Great Book For Children - How to Talk to an Autistic Kid

I just read this book to my oldest daughter to give her some perspective in understanding Autistic children and children on the spectrum. What's interesting about this book is it's written by Daniel Stefanski who is a fourteen year old boy who has Autism. I loved seeing his perception of what life is like and this helped not only me as a parent but my daughter to see for herself. We found this at our local library but you can obtain a copy through Amazon too.

Article: Why Parents Need to Know About Neuroplasticity

Featured in Special Education Advisor
www.specialeducationadvisor.com

Why Parents Need to Know About Neuroplasticity
By Nancy Sokol Green

Four words revolutionize how we now view and help kids with special needs: The brain can change. That’s a powerful statement with huge implications.

Only a few decades ago, scientists were convinced the brain was hard-wired . . . that was until modern technology, such as MRIs and PET scans, proved otherwise. With the same certainty that we know the sun rises, we now also know that the brain has the ability to change and re-organize itself. This phenomenon is called neuroplasticity.

So what does that mean to a family with a child with autism or ADD or apraxia or dyslexia or any other diagnosis?

It means that such kids may not have to spend an entire lifetime compensating. It means that it’s possible to inhibit retained primitive reflexes and complete lower brain development, even if such neural networks were not established during the first year of life. It means that it’s possible to experience a completely different life once the brain is organized and functioning the way it’s intended.

In other words, how we act is not necessarily a reflection of who we were meant to be. It may actually only be an indication of how our brain is presently wired—and that can change.

It turns out that brain organization in the first year of life sets the stage for all future brain development. If babies are placed on their stomachs during the majority of this time, the brain has a chance to make key neural connections. This early network then forms an important foundation from which the brain continues to develop and organize itself in the most efficient way.

But what if that first year development is incomplete?

Well, the child still gets upright—but without many of the basic brain functions related to early development. This then becomes a problem because such functions are intended to be automatic whenever the child interacts with others, writes, reads, processes information, and does everything else in his life.

Moreover, since these basic functions are important and often related to survival, the cortex (the higher centers of the brain) is now preoccupied with finding ways to compensate for those missing functions. So how might that create chaos?

Well, suppose someone asks us to do another person’s job (which we are not qualified to do) while still expecting us to fulfill our duties at our current job. What’s likely to happen? We surely won’t succeed at the new job, and there will be a decline in our performance at our current job. It’s not that we’ve suddenly become incompetent. No, we’re just being torn in too many directions at the same time to now show what we’re capable of doing. The same scenario parallels what happen when a child is trying to function with a cortex that is trying to pick up the slack for incomplete lower brain development.

But most people aren’t aware of the connection between behavior and incomplete development of the lower centers of the brain. So when we don’t get the behavior we want, we often assume that a diagnosis is the reason we shouldn’t expect otherwise or the child just isn’t trying hard enough. In fact, we’re all conditioned to believe that if we try—and try again and again—we will succeed. However, nothing could be further from the truth if certain brain development is not yet complete.

That means it’s very possible we know kids who are working harder than we’ve imagined and who are capable of doing more than what we observe. That’s why we need to know about neuroplasiticity.

If given a chance, the brain is capable of finishing whatever development wasn’t completed the first time around. It’s even clever enough to form alternate new routes, if necessary. In other words, it’s possible to organize the brain—at any age—so that it works more efficiently.

And once the brain is organized, a whole new set of possibilities emerge. What was once deemed impossible is now a reality.

Sound too far-fetched? Not when we consider that most traditional approaches address the cortex, rather than focus on inhibiting retained primitive reflexes and developing lower centers of the brain. Such approaches are analogous to trying to fix a toaster by repeatedly polishing the exterior when, in fact, several interior wires are loose. In such case, if we just connect those loose wires, who’s surprised to learn that the very same toaster now produces toast?

Is it hard to wrap our head around the idea that the brain can truly change . . . and to even ponder a different life for our child? Absolutely. After all, we’ve probably had high hopes before—only to be disappointed and heartbroken when nothing really improved.

So if we find ourselves in that protective, not-so-open mindset, Norman Doidge’s The Brain That Changes Itself may be helpful. In this easy-to-read book, Doidge documents current research on neuroplasticity, alongside case studies of people with learning disabilities and strokes—all who experienced the brain can change.

Without question, the parents of special needs children spend an inordinate amount of money and time helping their children. With such extraordinary commitment and dedication already place, it seems almost unfair if the topic of neuroplasticity isn’t, at least, on such parents’ radar.

Moreover, if we remain in the dark, we won’t be able to consider how to apply this phenomenon of the brain to our own child’s life.

And as an extra gift, wouldn’t it be great if special needs kids were among the first to teach and prove to other families . . . the brain can change.

About the writer...

Nancy Sokol Green, creator of the Brain Highways program, is the Executive Director of the Brain Highways Centers in San Diego and Denver. She also oversees the Brain Highways international online program. For more information about the various programs, go to www.brainhighways.com. To read unsolicited posts about the kinds of changes children have experienced with brain organization, visit the Brain Highways facebook page.

Highlight: Nine Myths About Aspergers Syndrome

I just saw this post from Special Education Adviser and thought this was so interesting to share with all of you. I am always learning something new.

Nine Myths about Aspergers by Steve Emfield, Featured in Special Education Advisor Blog
Asperger’s Syndrome is a condition of the brain and nerves, usually in place by birth, that affects how a person sees the world, processes information, and interacts with other people. Because those with AS act differently and since society has mechanisms for maintaining social norms, those with Aspergers are misunderstood, labeled, and rejected by society. If society would instead embrace our different brain types and variety of nervous systems, both those with AS and society at-large would benefit. In fact, Thom Hartmann points out that it is precisely those who are wired differently that have saved some civilizations in the past and it is those same types who will save our own civilization in the future – if we strive to accept them and understand what they see.

Myths of Science. Science is the great purveyor of truth. It is science that has brought us machines, electronics, and modern medicine. However, in every era, science proclaims its theories as infallible. At one point scientists declared the earth the center of our solar system, encouraged the bleeding of evil spirits from George Washington, dropped a planet from the official list, and every decade or so reclassified human disabilities. If science was always accurate and less dogmatic, it would not change its positions under duress.

Myths of Culture. Like science, the aggregate of humanity that we call civilization or society imposes its expectations on us in the form of culture. Like science, society measures what appears to be the average in all areas and declares it to be desirable. Unfortunately, the norm for a small group is not normal for the world. What is average today may merely be a fad gone tomorrow. Science and society have promoted oft-repeated myths about autism and Asperger’s syndrome to the point that these myths have become broadly accepted. The following is a small sample.

Myth 1: Autism and Aspergers are two names for the same thing.

Myth 2: We do not know what causes autism.

Myth 3: Autism and Aspergers can and should be cured.

Myth 4: Those with autism and Aspergers have normal nerves.

Myth 5: Autism is five disorders.

Myth 6: It is unclear if those with autism or Aspergers are biologically different.

Myth 7: Autism and Aspergers occur during early childhood.

Myth 8: Those “on the spectrum” are inferior and defective human beings.

Myth 9: Those who have not been diagnosed with autism do not have it.

The truths about each of these myths have been clearly established, but are not as popularly and widely spread as are the myths. It has, therefore, become my mission in life to spread the truth, first among those who now care about these conditions, and finally to society and the scientific community.

Fact 1: Autism and Aspergers are not two names for the same thing. There are many forms of autism and many forms of Aspergers. Gene mapping, fMRI scans, and other new technologies are pointing this out. However, the current definitions for these “disorders,” which I call neurological variances, are simply wrong. They are not founded on hard genetic, anatomical, physiological traits, but rather on the soft science of behavior, known as psychology. The hard sciences and soft sciences now find themselves in contradiction. Hard science argues for an increased number of categories while the soft sciences are trying to consolidate labels for clinical convenience and practicality.

Fact 2: We do know what causes autism. Genes cause it. A certain combination of gene “codes” being switched on or off create most cases of autism and Aspergers by the seventh week of pregnancy or earlier. Other combinations lead to other forms of autism or Aspergers. Autism is not really a spectrum disorder; it is a combination of many closely related gene codes that manifest as different types of autism, Aspergers, PDD, Retts, AD(H)D, epilepsy, and other conditions.

Fact 3: Autism and Aspergers cannot and should not be cured. First of all, short of a complete brain transplant and completely rewiring all the nerves in the body, there is no true “cure” for these conditions. They are not cancers needing to be cured. They are simply different ways that we are wired before birth, like AC (power cord) versus DC (battery) power, or parallel-wired Christmas lights versus series-wired lights. Each has its own function; none are completely better or worse than the other. Our lives are better because we have all those options. Therefore, it is both impossible and undesirable to cure autism and Aspergers. Instead, we should look for ways to better understand those with it and how to assimilate them naturally into our neurotypical society.

Fact 4: Those with autism and Aspergers have unusual nerves. Both those with autism and those with Aspergers have nerves that look different than the average person. In some parts of the brain, these nerves are thinner and more tightly packed together. In Aspergers, they form a distinctive web or grid of nerves that is highly efficient for concentrating on one task or subject for a prolonged period of time. However, for both autism and Aspergers, the large number of branches required for processing multiple social communication skills is absent. Those on the spectrum have brains that grow faster than typical and then stop growing sooner than most. Also, different parts of the brain are larger or smaller than average, because their genetic blueprints have told their brains to grow parts differently than the average person. Those with autism and Aspergers are different from average people anatomically, neurologically, genetically, and physiologically. With new technologies, we can see the differences.

Fact 5: Autism is more than five disorders. What a layperson calls autism is called PDD by psychologists. The DSM-IV, published by the American Psychological Association, lists only five disorders under that “umbrella” heading, including Aspergers and (classic) autism. It is past time to update this system of classification and definitions to reflect modern science. While it is easier and more convenient to combine and eliminate labels from the Diagnostic Manuel, it should actually be expanded into more forms of autism, Aspergers, and related neurological variances. Again, these are not accurately called “disorders” or “disabilities,” although that is how most people and professionals refer to them. These terms need to go the way of “handicapped” and “retarded” – into the trashcan.

Fact 6: It is clear that those with autism and those with Aspergers are biologically different than average people. Those with autism and Aspergers are different from average people anatomically, neurologically, genetically, and physiologically. Those with Aspergers are generally hypercompliant. That is to say that they try very hard to do what they are told to do. That is part of their wiring. Teaching them the same way as other students and telling them to “try harder” is futile and ludicrous.

Fact 7: Autism and Aspergers occur in the womb. While adult-onset spectrum disorders have not been ruled out, all or nearly all of those with autism and Aspergers were born that way. Because most children are not diagnosed until age three, society and professionals often assume that age three is the time that someone “gets” autism. Prenatal and childhood environmental factors, including toxins, play a role in altering the off-on status of some genes required to produce a specific form of PDD. However, if the genes were programmed to develop a typical brain during the nine months in the womb, there are no known triggers for causing autism or Asperger’s after birth.

Fact 8: Those “on the spectrum” are not inferior or defective human beings. Society tends to embrace its norm-of-the-moment, and tolerates clear physical disabilities (blindness, deafness, those in wheelchairs) with great pride. However, those with “invisible disabilities” are often subject to ridicule, exclusion, neglect, and abuse. Many students with intellectual disability (formerly called mental retardation) are some of the most accepting and loving individuals I have encountered as a group. Those with autism and Aspergers are often gifted with ability to see the world in novel and creative ways. That is an essential, if not superior, aspect of their neurology. They, too, are human.

Fact 9: Those who have not been diagnosed with autism or Aspergers may still have it. Many of us walking around now as parents and grandparents have had all the symptoms of spectrum neurology all our lives. When we were children, there were no definitions in the dictionary for autism or Aspergers syndrome. Adults and other children used other names to describe us – geek, nerd, retard, and others that are not worth publishing. Autism (PDD) did not just spring on scene in the last two decades after six thousand years of recorded human history. It has always been with us to some degree. Those of us who have it as adults can advocate for those who are in the upcoming generations with it, so that they can contribute in better ways to society than we were able to – both for their sake, and for ours. Research shows that two-thirds of those living in the USA will admit to having either a disability or mental disorder at some time in their lives. The other third are probably in denial, and crazy. I have yet to meet the “normal” person, and that’s a good thing.

About the Author

Steve Emfield is an Asperger researcher, disability specialist, and author. He has three sons with diagnoses of neurological conditions. He was diagnosed himself by a psychologist as having Asperger’s syndrome late in life. Having spent decades working with students with disabilities and at-risk behaviors, he as the unique perspective of personal, family, and professional insight into spectrum disorders. Steve Emfield graduated from Cal State LA in 2005 with a master’s degree in Special Education and Transition Services, Summa Cum Laude.

Article - Startup company succeeds at hiring autistic adults

This article makes me very happy. Companies are now starting to hire Autistic people in the workplace!

Visit http://dhbusinessledger.com/main.asp?SectionID=87&SubSectionID=172&ArticleID=3266

Great Website for Early Readers

My youngest daughter's teacher told me about this site and I found it to be wonderful. There are all kinds of fun activities for the early readers waiting to unfold. There's a great calendar too so the kiddos can learn about the days of the week too. Check this out!

Visit http://www.starfall.com/

Another great book - Views From Our Shoes

Grade 3-10?A collection of 45 brief essays by children and young adults who have a sibling with special needs, ranging from mental retardation through a number of rare syndromes. The writings are arranged in chronological order, from that of a 4 year old to an 18 year old. As such, they vary in quality as well as in insights into family relationships. The writings seem to be quite honest as some children come right out and say that they feel they are treated unfairly and that their siblings can get away with things that they cannot. In most cases, however, the children speak out against those who make fun of or misunderstand the youngsters who are different. As such, this book would be useful for schools that have special-ed programs or a number of mainstreamed students for it concentrates on what special-needs children can do rather than what they cannot, and makes a firm statement advocating community support for all members of the family. The final piece is an eloquent plea for giving opportunities to special children. The drawings illustrate the children in sometimes amusing ways and add informality rather than clarification. Information on the special needs is included, as well as addresses and Web sites to find more information. The disabilities or disorders are explained in a glossary. This is certainly a different kind of book on developmental disabilities and, as such, fills a need.?Margaret C. Howell, West Springfield Elementary School, VA

Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Fox News - Keeping People With Special Needs Safe

Keeping People With Special Needs Safe

By Jennifer Cerbasi

Published September 19, 2011

| FoxNews.com

For families of children with autism, down syndrome, or any special need that affects cognitive functioning, safety is at the top of their priority list. Many worry their loved one will wander off, run away, or find themselves in a life-threatening situation in which they need assistance but can't be found.

For years, families of people with special needs have used low-tech options, such as door chimes or bells to alert them of a door being opened. This simple solution allows parents to move about their home without constantly having an eye on their child. However, this safeguard has its limitations.

A number of products and advancements in technology have brought more sophisticated options to these worried families. For people who know they can't supervise those with special needs every second of the day, some products have let them breathe a little easier.

One company, EmFinders, has created EmSeeQ, a product designed for those people with special needs who may wander or get lost easily. EmSeeQ, which looks a watch, works with 9-1-1 emergency systems. It uses U-TDOA Phase II location technology, commonly used in 9-1-1 location systems. Once the device is activated remotely, it emits a signal emergency services can use to determine the current location of the individual wearing the device. The company cites an average less than 30 minute recovery time for clients.

Caretrak Systems Inc. has been in operation for 24 years and claims a 100 percent rescue rate with its product. There is a product for the home, in which an alarm goes off when the person wearing the device leaves a pre-determined area. The other option is a system for locating a person once they are lost. The device uses telemetry, or radio waves, to locate a missing person. Those looking for the missing person hold a receiver with an antenna and the person with special needs wears a transmitter. The person searching moves about until the signal becomes stronger, indicating a close proximity to the missing person. It can track a signal up to one mile.

In addition to the precautions families are taking, law enforcement agencies are taking a more active role in preventing and responding to emergencies involving people with special needs.

Some emergency service departments are taking the initiative to research various disabilities on their own but many are reaching out to organizations, like Autism Speaks, to gather training information for their staff members on how best to provide services for these individuals. Tips include how to interact with a person with special needs, types of care they may need, and preventative measures to keep these members of their communities out of harm's way.

Both families of people with special needs and members of their community are taking a more active role in keeping this population safe. Through education and a variety of products, those expected to protect and care for those with special needs are ensuring they do so.

Read more: http://www.foxnews.com/health/2011/09/19/keeping-people-with-special-needs-safe/#ixzz1YROP6VV0

Article about Music Therapy

Our daughter has always been motivated by music even back to the days of Early Intervention music was her bridge in establishing new relationships with therapists, helping with her evaluations with doctors, therapists, and  schools. To this day, we're finding music and singing at a slower pace with certain songs might actually help bridge her communication struggles with Apraxia with vocalization strategies. With some things I've read they say music uses a different quadrant of the brain that's different from the speech quadrant where our daughter struggles. We're finding the music portion actually is getting her voice to work and she's getting the tonality, pace and rhythm too which is very promising to us.

Chicago Special Parent wrote an article on this very subject. Now there's some cautions of what is a true certified  music therapist and as you read this article you'll see the qualifications are pretty extensive. It's challenging to find a music therapist and even Early Intervention at our time there couldn't give us one as they just don't have them in their roster or at least not certified. I'm told there isn't many and I'm forever on a search for that perfect match that will help our daughter vocalize. So for us that perfect combination of speech and music is what we need.

Now with these added qualifications I realize cost will of course be an issue. The more qualifications the higher the session visit costs. I plan to research this further and will post the outcomes in a later time. In the meantime this should at least help get your arms around the topic and just know music is an excellent motivator qualified or not for all aspects of the therapy routines.

Visit http://www.chicagoparent.com/magazines/special-parent/2011-summer/features/music-therapy

Dealing with a child who whines

I just saw this post on Circle of Moms and thought there was some good info to share regarding how to deal with a child who whines especially a child with special needs. Take a look...

“ My son is 3 and has delays across the board so he isn't always able to communicate to me what he is feeling and like everyone else we have those whiny days. It usually ends up being that he just needs some down time and still feels like I need to structure that for him or isn't feeling well and needs some extra attention. I usually tell him that I know he needs something from me, but talking to Mom that way isn't going to get you anywhere-I tell him he needs to use nice words to ask for what he needs- if it escalates, I sit him down somewhere near me with a drink of water (which he will inevitably need from the crying that will ensue) and go about my business (doing the dishes, laundry, etc.) and wait for him to settle down and listen (this is when I take a minute to remember that this isn't "the norm" and give thanks for it.) I ask him to say sorry and then give him my undivided attention and ask again suggesting quiet time with a book or maybe a little rest to help him recognize what helps him get over those yucky feelings that are making him whine in the first place. Sometimes I recognize that it is tension or something else in ME that is creating an atmosphere that triggers that behavior- so I say sorry and tell him that is a great time for both of us to take some quiet snuggly time so we can feel better.”

A Day of Recognition Event (ADORE) for Parents of Children With Special Needs

A Day of Recognition Event (ADORE) for Parents of Children With Special Needs

When: Saturday, Sept. 24th 9 am – 2:30 pm
Where: Malcolm X College – 1900 W. Van Buren, Chicago
What: A day to honor parents of children with special needs and provide a much needed day of respite filled with educational workshops, luncheon, resource fair, live music, manicures/massages, and much more! This day is all FREE!

Register Now! Visit http://tinyurl.com/ADORE2011 to register for ADORE without Child Care and call 877-694-5014 to register with child care

Interested in Volunteering? Contact Tracey Mikasa at tmikasa@eastersealschicago.org or 312-492-7402 x235
Danielle David, MEd, LPC
Disabilities Coordinator
Ounce of Prevention Fund
4859 S. Wabash Ave., 2nd Floor
Chicago, IL 60615
Ph: 773.358.6491 Fax: 773.924.9182 www.ounceofprevention.org ddavid@ounceofprevention.org

New Children's Book and Award Winner About Autism

A wonderful and touching story that celebrates the special abilities and strengths of individuals with autism and will inspire families everywhere. Winner of the 2010 Preferred Choice Award.

Parent's Resource Corner - Great Books in helping you understand....

I have heard from friends and discovered some great books out there in helping me understand, gain knowledge and help me manage my child with the various issues and topics we face with our daughter. Some are great and some help gain perspectives. This is an ongoing list of many I've discovered and will discover.

Dr. Temple Grandin - The Way I See It
Very easy read, each chapter contains valuable information. I find this book invaluable and have this next to my bed as a resource guide in helping gain ideas and perspectives on a topic, issue, struggle, question, idea, etc. that I face from time to time.

A wonderful movie that everyone should see. LOVED it!


A fresh and timely approach to understanding the profound impact of motor development on children of all ages and stages.

Based on the authors' more than seventy combined years of professional success working with children of all abilities, Growing an In-Sync Child provides parents, teachers, and other professionals with the tools to give every child a head start and a leg up.

Because early motor development is one of the most important factors in a child's physical, emotional, academic, and overall success, the In- Sync Program of sixty adaptable, easy, and fun activities will enhance your child's development, in just minutes a day.

Discover how simple movements such as skipping, rolling, balancing, and jumping can make a world of difference for your child-differences that will last a lifetime

A great resource guide for parents with kids who have Sensory Processing Disorder challenges. There are many wonderful ideas for fun activities you can do with your child PLUS if you have more than one child get the siblings involved too!

Individuals with autism are reportedly one of the most difficult populations to toilet train. This second edition offers effective strategies that take the child's physical and emotional sensitivities into account instead of trying to force traditional methods. Easy-to-read bulleted lists offer more than 200 do's and don'ts, along with over 50 real-life examples, to help make the process more of a lesson and less of a battle for all involved. The young trainee will learn to overcome fear of the bathroom, properly use toilet paper, flush once, wash hands, and more. The toilet trainer will learn how to overcome challenges caused by communication needs, sensory sensitivities, motor challenges, anxiety levels, etc.

Article about Ipads in the classroom

Great article

Dozens of preschool and kindergarten teachers are adding iPads to their classroom stocks of pencils and paints in an effort to hook young learners with the newest technology craze at the same time — or even before — their parents adopt it.

http://articles.chicagotribune.com/2011-05-10/news/ct-met-ipad-for-prek-0511-20110510_1_ipads-preschool-classroom-kindergartens

Great book to check out! Dancing With Max

Recommendation from Apraxia list serve I'm on.

"Just wanted to recommend a great book about a family's experience with autism.  It is called "Dancing with Max" by Emily Colson.  It is not a book about curing autism.  It is more about discovering the gifts, hope and love of a person affected with autism as well as those same attributes about yours.  It is about living with autism and not by the rules of autism. For me, this book helped me see more of the enriching life around us and not be so afraid to discover and learn something deeper. It is expanded my parameters and helped me to realize I can take more chances and it will be okay. It is thought provoking and feeds your heart and soul.  It makes me want to dance.  I hope you enjoy it, too.

Amazon description:

"Meet a remarkable young man. Max doesn't communicate like we do. But he communicates better than we do about the most important things. Max doesn't think like we do. But his actions reflect deep spiritual truths. With candor and wit, Emily Colson shares about her personal battles and heartbreak when, as a suddenly single mother, she discovers her only child has autism. Emily illuminates the page with imagery---making you laugh, making you cry, inspiring you to face your own challenges. Chuck Colson, in his most personal writing since Born Again, speaks as a father and grandfather. It is a tender side Max brings out of his grandfather, a side some haven't seen. As Emily recalls her experiences, we discover that Max's disability does not so much define who he is, but reveals who we are. Dancing with Max is not a fairy tale with a magical ending. It's a real life story of grace and second chances and fresh starts in spite of life's hardest problems. And Max? Max will make you fall in love with life all over again, leaving you dancing with joy."

Great Toys for Sensory Challeged Kiddos and MORE

I see many great toys featured here for not only sensory challenged kiddos but many more. Check this site out!

Visit  www.specialneedstoys.com/usa/

I Spy / Look and Find books but easier

Recently I was at Michael's Craft Store and from time to time they carry interesting children's books I give my daughter while shopping. Well I brought two of them home as I thought this would help with brain development and processing speed. I found a Sesame Street and Mickey Mouse work book where your child looks at a picture then needs to find an object within the picture. Very similar to Walter Wick's very popular I Spy book series my oldest daughter loves. These books are much more scaled back but still effective.

This is one of the books I got and there's a number of pictures, games and pages to review. I found these on Amazon too.



Go into Amazon and do a search under Books then type in "Look and Find Books for Children" you will see a number of these kinds of books come up at various learning capabilities. Each time you go through these books your child will improve with their processing speed and make this almost like a fun game for them. Also will help them with reading and when looking at pictures. All good if you asked me.

Favorite books

I am asked this every once in a while. What is my daughter's favorite books OR what would you recommend. The most common thread is repetition where certain phrases remain the same but a word or character changes each page. Also the more sing songy the better. Especially when trying to turn that voice on. My daughter will try to make sounds with some of these books. We're trying the vocal route with speech at times as this seems more effective for her.

Here's the list thus far. I'm crazy about children's books btw.

Any Eric Carle especially Brown Bear, Hungry Caterpillar, 10 Rubber Ducks, From Head to Toe, Polar Bear and Have You Seen My Cat...just to name a few

Any and all Mo Willems books - especially Pidgeon and Knuffle Bunny books

Margaret Wise Brown - The Big Red Barn, Good Night Moon, My World

Bill Martin Jr and John Archambault Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

Lucy Cousins Maisy series and Hooray for Fish

Sandra Boyton (LOVE) favorites right now are Doggies, Snuggle Puppy (there's a song too), Barnyard Dance, Blue Hat Green Hat and Hippos Go Beserk

Sesame Street all of them

Curious George all of them

Dr. Seuss right now Go Dogs Go, Are You My Mother?, Hand, Hand, Fingers, Thumb, The Foot Book, ABC, Fred and Ted Go Camping

Stella Blackstone and Debbie Harter Barefoot Books Bear Series i.e. Bear in the Square, Bear About Town

Doreen Cronin and Betsy Lewin Click, Clack Moo Cows That Type and Dooby, Dooby, Moo

Janet Pedersen Millie in the Meadow

Leslie Patricelli board books

Rufus Butler Seder Gallop and Waddle

Baby Beluga and 5 Little Ducks Board Books of the famous Raffi songs

Kevin Henkes A Good Day

Article about the iPad benefits

Our daughter is using the Ipad and Proloquo2Go as her means of communication in a school setting. Being all of 5 years of age she knows how to navigate around the system to communicate her wants and needs. Eventually we're hoping to get her to learn to type her wants and needs. Right now she uses pictures to communicate. She was a test user for our district and loves the device. We are so grateful.

From USA Today

Adapting to the iPad, called education's 'equalizer'

Anthony Leuck of Berkeley, N.J., is used to communicating in unconventional ways.

The 18-year-old is a quadriplegic with multiple disabilities that make speech and muscle control extremely difficult. He interacts through eye gaze or by tapping his head against a switch on a communication device to spell out words.

But on a recent afternoon at the Lehmann Center, a special-needs school in Lakewood, N.J., Leuck was able to make music. With some effort, he slid his knuckles lightly over the digital image of a guitar on an iPad screen. The touches produced a series of acoustic-style chords from the iPad — and a big grin from Leuck.

Leuck is among a growing number of special-needs students nationwide who have gone back to school this year with tablet computers. The tablets are growing in popularity for special-needs students because they can be customized to each child's needs, are lightweight and mobile, and give the kids the sense they're plugged into a larger, high-tech community, educators and parents say.

"These children can access and enjoy everything a typically developing child would enjoy — they just have to access it differently," says Gina Shulman, a social worker at Lehmann. "We have that fine motor skill; we can take a finger and press all those tiny keyboard buttons and little tiny switches. Now, our children, with just a gentle touch, can color; they can play instruments."

There are now about 40,000 educational applications for the iPad, Apple reports.

Leuck's Lehmann instructors credit his love of music (his favorite band is Kiss), the instant reward (Leuck touched the screen and heard the chord immediately) — and, of course, the iPad itself — for his small victory.

Districts that launched pilot programs last school year now are stepping up their iPad use for special-needs students after seeing results, some school officials say:

•Zeeland, Mich., students are starting the school year with 3,100 new iPads, courtesy of a $5.3 million bond issue that will include $1.5million for the tablets, says David Barry, superintendent of Zeeland Public Schools.

Video can be used to practice social skills. Speech recognition aids students who have writing difficulties. The touch screen makes use easy for children who have dexterity problems, Barry says.

"I think the key word for this is engagement," Barry says. "The engagement was just a lot higher. I think it's adaptive to meet the needs of individual students. I think it's an equalizer. I do think it's a game changer."

•Kentucky's Warren County public schools started the school year with 400 iPads. An additional 150 tablets have been purchased since, the district says. Special-education teacher Anne Howie requires some of her students who have autism and communication disorders to carry the tablets to help them interact.

One popular application used there is Proloquo2go. Users can select from images on a screen to communicate everything from how they're feeling to where they want to go.

"Sometimes you may have a child who throws chairs or refuses to work, when really their stomach hurts and they just don't have the language skills to tell you that," Howie says. Breaking that communication barrier can help a student move on with other aspects of their education, she says.

"It's what every teacher dreams of," Howie says.

The Warren County tablets cost the district about $325,000. State and federal special-education, technology and low-income family grants and about $35,000 from the general budget paid for them.

•Monte Vista Christian School in Watsonville, Calif., says its rollout of 840 iPads for high school and middle school students this year will cost about $546,000, paid for by summer rentals of boarding facilities there. The tablets also will eliminate the need for some classroom materials — the school expects to save $60,000 in photocopy and textbook costs right away, headmaster Stephen Sharp says.

About 35 to 50 of Monte Vista's iPad users have special needs, from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to dyslexia, Sharp says.

"We have our students (with reading disorders) who can record our lectures and play them back when they get home; the calendar keeps (students with attention deficit disorder) very organized," Sharp says. "It's so new, that we find out something new every day."

Not everyone is sold on the iPad for special-needs students. Shirley Robinson, manager of special education for the Santa Clara County Office of Education in California, says the easily manipulated touch screen makes it easy for students with developmental and physical challenges to unintentionally exit the programs they need to be in and open others.

"It's so easy to maneuver around, our kids would (accidentally) get out of the programs they wanted to be in," Robinson says.

She says her students are largely non-verbal and have severe developmental issues. "If you say, 'Do you want an apple or a pear' and they don't want either of those, what's their choice? They don't have one," Robinson says. "Does it entertain kids? Absolutely, but that's not unique to an iPad."

Some moms say the iPad does have the "it" factor that other devices simply don't.

"The iPad is also used by typical children, so it makes our kids part of the 'in' crowd," says Marie Cucinotta of Evesham, N.J.

Williams Boyd also reports for the Asbury Park Press in New Jersey. Contributing: The Courier-Post, Cherry Hill, N.J.

http://yourlife.usatoday.com/parenting-family/special-needs/story/2011-09-11/Adapting-to-the-iPad-called-educations-equalizer/50362426/1

Children's books about special needs - some ideas

Appropriate for children, families, and professionals, this wonderful book brings to life the story of Sam, whose over-sensitivity creates chaos and frustration in his life. Sam's various sensory sensitivities adversely affect Sam's experiences, both at home and in the classroom. He walks readers through his typical day of sensory blunders (which many kids and families may find all too familiar!). Available on Amazon.

Emma has apraxia of speech and struggles to communicate. She wants to be friends with classmates and peers but often they can't understand her speech. This story, told in Emma's "voice", explains apraxia from her viewpoint. Emma explains her feelings, all of the ways that she CAN communicate, and also her special interests that are just like those of the children she would like to be her friends. Written by Emma's mother, Angela Baublitz. Available through Casana http://www.apraxia-kids.org/

This delightful picture book explores questions and concerns about physical disabilities in a simple and reassuring way. Younger children can find out about individual disabilities, special equipment that is available to help the disabled, and how people of all ages can deal with disabilities and live happy and full lives. Titles in this series for younger children explore emotional issues that boys and girls encounter as part of the growing-up process. Books are focused to appeal to kids of preschool through early school age. Written by psychotherapist and counselor Pat Thomas, A First Look At books promote positive interaction among children, parents, and teachers, and encourage kids to ask questions and confront social and emotional questions that sometimes present problems. Books feature appealing full-color illustrations on every page plus a page of advice to parents and teachers. Available on Amazon.

Meet Izzy, a feisty first grader, whose behavior is often misunderstood as she tries to cope with sensory overload in her new surroundings. This brightly illustrated book creates an environment that is accepting of students with sensory modulation difficulties, including many on the autism spectrum. It's a great resource for occupational therapists, teachers, and parents to share with children. Resources for adults at the end of the book include definitions of sensory processing and sensory modulation disorder, suggested discussion questions, and lists of related books and websites. Available on Amazon.

Leo, a child-tiger, is irrepressibly incapable of doing anything right - until one day, he seems to miraculously improve. Available through Amazon.

What It Is To Be Me! is an excellent snapshot into what Asperger's Syndrome is all about.  Written from the perspective of the author's son, Danny, a boy with Asperger's Syndrome, shares the ups, downs, and pride of being an Asperger kid.  Fully illustrated, this book is insightful and entertaining for both children and adults alike. Listed on Amazon but currently out of stock. You may find this in your local library if out of print.

What parent hasn't urged son or daughter not to stare at or tease a child who is "different" or disabled in some way? In this sensitive yet realistic story, Jesse's sister struggles to understand her brother--and the kids who make fun of him. This endearing book will encourage families everywhere to appreciate and befriend children with special needs. Available on Amazon.

Julie can't wait to go to the park  feed the ducks with her big sister. Her little brother, Ian, who has autism, wants to go, too. Ian doesn't have the same reactions to all the sights and sounds that his sisters have, and Julie thinks he looks silly. Available through Amazon.

Susan laughs, she sings. she rides, she swings.
She gets angry, she gets sad, she is good, she is bad...

Told in rhyme, this story follows Susan through a series of familiar activities. She swims with her father, works hard in school, plays with her friends -- and even rides a horse. Lively, thoughtfully drawn illustrations reveal a portrait of a busy, happy little girl with whom younger readers will identify. Not until the end of the story is it revealed that Susan uses a wheelchair.

Told with insight, and without sentimentality, here is an inspiring look at one spunky little girl whose physical disability is never seen as a handicap. Available on Amazon.

(2004 iParenting Media Award Winner) Isabelle and Charlie are friends. They both like to draw, dance, read, and play at the park. They both like to eat Cheerios. They both cry if their feelings are hurt. And, like most friends, they are also different from each other. Isabelle has Down syndrome. Charlie doesn't. Written by Isabelle's mother, this charming tale encourages readers to think about what makes a friendship special. MY FRIEND ISABELLE also opens the door for young children to talk about differences and the world around them. It's a wonderful story to read at bedtime or to share at school. Lively full color illustrations dovetail beautifully with the text to bring the simple story to life. Available on Amazon.

This book is for ages 3-5. Friends come in all colours and sizes; they can be funny or serious, musical or athletic, outgoing or quiet. This book reminds children to celebrate their differences because that is what makes each of us so special. Available on Amazon.

The kids in What I Like About Me! are as different as night and day. And, guess what? They love it. Some adore the fact that their braces dazzle and gleam, others feel distinguished when they wear their glasses. Still others wouldn't trade their big feet for a lifetime of free video games. A mylar mirror embedded in the last page let kids take a look at themselves and decide what they like best about themselves. Available on Amazon.

A great song to inspire you

I just love this song as the message is strong and so sweetly done thank you Sesame Street!

Visit http://youtu.be/cyVzjoj96vs

Choosing An Eye Doctor

I think there is some good talking points mentioned here regarding finding the right eye doctor for your child.

Take a look http://www.children-special-needs.org/parenting/pediatric_opthalmologist.html

School get involved!

I am fortunate to live in a town that values special needs and works with the individual child. I hear from many parents out there that struggle with their districts in getting the services and support they need just to get through their child's school day. To me it's hard enough managing your child and all that's needed for that child in terms of paperwork, in house therapists, schedules and meetings this is a challenging situation. My advice to you if this is at all possible... get active in your school and district. I am fortunate that I get to benefit from trailblazers who paved a path years ago who too struggled and made a difference for the good of  all our children. I'm fortunate that I get to thank some of those great ladies.

We have a parent run group in our district that meets once a month with our district's special needs administrator. We stay on topic meaning district wide issues surrounding the special needs programs. Topics we discuss can be about transitions,  IEP's going electronic, parent satisfaction surveys (yes we did this not long ago), our district's referendum, etc. How fortunate to be in a forum where we can ask a questions and receive well rounded answer.

Last year I was so concerned about my daughter's kindergarten transitions for this year as she was going to a new school with all new teachers and therapists except one. I voiced my concern in this forum last September and it was an ongoing topic that was re-vamped and thankfully implemented. I am pleased to state my daughter's IEP meeting, mini transition meeting and soon to be one month follow-up/goal strategy meeting had just about perfect attendance from her teams. In addition, we have a working online Google doc that is updated regularly. This online webbased working document is for my daughter's team and her parents to dialog on a daily basis. Brilliant if you ask me. The turnaround time for strategies and info swapping is amazingly fast and the flexibility of work around is miraculous.

Not every district has what I have I am painfully aware of this and I truly feel for those parents who are struggling through. BUT you can make a difference. Be a trailblazer and get involved. You will not be sorry you did so and your child and other children will only benefit from those efforts. If something doesn't seem right, ask and seek out solutions. Find other parents and compare notes. Work out a strategy that's reasonable and take steps to get you there. This can happen.

Tech Toys That Make Sense

Looking for a gift that makes sense....

If you can't swing the Ipad just yet but want some similar touch screen items you might want to consider the LeapPad there's writing, drawing, games and learning tools featured.



OR for something a little cheaper and more games focused MobiGo by Vtech is a good toy too for brain development and eye coordination

Backpacks, what this does to our kids

Therapist Corner

Backpack Strategies for Parents and Students

Submitted by: Rachel Goode Morris OTR

A

ching backs and shoulders? Tingling arms? Weakened muscles? Stooped posture? Does your child have these symptoms after wearing a heavy school backpack? Carrying too much weight in a pack or wearing it the wrong way can lead to pain and strain. Parents can take steps to help children load and wear backpacks the correct way to avoid health problems.

Loading a Pack

• A child’s backpack should weigh no more than about 15% of his or her body weight. This means a student weighing 100 pounds shouldn’t wear a loaded school backpack heavier than about 15 pounds.

• Load heaviest items closest to the child’s back (the back of the pack).

• Arrange books and materials so they won’t slide around in the backpack.

• Check what your child carries to school and brings home. Make sure the items are necessary for the day’s activities.

• If the backpack is too heavy or tightly packed, your child can hand carry a book or other item outside the pack.

• If the backpack is too heavy on a regular basis, consider using a book bag on wheels if your child’s school allows it.

Wearing a Pack

• Distribute weight evenly by using both straps. Wearing a pack slung over one shoulder can cause a child to lean to one side, curving the spine and causing pain or discomfort.

• Select a pack with well‐padded shoulder straps. Shoulders and necks have many blood vessels and nerves that can cause pain and tingling in the neck, arms, and hands when too much pressure is applied.

•Adjust the shoulder straps so that the pack fits snugly on the child’ back. A pack that hangs

loosely from the back can pull the child backwards and strain muscles.

•Wear the waist belt if the backpack has one. This helps distribute the pack’ weight more evenly.

•The bottom of the pack should rest in the curve of the lower back. It should never rest more than four inches below the child’ waistline.

•School backpacks come in different sizes for different ages. Choose the right size pack for your child as well as one with enough room for necessary school items.

Need More Information?

For more facts on backpack safety, see “Backpack Facts: What’s All the Flap About?”

If you would like to consult an occupational therapy practitioner about an ergonomic evaluation regarding backpacks, computer use, or other learning‐related issues.

Book Builder

I found this tip from Wee Speech's newsletter....
Use this site to create, share, publish, and read digital books that engage and support diverse
learners according to their individual needs, interests, and skills. You can create your own
books as well as read books that others have created.

Visit http://www.bookbuilder.cast.org/

Special Needs/Back To School Information

Another good friend shared this interesting site with me/actually friends in our elementary school district who have children with IEP's. Great information here.

Visit http://www.oneplaceforspecialneeds.com/main/library_back_to_school.html

The Duck Songs on YouTube

My daughters love this series of videos.....you will sing them in your sleep.

The Duck Songs on YouTube.

Visit http://youtu.be/MtN1YnoL46Q

Great Kids Crafts Site

Here's a great site for craft ideas - great rainy, cold weather or sheer boredom ideas.

Visit www.kinderart.com/crafts

5 Reasons Why Autism Moms Rock

A good friend shared this article with me and of course I LOVED it. Being a mom with a child on the "spectrum" puts me in this group irregardless and I'm a proud mama who gets to meet and know some amazing mamas who are as passionate and in love with their children as I am. I truly feel all mothers are fiercely loyal when this comes to their children but it's a nice reminder too.

Enjoy the read.

Visit
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/autism-in-real-life/201108/5-reasons-why-autism-moms-rock

Hippo/Horse/Equine Therapy

I've been told time and time again that this is an excellent therapy program for children with special needs. There is something about an animal and child and their bonding - just amazing. We are currently doing speech therapy while on the horse for my youngest child. Over the summer we did Occupational Therapy equally challenging but fun. My daughter loved it. Already we're seeing a difference - she's getting stronger, focused, works hard and really loves being on the horse!

Here's a list of some facilities in the area. Visit http://www.rush.edu/rumc/page-1239655964349.html

We go to and LOVE Horse Feathers stables in Lake Forest. The stable and therapy group recently was highlighted on WGN News http://www.wgntv.com/videobeta/88af8d06-cffd-4f9f-9c27-fea28e83d4a1/News/Help-therapy-from-horses-for-children-in-need

Inspirational Person - Jenny Unrein

One of my favorite things about my blog is when I can share a great person with all of you.

My sister Wendi's daughter Jenny Unrein is an amazing person and artist. Jenny is quite talented as you'll see plus she happens to have Williams Syndrome a rare genetic handicap. This doesn't slow her down, in fact this revs her up. Both Jenny and Wendi have devised an amazing business called Jennilu Designs. Their story has been inspirational for those wondering what children with special needs can do once they are in their 20's and no longer receive services. Wendi and Jenny have been crossing the country attending various conferences spreading their news, selling their wares and inspiring many. Their message has literally taken off where Jenny's been featured on local news outlets in Kansas, Kansas newspaper features and presented at countless schools. I'm incredibly proud of them both. Visit http://www.jennyludesigns.com/ to learn more of Jenny's amazing art!

AMC Theaters - Sensory Movie Day Autistic and Spectrum Children

AMC theaters offers a sensory movie day for autistic and autistic spectrum children.The program provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment. The auditoriums dedicated to the program have their lights up, the sound turned down and audience members are invited to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing!

The showings are once a month so you need to check their site for when those dates and locations near you in the US. Visit  www.amctheatres.com/SFF

Therapeutic Activities You Can Do at Home

Recently I stumbled onto this site and found some of this information useful and helpful when working with your children. Take a look and let me know if you found this helpful AND if you had any tips you would like to share with this.

Visit  http://specialchildren.about.com/od/homebasedtherapies/Therapeutic_Activities_You_Can_Do_at_Home.htm

Best Bowling Alley For A Sensory Challenged Child

My 5 year in May learned a new sport and skill that she loved....Bowling. We were at a fundraiser for Apraxia called Silent Stars and their event was at Pinstripes Bowling and Bocce. My daughter LOVED the experience and wasn't over stimulated at all even with all the noise. She found the experience interesting and that fact that the alleys were lined with windows to the outdoors so no annoying lights add to the over stimulation. She successfully went 1.5 hours without starting to unwind which for us was HUGE! They have yummy food and a nice setup so you can move around if you chose to. We loved it there so much that we had her family birthday celebrations there too. Check out their website as they often times have midday deals for moms with kiddos - moms bowl free! Visit www.pinstripes.com/index.html

Teach Me To Talk Program

My sister is on a list serve group for Williams Syndrome. I have since discovered that Williams kids struggle with speech and sleep challenges like Apraxic and Autism Spectrum kids do. A mom posted that she found this program helpful in guiding not only her child but the parents in how to instill good communication and sign language therapies at home. Many of the things they mention in the video clips I've learned through our various therapists starting back to Early Intervention to today. Take a look and let me know if this was helpful for you.

Visit http://teachmetotalk.com

Amazing group - Passion Works Studio, Athens OH

A friend of mine put me in touch with this amazing group of talented individuals and I'm constantly moved whenever I see their art and this incredible clip of the kinds of art they produce. What motivates me most is that these individuals all are adults with special needs - all with diverse disabilities shaking it up and showing their gifts. I would LOVE to see them come to Chicago and show the what for and move and inspire all of us here. In the meantime, they are selling their artwork online and could always use the good word pass-around. Check them out and see for yourself what truly motivates me and hopefully you too!

Visit  http://youtu.be/bKqKExZ0pIA and www.test.passionworks.org