Special Needs Living Michigan - Detroit Metro - March 2024 Digital Issue

MEET MILES

• Pages 12-15 Featured Individual: Meet Miles

• Pages 20-21 Advocate Like A Mother: Crafting Effective IEP Goals: The Power of SMART Goals

• Pages 16-19 Support Campuses

• Pages 6-8 Sponsor Spotlight: Services to Enhance Potential

• Pages 10-11 Special needs? Disabilities? High or low functioning? OH MY

• Page 7 Energy Cleansing

• Pages 22-23 Nonprofit Spotlight: MidMichigan Autism Association

• Pages 28- 29 Athlete of the Month: Aedon lukasiewicz

• Pages 24-26 Local Events

PUBLISHER/ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

Jamie McCabe 248-882-8448

Jamie.McCabe@n2co.com

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BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD

517-487-5426

877-463-2266

517-882-2800

517-241-3740 269-345-1913 517-241-3740

800-605-6722 517-333-6655

616-732-7358

269-337-3600 517-241-3740

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

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

911 833-633-5788

833-633-5788

517-241-3740

800-75-SEALS

Division of Family Resources (DFR) www.michigan.gov/mdhhs

Easterseals MORC www.easterseals.com/MORC/

517-374-1171

269-345-1913 517-241-3740

517-241-3740

517-241-3740

833-808-7452

800-457-4584

313-446-4444

988

517-241-7004

517-284-7290

800-772-1213

1-800-772-1213

833-633-5788

517-203-1200

517-241-5324

Emergency Ealy On Michigan

https/www.michigan.gov/mde/services/earlylearners-and-care/special-ed-05/early-on-michigan Michigan Department of Education: Office of Special Education https/www.michigan.gov/mde/services/ special-educationMichigan 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 Preschool & Out-of-School Time Learning www.michigan.gov/mde/about-us/mde-divisions-andoffices/preschool-and-out-of-school-time-learning

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)

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.

This section is here to give our readers easier access when searching for a trusted neighborhood partner to use. Get to know the businesses that make this magazine possible. Please support them in return and thank them if you get the chance!

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/

ADULT INDEPENDENCE

Our Neighborhood Academy (248) 556-5332

www.ourneighborhoodacademy.com/

ADVOCACY

Student Advocacy Michigan (248) 372-9770

www.studentadvocacymi.com

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Autastic Athletics LLC. (248) 224-4151

www.autastic-athletics.com

ATTORNEY-WILLS/TRUSTS/ ESTATE PLANNING

Chalgian & Tripp Law Offices PLLC (248) 799-2711

www.Mielderlaw.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/

COMMUNITY SUPPORT

ASK Family Services (269) 343-5896

Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center Inc. (734) 780-6795

www.workandplaycenter.org

EMPLOYMENT AND TRAINING SERVICES

Services To Enhance Potential (STEP) (734) 718-0483

www.stepcentral.org

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.advancedtherapeautic solutionsmi.com

RELATIONSHIP SUPPORT/ SEXUAL HEALTH

My Relationships Project (313) 489-0043

www.myrelationshipsproject.com

Dorene

Angie

Kendra Rogers, MS

Alice Fell-

Catherine Blatnik: Writer and

Services To Enhance Potential Changing Lives One STEP at a Time

For over 50 years, Services To Enhance Potential has provided services to individuals with developmental disabilities and other mental health needs in Southeast Michigan. Headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, STEP is a non-profit organization that brings employment and employment training to 1,400 adults throughout Wayne and Macomb counties with resource centers located in Dearborn, Detroit, and Westland.

Since 1972, STEP has provided the most strategic and effective specialized programs and services in its industry. STEP programs include an award-winning culinary arts program, a Progressive Art Studio Collective classes with 3 studios and gallery, three STEP owned and operated Thrift Store & Donation Centers, employment training services, volunteer opportunities, and classroom learning experiences among others.

Services To Enhance Potential’s dedicated and experienced Support Coordinators help promote the independence of each member by assisting with a variety of services including but not limited to, housing services, benefit planning, case management, and health services. The relationships built with each member and their parents, guardians and/or caregivers have brought about a number of impressive outcomes for the members served. Year after year, STEP members are surveyed on the level of care provided. Our Support Coordinators continuously receive scores above 95% in satisfaction.

STEP’s Employment and Training Services Department promotes employment opportunities by providing job development, placement, training, and coaching. Employment and Training Services include:

Benefit-2-Work Coaching: STEP assists individuals receiving state benefits and explains how they can have gainful employment and if it would affect any benefits being received.

Job Development/Placement: Dedicated Employment Representatives work with jobseekers to develop an individualized plan for employment and prepare for competitive integrated employment opportunities.

Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS): Pre-ETS programming prepares first-time and newer jobseekers for the transition from secondary education to the world of employment.

Project SEARCH: STEP partners with Project SEARCH to give students who are currently enrolled in a public school an opportunity to spend their last year of high school in a hybrid classroom and worksite environment. This service permits the student to graduate with one full class year of work experience in a field that is of interest to them. Our current program includes a partnership with Corewell Health. Since there are multiple sites a student to experience a variety of work experiences during the student’s final year of education. With a job placement rate of over 80%, the program can be quite beneficial for its participants.

Skill Building: This training opportunity offers jobseekers a way to experience jobs and learn critical skills required to obtain and maintain employment while earning a wage.

STEP Thrift Store and Donation Centers: STEP owns and operates three Thrift Stores to provide paid job training in retail and related fields. Opportunities at the stores include work trials, paid work internships, worksite evaluations, and longer-term employment as Retail Clerks. Each of these opportunities are designed specifically to provide the level of experience and training necessary for success, and lead to employment.

Summer Earn & Learn: This summer program is a partnership between Michigan Rehabilitation Service/ Bureau of Services for Blind Persons and STEP. The Summer Earn & Learn Program consists of six weeks of paid on-the-job experience at a community work site with the support of a Skills Trainer. In addition to

Clerk at the STEP Thrift Store and Donation Center

working in the community, this program also includes virtual classroom sessions centered around soft skill development, workplace expectations, industry specific support and more. Participants will learn the skills they need to be successful in the workplace and earn at least minimum wage while doing so.

Supported Employment: STEP’s Employment and Training Services Department works diligently to provide ongoing support services to new jobseekers and to develop meaningful partnerships and opportunities with community employers.

Vocational Rehabilitation: STEP partners with Michigan Rehabilitation Services (MRS) and the Bureau of Services for Blind Persons (BSBP) to offer a variety of job readiness, job development and placement services, including Trial Work Experiences, On the Job Evaluations, and Vocational Assessments.

Our Production program at STEP has the capabilities to do kitting and hand assembly jobs for customers. This program allows individuals served an opportunity to experience a wide array of factory settings so that they can pursue competitive employment outside of STEP.

STEP’s Culinary Arts classes, What’s Cooking at STEP, helps prepare members for careers in the food service industry by learning food safety, customer service, and preparing delicious dishes. Located in Westland and Detroit, these classes allow members to explore the art of cooking in a community-based setting. To provide an authentic learning environment, meals are prepared with the assistance of our skilled instructors. Our talented members prepare delicious and gourmet appetizers, soups, salads, main dishes, and desserts. An absence of community involvement is a common problem for adults with disabilities. Lack of options for community

integration often leads to isolation, depression, and other health concerns. The Dream program was created to provide members with opportunities for them to explore their community. Dream offers a sense of community to members with barriers to employment or community opportunities to those already employed. Members are encouraged to attend community events, participate in volunteer opportunities, experience different cultures and try new leisure pursuits

Our Dream program having fun on a community outing

STEP member learning new skills in What’s Cooking at STEP

STEP member working in production

The Progressive Art Studio Collective (PASC) is an art and design studio, and gallery program of STEP, located in Detroit, Southgate, Westland, and virtually. PASC is dedicated to supporting adults with developmental disabilities and mental health needs to advance individual career paths in the art and design fields. Founded in 2021, PASC is the first progressive art studio in Wayne County, Michigan, bringing focus to the artistic talent, expression, and life experiences of adults with disabilities, making a considerable change in their lives.

Services To Enhance Potential’s dedicated and experienced Support Coordinators help promote the independence of each member by assisting with a variety of services including but not limited to, housing services, benefit planning, case management, and health services.

OUR VALUES:

• • Respect for all individuals with whom we come in contact

• • Empowerment and choice for all individuals

• • Integrity in all of our transactions and dealings with one another and the public

• • Excellence in all that we endeavor to achieve

• • Collaboration in making decisions that impact others

• • Competency in each task we perform

• • Accountability for our decisions and actions

• • Commitment to those we support and to one another

The STEP community strives to help others reach their goals and full potential in all areas of life. Together we’re Changing Lives One STEP at a time. For more information about Services To Enhance Potential, please visit www.stepcentral.org.

PASC Artist Deanna Poppenger enjoying being creative in the studio

PASC Artist Manual Bart and and PASC Art Advisor Eleni Zaharopoulos

STEP member showcasing his money counting skills

But don’t just take our word for it. Take theirs

Special needs? Disabilities? High or low functioning? OH MY

BY KENDRA ROGERS, MS - EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

According to the Pew Research Center, 42.5 million individuals living in the United States have a diagnosed disability. This number represents about 13% of the overall population. As with politics, religion, types of schooling, and how to access medical care, each person within the community may hold a different preference regarding what umbrella term should describe themselves and the community as a whole.

The ADA is the Americans with Disabilities Act and holds the term “disability”. This publication references those living with special needs.

Designated parking spaces in public areas are sometimes still referred to

as “handicapped parking”. Diagnoses sometimes assign functioning labels to depict how much is required to help certain individuals. Still others prefer the term “differently abled” as their diagnosis does not make them less, but different. All these terms carry meaning and weight for those that use them. They also carry weight for those to whom they refer. The people in my house use the words “special needs” and “Asperger” most frequently. The asperger label has largely fallen out of use due to its origins, however, my husband and son identify with the characteristics of the label more than with other definitions. Many people prefer to use person-first language

(person with special needs) that honors personhood outside the diagnosis. This approach places the diagnosis as simply part of the person rather than the whole. Others prefer diagnosisfirst language (disabled person) as they identify strongly with what their diagnosis and an understanding thereof mean to them personally. With the variety of possible terms and associations, it is no wonder that the general population, and even the community of those with special needs, are confused. In many cases, the goal of any individual is not to insult or demean those in a given community. This may be an unintended consequence of careless wording,

“high or low functioning” to “high support needs” or “low support needs”

however. Even in attempts to soften the connotations surrounding leveling, those who adjusted the terms from “high or low functioning” to “high support needs” or “low support needs” still receive negativity because those terms still speak to functioning. Our best attempts will often fall short. What we must remember is that everyone is fighting a battle that we don’t know about. Respecting individuals’ preferences for their labels will go further than collectively supporting or decrying any set of terms. Each individual understands themselves better than anyone else, doctor, professional, or otherwise. In our quest to honor personhood, respecting others’ terms is crucial even if we disagree with them or choose other words ourselves. While we envision a time when peace reigns and everyone can share freely, respecting differences may help catalyze our dreams.

We empower families and youth who experience developmental or mental health challenges to use their voice to reduce stigma and achieve their potential to successfully participate in their community.

Knowing where to start is often the hardest part. Luckily, our staff is composed of people who have been there. We are eager to share our stories and experiences with you with the hope that we can support you on your journey.

ASK Family Services is dedicated to supporting families and youth with mental health or developmental challenges. Through collaboration with families and community partners, we strive to guide services to be more family-driven, youth-guided, and culturally competent.

askforkids.org • 269-343-5896 @askfamilyservices

Connection with animals

MEET MILES

THE 13-YEAR-OLD ENTREPRENEUR!

Miles is a dynamic young man and the proud owner of Infinity Vintage, a thriving Facebook Marketplace store with nearly 200 successful sales. Currently attending middle school at a hybrid campus of a virtual academy, Miles brings a unique and creative energy to everything he does.

A lifelong Michigander, Miles is the middle kid in a diverse blended family with two older half-siblings in their twenties and a younger brother who is four. Jessica, Miles’ mom, and a Michigan native, and his dad, Tony, who moved to Michigan from Puerto Rico at the age of six, share over 35 years of combined experience working in higher education. Their shared

and others facing similar journeys.

Despite the challenges of navigating a world not readily accessible for those living with ASD + ADHD, Miles has become an advocate for neurodiversity. Recently chosen for the YEAH program through the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/ keep-mi-healthy/mentalhealth/ developmentaldisability), he is

learning to give speeches and champion the needs of youth similar to him.

Miles’s parents were advocates for inclusive education from the beginning, insisting on his integration with nondisabled peers since kindergarten.

Both Jessica and Tony believed fostering an accepting world meant allowing neurotypical individuals to learn alongside Miles. Having come of age in the 80s, a time when children in special education were seldom visible, they understood the necessity of neurotypical kids, parents, teachers, and the entire community being able to see Miles through his lifecycle in order to break down stereotypes and promote a more inclusive world. The journey, however, hasn’t been easy, as schools are still evolving to support neuroinclusivity, and the advocacy never sleeps. Inspired by years spent at the IEP table, this fall Jessica decided to pursue a graduate degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling

PHOTOS BY KENDRA ROGERS

and disability studies to prepare for Miles’ transition into adulthood.

Beyond school, it doesn’t go unnoticed that sometimes people have a fixed mindset on how a person “should” talk or act, and neurodivergent people are always seen for the gifts they bring. Due to his different way of speaking and thinking, Miles is often misunderstood, overlooked, or dismissed for what he is trying to convey- or worse, looked at strangely. He is underestimated too. Teen years have been tougher due to the usual social hurdles of middle school. The pandemic also put him considerably behind in reading comprehension, receptive language, and social skills, so he must work through this every day. Despite the obstacles, Miles has forged meaningful connections and friendships over the years. His relationships with those who love him stand as a testament to the fact that finding your tribe is essential! Everyone should be afforded the opportunity for happiness and success. Inspired by Frida Kahlo’s sentiment of finding someone “who looks at you like maybe you are magic, #RuMi stands as a testament to the fact that neurodivergent individuals find love just like everyone else and should be afforded every opportunity for happiness and success.

Navigating the hurdles of adolescence and the impact of the pandemic on his education was challenging for Miles. But with his small business, he found his groove. He first embarked on his entrepreneurial journey during the lockdown, inspired by seeing something his mother sold as a “porch pick up”. From that moment on, he was drawn to selling things to support his DVD and toy-collecting hobbies. After he sold one thing, he was unstoppable. Three years later, he is a successful seller on Facebook and has made almost 200 sales. “We were excited to see his passion grow in this arena as it has really increased his financial literacy”, shares Tony. Today, with a keen eye for what “sells well,” he loves visiting thrift stores and garage sales in search of items to “flip.” He keeps his own inventory and tracking system of sales and packages every item he sells. This year he even took on his first consignment client. Miles’s small business has been a transformative experience. With his unique communication style, he often faces challenges connecting with adults and peers alike who are easily confused by idiosyncratic and echolalic speech (repeating what’s heard). Those who take the extra moments to lean in and connect what he is saying to the

gestalt (whole language) that he acquired it from are truly the lucky ones who have made a lifelong loyal friend! What started as selling a few personal items to bust pandemic boredom evolved into a passion that significantly boosted his confidence and gave him a career dream to open his own in-person thrift store someday. His favorite thing is slipping in a “bonus” item with his shipped sales. “I like the smiles,” he says.

Outside of his business, his other special interests include mapping on Google Earth, swimming, thrifting, traveling to beloved spots, and engaging in his newly appointed role in special needs advocacy. The family cherishes holidays and traditions, prioritizing togetherness through family vacations. Reflecting on a cherished family memory at Disney World, Jessica recalls the joy of seeing Miles light up at characters he adored from his favorite DVD collections.

Through the years, Miles and his family found early intervention support through various community resources. Completing thousands of hours of Occupational, Speech, and other therapies, Miles has grown immensely since he was diagnosed at age 3. Some of the resources he and his family found support with include: Oakland University ABA Center led by the amazing Dr. Jessica

“THEIR WARMTH, DEDICATION, AND TRUE PASSION FOR THIS WORK SHINE THROUGH IN EVERYTHING THEY DO,”

—JESSICA.

Korneder (https://oakland.edu/center-forautism/), Easter Seals Michigan (https:// www.easterseals.com/MORC/), particularly Kathie Klingensmith and Pam Morgan, who facilitated his PLAY project sessions and helped Miles to expand his limited speech; Healing Complex Kids (https:// healingcomplexkids.org/) which has provided resources and events to support parents navigating complex diagnoses; Olga Voight from Crittenton Rehabilitation Services (https://www.crittentonsocal. org/mental-health-services/ ) and Monica Marciniak from Halpin and Associates (https://www.saltherapy-us.com/) have been a significant part of Miles’ speech journey and finally Liz Shupra from Como Pediatric (http://www.comopedspeech. com/) who has been a key player in helping Miles to grow and thrive by addressing his sensory integration needs through OT. All of these professionals have loved and pushed Miles in different ways and his parents feel deeply indebted to them. “Their warmth, dedication, and true passion for this work shine through in everything they do,” explains Jessica.

As there is no parenting rule book for ASD or ADHD, Jessica and Tony encourage parents navigating these disabilities to follow their child’s lead and embrace neuroaffirming approaches for therapy, teaching, and parenting. They emphasize the importance of building their child’s confidence early on and nurturing his unique interests. Children wired differently like Miles need people who are patient and willing to think outside the neurotypical box. Finding like-minded parents is a great way to build stamina and resilience through the early years of post-diagnosis.

For parents seeking a support community, Jessica urges parents to try to find a community online, if not in person. A few moms in her county started a Facebook group when Miles was small, and it has been a life-saving support tribe for all of them.

If you don’t like Facebook, try following Instagram hashtags on the topic of your child’s condition.

Please check out Miles’s FB Marketplace Store: Infinity Vintage. Your support will make his day and go a long way to support his aspiration to thrive independently in adulthood. He LOVES to “make a sale” https://www.facebook.com/ marketplace/profile/38510578

Support Campuses

BY TIFFANY GAITER: CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY M.A. IN HISTORY/HISTORICAL RESEARCH UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGANFLINT B.A. SECONDARY EDUCATION SOCIAL STUDIES/ COMMUNICATION EDS CANDIDATE/DOCTORAL CANDIDATE -UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN-FLINT

Issue:

Day programs to serve the dual population of adults with severe intellectual disabilities over the age of 26 AND who are well below the poverty level (based on their independent income of SSI), are unequally assessable or nonexistent, throughout the state of Michigan.

The suggested program would equally serve ALL Michigan adults over the age of 26 with severe intellectual disabilities who are ineligible for and cannot benefit from higher education such as college, or trade school (vocational school) or self-sustained employment AND due to their personal income Supplemental Security Income of $10,968 -puts 100% of these individuals below the state poverty level; with many living in under-represented or underserved communities in the state of Michigan.

What we are asking for:

For centuries employment has been the “measure” for success, but no matter how much we hope and wish, for a population of special needs adults with severe intellectual disabilities this goal is unobtainable and should not be used as a ruler to measure their needs or success. Instead, we are asking the state of Michigan to provide continual learning through “support day campuses” across the state of Michigan. Support campuses will be comprised of programs and services to address the unique needs of adults over the age of 26 with low incidence handicaps to provide the most functional environment for adults with unique disabilities in a welcoming least inclusive and restrictive learning atmosphere. This diverse population who ages out of Michigan’s educational system at 26 would encompass the existing qualifications for enrollment of the ISD’s of Michigan: Adults with moderate-to-severe performance challenges which are expressed either individually or in combination by cognitive, physical, or health impairments including autism. Individuals who have been deemed through medical assessments that their intellectual disability is too severe to benefit from or remain ineligible for the following:

higher education such as college, or trade school (vocational school) or self-sustained employment. This will also include, but not be limited to; the special needs population who have attended any of Michigan’s ISD’s learning/special education centers for a majority of their academic career. The Support campuses will be located within the district of their respective ISD in Michigan, funded by the State of Michigan to assure equal assessable learning and support to the above qualified citizens regardless of geographic location and demographics such as income, race and ethnicity. Support campuses are comprehensive; providing enriching programs that allow the above population to experience socialization, learning and continued life skill development. Care will be experienced in clinical health care settings, but within an academic atmosphere to accomplish a continued MDHHS mission: to provide services and administers programs to improve the health, safety, and prosperity of the residents of the state of Michigan. Support campuses will also be placed in communities throughout the State of Michigan to provide EVERY applicable resident in Michigan free and equal access to the programs- regardless of demographics such as race or economic status, complying with MDHHD mission vision statement: Deliver health and opportunity to all Michiganders, reducing intergenerational poverty and promoting health equity. This mission will be met by providing professional support staff which includes nurses, applied behavior analysis therapists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech therapists, life skill instructors, social workers, and on-site agencies like community mental health. Also, for better nutritional health, all campuses would include nutrition services along with a complete food service program that offers a full range of dietary options.

What are support Campuses?

They are NOT “restrictive environments”, instead it is a place to provide the most functional environment for adults with unique disabilities, providing programs that focus on

individual growth to help adults become more independent, making their environment less restrictive.

They are NOT job readiness centers, and the idea that “employment” is the bar by which we should measure anyone’s success is harmful, especially in a group where this may not be an option. Instead, it is an environment where adults with special needs can continue to learn life skills and receive therapies that are conducive to their living situations within their own personal timeline, which will better their quality of life.

They are NOT places to “institutionalize” adults with special needs Instead, it is a supplemental learning facility where parents and adults with special needs can come and go when they please.

They are NOT closed campuses. Instead, the campus will support daily community outings in a campus /communitybased setting.

They are NOT a place to train special needs adults to “act normal” or a place of assimilation. Instead, it’s a place to recognize, accept, and celebrate their unique diverse disabilities instead of masking them, to “fit in”.

Special Amenities: Community Mental Health.

Each Support campus would house on-site CMH (Community Mental Health) workers and services. Parents, caregivers, guardians and CMH workers have complained of lack of ability to coordinate services. This would allow:

• Case managers to give onsite care and supervision (alleviating the stress of traveling for both the worker and the client) and they would have direct communication with service providers and personally witness the therapy given.

• CMH-funded programs and therapies (OT, PT, and speech) would be on campus. Therapists can come to the campus to administer services or have their service centers on sight. which again means no more traveling to numerous services for adults with disabilities, especially in winter.

• Provided community support and parenting classes.

Hands-on Teaching and learning for the local colleges and Universities.

• Just like public schools, therapy centers, and hospitals partner with local Universities and colleges for student teaching and medical interns, Support Campuses can partner with universities utilizing their student

population for hands-on learning for a wide range of therapies and other programs.

Local business affiliation.

• Local businesses like banks, grocery stores, restaurants, and general stores will be encouraged to have a mini version of their business on campus. This will help adults with special needs practice using life skills in real situations.

Applied Behavioral Analysis services for adults with autism,

• Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network of Michigan ruled on Jan. 1, 2022, to extend ABA benefits for members with an ASD diagnosis regardless of age. These services would be on campus allowing ABA therapists to work with adult clients in real-life settings.

Recreation supports on campuses recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that:

• Children and adults with mobility limitations and intellectual or learning disabilities are at greatest risk for obesity.

• Annual healthcare costs of obesity that are related to disability are estimated at approximately $44 billion. This is even more prevalent in underserved communities due to: A lack of resources (for example, money, transportation, and social support from family, friends, neighbors, and community members).

Christine

Kara Fitzgerald

The support campuses would include recreation services and programs including Special Olympics, swimming, track, tennis, Hippotherapy (horse therapy), Bowling, Gardening, meditation, dancing, basketball, baseball, soccer, learning to ride a bike, and more.

Emergency services:

Many first responders’ organizations seek training when it comes to the adult population with special needs as many adults with special needs need to learn the skills of what to do in an emergency and how to interact with first responders. Blinking lights and loud sounds can be intimidating to adults with

special needs. By allowing first responders to utilize support campuses for local training, campus members will get to know their local first responders (and vice versa) allowing both to build a strong relationship with their community.

Educational Classes:

Support campuses would include life skill classes like:

• Laundry

• Shopping

• Music /singing/ instrument

• Cleaning around the home

• Cooking

• Car safety (being a good passenger)

• Emergency safety (knowing personal information, calling 911, fire safety, showing my i.d)

• Money management (having a wallet, how to buy things, money safety)

• Personal safety (What if I get lost)

• Using a phone

• Caring for a pet and animal safety

• Self-care (grooming, zipping, tying shoes, combing hair, applying deodorant)

Support campuses have the potential to help grow Michigan’s population and benefit the state’s economy.

Members of the Growing Michigan Together Council met in Monroe Michigan to generate ideas on how to bring more people to Michigan. For every person with a disability, there is a whole family (3.09 people/family is the average family size). Economically, once Michigan’s special needs adults age out of the special education system, parents and guardians are placed in situations where they must compile costly programs to create a makeshift school day for their son or daughter leading to frustration and/or financial strain. The constant need of supervision for their adult child with severe disabilities often leads to one or more parent/guardian abandoning the workforce to attend to their adult child. Moreover, in the case of a single parent home, employment is no longer an option, potentially leaving the entire family

on governmental assistance and possibly abandoning any pension or work retirement programs because of having to quit their job before retirement age. By creating Support campuses, parents and caregivers will have the opportunity to rejoin the work force, knowing that their adult child is learning in a caring, regulated, and trusted environment.

Support campuses have the potential to provide emotional support for both Michigan adults with special needs and their parents/caregivers.

Adult children with special needs who have aged out of the system express loneliness and depression, much like the general education students experience amid school closings during COVID-19, the only caveat being- that for the adults with special needs, their situation is permanent. Peer groups, administrators, and teachers that students have been with for decades are stripped away, without the student’s understanding or consent. Those who age out of the ISD program in MI also lose their sense of purpose as they lose their ability to attend an educational and socially rich environment. Due to the lack of programs suited for their special needs adult child, parents/guardians become isolated as they shift from being parents to being overworked and unsupported caregivers. Many experience “caregiver fatigue” and depression from having to become a full-time caregiver which may also mean giving up their years of retirement. Moreover, as they become older, caring for their adult child with special needs puts a strain on their physical well-being. Undertakings such as lifting, feeding, and common daily activities such as taking their child on social outings may become more strenuous and sometimes impossible as guardians grow older. Having support campuses would not only alleviate this issue, but it will also provide both the adult child and the parent or caregiver community support and understanding.

Support campuses have the potential to prevent abuse among Michigan’s adult special needs population.

Once an adult with special needs ages out of the educational system, the oversight of trained mandated reporters like; therapists, professional staff, teachers, and administrators are gone, leaving many “red flags” of abuse missed, ignored, or unreported. Much like our general education population (if not more) severely disabled adults receive more than just an education from their school. Support campuses will not only serve as a function of continued skills building but also provide a check and balance system to ensure that one of our most vulnerable populations is provided with advocates to spot and report abuse.

Crime Against Persons with Disabilities, 2009–2019 –Statistical Tables

• Persons with cognitive disabilities had the highest rate of violent victimization (83.3 per 1,000) among the disability types measured.

• 19% of rapes or sexual assaults against persons with disabilities were reported to police, compared to 36% of those against persons without disabilities.

• The rate of violent victimization against persons with disabilities (46.2 per 1,000 age 12 or older) was almost four times the rate for persons without disabilities (12.3 per 1,000).

• From 2017 to 2019-Persons with disabilities were victims of 26% of all nonfatal violent crimes, while accounting for about 12% of the population.

• One in three robbery victims (33%) had at least one disability.

• The age-adjusted rate of violent crime against persons with disabilities was 60 per 1,000. That’s nearly triple the rate of 22 per 1,000 for persons without disabilities.

Support Campuses Bill

Senator Kristen McDonald- Rivet (MS of Education) from Michigan’s 35th district is currently drafting a bill at the request of Tiffany S. Gaiter who is representing over 1,100 families though out Michigan with special needs loved ones who have either aged out of the educational system or are set to age out to receive continual educational though support campuses. This bill could be pivotal toward creating safe and uplifting spaces for our adults with special needs as they age out of other state-sponsored programs. The potential for accessibility across every community with an ISD would result in adults with special needs continuing to gain skills while maintaining purpose and routine in their lives. Through the support of the law, these campuses would also include safety protocols and regulations including background checks and mandated reporters thereby keeping adults safe. For the bill to become law, we need community and Senator and representative support. Please contact your Senators and representatives and ask them to support this bill. Only together, can we make a difference in the lives of adults with special needs. You can join this FaceBook group to get updates and learn more about supporting this cause: https://www.facebook. com/groups/2513126728835754

Sources

1. https://www.sisd.cc/o/saginaw-isd/page/millet-learning-center.

2. Jennifer Sharp, Mom and special needs advocate.

3. MDHHS (Michigan Department of Health and Human Resources) Strategic Priorities Mihttps://www.michigan.gov//media/Project/Websites/mdhhs/ Folder50/Folder16/MDHHS_Strategic_Priorities_FY_2023-2027_-_Accessible. pdf?rev=e3ff9d48eadf4c4c947571d664a87288.

4. MDHHS (Michigan Department of Health and Human Resources) https://www.michigan. gov/-/media/Project/Websites/mdhhs/Folder50/Folder16/MDHHS_Strategic_Priorities_ FY_2023-2027_-_Accessible.pdf?rev=e3ff9d48eadf4c4c947571d664a87288.

5. Michell: Mom, special needs parent and advocate

6. Jennifer Sharp, Mom and special needs advocate.

7. Blue Cross Blue Shield and Blue Care Network: https://ereferrals.bcbsm.com/bcbsm/bcbsmautism.shtml

8. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/ obesity.html#:~:text=People%20with%20disabilities%20can%20find,or%20its%20taste%20 or%20texture.

9. “Concle Hears Ideas to Boot Population” by Arpan Lobl. Detroit News, October 10, 2023. (provided by Laura Russeau)

10. Source: U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics https://bjs.ojp.gov/content/pub/pdf/capd0919st.pdf

Crafting Effective IEP Goals: The Power of SMART Goals

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) play a crucial role in ensuring your children with disabilities receive the support they need to succeed in the academic environment. A key component of an IEP is the establishment of goals, and employing the SMART criteria is essential for creating meaningful and achievable objectives.

Understanding SMART Goals:

SMART is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework provides a structured approach to goal setting, enhancing the clarity and effectiveness of the objectives outlined in an IEP.

Specific:

A well written IEP goal should be clear and specific, leaving no room for ambiguity. Consider the following poorly written goal: “The student will improve reading skills.” This goal lacks specificity, making it challenging to determine the exact expectations.

Now, let’s transform this into a specific goal: “The student will accurately read and comprehend grade-

level texts, including the ability to identify main ideas, supporting details, and infer meaning from context.”

Measurable:

Measurability is crucial for tracking progress and determining whether a goal has been achieved. Taking the poorly written goal mentioned earlier, it’s difficult to measure improvement in “reading skills.” A measurable goal, on the other hand, provides a clear standard for assessment.

For instance, a measurable version could be: “The student will increase their reading fluency from 80 to 120 words per minute as measured by weekly assessments over the next six months.”

Achievable:

Goals should be realistic and attainable, considering the student’s abilities and potential for growth. A poorly written goal might set unrealistic expectations: “The student will achieve grade-level proficiency in all subjects within one semester.”

An achievable goal could be: “The student will demonstrate a 20% improvement in completing

BY MARIA GIANCOTTI, M.ED - STUDENT ADVOCACY MICHIGAN

math assignments independently with teacher support over the next academic year.”

Relevant:

IEP goals must be relevant to the student’s individual needs and directly contribute to their educational progress. A poorly written goal lacking relevance might be: “The student will participate in extracurricular activities.”

A relevant goal could be: “The student will develop and utilize effective communication strategies to independently express their needs and preferences during group activities, promoting social engagement and inclusion.”

Time-bound:

Setting a timeframe for achieving goals provides a sense of urgency and helps in monitoring progress. A poorly written goal without a timeframe is: “The student will improve handwriting skills.”

A time-bound goal would be: “Within six weeks, the student will independently write legibly, forming letters consistently and improving overall handwriting skills as assessed by the occupational therapist.”

Writing IEP goals using the SMART criteria is pivotal for the success of students with disabilities. By ensuring that goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timebound, educators and advocates can collaborate effectively to support the unique needs of each student. It’s through thoughtful and wellstructured goals that the potential of students with disabilities can be unlocked, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

Parents are valuable partners in the IEP process, and their insights play a crucial role in developing goals that truly reflect their child’s individual needs. As advocates for their children, parents are encouraged to actively participate in IEP meetings by bringing their own goal ideas to the table. Sharing observations about their child’s strengths, challenges, and unique learning styles can contribute to a more comprehensive and tailored set of goals. Collaborative goal setting ensures that the IEP is a true reflection of the child’s holistic development, combining the expertise of educators with the intimate knowledge that parents hold about their child. By fostering open communication and teamwork, the IEP process becomes a shared journey towards empowering students with disabilities to reach their full potential. If you need guidance or help navigating your child’s IEP, contact us at Student Advocacy Michigan. We are ready to help support your IEP or 504 journey!

Mid-Michigan Autism Association

BY ANGIE ARLINGTON

Mid-Michigan Autism Association is a non-profit organization founded in 2008. The Board is comprised entirely volunteers who have some kind of connection to Autism. Their mission is to “improve the quality of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, by providing support, resources and opportunities within the Mid-Michigan community.” Events are free and for all ages/ abilities. “Even though we are autismdriven, we are not autism-specific. Unlike other organizations, we do

not charge a membership fee,” Cathy Blatnik, current Treasurer explains. Rarely does an individual with Autism just have Autism. Up to 90% of those with Autism also have Anxiety.”

“My son, Dominic, drew the new logo! We had some people that didn’t like our original logo (it was a puzzle piece). As a Board, we decided to change it.” By involving those with Autism in the conversation, they create a space unique to their varied experiences.

They offer events such as swimming, Sensory Friendly Events

at the Abrams Planetarium, Ladies Night Out, Sensory Friendly Yoga, Sensory Walks at the Harris Nature Center and a yearly Picnic. They offer FREE Autism Awareness Trainings for EMS workers and local businesses/organizations.

“We are very proud of getting our “Sensory Toolkits,” into the

local ambulances and to many other business/organizations in this area.”

Sensory Toolkits contain items such as headphones, communication cards, etc. The goal is that the toolkits help decrease the anxiety whether in an emergency situation or during a social outing. We have donated over 125 Sensory Toolkits!! The Mid-Michigan Autism Association also started the “Art Ability Bag Project,” during the Pandemic. They noticed that the local libraries were offering art to take home, but there was nothing for those with disabilities. Started in November 2020, the Program is still going strong! The Mid-Michigan Autism Association has also partnered with the Lansing Art Gallery and Education

Center. “We recognized those with disabilities needed art, so we donate monthly art bags to local schools and organizations. It’s basically art in a bag for all ages and abilities!!” They also started a “virtual” monthly music therapy event, during the Pandemic. It’s called, “Together Let’s Sing, Dance and Jam!” It is free and very popular,” shares Cathy. We use music therapists through the MSU Community Music School in East Lansing. The MidMichigan Autism Association are currently partnering with the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan to reach even more people throughout the State of Michigan.

“We created an event called “Life Skills - Scavenger Hunt” in January

“We are very proud of getting our “Sensory Toolkits,” into the local ambulances and to many other business/ organizations in this area.”

of 2023. The Capital City Market (which is part of Meijer), donated gift cards and we had families shop during a Sensory Friendly time (lower lights, less crowds, no music). They had to find items on a “typical” shopping list. The Capital City Market loved the idea so much, they started their “Sensory Friendly Mornings,” monthly in October 2023!! Taking my now 19-year-old son to the grocery store was SO difficult when he was younger. We love that the Capital City Market also recognized the need for those that needed a quieter, less crowded time to shop. It’s not just for those with Autism. It’s for those PTSD, high anxiety, Dementia, etc.”

The nonprofit solely operates on donations. If interested in volunteering, people must also become a board member. We currently have 13 Board members with a few more interested!!! We have to keep amending our Bylaws because so many people want to be part of our Board. It’s wonderful!

LOCAL EVENTS

BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD

Visit a Museum through Museums for All

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/

Museums

Abrams Planetarium Sensory Friendly

Shows Totality

Mar. 17,11:30 a.m.

755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI, United States

Two eclipses cross the US in 2023 and 2024 - an annular on October 14, 2023 and a total eclipse on April 8, 2024! Everyone in the continental US will experience at least a partial solar eclipse on April 8. Total solar eclipses are rare and beautiful phenomena, and in this new planetarium show, you will learn how eclipses happen, how to safely view one, and where these two eclipses take place.

You will learn the history of eclipse watchers and how to observe safely. Texas is the nexus where the annular eclipse of 2023 and the total solar eclipse of 2024 cross! The next solar eclipse to cross the US is in 2045 so do not miss this one!

Our Place In Space

Mar. 17, 1:00 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.

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 the 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)

https://www. abramsplanetarium.org/ Programs/Sensory.html

Impression 5

March 20, April, 17, May 15, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Impression 5 Science Center, 200 Museum Dr., Lansing, MI 48933

Explore your Science Center with select exhibits altered to reduce sounds, scents, and lighting stimuli. Guests can expect a limited building capacity, pop-up activity, and map designating the sensory experiences in each exhibit. Thank you to MiABLE for supporting Sensory Friendly. Admission: Regular admission prices apply. Free for members. https:// autismallianceofmichigan. org/event/sensory-friendlyhours/2024-03-20/

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 9 a.m., an hour before the museum opens to the public. Families with members who are neurodiverse, autistic, or 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.

Before 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 sensory-friendly environment possible, we will limit the capacity for these special times to 50 people. https:// ellasharpmuseum.org/ classes-and-events/ sensory-time/

Grand Rapids

Children’s Museum

Various Events Scheduled

Mar.1- Mar. 31

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Check calendar for Sensory Friendly evenings https:// www.grpm.org/visit/ https://www. autismsupportofkentcounty. org/new-products/ p/2024-night-at-thegr-childrens-museum

Sports

Detroit Red Wings

Mar. 2, 14, 16, 19, 21

Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

https://www.nhl.com/redwings

Detroit Pistons

Mar. 1, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24

Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

Christia Woodford — Publishing Assistant and Local Events

Is there a local event for the special needs community you would like us to promote in an upcoming issue? Email us at SpecialNeedsIndy@n2pub.com.

https://www.nba.com/ team/1610612765

Family Fun

Detroit Zoo

Yoga at the Zoo

Select Tuesdays in February and March | 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Check website

What Can I Expect During Yoga at the Zoo?

• Meditative flow that is suitable for all skill levels

• A featured animal or Zoo department for each session

• An engaging chat about the featured animal or Zoo department

Yoga sessions are coed and limited to guests ages 13 years and older. Guests under the age of 18 require parental consent to participate. Guests must be at least 16 years old to attend without a parent or guardian.

Yoga at the Zoo is a rain or shine event. All locations are subject to change.

To support the highest level of well-being, animals living at the Detroit Zoo choose where to spend time within their habitats. This includes both their indoor and outdoor living spaces, as well as parts of their habitats that are hidden from public view. While habitats will be open for this event, animals may choose to be out of sight. We appreciate your understanding and support of our goal to provide the best possible care for the animals who call the Detroit Zoo home.

What’s New at Yoga at the Zoo

The Ron Kagan Wildlife Interpretive Gallery is back as one of the locations in this year’s lineup! This serene indoor space which is home to beautiful butterflies and birds is the perfect place to connect with your inner flow.

Yoga at the Zoo Tickets

Advance ticket purchase is required as space is limited, and the event may sell out.

A la Carte Sessions: Members

• $25 | General public • $30

Sensory Friendly Evenings

Check the website for the day!

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 noise-canceling 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/

World of Winter Festival

Mar. 1- 20, All day

Downtown Grand Rapids,29 Pearl St NW Suite 1, Grand Rapids

The World of Winter is a FREE, outdoor winter festival in downtown Grand Rapids that features over 100 events, activities and outdoor art installations. Enjoy the displays during the day and stick around in the evening to see them illuminated. The outdoor art is on display along the Grand River and this year’s installations include John Ball Zoo Lantern, Grand Legacy Mural Immersive Experience, Sonic Runway, Nightwalkers and more. Most of the art is on display throughout the entire run of the festival. For Daily events https://worldofwintergr.com/

St. Patrick’s Day Event hosted by Therapeutic Concepts

Mar. 1, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm 38257 Mound Rd., Building D, Sterling Heights, MI Join us for a festive and fun musical evening! Led by Board-Certified Music Therapist, Claire, enjoy singing with live music, musical activities and performing Karoke! All Activities Adapted for All abilities in a clinical setting. Register at https:// therapeuticconceptsllc.com/ event/st-patricks-day-event/

DNR Outdoor Adventure Center

Mar. 3, 10:00 am- 12:00 pm 1801 Atwater, Detroit, MI

The DNR Outdoor Adventure Center welcomes friends and families with sensory processing differences to our sensory-friendly building hours! Enjoy the opportunity to explore and experience the OAC with building sounds and ambient noises at a lower volume. During your visit, there will be a quiet room with sensory materials available to use, and a limited building capacity. At noon, the building will open to the public, with volumes returning to standard operating levels. All staff are KultureCity-certified to ensure the best possible experience. https://www.facebook.com/ events/753233823348589/ 753233840015254/

Together Let’s Sing, Dance and Jam!! Sponsored by Mid-Michigan Autism Association Mar. 6, 6:30 pm- 7:30 pm Please join us for our monthly “virtual” music therapy event!! Please to Cathy Blatnik at blatsie63@yahoo. com with your name, age, contact phone number and e-mail address you would like the Zoom link sent.

Village Arts Factory Leprechaun Traps Workshop

Mar. 9, 2:00 pm- 3:00pm 50755 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 48188

Is that a leprechaun I see? Find out by building a Leprechaun trap with A.C.E.

Designed for children with special needs, ages 5-11. A.C.E. focuses on creative expression and fosters a social and inclusive environment for all children to enjoy art.

admin@partnershipforarts. org register: https:// villageartsfactory. com/artgallery/

REC-IT Class: Inclusive Art

Mar. 14 & 28, 1:00 pm- 2:00 pm

Disability Network Eastern Michigan – Troy1709 John R Road, Troy, MI 48083

Join us for in-person art classes. Participants will learn new artistic skills using a variety of mediums, such as: acrylic painting, oil pastels, watercolor, and mixed media. Class includes group and individual instruction and meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. In order to promote inclusion for all, we request a maximum of 4 individuals from any one agency. All levels of experience and ability are welcome. This class is limited to ten (10) participants, don’t miss out! https:// autismallianceofmichigan.org/ event/rec-it-class-inclusiveart-2/2024-02-08/

Inclusive Easter Event

Mar. 24, 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm

OATS in Ortonville, 4920 Groveland Rd, Ortonville, MI Egg hunt and games for everyone

Visit oatshrh.org Or FB https://www.facebook. com/oatsnonprofit For more information

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 10 am. 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 10 am. 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 10 am, but you’re welcome to stay as long as you like and do not have to leave when the event ends at 10 am. 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

Mar. 1-31, Various

Activities scheduled throughout the month 5437 W Jefferson AveTrenton, MI 48183

https://www.fws.gov/ refuge/detroit-river/ events?event_date_and_ time=%7B%22from%22 :%222023-06-15T16:00

:00.000Z%22,%22to% 22:null%7D&$skip=10

MJR Digital Cinema Sensory-Friendly

Film

Check the website for movie times

100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI, 48083, United States https://www.mjrtheatres. com/sensory-friendlyfilms?fbclid=IwAR1JnETT4LqVME0tv0TkWP iYH5lckEcSi4ou3EcdA4eyfbqJYLgmReJ00

Events

Sibshops 2024

March 18, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm 2/42 Community Center, 7526 Grand River Avenue, Brighton, MI 48114

What are Sibshops? Sibshops provide support and guidance to siblings (ages 8-12) of children with special medical or developmental needs. Siblings are encouraged to share the challenges and celebrate the joy with brothers and sisters in similar situations. Each session will meet in person for roughly two hours. We will play games, talk about life with a sibling with disabilities, and play a few more games! A light dinner is provided.

Fee: $10 per session (covers activity supplies and dinner) Special note: If your child would not be able to attend due to the fee, please contact our office at 517.546.1228 for financial assistance. Register at: https:// autismallianceofmichigan. org/event/

sibshops-2024/2024-03-18/

IEP: A Closer Look

March 19, 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Register at tinyurl. com/hu3j96rv

This free, online workshop takes a closer look at the

Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. This workshop will help you:

• take a more in depth look at the core areas of the IEP

• prioritize your greatest concerns

• learn how to address those concerns through the IEP process

• improve your ability to have productive conversations

There will also be time set aside to ask questions.

Who should attend? Families with a child or young adult with an IEP or IFSP.

Questions? info@ michiganalliance forfamilies.org

A Night of Inclusivity: A Fundraising Gala for Autism Inclusive Play Gym in Detroit!

Mar. 30, 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm

Durfee Innovation Society, 2470 Collingwood Street Detroit, MI 48206

Hosted By Eric Thomas & Courtney Hamm: Live Entertainment & Speakers | Silent Auction | & MORE!

As we continue our efforts to open the first Autism Inclusive play gym within the city of Detroit we invite you to A Night of Inclusivity! A fundraiser gala dedicated to fostering a sense of community and raising funds to open the first autism-inclusive gym in Detroit. The event aims to create an atmosphere of joy, celebration, and support for individuals with autism. For tickets: https://www. eventbrite.com/e/a-night-ofinclusivity-a-fundraising-galatickets-796967379887?af f=ebdssbdestsearch

MUSIC THERAPY IS A TYPE OF THERAPY THAT USES MUSIC TO IMPROVE:

physical emotional cognitive and social functioning in individuals

It involves using various musical techniques such as singing, playing instruments, and listening to music to address individual needs and achieve therapeutic goals.

Music therapy has been found to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including:

depression anxiety autism dementia and chronic pain

At Advanced Therapeutic Solutions, we are not just here to help. We want to use our years of experience, days of training, and hours of evidence-based research to your advantage. The ATS Advantage of gaining independence while still receiving opportunities to learn and grow.

CHECK US OUT ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR INFORMATION, EVENTS, AND LOTS OF FUN

@AdvancedTherapeuticSolutionsMI

@advancedtherapeuticsolutions

@ats_mi

734.352.3543

advancedtherapeuticsolutionsmi.com

Meet

Aedon

lukasiewicz

What grade are you in and what school do you go to?

3rd grade and Beacon Day Treatment

What would you like the special needs community to know about you? What have been some challenges you have experienced and how have you overcome these challenges?

I am kind. Sometimes people don’t understand me.sometimes I get angry and frustrated

I’m learning to be patient and use my words so I can make more friends.

Advice you have for others in the special needs community?

Try to be kind and be a good role model. Wait your turn to speak and people will listen better.

Something you would like your parents to know?

I love you.

What sports or extracurricular activities do you participate in?

Tennis, bowling, basketball, fishing and swimming. 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 enjoy fishing and helping other fishermen know where to cast. But I can’t fish all year so I do other things so I don’t get bored. It all started when I played tennis with my coach Andrew. I learned that trying new things can be fun!

Name someone you admire. What makes them special and how have they motivated you? My mom. She’s special Because she always plays with me and let’s me try new things

She’s nice!

When I grow up, I want to be... OR After high school, my plans are...

A business man!!!I really want to be a boss.

Favorite Food Mac n cheese

Favorite Color Orange

Favorite Music Rock n roll and pop

Favorite Movie or TV Show Home alone

Favorite Sports Teams Lions

Favorite Subject in School Math

Favorite Vacation When we went camping in the U.P.

M.A., LPC

YEnergy Cleansing

As a spiritual being having a human experience, it’s important to care for all aspects of your being

ou are more than a physical structure. There is energy in and around your body. Clinicians who study acupuncture follow the energy along meridians to look for blockages or sluggish movement. Correcting these can improve health, pain and mood. Also within the physical body are chakras - energy centers. Each chakra corresponds to specific physical structures of the body as well as to emotional and psychological processes; and is also linked to a symbol, name, musical tone, and color. There are seven major chakras: the root chakra at the base of your torso, abdominal, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye at the center of the forehead, and the crown chakra at the top of your head.

Those who are hyper-aware of the traditional five senses as well as the sixth sense of intuition, empathy and energy are considered Highly Sensitive People. If you are a Sensitive, other peoples’ energy fields as well as the electromagnetic fields of your environment likely affect you. When all of this inundates your energy fields, it can lead to emotional distress, physical tension and even illness. There are a number of practices that you can use to clear or balance your energy:

FOR THE SELF

During a shower use the water to wash away all uncomfortable emotions and tensions from the day. Have it all flow down the drain.

In a relaxed state, imagine a sponge passing from head to toe on all sides of your body. As the sponge moves down, it removes the excess tension, emotions, energy, and any challenges that have accumulated throughout your day.

Place a bubble of pink or white light around your body to keep “other” separate from “self”. You may visualize any color, a balloon, a ball or even a force field around yourself.

CHAKRA BALANCE: In meditation, bring your attention to each chakra beginning at the root. Use your own intuition to balance the hue, density and size. Strive to bring balance to each. (You can find CDs or individuals to facilitate this process.)

Hum the musical scales to balance the chakras via vibration. It isn’t necessary to know which note corresponds to each chakra. Deeply hum the scales and feel the vibrations within your body.

Release old trapped emotions that congest the energy. You don’t need to remember, you just

need to release. This can be done through exercise, movement to music, massages and bodywork.

Sea salt baths: a 10-minute soak helps to remove any released energies or toxins.

Drink water to help the body move energy and toxins.

ENERGY MODULATION: If you are an intuitive or empath, you can feel others’ energies and emotions within yourself. It is important to learn how to regulate the input. First try to identify where you sense this energy entering. Most clients tell me that it enters at the abdominal or heart level. Find an image that allows you to have a “selectively permeable membrane” at that location. Consider visualizing the blowhole of a whale or dolphin, the weave of a fabric, screen or grid, or the adjustment of a color’s hue. I have had a computer expert describe it as a firewall. Others see it as a swirl that needs to slow or quicken. What’s important is that you select a method that resonates with you and practice shrinking and enlarging your portal while in a relaxed state. Then, set your intention when entering a challenging environment or when feeling overwhelmed, to shrink the size of your portal.

FOR THE HOME OR SCHOOL

You can additionally assist yourself and others by decreasing the amount of excess energy in your surroundings. The individual is then better able to neutralize his or her own vibratory fields.

Smudging is used to move the accumulated energy in one’s environment. Dried sage, cedar or sweetgrass is lit, and extinguished, and the smoke is moved through the rooms, especially in corners. Please be cautious with the fire and note if anyone is sensitive to fragrances.

Tuning forks work in the same manner as smudging, but the tone that is emitted moves the energy.

COLLECTING AND REMOVING EMOTIONAL ENERGY: Ground yourself, use your intention, and invite the excess energies of the room or home to a location that is not immediately near you. Depending on what resonates with you, direct these energies to depart through the ceiling, a window, or to the ground. This is especially helpful when someone is triggered by anger, fear or agitation of others in the space.

Your energy fields are affected by many factors. I encourage a regular practice of cleansing to influence the ease vs. dis-ease of your life.