• Pages 16-18 Featured Family: Meet the Rogers Family
• Page 15 Advocate Like A Mother- Get Ready for Fall 2023: Improving Your Child’s IEP
• Pages 10-11 Athlete of the Month- Meet Aedon Lukasiewicz
• Pages 6-7 Meet The SNL Team!
• Pages 12-13 Sponsor Spotlight: Student Advocacy Michigan
• Pages 24-25 Nonprofit Spotlight: Living and Learning Enrichment Center
• Pages 8-9 Community Resources
• Pages 20-22 Local Events
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Jamie McCabe 248-882-8448
Jamie.McCabe@n2co.com
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Arc Michigan arcmi.org
Autism Alliance of Michigan
https/autismallianceofmichigan.org/
Autism Support of Michigan https/autism-mi.org/
Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities
Administrationwww.michigan.gov/mdhhs/ keep-mi-healthy/mentalhealth/procurement/ welcome-to-behavioral-health-and-developmentaldisabilities-administration
Michigan Foundation for the Blind and Visually Impaired Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/keep-mi-healthy/ mentalhealth/developmentaldisability
Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS)
Capital Area Down Syndrome Association www.cadsa.org
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services (DHHS) www.deafhhs.org/
Disability Determination Bureau
Division of Aging
www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/adultsand-seniors/behavioral-and-physical-health-andaging-services/aging-services
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Division of Family Resources (DFR) www.michigan.gov/mdhhs
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DISCLAIMER: Any articles included in this publication and/or opinions expressed therein do not necessarily reflect the views of The N2 Company d/b/a N2 Publishing but remain solely those of the author(s). The paid advertisements contained within the Special Needs Living magazine are not endorsed or recommended by The N2 Company or the publisher. Therefore, neither The N2 Company nor the publisher may be held liable or responsible for business practices of these companies. NOTE: When community events take place, photographers may be present to take photos for that event and they may be used in this publication.
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Office of Special Education
https/www.michigan.gov/mde/services/ special-education-
Michigan Family Forum
Michigan Family to Family
www.f2fmichigan.org/
Michigan Foundation for the Blind and Visually Impaired Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
www.michigan.gov/mdhhs
Michigan Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA)
www.michigan.gov/mdhhs
Michigan State Department of Health
www.michigan.gov/mdhhs
Michigan Statewide Independent Living Council (MSILC)
www.misilc.org/
Medicaid Disability
MI Choice Waiver Program
National Alliance on Mental Illness
517-241-7004
Preschool & Out-of-School Time Learning
www.michigan.gov/mde/about-us/mde-divisions-andoffices/preschool-and-out-of-school-time-learning
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Self-Advocates of Michigan (SAM)
Social Security Administration (SSA)
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Special Education Questions
United Cerebral Palsy Association of Michigan ucp@ucpmichigan.org
Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VR)
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ABA SERVICES
ABA Pathways (805) 551-7613
www.ABAways.com
Budding Behavior Therapy (248) 622-5191
www.buddingbehavior.hi5aba.com
ABA/ BEHAVIORAL & AUTISM SERVICES
Healing Haven (248) 965-3916
www.thehealinghaven.net/
ADVOCACY
Student Advocacy Michigan (248) 372-9770
www.studentadvocacymi.com
ATHLETIC TRAINING
Autastic Athletics LLC. (248) 224-4151
www.autastic-athletics.com
AUTISM DIAGNOSIS/SUPPORT
Arbor Autism Center (734) 544-5561
www.arborautismcenters.com
AUTISM EVALUATIONS & ABA THERAPY
Inspire Autism (844) 427-7700
www.inspireautism.com/
FINANCIAL MIABLE
(844) 656-7225
mi.savewithable.com
PRODUCTS
HedgeHog Health (248) 495-7244
www.hedgehoghealth.com
RECREATIONAL/ MUSIC/ ART THERAPY
Advanced Therapeutic Solutions
(734) 352-3543
www.advancedtherapeauticsolutionsmi.com
JAMIE MCCABE - PUBLISHER - I grew up in Waterford, MI. I graduated from Waterford Mott High School. I moved to Indianapolis in 2007 to work with Cutco Cutlery. I ran a district office in Kalamazoo Michigan as a District Manager with Cutco. I became a Cutco Sales Professional for many years with the company working out of Indiana. I have 3 kids - Jordan 11, Jaylin 6 and Jade 4. My son started having seizures at 18 months old, he was diagnosed with Autism at almost 5. He has always been nonverbal but over the last year he has made some incredible progress. I started working as a franchise owner with the N2 Company in 2013. I have run multiple community magazines over the last decade. From my pain to purpose I started the first Special Needs Living Magazine in Indiana in 2020. We expanded to Ohio in 2022 and I am proud to bring one to my home state Michigan to celebrate, support, connect and impact the special needs community. I love to camp, travel, run, read and help to encourage others around me.
PAULA EIFLER- ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE - I live in Waterford, MI located in Oakland county. I am married to my husband Allen and a mother of three children. I am so excited to join Special Needs Living Magazine Metro Detroit and Surrounding Counties as the Account Executive and work alongside my daughter, Jamie McCabe, who started the magazine in Indianapolis, IN in 2020. Since my son was young, I have needed to learn to advocate for his behavioral and Mental Health and learning challenges and needs which was not an easy journey.
I spent years learning the laws and rules here in Michigan and learning about multiple disabilities and how it affected his learning to be able to get him the education and support that was needed. From this experience, I started working with the Association for Children’s Mental Health as a family advocate and hosting support groups in the area for kids and families. Then from there worked with ACMH and MDHHS to become one of the first cohorts of parents in the state of Michigan to become a Certified Parent Support Partner. I loved working with and supporting the parents and children. From there I came to Common Ground as a Crisis Parent Navigator Advocacy Specialist again working with the parents and kids who came up to the Crisis Resource Center. In 2023 our contract went to another provider in the area. So currently I am working with the Adults who come to the Crisis Resource Center. I have been involved for many years over the course of my life working with providers, agencies, and schools to help parents and kids develop the knowledge, skills, and ability needed to help them in their journey. My goal has always been to empower parents and people to have a choice and voice to be included in school and community. I want parents to know it is possible that with support from loved ones and community partners we can build a better understanding together as we can grow to bring hope and inspiration along the way as we build our community together. My goal is over the next year to transition to full time with Special Needs Living as I learn the ropes. Outside of work I love to garden, play with my boxers, and spend time with my family and grandkids. My husband and I also enjoy hunting, fishing, boating and camping. I look forward to learning from you all and sharing with you and our community as we grow together
KENDRA ROGERS, MS is a psychology student working toward earning her PhD while home educating four neurospicy children with her neurospicy husband of 17 years. They live in rural MI between Flint and Detroit. Kendra has always had a passion for education and psychology.
Becoming a mother to children with a variety of special needs including autism, adhd, giftedness, severe food allergies, and other health/immune conditions flung her into deeper research to best meet her children’s needs. The family became more involved with the special needs community when they began volunteering at a therapeutic equine facility nearby.
Kendra’s passion for the special needs community is close to her heart as she works to continue teaching her children how to live in a society that rejects what’s different. Helping more families feel connected and a sense of belonging is not only Kendra’s mission but that of this magazine as well. https://www.growingexceptional.com/ https://www.archwaypublishing.com/en/bookstore/ bookdetails/811369-growing-exceptional-seedlings (Also available on Amazon© and other online book retailers)
RON SANDISON works full time in the medical field and is a professor of theology at Destiny School of Ministry. He is an advisory board member of the Art of Autism and the Els Center of Excellence. Sandison has a Master of Divinity from Oral Roberts University and is the author of A Parent’s Guide to Autism: Practical Advice. Biblical Wisdom published by Charisma House and Views from the Spectrum. He has memorized over 15,000 Scriptures including 22 complete books of the New Testament. Sandison speaks at over 70 events a year including 20 plus education conferences. Ron and his wife, Kristen, reside in Rochester Hills, MI, with daughter, Makayla. His website is http/www.spectruminclusion.com. You can contact him at sandison456@hotmail.com.
Link to Ron’s website: https/www.spectruminclusion.com
Link to Ron’s Facebook fan Page: https/www.facebook.com/SpectrumRonSandison
JOSLYN CLARK - Educational Advocate -PSL Education -joslynclark@pslforkids.com
Joslyn brings over 35 years of experience as a Classroom Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Principal and Special Education Director to her support of students and families in her work as a Student Advocate. She has directed and participated in hundreds of team meetings: Special Education IEPs, 504 Plans, Behavior Intervention planning and Instructional Support Plans.
Joslyn has the knowledge and experience to support students, families and school teams to work cooperatively and build plans to support a positive and productive school experience.
Joslyn earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University in Education/ Special Education and is a certified General and Special Education Teacher. She earned a Master of Science degree from Texas A & M University in School Administration and holds an endorsement as a School Administrator and a Special Education Supervisor. Currently, Joslyn is pursuing a Doctorate through Wayne State University in Education Policy and Leadership.
DORENE PHILPOT - is a private practice attorney licensed in Michigan, Indiana and Texas. She devotes her 23-year plus practice entirely to representing special needs children and their parents under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act. She is the recipient of a national award for her advocacy work for students, i.e. the 2012 Diane Lipton Award for Outstanding Educational Advocacy from COPAA (Council of Parents Attorneys and Advocates).
She is the author of “Do-It-Yourself Special Education Due Process: An Educational Guide” which is available at www.learningenabledpublications.com.
She is a member of Mensa. She gives presentations to parent groups and other organizations on a regular basis about special education law rights of children. Before becoming a lawyer, Dorene was a journalist for 13 years, most recently serving as an editor at The Indianapolis Star and Indianapolis News. Before that, she worked as an editor at other newspapers and magazines, including The Saturday Evening Post.
MARIA GIANCOTTI, M.ED. - Is a professional Special Education Advocate and founder of Student Advocacy Michigan, which serves clients across the state. Her mission is to ensure effective educational plans are implemented for different learners and special needs children while educating and empowering parents to advocate independently.
Advocacy started for her in 2013 when her child was placed on an IEP. She studied education and civil rights laws independently for years before completing COPAA (Counsel of Parents Attorneys and Advocates) training in 2020. She represents parents at 504, IEP, and disciplinary meetings, and in mediation sessions. Her role also includes preparing and filing comprehensive state and federal complaints when needed to resolve legal violations and seek remedies for clients.
Maria takes great care teaching parents about their legal rights in special education and how to advocate for their child. Her favorite quote is “you need to learn this because you don’t want to hire me until your child graduates”! She takes the initiative to meet with state legislators and key education decision makers to address special education problems and present potential solutions, in addition to providing public speaking on special education related topics.
Away from her business, her interests include travel, cooking, fitness and going to the beach in the summer. Maria loves spending time at the baseball field at her son’s high school and travel team tournaments. She resides in the greater Detroit area with her husband Nick, son Jayden, and border collie Baci.
Aedon
Age: 9
Grade: 3rd grade School: Beacon day treatment
What would you like the community to know about you? What have been some challenges you have experienced and how have you overcome these challenges?
I’m nice. Sometimes I get mad. I’m learning to talk it out
Advice you have for others in the special needs community. Don’t be afraid to try new things, Get out there.
Something you would like your parents to know I love you
What sports or extracurricular activities do you participate in?
Tennis and basketball
Tell us more about your experience with those activities (how did you get started? what do you enjoy most? any highlights of your experience so far?)
I don’t remember how I got started but I enjoy that I can hit the ball. Playing helps me feel good about myself
Name someone you admire. What makes them special and how have they motivated you?
My mom. Because They are so nice
When I grow up, I want to be... OR After high school, my plans are...
I’m still thinking about what I want to do but I definitely want a Lamborghini
Favorite Food Mac and cheese
Favorite Color Orange
Favorite Music Rock
Favorite Movie or TV Show Home alone
Favorite Sports Teams N/a
Favorite Subject in School Math
Favorite Vacation Camping
Working with Andrew with Autastic Athletics has been amazing! He is always patient with my son and really has taken the time to teach Aedon not only the game of tennis but also about sportsmanship. He knows how to communicate and teach Aedon in a way that he responds well to. And it has been so fun and encouraging to see my son grow in confidence and improve his game at the same time!! Andrew has taken the time to get to know Aedon when most people around us don't, and we consider him both a coach and a friend!! -
Genevieve Lukasiewicz (Aedon's mom)
Words from Aedon's mom Genevieve: Things I love about Aedon: He is infinitely curious and has a mind full of amazing ideas and perspectives. He is kind-hearted and generous. Aedon doesn't give up. When he wants something he goes full throttle towards it. And when he likes something he tries to learn everything he can about it.
I have loved watching him enjoy and learn a sport, especially since I was told he would never be able to excel in sports. Watching him defy the odds people stack against him over and over.. he amazes me! I feel very lucky that I get to see Aedons shining light.
Birmingham, MI - In the daunting world of special education, parents often find themselves overwhelmed and unsure of how to navigate the complex process of accessing the right support for their child. This is where Student Advocacy Michigan steps in, offering a unique blend of advocacy services and education to empower parents in the state of Michigan.
Founded in 2020 by a dedicated parent and advocate, Student Advocacy Michigan understands the challenges parents face firsthand. As a native of Michigan who has also lived in other states, including Kentucky, Indiana, and Illinois, the founder has a deep understanding of the intricacies of the education system. After experiencing personal struggles with her own child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) and encountering violations of special education law, she delved into studying the laws to help her son. This journey led her to support and assist friends, eventually sparking her passion for advocating for students with special needs.
What sets Student Advocacy Michigan apart is its holistic approach to special education advocacy. Not only does the organization provide meeting representation as nonattorney advocates, but it also focuses on equipping parents with the knowledge and skills they need to advocate independently for their children. By empowering parents, the goal is to reduce their reliance on external advocacy services, ensuring they can confidently navigate the special education system themselves.
“I strongly believe it is important to engage an advocate at the beginning of your journey,” the founder shares.”The sooner you can learn how the process works and what your rights are, the better equipped you are to secure the appropriate support for your child at school.”
Student Advocacy Michigan goes beyond representation by educating parents and providing comprehensive resources on the special education system and applicable laws. By
helping parents understand their rights and the intricacies of the process, they are better positioned to collaborate effectively with school officials, negotiate appropriate accommodations, and secure the best possible outcomes for their children.
Beyond their commitment to providing top-notch advocacy and education services, Student Advocacy Michigan takes pride in giving back to the community. The founder, a devoted single parent to a high school
student on an IEP, leads by example in her personal life. When not running the business, she devotes her time to her son, exploring the world through travel, with Italy being a personal favorite. As a fitness instructor, she also enjoys teaching classes and embracing an active lifestyle.
With a strong belief in supporting the community, Student Advocacy Michigan sponsors and contributes to various causes, organizations, and fundraising events. By investing
in initiatives that align with their mission, they strive to make a positive impact on the lives of children with special needs and their families.
If you are a parent in Michigan seeking guidance and support in the special education process, Student Advocacy Michigan is here to help. Contact them today at www. studentadvocacymi.com or visit their office. You can also reach them at 248372-9770 to take the first step towards
empowering yourself and ensuring the best possible education for your child.
Does your child’s current IEP really meet his or her needs? Are you satisfied with the support and services your child gets? Is your child making good progress toward their IEP goals? Would more support help your child? If so, read on and learn about three key areas you can address to improve your child’s IEP.
Before you start fixing that IEP, you need to understand the power of data and how to use it. The IEP team always says data is what supports the decisions they make. The data comes from evaluations, observations, teacher input, standardized tests, and grades. The most current data should be in the PLAAFP (Present Level of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance) section of the IEP. You can also refer to the front page of the IEP document and find the date of the last IEP evaluation and review your MET Report (evaluation report).
You will want to take note that the law states evaluations must occur every three years at minimum, but parents are allowed to request a reevaluation at any time if it has not been less than one year since the last evaluation. If the data you have is outdated, put a request for an evaluation. Submit a written request in August right before school starts so you can schedule a REED (Review of Existing Educational Data) meeting as soon as possible. If the evaluation is agreed upon in the REED meeting and parental consent is given, the district will have 30 school days to complete the evaluation. New data can shed light on what your child needs help with and drive very targeting IEP goals.
Look deep into the data. Review each assessment and understand
what it measures. You are looking for low performance in assessments, grades, and any behavioral concerns (disrupting class, losing focus, needing multiple prompts to do work, discipline, etc.) noted in the report. Consider every individual subtest score to identify deficits. Make a list of all areas where your child performed low and be ready to discuss them with the IEP team as areas of potential need. Use the data to prepare for your meeting and be ready to discuss three key areas of the IEP including Supplementary Aids and Services, Goals and Objectives, and Special Education Services and Programs. Prepare a list of requests for each section and support your requests with data.
Supplementary Aids and services refer to the “accommodations” your child will receive to “access” education and learning. Do a quick online search for accommodations relative to your child’s diagnosis. You will find several ideas of accommodations that may be helpful. Bring your list to your IEP meeting and ask for specific accommodations you feel will benefit your child.
Goals and Objectives refer to the actual skills the staff will be teaching your child and measuring progress on. The goals should address any areas of need that cannot be completely
supported by accommodations. Goals should be written as”SMART” goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound). Also request information on the progress towards goals. This allows you to review the data recorded on how your child is performing over time when working on these skills.
Lastly, be prepared to discuss Special Education Services and Programs. This is the time and frequency of specialized instruction and services (resource room time, social work, occupational therapy, speech therapy, etc.) your child will get weekly or monthly. If you feel additional time is needed to help your child achieve goals, request more time be added and use data to back up your request.
These are just a few strategies to get that IEP on the right track. Don’t let another year go by with a mediocre IEP. If you need more specific IEP help, contact me!
We are a family of six living in rural MI south of Flint. We are Dad (Leighton), Mom (Kendra), sons (Remy-16, Liam13, McKeon-11), daughter (Kaelyn-7), and several animals! In the last six years, we have volunteered with OATS, a therapeutic horseback riding facility nearby. We feed the animals and help with classes sometimes. The kids all play instruments as part of their homeschool day. While they are high achievers, working several grade levels ahead of their age grades, life, and school aren’t all roses!
REMY:
16 years ago, when we realized our first baby was on the way, we started panicking…dreaming of what life would be like. We had no idea what was really in store! Remy seemed fairly typical for a long time, but around 18 months, he was able to have complex conversations with anyone who would listen. He then taught himself
to read by age three. We knew that traditional school would be a fight for accommodations and acceleration, so we chose to homeschool. I expected him to slow down when the content got more challenging, but he continued to soar through multiple grade levels each year, entering high school-level content by age 10. We followed his lead and explored deeper and deeper into the content matter. He began playing violin at age five, too. He chose his instrument, and we began lessons. He occasionally encountered challenges that rendered him frustrated and nearly defeated. He always recovered and climbed the wall to prevail. Now, he is in a community orchestra playing violin. He also decided to learn viola, electric bass, ukulele, and can play piano. Largely, he plays by ear but is adept at reading music, too. Though he is almost 16, he doesn’t know what he wants as a career, whether he wants to attend college, or what tomorrow
BY KENDRA ROGERS- EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
holds. We are rolling with those feelings and waiting for him to tell us his next set of needs or desires for his own future. He has always vacillated between career and life goals, and we had a feeling he would be late to choose. At only 16, we don’t think he is late at deciding what he will do for the next 60 or more years!
LIAM:
By the time Remy was a bit over two, we had welcomed our second son, Liam, six weeks early. Thankfully, he was strong and healthy and didn’t have a long hospital stay or many interventions. We expected Liam to follow his big brother’s developmental steps, but he did not. Instead, Liam was largely non-verbal until age four. What language he did have was challenging to understand and developing strangely. He said the ends of words rather than the beginnings— “us ime” meant “Optimus Prime”. He grew incredibly angry when we didn’t know what he wanted from us. We used sign language to help, and he learned over 300 signs with us so he could
communicate better. When others didn’t know his signs, meltdowns lasted for hours. At one, Liam lined up his toys in groupings by size, color, and type. He also “counted” them by grunting and pointing at each toy. We thought it was adorable and quirky. Others suggested he may have autism, but we ignored the signs. His refusal to change tasks, compromise, and touch certain things should have been strong clues. His multiple hours-long daily meltdowns should have tipped us off that there was something more to this precocious child. Though he couldn’t tell us until he was four, we are certain he could also read early. He was hyperlexic. When he began manipulating numbers, it was clear that dyscalculia may be a challenge. Writing exercises showed us dysgraphia. Liam’s needs again showed us that homeschooling was right for him. I was able to accommodate his needs, cater the school day to include plenty of transition time, and ensure he had support for all his challenges. We created a calm-down space where he could be angry safely. We provided comfortable, safe seating, focus items, and fidgets. He even participated in creating the space with things he felt happy about. We let the meltdowns happen. We directed him to his space and encouraged the use of any items he felt good about. These meltdowns did not end with the toddler years of challenging communication but continued into childhood. At age seven, we had an official diagnosis, of autism and profound giftedness. This diagnosis allowed us to research more clearly instead of pulling at straws trying to figure out how to help Liam. We started working with OATS shortly after this diagnosis, too. His needs for routine and predictability were well met at this beloved farm. Until just a few weeks ago, he always used the same lead rope. The routine, though different from when we started, has taken on a new normal and the expectations keep Liam grounded. Though Liam has greatly improved in his ability to adapt to change and exist without explicit plans, we still see glimmers of difficulty when plans change in major ways. When this happens, though, he is much more
logical and able to understand the need for change. He is able to express why he is upset and choose activities (usually reading) to help him calm. This development, while very welcome, is not without many years of tears—mine and his— yelling, frustration, feelings of hopelessness, and tireless work to teach Liam and help him name and moderate his emotions. It is because of our struggles with Liam that I chose to write “Growing Exceptional Seedlings: Companionship for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids”. I started reading parenting books when my children were more than I anticipated but none of them ever spoke to our challenges and none of the tips and tricks worked for my precocious humans.
MCKEON:
Shortly after Liam turned two, we had baby three, McKeon. He was no typical infant. He rolled at three weeks and crawled at five months despite barely sleeping due to intestinal and skin discomfort from multiple severe allergies. He slept 45-minute stretches for a total of four hours a night for the entire first year. We had him at specialists from six months old to determine the cause of his difficulties. Despite allergies and limited food options, he pulled up to stand in the hospital crib less than 24 hours after a procedure during which he was under general anesthesia. The precocious moving of a baby with many food allergies along with two toddlers was an added challenge. I began to suspect ADHD as well at around age two. He routinely attacked his brothers for no apparent reason. I regularly had to rescue siblings caught in corners with his fists flying. He was also a biter, though generally, the biting was from frustration. He required a lot more hands-on parenting which was especially challenging while sleep deprived. McKeon’s intensity was different than Liam’s. When Liam was upset, he simply screamed for hours. When McKeon was upset, he attacked whatever moved near him.
We began what we term “tomato staking”. Just as a tomato plant grows best when supported by a stake, McKeon responded best to direction and support in the moment of his frustration. He was never permitted out of sight of a parent. I was home alone most of the waking hours of the day with three of my own kids and sometimes, kids I babysat for extra money to pay for specialists and special food. This meant the onus was on me to keep McKeon and all the others safe. I took him to the bathroom with me, I showered and ate while he was napping—if he napped. The other kids got less attention so I could be on top of McKeon’s behavior. We remained this way for several years, but McKeon gained control of his emotions and reactions to them. Instead of biting and hitting, McKeon began to growl and clench his fists to demonstrate frustration. We would move him and sit with him to help him calm down, name his emotions, and discuss a plan of a healthy way to describe them and ask for his wants to be met. He was a tiny boy with big feelings and needs that were difficult to express. In addition to his strong feelings about life in general, McKeon grew anxious about food and his surroundings. Through reassurance, and understanding, he has calmed a great deal. We did have him assessed a few years ago for trauma-related obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) as well. Thankfully, his hand-washing symptoms abated with a changed environment where he felt safer. He is
now 11 and mostly great at expressing himself calmly and managing his allergies and other diagnoses including a few more health-related ones making Covid-19 that much more concerning. However, there are times he struggles. In those times, we direct him to his bed to breathe, scream, and relax then come talk calmly. He also has several tasks he may choose from when he feels his body is vibrating too much. We decided on these options together and with his input, so he is mostly happy about them, too.
KAEYLN:
Our last, but not least. Our little Kaelyn. She was a highly anticipated baby born after several miscarriages. She is over four years younger than McKeon. We were finished with diapers, naps, and night waking… then Kaelyn turned us on our heads. She was a calm baby who only cried when she was hurt—physically or emotionally. She was just five months old when she spoke her first word (“Mom”) and eight months for her first sentence—”MMmmm, more bacon!”. We thought…oh great, another one… meh, we got this! She had a different set of twists for us, though. Instead of just not sleeping through the night, she also quit naps at 20 months. And potty trained at 22 months. She was just one when we started volunteering at OATS, and from day one, she insisted on holding the lead ropes and walking the horses while I carried her in a baby carrier around the 40-acre facility. She rode her first horse (with me) at two and never looked back. This little force has let nothing stop her. She forged
friendships with animals and people virtually throughout the Covid-19 pandemic even though she was just turning four when it started. Later that year, she began playing cornet, a small, trumpet-like brass instrument, via virtual lessons. Like her brothers, she is grade levels ahead of her age grade and is nearing the completion of third grade at just over seven years old. While she seems like a typical gifted kid on paper, she has introduced an entirely new kind of intensity to our lives! Or, maybe, we just forgot what the others were like at her age. Aside from naps and potty training, she has surpassed our expectations for playing an instrument, her passions exceed those of her siblings at this age, and she is easily offended when argued with. She KNOWS she is right and even proving to her that others are too does not dissuade her from her strongly held beliefs. She has been able to “do it self” since she was one and put on socks using her feet! She innovates life so she can be independent. Yet, she is ritualized with her bedtime routine and whenever someone leaves the house. Though we tell her nightly, she still announces when she begins to brush her teeth, and the same phrases must be repeated verbatim every night when saying “goodnight”. Without these rituals, she is lost and unsure of the next steps. As they do not interfere with general life and are relegated to specific situations, we have not investigated any twice-exceptionalities with her, yet.
Leighton was diagnosed with autism and ADHD in 2020. Though we assumed he was gifted, it was also confirmed at this time. He struggled through high school and was excused from two colleges in his early adult years. Once he found his passion in information technology (IT) and a company hired him as a technician, he was able to embrace his abilities and earn from them. Though he has moved jobs several times, he has remained in the IT field for over 20 years. In 2021, he decided to use the Michigan Reconnect grant and return to school to earn his associate’s degree. He is just a few classes from doing so.
I, Kendra, was identified as gifted as a child. As an adult making decisions for my own neurodiverse children, I recognize my parents did what they knew was best with the information and resources they had at the time. I am doing the same, but I have many more resources. I was in counseling for anger difficulties similar to those McKeon experienced. However, my counseling was not effective. As an adult, I have been able to learn about myself and my needs more and adjust to dispel my anger in a healthy manner…mostly. In 2019, I had had enough of parenting books that didn’t help ME, so I wrote my own and published it in 2020. I also created a blog to chronicle additional challenges and began writing several more books to help parents of allergic children, the general public in understanding the variety of wonderful people who make up our world, a Growing Exceptional TEENAGERS book, and a superhero story that Remy is creating characters for. These are on hold as I, too, began enhancing my formal education when I earned my master’s degree in general psychology in 2022. I am now finishing my third of six Ph.D. regular course terms prior to beginning the heavy work on my dissertation. I hope to continue teaching by helping college students someday.
That’s the gist of us! There is so much more that there isn’t space for. I hope to inspire, support, and love every special needs family that crosses my path now and in the future. Links to my blog and book follow: https/www.growingexceptional.com/ https/www.archwaypublishing.com/ en/bookstore/bookdetails/811369growing-exceptional-seedlings (Also available on Amazon© and other online book retailers)
Would you like to share a story in an upcoming issue of Special Needs Living ? We want to hear from you. To share a story or to nominate someone else to be in an upcoming issue of Special Needs Living, e-mail your story ideas or nominations to Jamie.McCabe@n2co.com
To view ways to share your story in a future issue & to view the digital version of Special Needs Living Detroit/ Metro: Click the link or scan the QR code: https/linktr.ee/snlmichigan
Scan to view past issues of Special Needs Living
Each month we will highlight a nonprofit for free to let the community know more about how they support and impact families and individuals with special needs. Do you run a non-profit or know of one that supports the special needs community? Fill out your submission or scan the QR code here: www.jotform.com/ build/202466367490157
Calling all 501c3 organizations that
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ACCOMPLISHMENTS/
Looking to Celebrate all Special Needs Individuals
Some accomplishments and milestones take years... We want to recognize you/ them! Are you or your child celebrating a birthday, milestone, achievement, or accomplishment? We want to recognize you – email us at SpecialNeedsLivingDetroit @n2pub.com
To view ways to share your story in a future issue & to view the digital version of Special Needs Living Detroit/Metro: https://linktr.ee/snlmichigan
To get the free copy of Special Needs Living Detroit Metro click or scan: https://form.jotform. com/222635365026049
FOR ADVERTISING:
Do you run a business that supports the special needs community and is looking to connect, impact or advertise in Special Needs Living magazine? Scan the QR code to set up a time to connect or Email Jamie. McCabe@n2pub.com.
Due to COVID-19, many museums participating in Museums for All have adjusted their hours and ticket purchasing policies. Before visiting a museum, please call or check their website to see if they are open or require advance registrations. Many museums are offering virtual resources—check your local museum’s website for more information.
Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,000 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID. Check here for participating museums. https/museums4all.org/
Abrams Planetarium Out There
Fridays & Saturdays 8:00 pm. Sundays 4:00 pm.
The Quest for Extrasolar Worlds shows how our perception of our place in the Universe has changed and how the discoveries of exoplanets we made
BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD
in the last decades even surpassed the dreams of science fiction authors.
Our Place In Space Sundays 2:30 pm. While solving a crossword puzzle about the sky, Scarlet Macaw and her friends explore the cause of day and night, the importance of our star the Sun, the beauty of the constellations, and the variety of objects that make up the Universe. https/www.
abramsplanetarium.org/ Programs/Public.html
Sensory Friendly Show
Third Sunday of every month at 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 pm 755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI, United States These shows will run with the lights up, the sound down, and the theater doors open so people can move about as needed. We also provide a place to”chill out” in our lobby. All shows include a live star talk about what is up in the sky that night. We will include a short break between the main show and star talk. Information about what to expect during the show will be provided when you purchase tickets.
Cost: Adults, $5.50, Students and senior citizens, $5.00, Children (age 12 and under), $4.50 Friends of Abrams Planetarium Members, Free Free with Museums For All (with valid EBT, medicaid, or WIC card and photo ID)
Ella Sharp Museum
Sensory Time
Every Saturday at 9:00 am 3225 4th Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203
During Sensory Friendly Hours, the Ella Sharp Museum will open its galleries at 9am, an hour before the museum opens to the public. Families with members who are neurodiverse, autistic, have other sensory processing disorders or cognitive disabilities are welcome to visit the museum for a quieter experience in a more controlled environment.
Designated quiet zones will allow visitors to decompress and experience the museum at their own pace. Prior to each program, families are invited to browse our”pre-visit” materials to help them prepare for their visit including social narratives and maps of our facility. These pre-visit
materials are also available to help families plan for visits that take place outside of program hours and a sensory backpack is available at the front desk for use.
To provide the most sensoryfriendly environment possible, we will limit the capacity for these special times to 50 people. https/ ellasharpmuseum.org/ classes-and-events/ sensory-time/
SPORTS
Detroit Tigers
Aug. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 Comerica Park 2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
https/www.mlb.com/tigers
Detroit City FC
Aug. 12, 19
Keyworth Stadium
3201 Roosevelt St, Hamtramck, MI 48212
https/www.detcityfc.com/ Family Fun
Detroit Zoo
Brick Live! All Summer!
8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067
More than 70 unique, dazzling displays of toy brick models – like a 7-foot elk and 12-foot giraffe to a
10-foot gator and a massive mako shark – made of more than two million bricks!
A 3-acre jungle of creativity that sparks curiosity, joy and amazement for guests of all ages!
“Selfie stations” inside the jungle-themed Jeep or the fascinating Venus flytrap! Special activities from The Robot Garage and Zoo Corps (see below for more details)
One of the best and most fun memory-making events in metro Detroit! Get Tickets: https/ detroitzoo.org/events/ zoo-events/bricklive/
World Lion Day
Aug. 10, 11:00am- 3:00 pm
The Detroit Zoo is home to four African lions. Join us to meet the pride and learn about the diets, behaviors and habitats of this special species.
Sensory Friendly Evenings
Aug. 30 | 3 to 7 p.m.
8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067
As part of our work to create accessible and welcoming spaces for all, the Detroit Zoo will turn down the music and adjust the lights during special evenings this summer.
Starting in June, the Detroit Zoo is hosting three Sensory Friendly Evenings for guests with different sensory needs.
Sensory Friendly Evenings will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. on Aug. 30. During these times, the Zoo and its attractions will be open to all visitors, but special accommodations will be in place to ensure the Zoo can be enjoyed by families and individuals of all abilities.
What accommodations can I expect during Sensory Friendly Evenings ?
Reduced music volume at gate entry
Reduced volume and adjusted lighting inside the Polk Penguin Conservation Center’s Shackleton experience
Limited effects and adjusted lighting in the 4D Theater
Reduced sound on the BRICKLIVE trail
Altered music on the Carousel KultureCity sensory bags equipped with noisecanceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards will be available to guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Guests can check out the bags at Customer Care and the Park Safety Office. Weighted lap pads and strobe glasses are available upon request. A dedicated sensory room is available for those who may need a quieter and more secure space.
Included with Zoo admission | Free for members | No event registration required https/detroitzoo.org/ events/zoo-events/sensoryfriendly-evenings/
Legoland Discovery Center Michigan
Sensory Friendly Mornings
Check the website for upcoming Mornings 4240 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum. Sensory sensitive adults are welcome to visit during Sensory Friendly Mornings without a child (age 16 or under) in the party until the attraction opens to the general public at
10am. Adults who are not accompanied by a child must exit the attraction upon opening. Groups that are accompanied by a child are welcome to stay past 10am. Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event. https/www. legolanddiscoverycenter.com/ michigan/tickets-passes/
Sealife Michigan
Sensory Friendly Mornings
Check the website for upcoming mornings
4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum. The aquarium will open to the general public with normal lighting, sound, etc. at 10am, but you’re welcome to stay as long as you like and do not have to leave when the event ends at 10am. Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event. Please check https/www. visitsealife.com/michigan/ what-s-inside/events/ sensory-friendly-mornings/
Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge
Aug.1- Aug. 31 Various Activities scheduled throughout the month 5437 W Jefferson AveTrenton, MI 48183 https/www.fws.gov/refuge/ detroit-river/events?event_ date_and_time
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MJR Digital Cinema
Sensory-Friendly Film
Check website for movie times
100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI, 48083, United States https/www.mjrtheatres.com/ sensory-friendlyfilms?fbclid=IwAR1JnETT4LqVME0tv0T
kWPiYH5lckEcSi4ou3EcdA4eyfbqJYLgmReJ00
Movie Night Out
Aug. 16, 2023
Emagine Theatre 200 Barclay Circle, Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Teens ages 14 and up can enjoy a movie at Emagine Rochester one Wednesday a month. Movies and show times will be emailed the week of the program. Assistance will be provided. Spots are extremely limited so preregistration is required. Event cost: $6/evening resident, $8/evening non-resident; plus movie ticket and concessions
http/rararecreation.org/ Special-Needs-Recreation/ Adaptive-Programs
RARA’s Diner’s Club
August 7, 5:00 pm- 6:30 pm
Locations TBD; check website One Monday a month enjoy a meal with friends at various local restaurants. This opportunity is designed to support persons with special needs. Participants pay for their own meal, beverage, and tip. PREREGISTER EARLY as spots are very limited and so that we have enough assistance and space reserved in the restaurants. 14+ Years. All times are 5:00-6:30
http/rararecreation.org/
Special-Needs-Recreation/ Adaptive-Programs
EVENTS
Autism 101
Aug. 1, 5:00 pm- 6:30 pm
Bowen | Detroit Public Library 3648 Vernor Highway Detroit, MI 48216
AAoM’s Autism 101 is an introductory training to increase the community’s understanding of autism.
Presented by Elena Herrada from AAoM
Register: https/www. eventbrite.com/e/autism-101tickets-654340759827?af
f=ebdssbdestsearch
Day of the Dog: Run, Walk or Jog 1 Mile, 5K, 10K, 13.1, 26.2!
Virtual Race August and September
Races can be completed anytime in August or September 2023, even better if it’s August 26th!
Hosted by Freedom Service
Dogs. It is a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by rescuing dogs and custom-training them for individual client needs.
Clients include children, veterans and active duty military, and other adults. Their disabilities include autism, traumatic brain injury, cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, and posttraumatic stress disorder. Register for $19.99 at https/www.eventbrite. com/e/2023-dog-day-1m5k-10k-131-262-save-2tickets-598391514127?af
f=ebdssbdestsearch
First Annual Free Family Fun Fair! Hosted by Life Skills Village
August 6, 11:00 am- 4:00 pm 25900 Greenfield Rd Suite 100, Oak Park, MI 48237 Help raise awareness for Mental Health & Rehabilitation. Bounce houses, prizes, food, shows, live music, door prizes and swag!
For more information or questions email us at: Marketing@ mindhealthgroup.com https/ mindhealthgroup.com/
Living & Learning Enrichment Center is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by Rachelle Vartanian. Rachelle graduated from Eastern Michigan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in teaching for the emotionally impaired. When Rachelle’s son was officially diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, she made the decision to go back to school and get a second Master’s Degree in Autism Spectrum Disorders from Madonna University. It was during this time that she started teaching high school special education in Farmington Public Schools.
Looking for social skills groups that would benefit her son brought her to the realization that they were few and far between. The ones that were available cost an exorbitant amount of money and had her driving fortyfive minutes each way. She took it upon herself to create her own group locally. Every Sunday at 1 pm in a room she rented at the Farmington Public Library she facilitated a group of like-minded individuals which they called Weamara (the initials of the
original social skills group members) for almost two years.
Living and Learning Enrichment Center provides social skills programs, vocational skills, employment, independent living, family support, special interest clubs, and performing arts clubs.
“We help our members and their families navigate the services that are available to them. We have a free monthly parent support group where we bring in speakers to present different services that exist in the community. Our goal is to be the nation’s model. Please contact us for a tour of our beautiful estate and learn what our plans are for the future,” Rachelle shares.
“We help our members have meaningful lives and we work hard to make our organization inclusive to ALL people. We have an artisan market (MOD Market) where 50% of
the products are made by a person with a disability. We have an I.T. Academy (Exceptional Academy) where people with disabilities can get a free certificate in Cyber security. We offer ABA therapy in a beautiful setting where it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them. We have an alpaca farm, bee farm, chicken and bunny farm, and lavender fields,” Rachelle explains.
Mod Market, an enterprise of Living and Learning Enrichment Center, is an inclusive artist’s market and unique gift shop, which provides employment training to individuals with autism or related challenges. Mod Market has items for every taste and budget and most items are one-of-a-kind!
CYBERSECURITY CERTIFICATION PROGRAM FOR ADULTS WITH DISABILITIES.
Do you or your loved one:
• Have a disability that presents a barrier to employment?
• Have a high school diploma, GED, or certificate of completion?
• Have strong math/reading comprehension?
• Have an enthusiastic interest in or high aptitude for technology?
SUPPORTING:
The center always can use volunteers and donations. Rachelle shares, “If you know someone who would be interested in what we do please introduce us. Most of our donations have come from people and not organizations.”
“By individualizing each program for our clients, we ensure that their unique skills, talents, and personalities are able to flourish. Social skills are the first step in full community engagement.
Our comfortable, safe, and supportive environment will allow individuals to have fun while learning age-appropriate social skills that easily transfer to everyday life. With programs designed to promote social and emotional growth, your son or daughter will learn and progress in an inclusive, nurturing environment.”
TESTIMONIAL: “I would not be the man I am today. You collectively taught me responsibility, compassion, generosity, and the true meaning of friendship.”Mission
Why is water safety so important for children with autism?
-About half of autistic children wander
-Bodies of water and parks are the most common places they go
-Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with autism
-This is most likely to happen during family gatherings, when away from home, and during times of stress
Katelynn Krause is an Autism Swim Certified Provider, Certified Lifeguard, and Occupational Therapist specializing in autism treatment. Katelynn's mission is to decrease drowning rates for individuals with special needs.
-Develop water safety skills to decrease risk of drowning
-Provide confidence in the water environment
-Fulfilling sensory needs and improving sensory processing
-Assisting with and developing self-regulation skills
-Increased coordination, mobility, and balance
-Improved joint stability, strength, postural control, and muscle tone
-Improved body/spatial awareness
-Improved language and social communication skills
-Fun in the water environment!
734-544-5561
arborautismcenters.com/aquatic-therapy
