Parenting Special Needs by Ahren Hoffman

H E A LT H • I N F O R M AT I O N • I N S P I R AT I O N

Children’s Museums

TOP PICKS

Say “aah”

Successful Trips to the Dentist

Social Club + Social Skills

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Temple Grandin, PhD Doctor of Animal Science

Image Cour Courte urrte tesy sy E Eus ustaci tacia a Cutler u

As a doctor of Animal Science, Temple has been instrumental in the way we treat animals. She is a Professor, Inventor, Author, and Consultant. She is the basis for the eponymous, award-winning HBO movie. Temple was diagnosed with Autism in 1950 at age 2.

no limits!

Support Different-Ability Awareness

inside this issue... Mar/Apr 2016

contents Real Moms Share

two moms who share about 25 Meet raising twin boys on the spectrum

Say “Aah”

32 Successful Trips to the Dentist you know? 8 Did News & Noteworthy We are bringing you infommation we did not want you to miss out on. From new govenment policies to boosting your immune system, this section will contain LQIRUPDWLRQ WKDW·V VXUH WR KHOS

check it out!

New Products & Products You Can Use & Win! New, or new to you, books, products and toys for you to use.

real life

Solutions and Help Time Ask the 16 Play Happy is Healthy Help 14 IEP Is ESY (Extended School Year) PROFESSION PROFESSIONAL AL

For My Child?

18 Make-A-Wish 20 Teen Dating

is not just for sick or dying kids Violence can Happen: Understanding

COVER: KOLE THOMAS GARRETT Cover Image Courtesy: ASHLEE BECK www.Special Edition Kids.com

the 3 Cs in a Healthy Relationship

MAR/APR 2016

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inside this issue... Mar/Apr 2016 your life Mommy Time Outs

+LNHU·V YLHZ RI D VWUHDP LQ WKH *UHDW Smokey Mountians National Park

Why Me? Why My Child?

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:LVGRP )RXQG LQ WKH ´+HUR·V Journey” Proud Moments

in focus

42 46

that are fun for everyone

health & ÀWQHVV

42 44

Top 5 Childrens Museums

Fitness Activites A gateway towards introducing social skills plus: Video demonstration

Food and Health Clean up what you eat

fun & functional Games/Activities

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46 in every issue 6 psn contributors 7 from the heart 13 contest/giveaways

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MAR/APR 2016

Encourage the family to get moving with these Apps

Social Club

Extends inclusion beyond the classroom

Cooking with Kids: Egg-Sicles plus: Language Tips

psn contributors making a difference FOUNDER/EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Chantai Snellgrove chantai@parentingspecialneeds.org PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN CHIEF

Tom Snellgrove tom@parentingspecialneeds.org DESIGN DIRECTOR

Chantai Meme Hieneman

Barbara Sher

Eric Chessen

Barrie Silberberg

Ph.D. in Special Education

Pediatric Occupational Therapist & Author

M.S., YCS, Exercise Physiologist

Author

info@parentingspecialneeds.org GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Michael Leisttein info@parentingspecialneeds.org ADVERTISING SALES

Chantai/Judy Jaszcz Corporate Sponsors & Ad Sales Manager sales@parentingspecialneeds.org

Curt Mellott Tracy Felix

Douglas Haddad

Xlinked1 Special Needs blogger

Ph.D. (“Dr. Doug”) Author, Full-time Contributing Writer

Becca Eisenberg

Ahren Hoffman

Speech Language Pathologist

(CTRS), Manager of Industry Relations & Partnerships at the National Lekotek Centerr

MidWest & Lower Eastern curt@parentingspecialneeds.org

Advertising Sales Person Needed inquire at Sales@parentingspecialneeds.org SOCIAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

Shannon Colon Shannon@parentingspecialneeds.org WEBMASTER

Sean Thompson sean@parentingspecialneeds.org

Cristen Reat Co-Founder Bridging Apps.org

Paula Petry

Heath Burch

Amanda Morin

Ph.D.. Author

CFP The Special Needs Planning Center

Education Writer, Special Education Advocate & Author

“Whatever good things we build end up building us” ~Jim Rohn

Parenting Special Needs Magazine is available bi-monthly and distributed digitally for free. www. parentingspecialneeds.org Editorial Submission are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all submitted material. We can not be held responsible for the return of any submitted materials. Articles and advertisements in Parenting Special Needs Magazine do not necessarily reﬂect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Parenting Special Needs does not constitute an endorsement of products, services or information. Parenting Special Needs Magazine, is © 2016 Parenting Special Needs, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited. PUBLISHED BY: Parenting Special Needs ,LLC 518 S. Valencia Circle S.W. Vero Beach, FL 32968

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www.parentingspecialneeds.org

editorial director from the heart

the changing lanscape

With each new issue that â&#x20AC;&#x153;hits the streetsâ&#x20AC;? (so to speakâ&#x20AC;Ś.I know

5 THINGS I LEARNED FROM THIS ISSUE

we are an online publication) I become more encouraged for the future. April is Autism Awareness Month and with that I believe that Autism has raised a tremendous amount of awareness and acceptance; not just for autismâ&#x20AC;Śbut, for all disabilities. As a culture we have more awareness and acceptance of disabilities.

1. Insights from a OT after 20 years in an inclusive preschool classroom (p.48). 2. There is a unique camp for children who use computers to communicate (p.8). 3. Twelve steps FRLQHG D Â´+HURÂˇV Journeyâ&#x20AC;? that can also be found in our favorite fairy tales and movies. (p.38). 4. Hemp healing in an edible form and approved in over 50 states (p.22). 5. Jessica Parsons a FHUWLĂ&#x20AC;HG <RJD WHDFKHU with Down syndrome (p.47).

7RPP\ +LOĂ&#x20AC;JHU KDV MXVW ODXQFKHG D OLQH RI DGDSWLYH FORWKLQJ runways have used models with disabilities (in fact, a Down syndrome model is making headlines in fashion week), LEGO KDV D QHZ PLQL Ă&#x20AC;JXUH WKDW KDSSHQV WR EH LQ D ZKHHOFKDLU <HV , am encouraged. However, I still see that there is a great need for continued education (both medical and academic). Our own Real Moms Share article tells of a mother who received a diagnosis of autism for her sons, but, was not provided any additional help, or information, beyond the â&#x20AC;&#x153;your children have autismâ&#x20AC;? statement. We still have work to do, but I am hopeful we will continue to make great stides.

Next Issue:

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did you know?

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ABA coverage expands in 2017

The Federal Employees Health

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(source: www.cnn.com)

Camp Chatterbox is a Unique camp for children who use computers to communicate

Easter Seals Provides Respite Services 3DUHQWV RU &DUHJLYHUV UDUHO\ KDYH WKH RSSRUWXQLW\ WR WDNH D EUHDN IURP SDUHQWLQJ RU FDUHJLYLQJ DQG WKLV RIWHQ OHDYHV WKHP IHHOLQJ RYHUZKHOPHG 7KH\ RFFDVLRQDOO\ QHHG UHVW UHOLHI DQG Â´UHVSLWHÂµ (DVWHU 6HDOV SURYLGHV DQ DUUD\ RI GLIIHUHQW VHUYLFHV WKDW FDQ SURYLGH RFFDVLRQDO RU UHJXODU UHVSLWH 7KHVH VHUYLFHV FRPH LQ GLIIHUHQW IRUPV &KHFN \RXU ORFDO (DVWHU 6HDOV WR GLVFRYHU WKH VHUYLFHV DYDLODEOH IRU NLGV ZLWK GLVDELOLWLHV www.easterseals.com/connect-locally/

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did you know?

news

you know Probiotics aid in boosting your imumune system

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Study Offers Clues To Down Syndrome, Possible Treatment $ UHFHQW VWXG\ ZDV GRQH RQ JHQH H[SUHVVLRQ LQ WKH EUDLQV RI LQGLYLGXDOV ZLWK DQG ZLWKRXW 'RZQ V\QGURPH DW YDULRXV DJHV Â² UDQJLQJ IURP PLG IHWDO GHYHORSPHQW WR DGXOWKRRG 7KH\ IRXQG WKDW WKH HVWDEOLVKPHQW RI ZKLWH PDWWHU ZKLFK LQVXODWHV QHUYH Ã&#x20AC;EHUV LQ WKH EUDLQ FKDQJHV DV SHRSOH ZLWK 'RZQ V\QGURPH DJH Â´7KLV GLVFRYHU\ RI WKH JHQHWLF FKDQJHV WKDW DOWHU FRPPXQLFDWLRQ ZLWKLQ WKH EUDLQ XQFRYHUHG D FRPSOHWHO\ QHZ WDUJHW IRU WKHUDSLHV LQ WKH EUDLQV RI SHRSOH ZLWK '6 Âµ VDLG 7DULN +D\GDU DQ DVVRFLDWH SURIHVVRU RI DQDWRP\ DQG QHXURELRORJ\ DW %RVWRQ 8QLYHUVLW\ 6FKRRO RI 0HGLFLQH ZKR ZRUNHG RQ the study. (source: disabilityscoop.com)

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‘

Helping your child thrive and flourish

about our cover...

ABR improves... • Respiration • Digestion and food absorption • Sleep • Trunk strength and posture • Weight-bearing performance • Balance • Gaze • Alertness • HAPPINESS

Click to watch video

Our handsome young man on the cover comes to us from Ft. Worth, Tx. Kole Thomas Garrett, 5, loves to play with his sisters, Karis Charles and Kobi Robinson, as well as running free when he gets the chance. Although he has been diagnosed with profound deafness and autism, he has recently learned to sign “open” and has learned to put away his shoes. With a regal name like his, he may even grow up one day to be President!

T: 514-328-9837 info@abrcanada.com www.abrcanada.com https://www.facebook.com/abr.canada

Do you know a Super Dadvocate?

Cover Image Courtesy: Ashlee BeCK from sPeCIAl edITIOn KIds. special edition Kids is an organization that takes pictures of children with special needs at no cost to the families. www.specialeditionkids.com/ /www.facebook.com/specialeditionkids/ sPeCIAledITIOnKIds on InstagRAm

s up e r d advoc at e s We want to highlight “Real Dads” in our upcoming May/June issue. Someone who is making a difference, giving back or making a positive change in the special needs community. Email your submission to Submit@parentingspecialneeds.org Please include Dadvocate inthe subjectline.

MAR/APR 2016

Parenting SPecial needS.org

did you know?

news

you know ABLE National Resource Center to Serve as a ABLE Account Clearinghouse

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IS ESY ((extended extended school sch hool year) yea ar)

for my child? BY DOREEN FRANKLIN

How many of us have sat in an IEP meeting and discussed ESY? How many have wondered what ESY is and how ZRXOG P\ FKLOG TXDOLI\ IRU (6< EXW GLGQÂˇW ask at the meeting? How many have ZRQGHUHG LI P\ FKLOG ZRXOG EHQHĂ&#x20AC;W IURP ESY? You are not alone! Extended School Year (ESY) is not the same as â&#x20AC;&#x153;summer school.â&#x20AC;? Summer school would be attended by non-disabled children who might attend the summer session for failing in academics. ESY is available for students who have IEPs or 504 Plans. ESY could be provided to students who have shown/would show regression or for emerging skills, possibly for new goals written in the IEP. Decisions about summer ESY would be made by the IEP Team, usually at a meeting toward the end of the school year (ESY decisions should not be made early in the school year; the child may not exhibit signs of the need for ESY until several months into the school year and through longer periods of time off like Christmas/winter break). The district is required to provide FAPE (Free

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

MAR/APR 2016

Appropriate Public Education) to all students and extended school year is one way to provide services to students with disabilities whose IEP team agrees to ESY services for the student. Your child could also be eligible for ESY during longer periods of time off, but usually that is not done by the districts. The Federal IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) law discusses ESY services in Section 300.106 and it indicates the following: (a) General. (1) Each public agency must ensure that extended school year services are available as necessary to provide FAPE, consistent with paragraph (a)(2) of this section. (2) Extended school year services must be provided only LI D FKLOGÂˇV ,(3 7HDP GHWHUPLQHV RQ DQ LQGLYLGXDO basis, in accordance with Sec. Sec. 300.320 through 300.324, that the services are necessary for the provision of FAPE to the child. (3) In implementing the requirements of this section, a public agency may not-(i) Limit extended school year services to particular categories of disability; or (ii) Unilaterally limit the type, amount, or duration of those services. E 'HĂ&#x20AC;QLWLRQ $V XVHG LQ WKLV VHFWLRQ WKH WHUP H[WHQGHG school year services means special education and related services that-(1) Are provided to a child with a disability-(i) Beyond the normal school year of the public agency; LL ,Q DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK WKH FKLOGÂˇV ,(3 DQG (iii) At no cost to the parents of the child; and (2) Meet the standards of the SEA (state education agency). (Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1412(a)(1) )1

Ask about first time buyer special!

877-390-4851

Does your child struggle to button jeans?

You can also check with your state’s Department of Education’s Exceptional Student Education website for more info. There may also be a worksheet (possibly listed under “Publications”) that you would be able to print and take with you to the IEP meeting when discussing ESY for your child. Florida DOE presented a webinar on ESY and you can review it for basic info.2 ESY should be individualized for each child and the actual instruction(s) will be. The schedule for ESY usually is not individualized, unfortunately. You will probably be informed that ESY will occur after school finishes in June, between X and Y weeks; the time will be provided to you as you get closer to ESY. Since ESY is not mandatory, you do not have to agree to your child attending ESY. If you do not agree, you may want to ask that it be entered into the conference notes from that meeting. You can also indicate your reason for not attending ESY. ESY is not “extra” instruction but a continuation of services which your child may need. Prepare for your IEP meeting carefully, considering ESY for your child. If you need help for your child with a disability concerning ESE services in your state, you can visit Parent Center Hub at: http://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-yourcenter/. w 1

http://idea.ed.gov/explore/view/p/%2Croot%2Cregs%2C300 %2CB%2C300%252E106%2C 2 http://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/7690/urlt/FDOEWebinar-ESY-2015.pdf

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Doreen Franklin Doreen is a tutor for AmeriCorps and a Special Education Consultant/Advocate (she assists families with children with special needs with their IEPs). Doreen & her husband adopted two daughters; both are special needs.

www.downsdesignsdreams.org

happy is

healthy BY AHREN HOFFMAN

Healthy is something we all strive for, whether for ourselves or for our kids. As adults it can be activities including going to the gym, cutting back on sugar or signing up for a dance class, but for children being healthy can mean eating their broccoli, taking baths and getting playtime outdoors. Healthy bodies come from healthy lifestyles, so how do we stay healthy? Whether it was from loving parents or school gym teachers, certain things have been repeated enough times to make them almost second nature in our minds. As a parent, how many times have you prompted your child towards these healthy practices? 1. Eat plenty of veggies¤balanced meals 2. Be on time for school¤time management *HW D JRRG QLJKW·V VOHHS¤reduce stress levels 4. Exert energy through play¤active lifestyle We, as humans, may do all of the above things because they were ingrained in our routines growing up and in turn, helped us form healthy habits, but there is another simple practice that we might not connect to healthy living: smiling. Yes, using those face muscles is a path to health! Smiling has been shown not only to lift your own mood and the mood of others, but it can also lengthen your life—yeah, believe it. Science has shown that a sincere smile is one triggered by a chemical in the brain called dopamine, which many refer to as the chemical

26 16

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MAR/APR 2016

W in it!

responsible for happiness. Yet even if the smile is not sincere, the very act of forming your face into a smile LQFUHDVHV WKH EORRG ÁRZ LQWR WKH IURQWDO OREHV RI WKH brain and increases the release of dopamine. Either way, health and happiness wins! Spreading joy to others gives many people pleasure in life. While it is hard to force someone to “be happy”, it is easier to make someone smile. One proven method is to encourage play. Toys and games are built to bring on smiles, and the science backs that up. Here are a list of toys that can bring on the smiles and spread the happiness:

1. The Haywire Group FrankenWords— This compound word game will have families in stitches over the combinations.

2. Hasbro Pie Face!— How can this not bring a smile to ones face (and some “pie”)?

advice

reallife

W in it!

3. Hedstrom Sensory Bumpeez — Give it a squeeze to hear the hysterical laugh of a baby emerge. Laughter is contagious!

4. Winning Moves Crocodile Dentist—This croc builds anticipation and has a bite of surprise. Which tooth will make him snap?

5. Toysmith Voice Changer—Not just a voice changer, but a game changer for imaginative play!

6. USAopoly Telestrations—The whole family will be cracking up when they share the drawings.

7. McClean Enterprises Catch Up Game— Catch Up Game fosters togetherness and that fuels happiness. Feeling good, sharing smiles and connecting to others are HPRWLRQDO YLWDPLQV WKDW FRQWULEXWH WR D SHUVRQ·V KHDOWK Toys and play are a “tonic” that helps kids create positive moods, turn on the healthy hormones and help them and those around them feel better inside and out. And everyone can use a dose of that!Y For more play ideas and toys for children with special needs go to www.ableplay.org. This website was created by the National Lekotek Center to encourage children of all abilities to experience the benefits of play. Find us on Facebook. Reviewed by Ahren Hoffman, Manager of Industry Relations &Partnerships, National Lekotek Center; ahoffman@lekotek.org

MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

make-a-wish is not just for sick or dying kids BY TRACY FELIX

We were recently at a doctor appointment with our 3 ½ year old son when the doctor asked “had we ever thought about applying for a wish to be granted from the Make-a-Wish foundation?” Of course, we said no. We thought that was only for kids with cancer or some other disease that may cause them to pass away before their time. Now, with our son’s condition, he is likely to pass away sooner than most other kids, but he is not sick. He has actually been doing really well. He is just disabled and has a rare genetic disorder. We talked about a few different options but have not narrowed anything down yet. We are strongly contemplating about asking for a camper. We want our son to have as many experiences as we can ﬁt in and a camper will deﬁnitely help us do that!

If you think that your child may qualify, I encourage you to apply. Here is how… 1. Go to their web site at http://wish.org 2. On the top of the home page is a tab “Local Chapters”. Click on that and a drop box will appear. Type in your zip code and it will direct you to your local chapter. 3. On the top of the home page is also a tab for “Refer a Child”. This is where you will ﬁnd an application (or referral inquiry form), ideas for wishes, and who can refer a child. 4. Just ﬁll out the one page referral form and hit the submit button at the end. 5. That’s it! Now just wait for them to contact you and tell you what the next step is. The Wish Grantors that came out to our house were so nice! And they both lived in the town next to ours, so they were only about 15 minutes away from our house. They both left their numbers and email addresses so we can contact them at any time if we have any questions. I can’t wait to meet with them again and nail down what wish they will grant our son!Y Tracy Felix Tracy blogs about her life and challenges as a mom to a son with special needs. Her blog has provided a forum for parents to get support, share ideas, and learn. You can connect with her at www.xlinked1.blogspot.com and www. facebook.com/xlinked1

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

MAR/APR 2016

Image courtesy Make-A-Wish® America

Meet Natasha Fifteen-year-old Natasha is a loveable child who is affectionate, happy and inquisitive. She greets acquaintances with a warm “hello” and a big hug. Although her speech is limited, she is able to articulate some words and use a few gestures of sign language. She will sometimes take her caregiver’s hand and gently guide her toward something she wants to see close up. She is a super foodie and her favorites include chicken nuggets, yogurt and oatmeal and, like most teenagers, she loves snacks. Natasha’s idea of fun is enjoying the outdoors and playing on the slide or swing. To relax, she listens to music. Natasha is gaining independence through learning daily living skills. She continues to show progress in all areas, but needs a loving and committed family to help her reach her full potential and advocate for her through adulthood. Meanwhile, because of her developmental delays and health issues, Natasha lives in a therapeutic residential placement where she receives various therapies and supportive services. Natasha will add joy to your family as you watch this kind and gentle teenager fulfill her potential. For more information on Natasha, please contact Anna Coleman at: acoleman@ adopt.org or 267-443-1867.

”There are no unwanted children... just unfound families”

www.adopt.org

teen dating

9LROHQFH FDQ KDSSHQ 8QGHUVWDQGLQJ WKH &V LQ D +HDOWK\ 5HODWLRQVKLS BY DOUGLAS HADDAD, PH.D.

There are young people across the world who are currently in abusive relationships and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what to do about it. What does teen dating violence look like and who is it happening to? Teen dating violence is physical, sexual, psychological and/or emotional violence, including the act of stalking. It can take place in person or electronically. According to a nationwide survey conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 23% of females and 14% of males who ever experienced rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate QBSUOFS mSTU FYQFSJFODFE TPNF GPSN PG QBSUOFS violence between 11 and 17 years of age. Also, 10% of youth - in some communities over 30% - reported experiencing some form of dating violence in the past year.

WARNING SIGNS OF AN UNHEALTHY OR POTENTIALLY DANGEROUS RELATIONSHIP Violence, itself, is related to certain risk factors such as being angry, depressed, anxious, suicidal, having an alcohol or drug addiction, experiencing some sort of mental or physical trauma, and witnessing or experiencing violence in the home and believing that it is an acceptable way of behaving in a relationship. There are many individuals in an abusive relationship and GRQÂˇW NQRZ KRZ WR VDIHO\ JHW RXW RI LW ,Q RUGHU WR XQGHUVWDQG the warning signs of a potentially abusive relationship, it LV LPSRUWDQW WR LGHQWLI\ ZKDW ,ÂˇG OLNH WR UHIHU WR DV WKH Â´%LJ Three Csâ&#x20AC;? in a healthy relationship that every person should KDYH DV D FRUH IRXQGDWLRQ LQ WKHLU UHODWLRQVKLS ,GHQWLI\LQJ these three essential attributes is a good starting point as an indicator to whether a relationship is headed in the right direction or not.

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PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

MAR/APR 2016

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individuals should be able to openly and honestly express their feelings without a fear of being scolded verbally, made to feel guilty, or physically abused. &RPSURPLVH Disagreements are a natural part of a relationship and agreeing to disagree is essential LQ PDLQWDLQLQJ D KHDOWK\ RQH ,W LV LPSRUWDQW WR Ă&#x20AC;QG D common ground or compromise in a rational way with WKH JRDO WR VROYH WKH SUREOHP RU UHVROYH WKH FRQĂ LFW harmoniously, without it getting personal. &DUH Displaying care is about being respectful of the wishes and feelings of the other person. Showing FRPSDVVLRQ EHLQJ VXSSRUWLYH RI D SDUWQHUÂˇV QHHGV DQG offering reassurance and encouragement to build the person up, rather than put him/her down, are all signs of a healthy relationship. Care is also about respecting HDFK RWKHUÂˇV SULYDF\ DQG VSDFH +HDOWK\ UHODWLRQVKLSV require boundaries and space and establishing them is a great way to keep your relationship healthy and secure.

WARNING SIGNS A PARENT SHOULD /22. )25 ,1 7+(,5 &+,/'5(1 $V D SDUHQW ORRN WR VHH LI \RXU FKLOGÂˇV JUDGHV DUH VOLSSLQJ RU if they appear increasingly sad, anxious, frequently crying, or having to respond immediately to a call or text. Furthermore, if you see a drastic negative shift in behavior or attitude take place since your child has entered into the relationship, WKHQ WKDW LV D UHG Ă DJ WKDW KH VKH PD\ EH KHDGHG GRZQ D

advice URDG WR DQ XQKHDOWK\ UHODWLRQVKLS ,I \RX VHH that your child is making excuses for the RWKHU SHUVRQÂˇV SRRU EHKDYLRU HQJDJLQJ in more risky behaviors, or appeared more outgoing and involved with family, friends, school activities before dating WKDQ KH VKH GRHV QRZ WKHQ LWÂˇV WLPH WR sit down with your child and talk about their relationship.. ,I \RX DUH ORRNLQJ IRU D FRQYHUVDWLRQDO starter with your children, try prompting WKHP WR VHOI UHĂ HFW DERXW WKHLU UHODWLRQVKLS E\ asking the following questions: Do you feel like you can be yourself or are you walking on egg shells trying to please the other person to make him/her happy? Are you saying or doing things to prevent the person from reacting in a negative manner? Do you feel like the other person in the relationship blames you for everything that goes wrong? Does he/she insult or put you down for different things? Does he/she tell you what to do and try to control your actions, such as who you see, what you do, and when you do it? Do you feel pressured into doing something you really GRQÂˇW ZDQW WR GR" Are you afraid of him/her having temper tantrums or becoming possessive? +DYH \RX WULHG WR WDON ZLWK KLP KHU DERXW VHULRXV PDWWHUV

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and he/she is unwilling to listen to what you have to say, gets upset, or makes you feel guilty for what you have to say? Are you laughing often, having fun, and truly happy in the relationship? Are you afraid to end the relationship because you fear what he/she may do?

GETTING HELP ,WÂˇV QRW DOZD\V HDV\ WR WDON ZLWK IULHQGV RU family members about dating abuse and healthy UHODWLRQVKLSV EXW LWÂˇV LPSRUWDQW EHFDXVH WKURXJK open communication, a person is better able to establish support systems, which can help a person extricate themselves from an abusive relationship successfully. ,I \RX \RXU FKLOG RU VRPHRQH \RX NQRZ LV LQYROYHG LQ D violent or abusive relationship, call the National Domestic 9LROHQFH +RWOLQH 6$)( 7KHUH DUH DOVR websites that people can go for help such as: www.loveisrespect.org, www.teenrelationships.org, www.breakthecycle.org, www.endabuse.org, www.seeitandstopit.orgY Douglas Haddad, Ph.D. (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dr. Dougâ&#x20AC;?) is a public school teacher, nutritionist and the author of parenting/child guidance book Save Your Kidsâ&#x20AC;ŚNow! The Revolutionary Guide To Helping Youth Conquer Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Challenges and co-author of Top Ten Tips For Tip Top Shape: Super Health Programs For All Professional Fields. www. douglashaddad.com

MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

check it out! special products

products you

can use!

CBD Edibles for Kids Frogglez A lot of parents and kids struggle with most swim goggles. They are a bear to adjust, tight, pull out hair and always slide down the back of the head resulting in the ears being pushed out like dumbo. Frogglez Goggles are designed for non-competitive swimmers who want a more comfortable, stylish solution to traditional, archaic, swim goggles. Exciting colors and designs make Frogglez Goggles not only easier to use, but also fun! www.frogglezgoggles.com

Hemp Health Inc. has released Pharma CBD Peanut Butter and Honey. These new, kid-friendly edibles deliver the medicinal EHQHĂ&#x20AC;WV RI &%' ZLWKRXW WKH psychoactive effects of THC. Both products are legal in all 50 states and 42 countries, do not require a prescription, and are not psychoactive. Today, doctors in 17 U.S. states are allowed to prescribe CBD to children suffering from epilepsy and other conditions. www.hemphealthinc.com

Brian and Brianna The Ready Set Go Superhero Play Therapy Bears Ready Set Go bears are part of a creative, educational therapy kit that empowers children to build healthy self-esteem. Each kit includes a bear with a special story that focuses on overcoming your fears, setting your goals high, and going out there and being the best you can be. The message provides positive DIĂ&#x20AC;UPDWLRQV DQG WKURXJK LQVSLUDWLRQDO FKDUDFWHUV FKLOGUHQ FDQ UROH SOD\ DQG SUDFWLFH WKH 5HDG\ 6HW *R DSSURDFK WR IHHOLQJ PRUH FRQĂ&#x20AC;GHQW www.readysetgonow.com

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

MAR/APR 2016

Join the Florida APBS Network. Membership provides:

Reasons to Smile by Andrea Knauss & Elizabeth Martins A compilation of 56 short writings from across the globe that will encourage, inspire, and motivate the reader. This book celebrates the lives of people living with Down Syndrome. The candid stories, along with 56 accompanying photos, including the renowned â&#x20AC;&#x153;Welcome to Hollandâ&#x20AC;?, will allow you to discover a world full of possibilities that you never knew existed. www.reasonstosmilestories.com

The Long Ride Home by Rupert Isaacson How far would you go to help your child? Writer Rupert Isaacson and his wife, Kristin, traveled to Mongolia, Southern Africa and Australia to seek solutions for their autistic son, Rowan. Their amazing quest to helpâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and ultimately healâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Rowan is captured in THE LONG RIDE HOME: The Extraordinary Journey RI +HDOLQJ WKDW &KDQJHG D &KLOGÂˇV /LIH 3DUW WKULOOLQJ adventure and part lyrical memoir, the book is a love letter from a father to a child whose gifts were waiting to be unlocked. available on amazon

Â&#x2021; $FFHVV WR GLYHUVH JURXS RI LQGLYLGXDOV UHVHDUFKLQJ supporting, implementing, and utilizing PBS prac tices across Florida

Â&#x2021; 5HDO WLPH LQIRUPDWLRQ DERXW 3%6 SROLF\ WUDLQLQJ opportunities, events, and web-based resources.

Â&#x2021; 2SSRUWXQLWLHV WR VKDUH \RXU ZRUN NQRZOHGJH DQG events associated with positive behavior support

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Family members, teachers, administrators, researchers, therapists, students, and other support and service providers are welcome.

WWW.FLAPBS.NET

Enter Parenting Special Needs Magazine

“Mom & Me” Cover Contest for our May/June Issue One Lucky Winner will appear on the Cover of our May/June 2016 Issue!

ragging PRIZE: B lus gifts Rights p 50.00 t $1 valued a pril 15th 5- A March 1 r Summe Theme: ime & Family T Mobility

Enter contest by sending image to: submit@parentingspecialneeds.org

Remember to include name and age of child and put “Mom & Me” in email subject line. TIP: Magazine cover is vertical (portrait) layout. Leave room at top of image for our logo. Please don’t compress images (large 708KB or actual size 2.6 MB). Must have and include permission from photographer for copyrighted images.

Raising Twins

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On the Spectrum

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Elijah, Jaycee and I from -D\FHHÂ·V 0DNH $ :LVK WULS DW 'LVQH\ IURP

Angie Stallings

Carie Bates

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MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

Angie and Carrie share Can you give us a brief Description about your families? Angie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arrie: :HÂ·UH GHÃ&#x20AC;QLWHO\ D GLIIHUHQW FRPELQDWLRQ 0\ KXVEDQGÂ·V DFWXDOO\ \HDUV ROGHU WKDW , DP 2XU IDPLO\ LV D PL[WXUH RI DOO DJHV RI FKLOGUHQ WKDW UDQJHV IURP WKH Â·V GRZQ WR WZLQV WKDW DUH \HDUV ROG 7KH WZLQ ER\V DUH LGHQWLFDO WZLQV PLUURU WZLQV LQ IDFW +DUULVHQ KDV EHHQ GLDJQRVHG ZLWK DXWLVP DQG +DPSWHQ KDV EHHQ GLDJQRVHG ZLWK $VSHUJHUV V\QGURPH 2XU \HDU ROG VRQ ZDV ERUQ ZLWK D OLPE GHIRUPLW\ RI KLV KDQG ,W PDNHV IRU D YHU\ LQWHUHVWLQJ IDPLO\ QHYHU D GXOO PRPHQW LQ RXU KRXVHKROG

What are some of the challenges of raising twins on different ends of the spectrum? Angie &DUULH ZKHQ , IRXQG RXW \RXU WZLQV ZHUH \HDUV ROG , WULHG WR SXW P\VHOI EDFN WR WKDW SODFH ZKHQ P\ ER\V ZHUH WKDW DJH ,W VHHPV OLNH D OLIHWLPH DJR ,W KDV EHHQ D OLWWOH GLIIHUHQW IRU XV EHFDXVH -RKQ LV EDUHO\ DIIHFWHG E\ KLV DXWLVP DQG P\ KXVEDQGÂ·V VLVWHU LV TXLWH VHYHUHO\ DIIHFWHG E\ DXWLVP VR WKLV ZDV QRW VRPHWKLQJ WKDW ZDV QHZ WR KLP , OHDUQHG DERXW $XWLVP WKURXJK KHU 5REHUW W\SLFDOO\ KDV EHHQ SODFHG LQ VHOI FRQWDLQHG FODVVURRPV PXFK WR P\ GLVPD\ , KDYH IRXJKW WRRWK DQG QDLO IRU LQFOXVLRQ IRU KLP WR JHW KLP ZLWK PDLQVWUHDP SHHUV DQG DFFHVV WR WKH JHQHUDO FXUULFXOXP EHFDXVH KH GRHV WKULYH ZKHQ KHÂ·V JLYHQ WKDW VXSSRUW $W RQH SRLQW WKH\ ZHUH OLWHUDOO\ DW GLIIHUHQW VFKRROV 5REHUW ZDV LQ D KRXU D GD\ SUH N IRU NLGV ZLWK VSHFLDO QHHGV -RKQ ZDV LQ D VSHFLDO QHHGV NLQGHUJDUWHQ WKDW ZDV D IXOO GD\ -RH -U ZDV DW D W\SLFDO HOHPHQWDU\ VFKRRO 7KHUH ZDVQÂ·W MXVW RQH FHQWUDO SODFH WKDW KDG DOO RI WKH SURJUDPV WKDW FRYHUHG WKHLU QHHGV :H OLYHG LQ 9DQFRXYHU IRU \HDUV ZKHQ WKH\ ZHUH LQ JUDGHV 7KDW ZDV ZKHQ ZH KDG IXOO LQFOXVLRQ IRU DOO RI WKHP DV ZHOO DV IXOO VXSSRUW DQG WKH\ ZHUH DOO LQ WKH VDPH VFKRRO 2II DQG RQ DV ZH PRYHG

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

MAR/APR 2016

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Can you explain what has happened since you received your diagnosis? Carrie: 0\ ER\V ZHUH WZR ZKHQ WKH GRFWRU ORRNHG DW PH DQG VDLG Â´WKH\Â·UH QRW H[DFWO\ ZDONLQJ \HW DQG WKH\Â·UH QRW UHDOO\ WDONLQJ 7KH\ KDYH DXWLVP Âµ , ORRNHG DW WKH GRFWRU OLNH , ZDV FRPSOHWHO\ GXPEIRXQGHG , GLGQÂ·W NQRZ DW WKDW SRLQW ZKDW DXWLVP ZDV , KDG QR FOXH ZKDW , ZDV LQ IRU , GLGQÂ·W NQRZ DQ\WKLQJ DERXW LW , VDLG Â´ZHOO ZKDW GR ZH GR DERXW LW"Âµ 7KHQ WKH\ VDLG Â´ZHOO WKH VFKRROV ZLOO KDQGOH LW ZKHQ LWÂ·V WLPH IRU WKHP WR JR WR VFKRRO Âµ 7KH\ NLQG RI OHW PH JR , GLGQÂ·W NQRZ ZKDW WR GR , VWDUWHG GRLQJ UHVHDUFK RQ LW DQG VWDUWHG WR Ã&#x20AC;JXUH RXW ZKDW WKLV LV DQG ZKDW DP , XS DJDLQVW" 3UHWW\ PXFK RYHU WKH ODVW VHYHUDO \HDUV ,Â·YH EHHQ RQ P\ RZQ GRLQJ WKLV ,Â·YH EHHQ UHDGLQJ DV PXFK DV , FDQ ORRNLQJ DW DUWLFOHV UHDGLQJ ERRNV DQG MXVW WU\LQJ WR FRPSUHKHQG ZKDW LW LV H[DFWO\ ,Â·P LQ IRU +DPSWHQ VWDUWHG WDONLQJ PRUH WKDQ +DUULVHQ GLG <RX FRXOG DFWXDOO\ XQGHUVWDQG VHQWHQFHV IURP +DPSWHQ E\ WKH WLPH KH ZDV \HDUV ROG +DUULVHQ ZDV DQG D KDOI ZKHQ \RX FRXOG DFWXDOO\ XQGHUVWDQG D IXOO VHQWHQFH IURP KLP , ZRXOG VD\ WKHUH LV D WR PRQWK GLIIHUHQFH EHWZHHQ WKHLU GHYHORSPHQWV +DPSWHQ LV PRUH RI DQ RXWJRLQJ W\SH +DUULVHQ LV GHÃ&#x20AC;QLWHO\ D GLIIHUHQW W\SH RI SHUVRQDOLW\ +H FDWFKHV RQ WR WKLQJV D ORW VORZHU WKDQ DYHUDJH (YHQ ZKHQ SRWW\ WUDLQLQJ VWDUWHG &KLOGUHQ JHQHUDOO\ DUH SRWW\ WUDLQHG E\ \HDUV ROG EXW P\ ER\V GLGQÂ·W IXOO\ JHW SRWW\ WUDLQHG XQWLO WKH\ ZHUH 1RZ WKH\ DUH ERWK LQ NLQGHUJDUWHQ EHFDXVH ,Â·YH ZRUNHG

, FDQ·W HYHQ H[SODLQ KRZ KDUG , ZRUNHG , JXHVV \RX FRXOG VD\ EORRG VZHDW DQG WHDUV 7KH\·UH QRW LQ VSHFLDO QHHGV FODVVHV DQG , WKDQN *RG IRU WKDW , ZDQW WKHP WR KDYH VRPH VRUW RI QRUPDOF\ ZLWK DOO WKH RWKHU NLGV 7KH\ DUH DFWXDOO\ UHDGLQJ DW D ÀUVW JUDGH UHDGLQJ OHYHO LQ NLQGHUJDUWHQ 7KH VFKRRO LV DZDUH WKDW WKH\ GR KDYH DXWLVP EXW WKH\ GR QRW KDYH DQ ,(3 7KH\ GR KDYH VSHFLDO QHHGV WHDFKHUV KHOS WKHP RXW ZKHQ ZH GR KDYH SUREOHPV 7KH\·UH QRW LQYROYHG LI \RX NQRZ ZKDW , PHDQ

LW·V JRLQJ WR EH DQG ZH·UH JRLQJ WR EH XQDSRORJHWLF DERXW LW Carrie: 0\ ´DK KDµ PRPHQW FDPH ZKHQ , IRXQG RXW WKDW RQH RI WKHLU IDYRULWH VRQJV LV ´0DU\ 'LG \RX .QRZ"µ ,Q RUGHU WR JHW WKHP WR FDOP GRZQ IURP WKHLU PHOWGRZQV WKH\·OO FUDZO XS RQ P\ ODS RU WKH\·OO EH LQ WKHLU EHG FRYHUHG XS ZLWK DOO WKHLU EODQNHWV DQG , MXVW VWDUW VLQJLQJ WKDW·V ZKHQ , UHDOL]HG WKDW ´ 0DU\ 'LG \RX NQRZ´ ZRUNHG , MXVW KDYH WR VLQJ WKDW DQG WKH\ FDOP GRZQ 1RW VXUH ZKDW , ZLOO GR ZKHQ ZH DUH LQ SXEOLF EXW , GR KDYH LW RQ WKH L3KRQH UHDG\ WR SOD\

+DPSWHQ KH·V PRUH LQWR WKH VSRUWV FDUV WUXFNV WKLQJ $Q\WKLQJ GDG OLNHV KH OLNHV +DUULVHQ RQ WKH RWKHU KDQG LW·V HOHFWURQLFV ERDUG JDPHV PXVLF VLQJLQJ HWF« , ORRN DW LW PRUH OLNH KH·V JRRG DW EHLQJ D ZL] NLG +H·V JRLQJ WR EH FDSWDLQ RI WKH FKHVV WHDP RU WKH WHQQLV WHDP +DPSWHQ ZRXOG SUREDEO\ EH TXDUWHUEDFN RI WKH IRRWEDOO WHDP &RPSOHWH RSSRVLWHV OLWHUDOO\ 7KH ZD\ WKH\ VOHHS WKH ZD\ WKH\ VLW LQ WKH FDU DQG HYHQ WKHLU YLVLRQ LV RSSRVLWH 7KH H\H GRFWRU FRPH RXW DQG KLV MDZ ZDV OLWHUDOO\ LW ORRNHG OLNH KLV MDZ ZDV GRZQ WR KLV NQHHV +H VDLG ´,·YH QHYHU VHHQ WKLV EHIRUH ,W·V PLUURU LPDJH 6DPH SHUVFULSWLRQ GLIIHUHQW H\HVµ

What have each of you had to overcome being a mom to children with different abilities? Carrie: 7KH SDWLHQFH WKLQJ /HDUQLQJ SDWLHQFH ZDV WKH NH\ WKLQJ EHFDXVH P\ IDPLO\ LV QRW D SDWLHQW JURXS (YHQ LI LW·V MXVW UXQQLQJ XS WR WKH JURFHU\ VWRUH 'R ZH KDYH HYHU\WKLQJ WKDW ZH QHHG MXVW WR UXQ XS WR WKH JURFHU\ VWRUH"" 'R ZH KDYH WKH ULJKW WHGG\ EHDUV" -XVW OHDUQLQJ WKH GLIIHUHQFH EHWZHHQ KDYLQJ D PHOWGRZQ DQG KDYLQJ D WHPSHU WDQWUXP HWF«" ,W JHWV YHU\ IUXVWUDWLQJ DW WLPHV DQG \RX MXVW KDYH WR OHDUQ KRZ WR KDYH WKH SDWLHQFH WR GHDO ZLWK DQ\WKLQJ DQG HYHU\WKLQJ WKDW FDQ FRPH \RXU ZD\ Angie: , KDYH WKH SDWLHQFH SDUW«ZKDW , GRQ·W KDYH LV D WRQ RI VHOI FRQÀGHQFH DQG VHOI DVVXUDQFH WKDW , FDQ GR WKLV DQG ,·P FDSDEOH RI GRLQJ WKLV DQG , $0 GRLQJ LW ,W·V OLNH QHYHU UHDOO\ IHHOLQJ OLNH ,·P GRLQJ HQRXJK RU GRLQJ WKH ULJKW WKLQJV , VWLOO VWUXJJOH ZLWK WKDW WR WKLV GD\ SUREDEO\ PRUH VR QRZ WKDW WKH\·UH ROGHU

Have you experienced any “ah-ha” moments? Angie: 0\ ´DK KDµ PRPHQW ZDV ZKHQ , IRXQG WKDW ZKDW UHDOO\ KHOSV PH LV D GHFLVLRQ UHDOL]DWLRQ WKDW ZH·UH QRW RQ DQ\RQH HOVH·V WLPH OLQH :H·UH QRW RQ DQ\RQH HOVH·V PLOHVWRQH VFKHGXOH :H GRQ·W KDYH WR JUDGXDWH ZKHQ ZH·UH DQG JR WR FROOHJH ZKHQ ZH·UH DQG D KDOI DQG GULYH D FDU ZKHQ ZH·UH ,W·V ZKDWHYHU ZRUNV IRU RXU IDPLO\ LV WKH ZD\

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Lauren Potter - American Actress As an actress, Lauren has appeared on the hit show, Glee, but she is also an advisor to the White House for People with Intellectual Disabilities and appointed by President Obama. Lauren was born with Down Syndrome.

no limits!

Support Different-Ability Awareness

Mommyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Timeout : T ake a time out

and use V isualization Meditation to relax. Imagine yourself here by the stream catching the sunrise. Enjoy the sounds of the stream water flowing. Take a couple of deep breaths and begin to let go of any stress. Great Smokey mountainS national park national park Week is april 18-26, 2016 photos courtesy of phil horton ÂŠ phil horton/ Flickr music courtesy of ryan Judd www.therhythmtree.com

breathing space your life

SAY “AAH” Successful Trips to the Dentist BY MEME HIENEMAN, VICTORIA MCMULLEN, KIMBERLI BREEN, & JOSLYN MINTZ

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t is estimated that approximately 20% of adults fear dental treatment to the point that they put off necessary visits. Children with disabilities may be even more prone to experience dental anxiety due to strangeness of environment and discomfort of the procedures. If appropriate oral hygiene is neglected, children may experience ongoing pain, lasting damage to their teeth and gums, and poor diet as their food options are restricted. This may escalate the childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s behavior problems BOE QSPEVDF TJHOJmDBOU TUSFTT GPS UIFJS parents. Because of the severity of childenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resistance to treatment, parents frequently resort to sedation for simple procedures (e.g., cleanings), posing additional health risks and increased cost for treatment. Without successful strategies, these patterns can escalate over time. We offer the following suggestions for making dental visits more positive and increasing childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cooperation.

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Reward Cooperation

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Meme Hieneman, has a Ph.D. in Special Education and is nationally certified as a behavior analyst. She has published a variety of articles, chapters, and books including “Parenting with Positive Behavior Support: A Practical Guide to Resolving Your Child’s Difficult Behavior.” In her professional career, Meme has worked with children with severe behavior problems for more than 20 years.

5 Edventure Childrens Museum- Columbia, South Carolina

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#4 Madison Children’s

Museum - Madison, Wisconsin

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#3 Portland Children’s

Museum - Portland, Oregon

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#2 Boston’s Children’s Museum - Boston Massachusetts

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Article resource credit Sara Moore, Early Childhood Education Zone

#1 Children’s Museum Indianapolis, Indiana

Last, but certainly not least, our number one children’s museum goes to the biggest children museum in the world; The Children’s Museum in Indianapolis, Indiana. If the exhibits inside don’t attract your attention, then maybe the life-like dinosaurs standing outside the museum will. Some of the exhibits include, the Dinosphere; Take me there: China; Fireworks of Glass; Treasure’s of the Earth, and even a chocolate themed slide attraction. Transport back in time 65 millions years and explore life with the dinosaurs in the interactive Dinosphere. Here, your child will come face to face with full-size dinosaur skeletons, dig for dinosaur bones, see one of the largest displays of juvenile dinosaur fossils in the world and touch an authentic T-Rex bone. Another neat exhibit is the Treasure’s of the Earth display that allows you and your child to visit a working archaeology lab, reconstruct a terra cotta warrior, decipher hieroglyphics to identify a royal mummy, take a simulated

journey deep into an Egyptian tomb and see artifacts used by Harrison Ford in the Indiana Jones movies. Another reason why you and your child will enjoy this museum is because of how helpful their facility is. Most areas of the museum are barrier free and the museums will give a complimentary admission ticket to a licensed care provider for visitors requiring medical assistance to visit (the Care provider must provide an employee badge from a licensed facility and a matching photo ID). There is first aid available and even hearing impaired services including American Sign Language (ASL) Performances and ASL interpreters are provided for select Lilly Theater performances. Admission for Youth (ages 2–17) is $18.50 and must be accompanied by an adult. Adult (Ages 18–59) is $22.50. www.childrensmuseum.org

Whether you live near or far from these locations, we encourage you and your family to be bold and try something new this Spring. If traveling to some of these locations isn’t practical, perhaps this list might just encourage you to try to locate a museum closer to you and see the interesting exhibits they offer. You just might have a great time AND learn something in the process.w

MAR/APR 2016

Parenting SPecial needS.org

Why Me? Why My Child? wisdom found in WKH Â´KHURÂ·V MRXUQH\Âµ

BY PAULA PETRY, PH.D.

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MAR/APR 2016

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How do you answer the questions, Why Me: Why my child?

Paula Petry, PhD. Paula has her doctoral degree in special education from the University of Miami.Â Paula is the founder and honorary advisor of Parent to Parent of Miami.Â Paula attended Harvardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Executive Leadership program and developed leadership programs for students and parents.Â She is a Light Body practitioner through the Four Winds Society and studied arts in medicine at the University of Florida, Shands Hospital.

2XU DQVZHUV ZLOO YDU\ 7KH LPSRUWDQFH LV LQ VHHNLQJ Photos courtesy Yoshikazu TAKADA/Lotus Flower/ Flickr

MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

fitness activities

a gateway towards introducing social skills

BY ERIC CHES SSEN CHESSEN

Ever read the laundry list of fantastic things that will happen when you enroll a child or teen in a sports, martial arts, gymnastics, or physical education program? The usual list includes â&#x20AC;&#x153;self esteem, independence, DPOmEFODF CFUUFS HSBEFT BOE socialization.â&#x20AC;? As is the regularly occurring hindrance in my programming, I still havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t found the elusive magic wand possessed CZ TP NBOZ PG UIFTF PUIFS PSHBOJ[BUJPOT This results in having to really consider XIBU FBDI PG UIFTF TLJMMT NFBOT CPUI PO HFOFSBM BOE TQFDJmD UP FBDI BUIMFUF BOE CVJME HPBMT JOUP UIFJS TFTTJPOT 4PDJBM TLJMMT are a crucial area of development GPS UIF "4% BOE special needs populations. (SPVQ mUOFTT activities can CF B HBUFXBZ towards introducing social skills and having

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MAR/APR 2016

meaningful interactions. We need to have realistic expectations about social VNLOO GHYHORSPHQW ,W FDQ KDSSHQ ,ÂˇYH ZLWQHVVHG LW KDSSHQLQJ , KDYH YLGHRV RI LW KDSSHQLQJ %XW LW GRHVQÂˇW KDSSHQ E\ DFFLGHQW DQG LW GRHVQÂˇW KDSSHQ VLPSO\ EHFDXVH WZR RU PRUH LQGLYLGXDOV DUH LQ D URRP WRJHWKHU WKLV LV ZKHUH WKDW PDJLF ZDQG ZRXOG PDNH D GUDVWLF GLIIHUHQFH IURP D WLPLQJ SHUVSHFWLYH 6R PXFK DV ZH QHHG WR VWDUW ZLWK EDVHOLQH SK\VLFDO DELOLWLHV ZH DOVR KDYH WR LGHQWLI\ current social and interpersonal functioning. Similar as $GDSWLYH IXQFWLRQLQJ RU PRWLYDWLRQ WR HQJDJH LQ D Ă&#x20AC;WQHVV DFWLYLW\ PRWLYDWLRQ WR LQWHUDFW ZLWK SHHUV PD\ EH LQLWLDOO\ ORZ :LWK DQ DSSURSULDWH DSSURDFK ZH FDQ XVH Ă&#x20AC;WQHVV sessions as a platform for social interaction. Here are three levels of interactive activities from basic to more advanced socialization. Each can be implemented in consideration of the physical, adaptive, and cognitive abilities of the participating athletes. In each phase, opportunities can arise that enable more complex socialization including turn taking, politeness, and sharing common goals.

Level 1: Tandem Activities :KHQ , KDYH WZR RU PRUH athletes in a session, the primary goals remain to increase physical ability and adaptive ability, or motivation to perform exercise activities. While the athletes may not be interacting just \HW ZH

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DOZD\V EHJLQ ZLWK D JUHHWLQJ Â´+L QDPH Âľ EHIRUH ZH JHW started, for our non-verbal DWKOHWHV ZH FDQ XVH D KDQG ZDYH GHYLFH RU DOWHUQDWH form of communication. If WKH SDLU KDYH D VLJQLĂ&#x20AC;FDQW difference in adaptive level, one athlete may take longer breaks than the RWKHU EHWZHHQ DFWLYLWLHV or require an incentivized VLWXDWLRQ SHUIRUPDQFH RI exercise to best of ability = access to reinforcer), so they PD\ QRW DOZD\V EH DFWLYHO\ participating at the same time. When the athletes are both engaged they usually SHUIRUP WKH VDPH DFWLYLW\ WRJHWKHU RU PRGLĂ&#x20AC;HG UHJUHVVHG DV QHHGHG ,Q WKH YLGHR WZR RI P\ IHPDOH DWKOHWHV GHPRQVWUDWH RYHUKHDG 6DQGEHOO ZDONV 7KH\ PRYH LQ FORVH SUR[LPLW\ DQG SHUIRUP WKH ZDON IRU WKH VDPH DPRXQW RI GLVWDQFH WKRXJK ZLWK GLIIHUHQW ZHLJKWV LQ DFFRUGDQFH ZLWK their physical ability. 7DQGHP DFWLYLWLHV FDQ EH LQLWLDWLRQV WR PRUH PHDQLQJIXO VRFLDO LQWHUDFWLRQ 7KH\ FDQ DOVR KHOS ZLWK GHĂ&#x20AC;QLQJ SHUVRQDO VSDFH DQG DQ DZDUHQHVV RI RWKHUV 7DQGHP DFWLYLWLHV FDQ DOVR EH SHUIRUPHG ZLWK ODUJHU JURXSV

Level 2: Interactive Single-Step Exercises

fitness health & Ă&#x20AC;WQHVV ,Q WKH YLGHR \RX FDQ VHH WZR RI P\ DWKOHWHV SHUIRUPLQJ SXVK WKURZV 7HDFKLQJ WKH SXVK WKURZ WR HDFK DWKOHWH WRRN VRPH WLPH DORQJ ZLWK ERWK SK\VLFDO DQG HYHQWXDOO\ YLVXDO SURPSWLQJ WR HQKDQFH WKH PRYHPHQW (YHQWXDOO\ HDFK ZDV able to master the skill and I could fade back and capture it DOO RQ GLJLWDO Ă&#x20AC;OP 0HGLFLQH EDOO WKURZV DQG RWKHU Â´ , JR \RX JRÂľ H[HUFLVHV DUH JUHDW JR WRÂˇV IRU GHYHORSLQJ VRFLDO VNLOOV EH\RQG WKH tandem stage. It is important that the participants have similar physical and adaptive skill levels to maintain consistency of progression, meaning that each athlete is still continuing to develop the physical ability further.

Level 3: Sharing Objectives/Common Goals One of my arguments against the use of sports activities as a basis for adaptive PE and special needs Ă&#x20AC;WQHVV SURJUDPPLQJ LV WKH DEVWUDFW QDWXUH RI JDPH SOD\ 7KH FRQFHSWV RI ZLQQLQJ ORVLQJ RSSRVLQJ WHDPV WLPH RI SOD\ RIIHQFH GHIHQVH FDQ EH YHU\ GLIĂ&#x20AC;FXOW WR XQGHUVWDQG and, ultimately, quite meaningless for the participant. I often QRWH WKDW FRDFKHV KDYH WR LQFHQWLYL]H WKH LGHD RI ZLQQLQJ ZKLFK LV D ULGLFXORXV ZDVWH RI WLPH ,QVWHDG ZH KDYH WKH opportunity to develop movement-based programs that both serve the physical needs of the athletes in a scalable ZD\ DQG LQWURGXFH JRDOV WKDW DOLJQ ZLWK WKHLU FRJQLWLYH functioning. (YHU\ 6XQGD\ DW SP P\ WZR WHHQ DWKOHWHV DUH YLVLEO\ H[FLWHG WR SOD\ Â´&RQH &DUQDJH Âľ LQ ZKLFK WKH\ XVH D SDLU RI '\QDPD[ PHGLFLQH EDOOV WR NQRFN RYHU DERXW WZHQW\ PXOWL FRORUHG FRQHV WU\LQJ WR EHDW WKH VWDQGLQJ UHFRUG DV RI WKLV ZHHN MXVW XQGHU PLQXWHV 6RPHWLPHV WKH\ PRYH TXLFNO\ RWKHU GD\V PRUH RI D Â´PRVH\ DORQJÂľ SDFH WR JUDE WKH EDOO IURP WKH RWKHU VLGH RI WKH URRP DQG WKURZ LW WR IHOO DQRWKHU FRQH 7KH\ ZRUN WRJHWKHU WR NQRFN DOO WKH FRQHV GRZQ DQG KHOS WR SLFN WKHP EDFN XS 7KH FRPSOH[LW\ RI WKH JDPH LV UHODWLYHO\ VLPSOH DQG LW DOORZV WKHP WR NHHS LQ PLQG ZKDW they are supposed to be doing.

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Socialization skill development is certainly a valuable and highly sought area for parents and professionals. :H KDYH WR WDNH WLPH WR FRQVLGHU KRZ ZH DUH GHĂ&#x20AC;QLQJ PHDQLQJIXO VRFLDOL]DWLRQ IRU DQ LQGLYLGXDO ZKDW EDVHOLQH VNLOOV WKH\ FXUUHQWO\ KDYH DQG KRZ EHVW WR LQWURGXFH QHZ WDUJHWV )LWQHVV DFWLYLWLHV EHFDXVH WKH\ DUH DFWLYH engaging and provide situations for interaction, can be RXWVWDQGLQJ FRQGXLWV IRU GHYHORSLQJ QHZ IULHQGVKLSV Y Eric Chessen, M.S., is the Founder of Autism Fitness. An exercise physiologist with an extensive ABA background, Eric consults with families, educators, and ďŹ tness professionals around the world. Eric works with his athletes in the NY metro area and is the author of several E-books. Visit AutismFitness.com for more information.

MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

clean up

what you eat

BY BARRIE SILBERBERG

Have you noticed that now, more than ever before, children and adults are developing food allergies and health problems at an alarming rate? Foods are not grown, cultivated or manufactured the way they used to be. Ten years ago, Europe and many other countries cut RXW DOO IRRG G\HV IURP IRRGV LQFOXGLQJ FDQG\ 7KH *RRG Âś2O USA is very behind the times and Americans are suffering. 5HFHQWO\ PDQ\ $PHULFDQ FRPSDQLHV DUH Ă&#x20AC;QDOO\ ZDNLQJ up and have plans to rid some foods of chemicals, and dangerous ingredients. Besides allergies, ADHD and other conditions are VRDULQJ 3HRSOH QHHG WR ORRN DW WKH IRRG WKDW WKH\ DUH HDWLQJ :H NHHS KHDULQJ WKDW ZH QHHG WR HDW WKH ZD\ RXU JUDQGPRWKHUV DWH DQG SUHSDUHG IRRG :K\ DUH SHRSOH ZKR FDUH DERXW ZKDW JRHV LQWR RXU ERGLHV VD\LQJ WKDW" (DV\ ORRN DW WKHVH LQJUHGLHQW OLVWV

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MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

encourage the family to

get moving with these apps!

BY AMY BARRY AND CRISTEN REAT

Though Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow on Groundhog Day, and an early spring was gleefully predicted, for many of us spring feels like an idea that is still quite far off. The idea of getting off the couch and getting ready for spring can seem like a challenge even on the best of weather days. Throw into the mix your child’s motor challenges, resistance UP USZJOH OFX UIJOHT BOE mOEJOH something that the whole family can do together - well, it is enough to make even Phil go back to bed. We at BridgingApps struggle, too. With the help of our community, we put together some ideas for getting into the springtime mindset with a few apps that focus on healthy living in creative and family friendly ways. Try some yoga or running moves together, customize an easy to follow “workout” (not therapy!) for your child or create a story about an upcoming spring outing! 26 46

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

MAR/APR 2016

NFL PLAY 60 N By American Heart Association B The moves of a football player: swift r running, reactionary jumping, and quick tturns are certainly a simple yet effective ZD\ WR JHW D ERG\·V KHDUW UDWH XS Z Incorporate these moves with an avatar, a mobile device, and into a game and \RX·YH JRW D XQLTXH ZD\ WR HQFRXUDJH NLGV WR EH SK\VLFDOO\ DFWLYH $V D SDUW RI the program to encourage 60 minutes of daily physical activity, the NFL Play 60 app is an interesting “exercise” app for children complete with a virtual coach and a purpose: to travel by “running” through each NFL team city on a map to UHDFK WKH VXSHU ERZO

Price: $FREE Available for: iOS, Android Read Full BridgingApps Review

ExerciseBuddy Visual Exercise System

Happy World Down Syndrome Day!!

Images courtesy NFL Play 60

By Exercise Connection Corporation

ExerciseBuddy is an app designed to help individuals with autism participate in an exercise program and learn about their body. The app is excellent for parents and instructors to teach children about their body and its systems and help them be a part of a structured physical exercise program. It can be outstanding resource for inspiring young people with and without autism to exercise. Although it is designed with children who have autism in mind, ExerciseBuddy addresses five components of physical fitness: body image, posture, motor coordination, muscular fitness and cardiovascular fitness. It presents with picture cards and videos of over 130 exercises.

Price: $29.99 Available for: iOS Read Full BridgingApps Review

Storybook Maker By invocore

Storybook Maker is an app that allows the user to write, illustrate and publish their individual story. Using text, photos, graphics and audio recordings, the app allows an adult or child to design their own book. There are many uses for this app, but one we have found especially useful for children is a method for discussing upcoming changes in a schedule due to vacations or some other event that is out of the ordinary routine. Using Storybook Maker, a parent can write a social story about their vacations or weekends. Using actual photos, the story can be customized for the user. Older children and adults can also use Storybook Maker to write stories about the event and then share them with family and friends.

Price: $2.99 Available for: iOS Read Full BridgingApps Review

Meet Jessica Parsons a certified Let It Go Yoga teacher, teaching classes to her peers of all levels of ability!

Images courtesy Let It Go Yoga

Yoga By Teens By Let it Go Yoga

Designed and taught by three teenage sisters, Yoga by Teens is an app that provides a calm, slow-paced, gentle yoga experience to users of all ages and abilities. One of the teens guides students while the other two demonstrate various physical postures that are based on hatha yoga principles. They use classic yoga terminology followed by easy to understand explanations. With calm background music the setting is definitely supportive, encouraging and positive. Proper breathing is a large focus and the selected poses emphasize relaxation, flexibility and strength building for a well-balanced practice.

Price: $3.99 Available for: iOS Read Full BridgingApps Review

If you are interested in searching for more apps, creating your own list of apps and sharing them, please go to BridgingApps.org. BridgingApps, a program of Easter Seals Greater Houston, is a community of parents, therapists, doctors and teachers who share information about using mobile devices with people who have special needs.w Cristen Reat is co-founder of BridgingApps and a mother who found success when using a mobile device with her children who have special needs. Amy Barry is the Content Manager and Editor at BridgingApps and mother of five children. MAR/APR 2016

Parenting SPecial needS.org

Social Club extends inclusion beyond the classroom

BY BARBARA RBA BA ARA SHER SHE HER ER

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26 48

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

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GOT GAME? Barbara Sherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ten books in eleven foreign languages has a gazillion ideas on ways to play with your child whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a parent of one or an inclusive teacher with many. To see which of Barbaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books and CD fit your needs, check website : www.gameslady.com

MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

Egg - sicles

Encouraging Speech & Creating Yum!

Ingredients To make the Egg-sicle’s you will need: ½ cup mixed frozen berries ½ cup blueberries 1 cup coconut water 1 tablespoon honey (optional) You could also use your favorite smoothie recipe for this.

by PSN TEAM AND BECCA EISENBERG

gg-sicles are an egg-cellent activity/recipe for Spring! We are always trying to figure out healthier, sweet treat options for the kids and family to eat and enjoy. These egg-sicles are perfect: they made from real fruit and coconut water and you could also make them using your favorite smoothie recipe (not shown in this recipe, but, we tested them out with a chocolate, peanut butter, protein, almond milk with frozen banana slice surprise in the middle that was super delicious).

ACTIVITY Plastic Easter eggs lollipop sticks Grooming scissors (small pointed ones with curved edges) Small funnel or piping tip to fill the eggs

Parenting SPecial needS.org

MAR/APR 2016

Cooking Directions

Language Time Tips:

Adult first, tip the eggs upside down; you will notice two holes in the bottom of the plastic egg. Two of these holes are for letting the air escape when filling the egg and the third one should be in the center of the bottom. Using the tip of the scissors (or a knife) gently poke a hole in the center. Then, using the grooming scissors cut a circle in the bottom of the egg. Not too big, just big enough for the funnel to fit in and where the lollipop stick will be placed. We recommend that the adult does this prep portion of the project in advance as it was the most challenging until we decided to use the craft mustache/grooming scissors. Wash and rinse dry plastic eggs.

1. Build vocabulary: Use nouns and actions.

Adult Prepare palstic eggs:

Child Egg Prep: After parent has prepared pastic eggs by cutting ahole in hte bootm. Place eggs in the empty egg carton with the new hole facing up. Directions Adult: Get out the blender and set up. Adult/Child: Measure out 1/2 cup of mixed berry,

frozen fruit and a 1/2cup of frozen blueberries and add to blender.

Adult/Child:

Measure 1 cup of coconut water (Coconut water can be replaced with coconut milk, almond milk or soy milk).

Adult/Child: Once all ingredients are in the blender, cover and then puree until smooth.

Adult/Child: Get the carton with all of the “hole-y” eggs the use a funnel or piping tip to ﬁll each one until almost full.

Child: Stick the lollipop stick into the center of each egg.

Adult: Place in Freezer overnight or until ﬁrm. Serve when frozen.

Eat! Talk! Enjoy!

Nouns: Berries, honey, egg, coconut water, sticks, blender, etc. Actions: dip, cut, ﬁll, tip, poke, puree, turn on, freeze, pour, etc.

2. Colors and Size: With this recipe, focus on the various colors of the different ingredients. This recipe has tons of bright colors from the ingredients. Use contrasting colors such as blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and strawberries. Talk about how they are same and different. What is larger, a strawberry or a blueberry? What color do you make when you puree the blue and red together?

3. Comment and Describe: Encourage comments throughout the whole process of prepping the eggs and then ﬁlling them. As you are gathering the ingredients, let your child sample them and model language such as “sweet”, “juicy”, “tangy”, etc.

4.Sequencing and recalling information: There are many steps to this recipe but breaking them down can be easy especially when the eggs are already prepped. Since you are blending the ingredients together in a blender in no particular order, allow your child to make choices about what to add ﬁrst, then and next. After that step is done, use visual and verbal prompts to help your child follow along with the recipe. Take photos of each steps and review when the recipe is complete.

5. Answering and asking “wh” questions: Sample “wh” questions include: “What fruits did we use?” “How did we ﬁll the eggs?”, “What shape are the eggs?” Encourage your child to ask questions throughout the process of making this fun recipe by modeling language to help facilitate asking questions.

Literacy: Write down the steps on individual post it notes. Have your child read the steps and then put them in order at the end of the recipe. Books recommended: Hank Finds an Egg Recipe inspired by Kara at www.akaileochiclife.com

MAR/APR 2016

PARENTING SPECIAL NEEDS.ORG

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