Inspiring in Spring.
It’s the most beautiful time of year in Texas. Bluebonnets, paintbrushes and exceptional weather. We want our patients to experience the sights, sounds and smells of spring. When mobility is hard, the small, light Vivo 45 makes it easier to enjoy the natural wonders of Texas.
We provide ventilator based care in the home for pediatric patients, as well as nutritional supplies and support.
Volume 11, Issue 1
Publisher: Exceptional Kids, LLC
Owner & Managing Editor: Kameron Chicoine
Graphic & Art Design: Valor Design, Inc.
Website & Logo Design: Red Rattler Creative
Individual Sausage Casseroles
TOTAL TIME: Prep/Total Time: 37 min. YIELD: 18 servings.
Ingredients
1 lb. Breakfast Sausage
1 whole Medium Onion, Diced Small
15 whole Large Eggs
Dash Of Salt
1/4 tsp. Black Pepper
1/4 tsp. Chili Powder
1 whole Medium Green Bell Pepper, Diced Small
1 c. Freshly Grated Cheddar Cheese
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Generously spray 18 muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and cook the sausage until it’s about ¾ brown. Add the onion and reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir and continue cooking the sausage, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is cooked, and the onion is soft. Remove this from the heat and set it aside to cool. Crack the eggs into a bowl and add the salt, pepper, and chili powder. Whisk it until it’s combined. Add the cheddar and bell pepper and stir them in. When the sausage has cooled slightly, add it by the
spoonful and stir it until it’s all mixed together. Use a measuring cup to scoop the mixture into the mun cups and bake them for 20-22 minutes, until they’re firm and just barely set. Within a minute or two, the casseroles will start to firm just a little bit. This is normal! Run a knife along the edges of each mun cup and lift them out of the pan. Serve them warm with a little fruit.
Our passion is to support and empower families, so that positive student outcomes are realized.
“101 Advocacy came into my life when my son was 4 years old. I had someone in my corner that understood all of the things that I didn’t. Fast forward to my son’s Senior year of high school and I still have 101 Advocacy in my corner pushing for my child’s needs to be addressed. I’m grateful that I’m not alone.”
– GRATEFUL PARENT
Maximizing Your Child’s Special Education Success
As a parent of a child with special needs and a seasoned advocate, I’ve witnessed how proactive engagement transforms outcomes. Here are key tips to help your child thrive:
1. Monitor Progress Regularly
Don’t wait for the annual ARD meeting to assess your child’s progress. IEP Progress Reports should be provided as often as report cards. Ensure these updates are datadriven, not generic. For instance:
• Goal Example: The student will solve two-step word problems with 80% accuracy in at least 5 trials.
• Data Driven Examples:
o Given 5 two-step word problems, student achieved 80%+ in 4 out of 6 assignments, scores ranging from 40% to 85%.
o Given 8 trials, student was able to independently identify the 1st step of each word problem, but needed at least two prompts to identify the 2nd step of each word problem. Student was able to accurately solve the problems after prompts.
• Non-Examples:
o Student is a joy to have in class. Keep up the good work.
o Student is passing math with 82% average.
2. Be an Active Participant
Active involvement goes beyond attending meetings. Here's how:
• Prepare Ahead: Request progress reports, evaluations, and a draft ARD document in advance. Review these thoroughly, highlight concerns, and share input before the meeting.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to seek clarifications or propose changes. Advocate for SMART goals— Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• Bring Support: Invite a trusted friend, family member, or advocate for additional support and encouragement.
Proactive participation ensures the plan reflects your child’s unique needs and strengths.
3. Foster Positive Relationships
Building strong connections with your child’s teachers and staff is essential. Acknowledge their dedication with words of affirmation or small tokens of gratitude. Supported teachers are often more energized, benefiting your child directly.
Final Thoughts
Effective advocacy is collaborative. By monitoring progress, engaging in ARD meetings, and fostering positive relationships, you can be a strong advocate for your child’s success. Remember: Monitor, Participate, and Compliment—these steps can transform your child’s educational journey.
For more support, visit 101Advocacy.com or TEA IEP Development.
DENTAL DIRECTORY
Coping with Post-Holiday Blues: A Guide for Families with Special Needs Children
As a parent, especially one raising a child with special needs, the holidays can be both magical and overwhelming. For weeks, you’re juggling events, managing expectations, and trying to create beautiful memories for your family. But then the holidays end, and instead of feeling refreshed, you might find yourself or your child struggling with a wave of sadness or fatigue. This emotional comedown is often referred to as the "post-holiday blues," and trust me—it’s something I’ve experienced myself.
So, let’s dive into what post-holiday blues really are, why they hit so hard, and most importantly, how to navigate this time with grace and self-compassion for both you and your child.
What Are Post-Holiday Blues?
Post-holiday blues are those feelings of emptiness, low energy, or even frustration that sneak in once the holiday excitement fades. After all the planning, parties, and special moments, going back to a “normal” routine can feel a bit flat. For our children, especially those who thrive on predictability, this transition can be particularly challenging.
It’s not unusual for kids—and adults—to experience an emotional dip as the joy and anticipation of the season abruptly shift into the reality of daily life. But while it’s hard, it’s also temporary.
Why Do We Get Post-Holiday Blues?
I’ve learned that the causes of these feelings often come down to the emotional, physical, and even financial stress we experience during the holidays. Here are a few reasons you or your family might feel a bit “off” after the festivities:
1. Emotional Letdown: The excitement of the holidays creates a high that’s tough to sustain, leaving a sense of loss when it’s over.
2. Exhaustion: Late nights, sensory overload, and jam-packed schedules can leave you and your child feeling drained.
3. Unmet Expectations: If something didn’t go as planned, it might linger in your mind longer than it should.
4. Seasonal Changes: Shorter days and colder weather can affect everyone’s mood, especially if your child is sensitive to seasonal changes.
5. Social Withdrawal: The holiday season brings people together, but afterward, the quiet can feel isolating.
As a parent of a special needs child, you might also face unique challenges—like helping your child process their own post-holiday feelings, managing their sensory needs, or navigating disrupted routines.
7 Tips to Cope with Post-Holiday Blues
Here’s what I’ve found helpful for my family when the post-holiday blues set in. These ideas are simple, personal, and most importantly, manageable.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings (and Your Child’s, Too)
It’s okay to feel sad, tired, or overwhelmed after the holidays. Let yourself—and your child—acknowledge those emotions without judgment. I often encourage my child to use words, pictures, or even play to express how they’re feeling. And for myself, journaling or talking with a trusted friend helps me process.
Continued on page 14
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
our complete list of resources go online
ABA THERAPY
◆Autism Treatment Center
210-590-2107
15911 Nacogdoches Rd Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions 210-891-0800
1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions 830-420-6200 6051 FM 3009, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Mindcolor Autism 833-646-3222
8507 Culebra Rd Suite 101 info@mindcolorautism www.mindcolorautism.com
Shelby May Behavioral Consulting 210-239-7181
shelbynunn@maybehavior.com www.maybehavior.com
ACUTE/SKILLED CARE
LifeSpan Home Health
877-434-3153
6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com
ADAPTIVE SPORTS (COMPETITIVE & RECREATIONAL)
◆Kinetic Kids
210-748-5860
11931 Starcrest Dr info@kinetickidstx.org www.kinetickidstx.org
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
◆Pathways Youth & Family Services 210-733-7117 1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org
CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE
Clarity Child Guidance Center 210-616-0300 8535 Tom Slick info@claritycgc.org www.claritycgc.org
COUNSELING PROVIDERS
Catholic Charities 210-377-1133
San Fernando Community Center 231 W Commerce
DEAF SERVICES
◆Deaf Interpreter Services, Inc. 210-545-2946
15600 San Pedro Ave #302 info@deaf-interpreter.com www.Deaf-Interpreter.com
DURABLE
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES
Wave Healthcare
866-935-9283 121 Interpark Blvd #300 www.wavehealthcare.com
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
EDUCATION ADVOCACY RESOURCES
101 ADVOCACY, LLC
210-722-9974 www.101advocacy.com
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas
210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
A.I.M. Educate
210-838-5351
10127 Morocco St #202 privateclinic@aimeducate.com aimeducate.com
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas 210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
uFACT Institute, Inc. 210-267-9134
13032 Nacogdoches Rd #207 life@factinstituteinc.com www.factinstituteinc.com
uThe Winston School of San Antonio 210-615-6544
8565 Ewing Halsell Dr www.winston-sa.org
FINANCIAL SERVICES
Catholic Charities 210-293-1009
202 W. French Place www.ccaosa.org
FOSTER CARE AND ADOPTION
uPathways Youth & Family Services
210-733-7117
1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org
Crisis Intervention (Foster Care Only) 1-866-912-6283 (press *) 1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org
GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES
www.unitedwaysatx.org
2-1-1 Texas is a free, anonymous social service hotline available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Alamo Local Authority Intellectual & Disability Services (IDD) Phone: (210) 832-5020 Fax: 1-866-689-1843
2700 NE Loop 410 Suite 101 iddservices@aacog.com http://www.aacog.com
City of San Antonio - Utility Assistance 210-207-7830
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas 210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
Hill Country MHDD Centers 358 Landa Street, Suite 300, New Braunfels 888-315-3277 http://www.hillcountry.org
Kerr County MH Center 955 Water Street, Kerrville 888-445-5232 http://www.hillcountry.org
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Project Warm - Bexar County Dept of Community Assistance 210-335-3666
Salvation Army 210-226-2291 226 Nolan St
San Antonio Food Bank 210-337-3663 5200 Old Hwy 90 West
Society of St. Vincent de Paul 210-225-7837 WIC Program 210-207-4906
MEDICAL CARE
uEpilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas 210-653-5353
8601 Village Dr, Suite 220 staff@efcst.org www.efcst.org
MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAMS
CDS in Texas
Pg 2 210-798-3779 Toll Free 866-675-7331 www.cdstexas.com
CLASS - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658
DBMD-Deaf/Blind Multiple Disabilities Program 877-438-5658
Disability Services of the Southwest 210-798-0123
6243 IH-10 West Suite 114 www.dsswtx.org
HCS - Home & Community-Based Services Program 210-832-5020
MDCP - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658
LifeSpan Home Health Pg 2 877-434-3153 6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com
Texas Home Living Waiver 210-832-5020
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
American Red Cross 210-224-5151
Cerebral Palsy Foundation ucp.org 210-520-1686
uEpilepsy Foundation 24/7 Helpline 1-800-332-1000 (en espanol 1-866-748-8008) www.epilepsy.com
Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) 800-572-1717
National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), SA 210-734-3349
National Down Syndrome Society 800-221-4602 www.ndss.org
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Scleroderma Foundation www.Sclerodema.org
Spinal Bifida Association Texas Chapter 972-238-8755
Williams Syndrome 800-806-1871 www.Williams-syndrome.org
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
uAutism Treatment Center 210-590-2107 15911 Nacogdoches Rd, Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)
Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org
Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
Cole Pediatric Therapy 210-891-0800
1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Pediatric Therapy 830-420-6200 6051 FM 3009, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 15 210-255-1466 4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
PEDIATRIC HOME HEALTH & PRIVATE DUTY NURSING
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16
512-532-4800
2921 Steck Ave A-120, Austin www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
16 210-447-1650
4502 Centerview Dr, Suite 233, San Antonio www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
254-935-0450
2027 S 61st Street, Suite 121, Temple www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
469-827-7500
275 W Campbell Rd, Richardson www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care
713-829-7149
24624 Interstate 45 N Suite 241, Spring www.entrustedphc.com
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16 915-343-7744
1790 Lee Trevino Dr Ste 202, El Paso www.entrustedphc.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc
15 210-255-1466
4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
PHYSICAL THERAPY
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)
Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed
Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org
Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions 210-891-0800
1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Academy - ABA Solutions 830-420-6200
6051 FM3004, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu
PHYSICAL THERAPY
San Rafael Healthcare Inc
210-255-1466
4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
Pg 15
San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department 210-207-3018
PRESCRIBED PEDIATRIC EXTENDED CAR CENTER (PPECC)
Health Care for Kids
210-951-4840
16019 Nacogdoches Rd Suite 119 www.healthcareforkids.com
SCHOOLS
uThe Winston School of San Antonio 210-615-6544
8565 Ewing Halsell Dr www.winston-sa.org
SCHOOL/JOB TRAINING FOR SPECIAL NEEDS
uFact Institute Inc
210-267-9134
13032 Nacogdoches #207 life@factinstituteinc.com www.factinstituteinc.com
SPECIAL NEEDS ADULTS
uMarbridge Foundation 512-282-1144
2310 Bliss Spillar Road, Manchaca TX info@marbridge.org Marbridge.org
SPEECH THERAPY
uAutism Treatment Center 210-590-2107
15911 Nacogdoches Rd, Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org
CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)
Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available
Cole Pediatric Therapy 210-891-0800
1202 E Sonterra, Blvd 6, Suite 609 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
Cole Pediatric Therapy 830-420-6200
6051 FM 3009, Suite 215 info@colehealth.com colehealth.com
San Rafael Healthcare Inc
210-255-1466 4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com
STATE ORGANIZATIONS
Customer Service Line (Ombudsman) 877-787-8999 www.hhsc.state.tx.us
Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services NOW Texas Work Force www.twc.state.tx.us
North Field Office 210-561-8600 12000 Network Blvd #210
West Field Office 210-522-8010
5309 Wurzbach, Suite 102
Northeast Field Office 210-590-5740 10303 Nacogdoches
South Field Office 210-927-8300
1011 Ada St
PLEASE DONATE
Thank you picking up a copy of Exceptional Kids. There are so many great organizations that provide resources for children and young adults with special needs.
Many of these organizations who provide services for our community are non-profit organizations 501 (C) 3 tax exempt status. Contributions to their organizations are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. These organizations rely on donors like you to help support and expand their programs. I have spoken to many of the non-profits who have families and children on waiting list to receive services through their programs and need our support.
Our Resource Directory has many non-profits listed with their organizations name, phone number and website. Please go online to their website and “DONATE”. You will be helping a child or young adult with a physical, intellectual or mental disability receive the services they need, so they can grow and develop into young men and women working and living independently in our local community.
Just look for the symbol ◆ next to the non-profit organization on the Resource Directory pages 8-12. Your donations will also help promote awareness and inclusion in our community.
Thank you for your support!
Kameron Chicoine, Publisher
defects a ect 1 in every 33 babies born in the United States. The goal of National Birth Defects Prevention Month is to generate greater awareness that birth defects are common, costly, and critical, and to o er speci c actions that women and healthcare professionals can take to prevent birth defects. For more information, visit: www.marchofdimes.org
American Heart Month, thousands of American Heart Association volunteers raise awareness about and raise funds to ght cardiovascular disease, our number one killer. A federally designated event for more than half a century, American Heart Month reminds people to focus on their hearts and encourages them to get their families, friends, and communities involved.
more information, visit: www.heart.org
2. Ease Back into Routine Slowly
Instead of jumping headfirst into a packed schedule, take it slow. For us, reintroducing one thing at a time—like bedtime routines or homework—makes the transition easier. If your child thrives on visual aids, a simple schedule or chart can help them know what to expect.
3. Prioritize Rest and Self-Care
Let’s be honest—parents don’t get much downtime during the holidays! After weeks of running on fumes, it’s important to rest. Whether it’s a cozy evening with a good book or a nap while the kids watch a movie, make time for yourself. For your child, quiet activities like sensory bins, puzzles, or storytime can help them unwind, too.
4. Find Joy in Movement
Exercise isn’t just good for your body—it’s a mood booster, too. My family loves going for walks together, even if it’s just around the block. For kids, turning movement into a game—like a mini dance party or an obstacle course— can make it fun and engaging.
5. Plan
Small Things to Look Forward To
One of the hardest parts of post-holiday blues is feeling like there’s nothing exciting on the horizon. Combat this by planning small, joyful moments. For my family, this could mean a special movie night, baking cookies together, or visiting a favorite park. It doesn’t have to be elaborate—it just needs to give you and your child something to anticipate.
6. Practice Gratitude
During these quieter weeks, I like to focus on the little things that bring joy. As a family, we often share something we’re grateful for at dinner—it could be as simple as a sunny day or a good laugh. Gratitude helps shift your focus from what’s missing to what’s present.
7. Stay Connected
It’s easy to retreat into your own world after the holidays, but staying connected with others can make a big difference. Reach out to friends, set up playdates, or join a local group. If you’re feeling isolated, online communities for parents of special needs children can be a wonderful source of support.
Supporting Your Child Through Post-Holiday Blues
Kids, especially those with special needs, often feel the highs and lows of the holiday season intensely. They might have been counting down the days, eagerly awaiting gifts or special events, only to feel a sense of loss when it’s all over.
If your child is struggling, here’s what I’ve found helpful:
• Validate Their Feelings: Let them know it’s okay to feel sad or disappointed and that those feelings are normal.
• Create a Calm Environment: After the holiday chaos, quieter, low-stimulation activities can help them reset.
• Offer Stability: Gradually reintroduce routines like regular meal times, bedtime, or therapy sessions. Predictability can be incredibly grounding.
• Plan Fun Activities: Simple, low-pressure activities like a family craft session or a trip to the library can help ease the transition back to normal life.
Final Thoughts
The post-holiday blues are real, but they don’t last forever. By being gentle with yourself, supporting your child, and finding small ways to bring joy back into your days, you can make this transition a little easier.
As a parent, I’ve learned that it’s not about doing everything perfectly—it’s about being present, showing grace, and finding beauty in the little moments. The holidays might be over, but the love and connection you’ve built with your family can carry you through any season.
Take it one step at a time, and don’t forget: You’re doing an amazing job.
San Rafael: Delivering Hope for San Antonio
For parents of children with complex medical needs, every day can feel like an uphill battle. San Rafael Healthcare, San Antonio’s trusted home health provider, is here to ease that journey. Specializing in high-acuity pediatric care, San Rafael brings expert nursing services and compassionate support directly into the homes of families, where it’s needed most.
One father shared his heartfelt experience: “When we rst started with San Rafael Healthcare, we were overwhelmed by my daughter’s medical challenges. e nurses quickly became part of our family, providing not just care but reassurance and hope. ey’ve made an impossible situation manageable.”
San Rafael understands the unique challenges of high-acuity care. eir specialized team works closely with families to create customized care plans tailored to each child’s needs. From ventilator management to feeding tube care, their skilled nurses deliver life-sustaining treatments with unmatched dedication and expertise.
Have you ever wished for a partner to help carry the weight of your child’s medical needs? at’s exactly what San Rafael provides. eir team doesn’t just o er care – they o er connection, understanding, and a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for their patients and their families.
Every child’s story is di erent, but the mission remains the same: to ensure children with complex medical needs receive the highest standard of care in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. For parents, this means peace of mind knowing their child is in capable hands, surrounded by love and family.
San Rafael Healthcare isn’t just a home health provider – it’s a source of strength for families navigating life’s toughest challenges. With their expert support, parents can focus less on the stress of medical logistics and more on cherishing the moments that matter most.
Let San Rafael Healthcare be your partner in care. Visit their website today to learn how they can help your family on this journey.
Providing Private Duty Nursing Services for infants, children, and adults across Central Texas.
Entrusted Pediatric Home Care is the leading provider of pediatric nursing services in Texas. Our clinical team works with physicians and case managers to ensure children transition safely home from the hospital.
Whether it is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or a few &hour shifts per week, we have you covered. Our comprehensive approach to care includes coordinating with your team of medical professionals to implement the best possible outcomes for your child.
"You guys make an amazing team and are changing families' lives for the good! We could not be more thankful for all the e ort you put in to making the transition to Entrusted go so smoothly. Not only that, but y'all hit the ball WAY out of the park finding us excellent nursing sta . Thank you for all of the many hours in the o ce and on call that it takes to make our lives better. We couldn't be happier to call Entrusted our family."
-Erica S
