavioral (stress, outbursts, and anxiety) and sensory (listening and focus) issues greatly improved. Core strength and motor planning increased; auditory processing greatly improved. Furthermore, she now was able to relate to peers in a positive and appropriate manner and became a joy to be around. Plus, Amy’s grade-level reading score jumped from 6.5 to 9.3 in the 10-week 6
program! This is just one of our typical success stories at Minds-in-Motion! We are an Advanced Development Center using space-age technology to help improve students’ lives. Minds-in- Motion has discovered how to increase the potential of any child (or adult) by strengthening the inner ear system! Why is our system better than the other balance & sensory therapies out there? Minds-in-Motion uses the actual machines being utilized at NASA to provide the intensity needed to make substantial changes in the least amount of time, plus we employ many of the visual & auditory & motor therapies being used across America in isolation… in a totally integrated manner. This provides the necessary amount of sensory stimulation to organize the brain effectively!
Summer Camp Sessions: June 2 to 27; and July 7 to August 1
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The Five Love Languages for Children Sometimes parents will ask what they can do to increase their child’s sense of self-esteem. I quickly affirm a concept I learned when I read the Five Love Languages of Children by Dr. Gary Chapman. In his book he references that there are five primary ways that your child will show love and desire love. These five methods of showing love include: words of affirmation, gifts, physical touch, quality time, or acts of service. One of the ways that you can determine how your child shows his or her love is in how he demonstrates that to you. Take a moment and think about how your child conveys his love. Does he show you love by saying nice things to you, telling you that he loves you, telling you that you’re pretty, or saying you’re the best mommy or daddy in the entire world? If so, your child more than likely endorses words of affirmation as a way to show his love. This means that one of the best ways that you can show your love is by telling him how special he is to you. Perhaps you have a child who brings you gifts. In the spring he finds the prettiest flowers in the yard and brings some to you. He may draw you a picture and want it displayed on the refrigerator. He may make you paper gifts and give them to you and excitedly await your reaction. If your child gives you things to show his appreciation, he likely would benefit from you giving him things that show that you love him too. Some children seem to really love physical touch. They want mommy or daddy to sit next to them. Perhaps he wants you to cuddle before bedtime. He seems to long for those kisses and hugs and eats it up when you stroke his hair.
This child is more than likely someone who feels very secure when he receives love in physical ways. Other children may gravitate towards doing things for you. They seem to receive extra pleasure when they’ve Carol Juergensen Sheets helped you with chores. A child who wants to help with the housework is a child who has figured out that doing things for mom or dad makes them feel loved. Watch for signs that they are “your little helper.” Consequently, they will likely want you to do things for them. When you do things for your child, you will be solidifying your love. Some kids have a need for quality time. Is it important for your child to spend special time with you? Does your child vie with his siblings for one on one time? Is he always the first child to request that you go outside and play with him? Is he keenly aware of the amount of time the other siblings get with you? More than likely this child has a special need to be loved by having quality time with you. This means to increase his sense of self-esteem and sense of love, you will need to use quality time to show him how much you love and appreciate him. It’s always fun to watch your child for a period of 24 hours to determine what his/her primary love language is although taking the test online or via the book will confirm your observations. The book will help you reinforce what you can do to give that all important message that your child...no matter what his/her age.... is loved!
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. 8
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See pg 10
See pg 12
See pg 25
See pg 18
See pg 23
See pg 6
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“It Takes a Village to Raise a Child” - Beth
There is an old saying that it takes a village to raise a child. For a child with autism, it takes a very special kind of village. Autism is such a complicated, tricky path to navigate for both the kids and the parents who struggle to find the strategy that is the best choice for their individual child. This can be a very scary choice. It is so important to select the right type of therapy and the right providers that both push the child and make them comfortable at the same time. There is no road map that says go here and do this. I am what I like to call a “VIP member” of the autism club. I have two children on the spectrum and one is a girl to boot. After my daughter, Kennedy, was diagnosed I wanted to do everything I could to give her the tools she needed to fulfill all of her wonderful potential. I decided I would give ABA a try, and so I checked around and visited a few places. The moment I walked into The Applied Behavior Center, I knew this would be where Kennedy could grow, learn and blossom. Everyone was so loving and excited to meet her. When I picked her up after her first day, she was bubbling over with happiness. The next morning when I asked if she was ready to go back to school, she grabbed her backpack and ran to the car yelling “YES!” before I could even get the door open. I knew then I had made the right decision. Two years later and I am astounded every day at the progress she has made and continues to make.
signs of also being on the spectrum, I didn’t hesitate to get a diagnosis and get him started at the center. He has been a whole different ball game. It is true- if you meet one person with autism; you’ve met one person with autism. He has different challenges than Kennedy, and he is so much more stubborn! There was a time when I wondered if he would ever be able to communicate with me. I clearly remember the day when a crowd of therapists came to the car at pickup and Sawyer’s sweet little voice said, “go.” We all shared in the excitement and I could tell that the staff genuinely cares about the kids. There are tears in my eyes as I’m writing this. Knowing that my kids are going somewhere they are loved and nurtured, and are able to work through and overcome some of their challenges is an indescribable feeling. It’s priceless. The smiles on their faces when the therapists come out in the morning speaks volumes, and everyday Kennedy goes through the list of therapists that she loves on the way home. Half way home and she is still rattling off names. I am not sure I can ever find the words to express how truly thankful I am for the impact the center has had on both my children, and myself.
To learn more about how The Applied Behavior Center for Autism improves language and social skills and decreases problem behaviors, contact Jenny Lanham, Director of Business Development at 317-849-5437, ext. 112.
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Applied Behavior Center for Autism See pgs. 14, 15, 28 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. Brain Balance See pg. 21 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. Our Program provides lasting results because we don’t just work with your child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness, we tackle the issue head on, by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level. 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. 25 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.
Proud Sponsors of Resources for Special Needs Children Kids Abilities See pg. 24 www.kidsabilities.com 317.851.8419 Kids Abilities is a pediatric therapy clinic that provides high quality services for kids. Medley Portraits by Cassandra See pg.11 www.medleyportraits.com info@medleyportraits.com 317.509.3296 Certified Photographer of children with special needs. Minds In Motion See pgs.6 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 Cuttingedge NASA Technology! 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!
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Monday
Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu - 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free 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 CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free 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 till 8 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 Free kids meal with each adult entrée purchase. Every Tuesday from 4- 9 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 CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free
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
March 15th: Mother Son Date Knight, (reservations only) CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free
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 CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free
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 CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free (Please call ahead to verify details) 20
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Duane’s Story
My son, Duane, is in the 4th grade. He had challenges in academics, coordination, conversation with others, outbursts, and staying focused. He has struggled in school since kindergarten. I noticed in 3rd grade, he was falling more behind each grading period. He was in 3rd grade reading 1st grade level and comprehending on a kindergarten level. The teachers said he couldn’t stay focused and instead of participating in class, he would color pictures. Homework was always an issue. It would take the entire evening to do one page of homework. I didn’t want medication to be an option. If so, I wanted to know that I tried everything possible. Brain Balance was my last hope. They gave me answers to why he wasn’t learning and the tools to make him better.
After 3 months with Brain Balance, I have seen amazing improvements. All the things they said would happen was working. Duane lost 10 pounds. He gained positive self confidence and understood the things that he put into his body affected his brain’s ability to function properly. He was able to focus on his homework for longer periods of time. He displays patience and seems less frustrated. He takes deep breaths when he feels anxious. He now takes pride in his neat handwriting. He is even learning to write cursive. He participates in class discussions. I can have an in-depth conversation with him. I’m so proud and excited to say that he made Honor Roll! We are going to a dinner to recognize his accomplishments. He went from not learning the school material to advancing two grade levels in reading and comprehension. He also, helps me with his two-year old sister and chores around the house. I am so thankful for Brain Balance. They are the missing link to my son’s development. I stepped out on faith and went into the program full force. And the results are more than I could have ever imagined. It really works. Thank you, Thank you, Thank you.
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March Calendar of Events February 14 – March 15 Beef and Boards presents Live Theater for Kids “How I Became a Pirate”. Each musical is one hour long with no intermission and includes a juice and snack. www.beefandboards.com. Saturday, March 1, 9:00 – 10:30am The Children’s Museum presents “Beyond the Exhibit: Become an Author”. Take a magical journey through the museum where you can be Bumblebee, Martimus, Bucky, or many other characters! Learn about book making, then fill the pages with your own story. Use the process of writing to create a story of your adventures and then illustrate your story. www. childrensmuseum.org. Saturday, March 1, 11:00am Children’s Build-a-Drum Workshop at the Rhythm! Discovery Center. Participants will pay regular admission fees to the museum and decorate and assemble their own miniature marching drum with mallets. They will leave the workshop with their very own drum to enjoy at home. We will supply stickers, markers, paint and glue to assist with the decorating. The program will last 45 minutes to an hour. Spots are limited so please RSVP. www.RhythmDiscoveryCenter. org. Saturday, March 1 – Sunday, March 2 The Cat in the Hat at The Center for the Performing Arts. The Cat in the Hat is the perfect friend for a boring rainy afternoon. From games and mischief to Thing One and Thing Two, The Cat brings all sorts of trouble to this grey day— but will Sally and her brother be able to explain the mess to Mother? This Dr. Seuss classic leaps onto the stage with chaotic exuberance in this adaptation from the National Theatre in London. www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Thursday, March 6 – Saturday, March 8 Indy Kids Sale – Hamilton County Sale at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds. Indy Kids Sale offers new and gently used children’s clothing up to teen sizes, toys, furniture and gear. You can expect to find all of the top name brand items that you would find at any children’s store as well as boutique and specialty items. If you like to buy brand name clothing, gear and toys at a fraction of the retail cost then Indy Kids Sale is the for you! www.indykidssale.com. Saturday, March 8 Children’s Museum presents Leonardo: The Mummified Dinosaur. Leonardo, arguably the most scientifically important dinosaur ever discovered, is coming to the world’s largest children’s museum. When this fossilized Brachylophosaurus was carefully unearthed in the Montana Badlands in 2002, researchers had their first real look at the skin, the scales, the foot pads, and even the stomach contents of the behemoths that roamed the planet 77 million years ago. www.childrenmuseum.org.
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Thursday, March 13 – Saturday, April 12 Cinderella at Peewinkle’s Puppet Studio. This classic, well loved fairytale will be presented on a specially designed set with marionettes. Classic music, a glittering coach and a bit of shadow puppetry will keep your youngsters spellbound. www.peewinklespuppets. com. Saturday, March 15, 1:00pm Scooby Doo Live: Musical Mysteries at the Murat Theater at Old National Centre. This family musical has a fun, familiar storyline in which Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. Gang has been called upon to help solve an epic mystery. A trouble-making ghost is haunting a local theatre and Shaggy, Fred, Daphne, Velma and ScoobyDoo are on their way in the Mystery Machine to crack the case. www.lifeliketouring.com/scoobydoolive. Sunday, March 16, 3:00pm Family Fun! Instrument Petting Zoo at The Center for the Performing Arts. Children are invited to sit among the orchestra and hear excerpts of the world’s great classics. Following this interactive concert, they can participate in the Instrument Petting Zoo! www. thecenterfortheperformingarts.org. Friday, March 21, 7:00pm Pacers’ Family Fun Night at Banker’s Life Fieldhouse. One of the best family deals ever, Lucas Oil Family Night, returns. You Get 4 tickets to the game, 4 quality Pacers gifts and 4 Pacers Family Meals all for $50. www.nba.com/pacers. Saturday, March 29, 10:00am – 5:00pm Circus Day at the Indiana History Center. The Indiana Historical Society will celebrate its popular 13th Annual Circus Day by offering free admission to the event, as well as the Indiana Experience. Enjoy free circus performances and roaming entertainment. Guests can purchase tickets to enjoy face painting, balloon sculptures, crafts, a bounce house, and carnival games with prizes. www. indianahistory.org. Monday, March 31, 10:00 – 11:00am Kids Koncerts – Free Children’s Concerts in Carmel at the Monon Community Center. Recommended for Ages 2-5, Carmel Clay Parks and Rec. offers a FREE hour of entertainment that is designed to encourage your kids to sing along and dance with the musical entertainment. Kid Kazooey will be performing. www. themononcenter.com.
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Looking for therapy for your child? Kids Abilities is here to help! Kids Abilities is a pediatric therapy clinic that offers children and their families a team of experienced pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapists. Our therapists specialize in feeding therapy, apraxia, autism, listening program, sensory integration, oral motor, gait training, massage and augmentative evaluations and treatment. Whether you are interested in receiving an evaluation, consultation or supplementing current services, Kids Abilities offers schedules to meet your families’ current needs. We believe that therapy should change the life of the family and the child. It should challenge the child’s abilities, encourage his or her progress, and celebrate all of their achievements. Our goal is to help children transition their skills from the clinic to the community, where they can achieve their
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highest level of independence. We understand the whole child and are able to thoughtfully coordinate care with parents, other disciplines, and with the child’s school. We serve children with many different diagnoses and their unique needs. Our therapists go above and beyond for our clients keeping up to date on new research and cutting edge techniques and therapy approaches. You are sure to experience the difference when you walk through the door! We know how to help children achieve their highest level of ability… while most importantly having fun!! We invite you to stop by and check us out 8937 South Point Dr. Suite A 1 Indianapolis, Indiana 46227 or call us at
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317-851-8419 www. kidsabilities.com , follow us on Facebook at: KidsAbilitiesIndy, or LinkedIn: kids-abilitiesIndianapolis-inc
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