World’s First Kid-Friendly Wheelchair From Wheelchairs of Hope
It's unacceptable that any child miss out on an education because of not having a wheelchair, and Wheelchairs of Hope is doing something about it. Wheelchairs of Hope is an initiative based on the belief that mobility from early childhood is a gate to education, and that access to education creates a new generation with improved skills, higher self-confidence levels, and more hope for the future. The UN, the WHO, and two Nobel Prize winners are backing the work of Wheelchairs of Hope. With production sites spanning three different regions, Wheelchairs of Hope will be able to guarantee shipment of
More on Inclusion on Ollibean
Information and resources on Inclusion for parents, providers and children with special needs.
SWIFT on NPR’s “All Things Considered”
by Dr. Mary Schuh: SWIFT Center Recently, National Public Radio’s (NPR) “All Things Considered” aired a story on inclusive education. The story featured Presidio Middle School in San Francisco and SWIFT Filmmaker, Dan Habib. While Presidio Middle School should be applauded for their efforts to educate students with and without disabilities, what was portrayed by NPR would by no means be considered an inclusive school. Students with disabilities placed in a separate basement class learning functional “survival” skills does not make for an inclusive experience. How can students with disabilities learn important “survival skills” such as communication, literacy, following typical
Take Action to Keep All Students Safe at School! || Stop Hurting Kids
Stop Hurting Kids needs all supporters of the Keeping All Students Safe Act to take action and urge members of the U.S. Senate to co-sponsor this bill.
Life for Lief ~ “See Me As Smart”
“Some people think that kids who are autistic can’t handle getting a transplant. Kids with autism can handle it.” Lief O'Neill
Celebrate Ed Roberts Day 2014 with YO! DISABLED & PROUD
In 2014 YO! Disabled and Proud would like to honor Ed Roberts legacy by posting photos of you and Ed enjoying your independence together.
Judith Snow ~ Relationships & Inclusion
"The research shows that when a child who is not academically gifted is included in a regular school, not only do the academics improve across the school, and I did say that, I didn’t say “in the classroom”, I said “across the school”, not only do the academics improve, but drug use and violence goes down."
“Weird & Wonderful”
'Weird and Wonderful", a feature-length documentary, tells the story of the disability rights movement from the late 1960s until today.
Meet the Members of the 2013 National Council on Disability
The National Council on Disability works to further equal opportunity, self-sufficiency, independent living, inclusion and full integration of people with disabilities into the civic, social, and economic fabric of American life.
A Typical Son’s mom on “the r-word” and Chuck Klosterman’s apology
Kari Wagner-Peck ,the author of A Typical Son blog, and twitter friend @atypicalson wrote a letter to find out why Chuck Klosterman , of the Ethicist used the r-word. Kari who is 'like Erma Bombeck - in that I write funny about the ordinary and not so much in that I am angry, I swear a lot, and we have a kid who has Down syndrome' wrote an eloquent, thoughtful letter to Klosterman , reached out to folks on twitter and used social media for social good. Pretty cool. You can read the response from Klosterman here,It's fabulous- CK, sincerely apologizes
An Open Letter to Suzanne Wright, Co-Founder, Autism Speaks
Over the years, though, we have learned that war is no longer a useful metaphor to invoke and apply in the disability community. People with autism, or for that matter other developmental disabilities, are not victims of the predations of some evil actor, nor are their mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers. Instead, we appreciate, as stated in the Developmental Disabilities Act, that “disability is a natural part of the human experience.” Unfortunately, your description of children with autism and their families is polarizing and divisive, creating rifts within a community that can ill afford it in these perilous times. Characterizing
Jobless rate for disabled Americans still high 22 years after landmark law
Twenty-two years after passage of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act, the employment rate for people with disabilities is still dismally low, and advocates want to change that. “The ADA … has made a difference in the lives of people with disabilities … but [for employment] the needle hasn’t moved,” says Helena Berger, executive vice president of the American Association of People with Disabilities in Washington.
I Am Disabled and I Am Proud
"Polite society often tells us that we need to take the 'dis' out of disability, but maybe... just maybe, we should spend some time putting it back in. Take the "dis" out of disability and you remove the core of what has shaped my life. Disability puts the "D" in diversity, but in order to make that a real difference we've got to own that spot. It took me 35 years to respect and honor that truth. Others shouldn't have to wait that long..." Lawrence Carter-Long
Creating Equal Opportunities For ALL Students to Participate in School Athletics
Educators should use the appropriate equipment properly to ensure that physical education programing for students with students with disabilities is safe, effective, and inclusive. EQUIPMENT Appropriate equipment can help children and youth with disabilities participate in appropriate physical activity. Athletic equipment might need to be modified for safe use by some children and youth with disabilities. For other students with disabilities, specialized equipment may be needed. Activities involving the use of modified or specialized equipment can replace other less safe activities. Treadmills, for example, are effective in providing predictable walking and running conditions, which can be necessary and appropriate for
ASL-STEM: Expanding American Sign Language’s Place in the Sciences
The ASL-STEM (Enabling American Sign Language to grow in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Forum is up and running! The purpose of ASL-STEM's online community is to bring educators, interpreters, captioners, students, and others together in order to help build ASL's technical vocabulary from the ground up.
How to Ignore the Media and Learn to Love Autism
Here are some suggestions on how to tune out the media's negativity and learn to love autism: 1) Read Jim Sinclair’s “Don’t Mourn for Us”. 2) Tell your parents, family and friends that are close (maybe even your boss) about your child's diagnosis, as you are going to need support. 3) Let go of any preconceived ideas for birthday parties, trips to the supermarket and vacations. Don’t worry if an event doesn't turn out exactly as planned. Sometimes the unexpected is just as wonderful. 4) Discover what motivates your child and learn as much as you can about those topics.
Dr. Caroline Musselwhite Shares Strategies to Promote Literacy for ALL
Dr. Caroline Musselwhite addresses the topic of overall good literacy instruction. She presents information about how to teach students with significant disabilities using fairly common literacy instruction strategies. There are 11 short video posts to help you get started. She discusses the issues of AAC and suggests strategies that are easy to implement and highly effective. Keep Calm and Watch On…
Having to Prove Competence
But now and then I meet someone who has. They believe they are doing a good thing, a noble thing. They believe they are helping. They believe that the people they are trying to help are living happier lives as a result. They believe this with all their heart. They give words, as though gifts, in grammatically correct sentences, believing people can be trained to say things and do things that will be understood by the majority of the population. They think that if they can force someone to stop moving their hands or legs or twirling bits of string
Closed Captioning Helps All Students
"Not only were students talking about how much having the captions helped them as they took notes, their test scores went up," Collins said. During the first year of a 2-year case study, he showed videos without captions to establish a baseline of student comprehension, then in the second year turned on the captions and began to see improvement in comprehension and grades. "During the baseline year, there were a lot of Cs. In the second years, they went from Cs, Ds and Fs to As, Bs and Cs. It was really significant improvement," he said. "We're living in an
Inclusion: The Right Thing for All Students – WNYC
We have reached the tipping point where it is no longer educationally or morally defensible to continue to segregate students with disabilities. We shouldn’t be striving to educate children in the least restrictive environment but rather in the most inclusive one.
Putting Education First by That Crazy Crippled Chick
"First, we must ensure that all children, including and especially those with disabilities, receive a quality education. Inclusion means nothing if a child is not receiving a good education, which is, in fact, the very reason we have schools in the first place. " Cara Liebowitz
How Will the Affordable Care Act Affect People With Disabilities?
The Thinking Person's Guide To Autism interviews Ari Ne'eman of The Autistic Self-Advocacy Network about specific advantages, opportunities, and sticking points of the Affordable Care Act for People with Disabilities
Sign Language Researchers Broaden Science Lexicon
Imagine trying to learn biology without ever using the word “organism.” Or studying to become a botanist when the only way of referring to photosynthesis is to spell the word out, letter by painstaking letter. For deaf students, this game of scientific Password has long been the daily classroom and laboratory experience. Words like “organism” and “photosynthesis” — to say nothing of more obscure and harder-to-spell terms — have no single widely accepted equivalent in sign language. This means that deaf students and their teachers and interpreters must improvise, making it that much harder for the students to excel in
Judith Heumann: Changing the System
Her activism is clearly rooted in a strong sense of justice. Early on she learned that if she wanted to be part of society she was going to have to fight for the right. "I had no choice because, as a disabled person, I was going to either have to get involved with changing the system that limited me or not participate in society," she says. In 2010, Ms. Heumann became the first-ever special adviser for international disability rights at the US State Department. Her job: Promote and protect the rights of people with disabilities internationally and ensure that US
5 Ways to Elicit Language from PrAACtical AAC
PrAACtical Suggestions: 5 Ways to Elicit Language Without Asking a Direct Question SLPs love to talk, of course, but sometimes that works against us. Over-prompting. Jumping in to repeat the last question. Re-phrasing the previous comment. Nature abhors a vacuum and sometimes we just can’t stop ourselves.
Modeling, AAC Style
Modeling AAC Style - This is a strategy that is too powerful to ignore! Here’s why Aided Language Input is at the top of our list of skills that all clinicians should master: 1. It expands our sphere of influence 2. Other communication partners will imitate us. 3. If WE use it, then parents and teachers are more likely to as well.
Intersection of Law, Education and Civil Rights
As a deaf-blind student with very limited sight and hearing, Haben Girma '13 learned that you must be a self-advocate and come up with creative solutions to the problems you face. If that fails, she says, then the law can be a strong ally.
Man with Down Syndrome owns “The World’s Friendliest Restaurant”
Tim Harris has a great deal to be proud of. "Tim The Man" to those who know him, he's accomplished more in his 27 years than some people accomplish in an entire lifetime. A Special Olympian, he has dozens of gold medals. He's lived on a sailboat and is well-known in the Bahamas as an excellent sailor and fisherman. He graduated from Eastern New Mexico University in 2008 with certificates in food service, office skills, and restaurant hosting. He's now living independently, and really enjoying the fact that he can walk to work - the restaurant that he owns is
Advocacy Groups Call for Autistic Teen’s Killers to Be Charged With Hate Crime
How does it make you feel when you hear a story about a mother killing her child? Does hearing that the child had a disability change how you feel? For some people, it does. It changes how they feel enough so that they'll start speaking as if they support the parent's actions, citing unbearable stress and lack of supports and not being able to take the pain to see of seeing a child with disabilities in pain. We heard the media and public talk about this in Canada when Robert Latimer put his 12-year-old daughter Tracy, who had cerebral palsy,
The Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education – 07/12/13
This week, Carol Quirk who is the Co-Executive Director for the Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, will return to the podcast. Carol is going to talk, on behalf of the MCIE, about ways in which we can support inclusive education. The Maryland Co
People With Disabilities Practically Absent from Marketing Campaigns
ABC.com reports that despite sporadic appearances in the media and marketing campaigns, people with disabilities are still largely absent, and that many people feel that marketers in particular are losing out because of it. Blaming the absence of people with disabilities in marketing campaigns on "a combination of ignorance, caution, and fear," advocates feel that a concentrated campaign to have people with disabilities included in advertising is necessary, similar to past campaigns to have minorities included in advertising. 57 000 000 Americans have a disability, and as a group their spending power is $200 to $500 billion. They're definitely a
Not Impossible: The Story of Daniel
Five years ago (next month) our severely autistic son Daniel had a major breakthrough. This whole world is new to him: standards, peers, comradeship and competition.
Sarah Hendren Gives Familiar Symbol a New Look
Most people recognize the international symbol for disability: the stick figure seated in a partial circle, drawn in white on a blue background. Many feel that the symbol, which has come to be known as the International Wheelchair Icon, or the International Sign of Access needs a redesign. In 2011, Cambridge, Massachusetts resident Sarah Hendren decided to take on the challenge. “The figure is static, wooden, with the squared-off geometry of machinery. The body is synonymous with the chair,’’ she told The Boston Globe of the current access sign. She also talked about wanting her design to explore ideas of who is
Ariane Zurcher: Non-Speaking Autistic Woman Writes Book
Barb Rentenbach's funny, poignant and beautiful must-read book, I Might Be You: An Exploration of Autism and Connection, is now available as an audiobook.
Hi @KatieCouric I am #autistic & would like to talk to you about #inclusion, #communication & #civilrights #KatieAutismChat
Katie Couric will have a Twitter Chat with Autism Speaks on Wednesday May 29th at 1pm EST . Autistic people should be in the chat. hashtag #KatieAutismChat. This is my message. Hi @katiecouric I am #autistic & would like to talk to you about #inclusion, #communication & #civilrights #KatieAutismChat .
PrAACtical AAC | Presuming Competence and Using The Least Dangerous Assumption
PrAACtical AAC's latest post on the importance of presuming competence.
Autistic Hoya: Ordinary Lives
When I demand equal access, equal opportunity, equal rights, I'm not insisting on my superiority, innate or acquired. I don't want special treatment. I want to see the removal of cultural paradigms about what types of bodies and minds should be valued and what types of bodies and minds should be deigned for marginalization. I don't want a world that advantages me over you. I want a world where oppressive systems that ultimately hurt everyone have been overcome, dismantled.
Joe Flacco Pledges to No Longer Use the R-Word
Baltimore Ravens quarterback and Superbowl MVP Joe Flacco has made a commitment to no longer use the R-word, joined by teammates Ed Dickson and Gino Gradkowski. The three men signed the pledge not to use the R-word anymore from the Spread the Word to End the Word website on May 20 and had their photos taken with representatives from the Maryland Special Olympics. Flacco’s commitment to the movement to stop use of the R-word comes on the heels of using it during Superbowl week at a press conference. He apologized the next day, concerned that his “bad choice of words” would damage
Donna Posont’s “Birding-By-Ear” Course Allows Blind People to “See The Unseen”
Donna Posont is living proof that you don't have to be able to see well to go bird-watching. Donna Posont is a field guide in Michigan who leads a group of blind birdwatchers and helps them recognize birds through sound. / CBS News The Field Services Director for Opportunities Unlimited for the Blind, Donna Posont runs a "birding by ear" class in Dearborn, Michigan for people who are blind or who have low vision. Instruction begins inside, where participants memorize bird calls through learning words that have been assigned to birds' chirps and screeches. Armed with a repertoire of bird
2013 Top Ten Signs of Special Ed Advocate Burn Out
Subtitle: Why you may need a trip to a COPAA conference to relax. 1. You thought the OSEP’s MOU on NCLB’s AYP came from CDC and was about another STD. 2. You are were actually able to follow #1. 3. You asked the Advocate Committee to research OCR guidanc
Families of SMA Awards $150,000 to Investigate New Antisense Therapies for Spinal Muscular Atrophy
Families of SMA is dedicated to creating a treatment and cure for Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) by funding and advancing a comprehensive research program, including drug discovery programs to make practical new therapies. This is the third drug discovery project awarded by Families of SMA in 2013 with a total investment of $400,000. This program will assess the therapeutic potential of second-generation Antisense Oligonucleotides (ASO) sequences for SMA. This funding is being awarded to Co-Principal Investigators Dr. Arthur Burghes at Ohio State University and Dr. Christian Lorson at University of Missouri. Program Description: New Morpholino Antisense Oligonucleotides for the Treatment
Childhood Disability Rate Jumps Over 16% in Last Decade
According to findings presented at the Pediatric Academic Societies annual meeting, the prevalence of disability in children has jumped more than 16 percent in 10 years. The reason for this rise in disability prevalence is unclear, although, according to Disability Scoop, researchers believe it’s due to “increased diagnosis of neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.” Researchers identified the rise in disability prevalence by comparing data from the National Health Interview Survey collected in 2009-2010 to those collected in 2001-2002. The National Health Interview Survey, conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, is a poll of more than 100,000
Joey Furlong, hospitalized fourth-grader asked to take a standardized test, becomes a symbol in high-stakes testing battle
News that a fourth-grader in the hospital for severe epilepsy was asked to take a standardized test has angered parents and galvanized the anti-standardized testing crowd. As reported in The Washington Post , Joey Furlong was lying in a hospital bed, hoo
Yoga , Naturally Inclusive
Ryan McGraw is a 30-year-old yoga teacher who has cerebral palsy. He doesn't fit the mold, which is fine, because he's molding yoga routines to fit his needs.
Abuse of Children with Intellectual Disabilities
Children with disabilities of any kind are not identified in crime statistic systems in the U.S., making it difficult to determine their risk for abuse (Sullivan, 2003). A number of weak and small-scale studies found that children with all types of disab
Autistic Teen Uses Tech to Break Silence
A brilliant 16-year-old boy who has autism is breaking through his silence and making people realize what autistic kids can do. Ido Kedar has difficulty controlling his body, and he cannot talk.
Some special education teachers fear losing jobs
ATLANTA (AP) — Some Atlanta special education teachers say they fear they could lose their jobs if they aren't certified to teach in another subject. Keith Butler helps special education students with math in an Atlanta high school. He said teachers are
Law Would Give Parents Final Say About Special Diploma Track
A proposed law moving quickly through the Legislature would give parents of kids receiving special education services the final say about their child’s placement on a special diploma track.
Neurodiversity in the Classroom: Strength-Based Strategies t – Apr 29,2013
A new concept on human diversity has emerged over the past 10 years that promises to revolutionize the way educators provide services to students with special needs: neurodiversity. Just as we celebrate diversity in nature
Insight into Inclusion: The Language we Use
How do we help our children or students who are perpetually losing things, often running late and seem completely disorganized? Do we re... Teachers love a great resource! Especially a resource that is free and at their fingertips - literally. That's why
Lawsuit alleges school bus aide slapped autistic boy
A north suburban special education school bus aide slapped an autistic student who cannot speak, according to a lawsuit filed by the boy’s mother, who claims she uncovered the alleged abuse after putting a recording device in her son’s backpack. Nabiha Z
Stanford Scientists Demonstrate Brain’s Capacity to Change in Response to Education
"No one is born with the innate ability to recognize numerals."
Wal-Mart Sued for Sexual Harassment & Retaliation of Employee with Developmental Disability
Wal-Mart Stores East, L.P. violated federal law by allowing a male employee at an Akron Walmart store to subject a developmentally disabled female co-worker to sexually inappropriate conduct and then retaliating against her for her opposition
Autistic Hoya: Fighting ableism with ableism doesn’t work
Fighting ableism with ableism doesn't work. In fact, it's just bad policy. Yet that's precisely the tactic that Disability Scoop, "the premier source for developmental disability news," decided to use in its criticism of the latest episode of Glee, in wh
A Generational Shift in Understanding Life With Down Syndrome
"You cannot know if someone else's life is worth living without asking them and without even knowing them."
Congress Changes Special Education Funding Regulations
This month, Congress clarified how states that fail to adequately fund special education services from year to year will be penalized. The changes to IDEA regulations, put forth by the Obama administration, are said have “broad support on Capitol Hill”. Special education funding is governed by “maintenance of effort”, or a regulation stating that funding levels must maintained or increased from one year to the next. States need special permission and a waiver from the federal government to be exempt from meeting maintenance of effort in any given year, or they may find themselves facing serious consequences. South Carolina and
Disabled surfers brave the waves in Brazil
Renata Glasner doing her thing in Brazil.
What Reading Self-Advocate Blogs Does
You can have hope.
Doctors across America turning away patients with disabilities, study finds
by Sarah Levis Disabled people in several American cities are going without specialist care because of medical facilities that aren’t physically accessible, says a study that recently appeared in the Annals of Medicine. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act, it’s illegal for a medical service provider to turn away someone because of physical disability. Yet in Boston alone, more than one in six doctors refused to schedule appointments for people posing as patients in wheelchairs. Similar findings were reported in three other cities. The study reported similar findings in in Houston, Texas, Dallas, Texas, and Portland, Oregon. The study
Deaf, Blind Sue Over Web Shopping
Anne Taylor uses a Google Nexus 7 tablet at the National Federation of the Blind in Baltimore. Commerce has moved online. Now, the disability lawsuits are following. Advocates for disabled Americans have declared that companies have a legal obligation to
School Says, “No Advanced Classes for Kids with IEPs”
My child has a learning disability. Her teachers want her to enroll in advanced classes. She is eligible based on her test scores and school performance. The School will not let her enroll her because she has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). What
Why did Robert Ethan Saylor die?
Where is the public outrage over the death of Robert Ethan Saylor , killed in January while being taken into police custody in Frederick for the crimes of petty larceny and, perhaps, disorderly conduct? Saylor, 26, had Down syndrome, a genetic defect tha
How to talk to a hearing impaired person? Don’t shout
First rule: Look at the hearing-impaired person when you speak.
Need for culturally sensitive treatment for deaf patients with psychiatric disorders
Members of the Deaf community who have mental health problems need culturally sensitive treatment to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment, according to a report in the March Journal of Psychiatric Practice. The journal is published by Li
Lawsuit charges Ed Department with violating student privacy rights
The U.S. Education Department is being sued by a nonprofit organization for promoting regulations that are alleged to undercut student privacy and parental consent. The rules allow third parties, including private companies and foundations
Child Positive Impact:The Disability-Culture Connection
This study examined mothers' perceptions of the positive impact of having a child with an intellectual disability. Trajectories of positive impact from 7 time points were developed using latent growth modeling and 2 predictors: culture (Anglo, Latino) and child disability status (intellectual disability, typical development). Data were from 219 mothers of children from age 3 to 9 years. Growth trajectories reflected a general decline in positive impact on Anglo mothers. On average, at age 3, Anglo mothers reported significantly lower initial values on positive impact when their children had an intellectual disability, but Latino mothers did not. Across all time points, Latino
Retention is Not a Form of “Specialized Instruction”
The school wanted to retain my son who has an IEP for OT, PT and Speech. They insisted he repeat second grade. I disagreed. Now in third grade, his teachers want to send him back to second grade. They say his writing is not on par with a “normal” third g
What’s the Difference between Reduction in Homework and Shortened Assignments?
By Kori Hamilton and Elizabeth Kessler, professional special educator and NICHCY advisor. Being able to provide ample opportunities for success to all students requires a clear understanding of the needs of each individual student. Every student has a unique learning style, and some students require more help than others. Students who receive special education services have a plan in place to identify the type of support(s) that’s needed. One type of support is an accommodation, which is a change that helps a student overcome or work around the disability. A modification, which is a change in what is being taught
10-year edition of ‘Riding the Bus’ comes subtler understanding of intellectual disability
Rachel Simon knew that having a sibling who has a serious intellectual disability had changed her life. But she had no idea that writing a book about the experience would change her life again. Recalling those early days, Simon says, “I allowed myself on
‘Switched at Birth’ Goes Silent to Make a Point
"Until hearing people walk a day in our shoes, they will never understand," says a guidance counselor a high school for deaf students in "Switched at Birth."
Home Modifications
Not all people begin life with disabilities, but most of us will need some kind of assistance as we experience the normal process of aging. Living at home within a community increases self-esteem, which can improve mental and physical health. Another rea
Feds eye NY school’s treatment of disabled student
NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (AP) — The U.S. Department of Justice is investigating an incident in which a disabled student at a suburban New York high school was kept inside as the school was being evacuated during a fire emergency. The Journal News ( http://lohu
Medical Myth Busting – Journal of Medical Toxicology Debunks Autism Treatment
“Despite the absence of data, and in the face of such concerns about absorption and dose..
Pediatricians Say No to Expulsions, Suspensions at Schools
MONDAY, Feb. 25 (HealthDay News) -- Suspending or expelling a child from school should be a rare last resort and not a routine punishment for bullying, drug use or other infractions, according to a new policy statement from the American Academy of Pediat
Man with Autism, Caregiver Shot by Off-Duty Officer
A man with autism and his caregiver were shot by an off-duty Camden police officer, who thought his home was being burglarized, according to the Camden County Prosecutor's Office. NBC10's Katy Zachry talked with investigators who say the 21-year-old man had just been dropped off at his home on the 2800 block of Arthur Avenue by his special needs school in Cherry Hill and was met at his house by his caretaker. Investigators say instead of going to his front door, the 21-year-old with autism went across the street and started banging very loudly on a neighbor's door. Investigators tell
A Parent’s Story of Advocacy on The Inclusive Class
Teachers love a great resource! Especially a resource that is free and at their fingertips - literally. That's why I put together a list of... How do we help our children or students who are perpetually losing things, often running late and seem complete
Amid Online Furor, Sheriff Responds to Death of Man With Down Syndrome
WJLA-TV’s coverage of the Robert E. Saylor case in Maryland. Online furor over the death of a 26-year old Maryland man with Down syndrome, who was handcuffed and forced to the ground by sheriff’s deputies in a movie theater, has been so vigorous that a l
Ten Things I wish My Teacher and SLP Knew about AAC : Pat Mervine
Pat Mervine has a great website and is the author of "How Katie Got a Voice (and a cool new nickname)" . I wish..... the entire team would be trained in how to program and use my AAC system. My "voice" shouldn't be taken away from me just because an adult is absent or busy. Oh, and a good back-up system would be much appreciated for when my device goes down. my AAC device would be charged (if electronic) and positioned for me to use it all times. Other kids can talk all day -- at recess, lunch, on the bus,
Deaf Teenager Gets AMC to Offer Closed Captioning
Johnny Butchko, 14, is hearing impaired. Tired of being unable to watch a movie at his local theatre, he stood up and got AMC to provide Closed Captioning in Santa Monica. But he's not stopping there.
Abuse and Cover Up of Students with Special Needs In Ohio
Special Education teacher from Kings Local School District accused of seclusion, restraint, physical abuse , verbal and emotional abuse.
Appropriate Education for Your Child – 02/15/2013
Unfortunately, our guest Howard Glasser, was unavailable for this morning's show! However, Terri and I managed to fill the 30 minutes (it's not hard!) talking about inclusion and education. During our show, we talked about finding appropriate education f
How Should We Rebuild the U.S. Education System?
Three learning enthusiasts share their blueprints for rebuilding the U.S. education system. In the 2nd century A.D., Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius penned a series of personal writings and reflections known today as “Meditations.” In Book 1, the emperor s
Planet of The Bind: Why Do Banks Still Lag In Basic Service To Blind Customers?
It seems like a natural: keypads with Braille, audio prompts and the like. And advocates for the seeing-impaired have been working with the industry since 1999 to provide just such adaptations.
Merck Fund Announces Three $1M Grants to Support Translational Research in Developmental Disabilities
Several AUCD network members and George Jesien, Executive Director of AUCD, participated on the scientific advisory committee which helped develop this important grants program with the John Merck Fund. The John Merck Fund announced today the first three
Wright’s Law: Why Schools Usually Say “No!”
My son is going to middle school. Same district, new school, just blocks apart. His 1:1 (same para for 3 years) has been the best thing that has come into his life ever. We want his para to follow him to middle school. The Special Education Director says
Duncan warns Congress on impact of ‘sequestration’
Here is the testimony Education Secretary Arne Duncan gave Thursday before the Senate Appropriations Committee on what could happen to education programs if Congress takes no steps to avert a March 1 deadline for automatic spending cuts, known as the “se
Study tracks leukemia’s genetic evolution, may help predict disease course, tailor care
Catherine Wu, M.D., and colleagues have published a study that shows how gene mutations shift and evolve over time in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). This evolution, they report, holds the... BOSTON AND CAMBRIDGE, Mass.ÂÂTumors are not factori
What Are Autism Archetypes?
An archetype is a symbol, a single representative of a category. If we think of the word chair, for instance, we often call up an image in our mind. That image, usually a specific type of chair, stands for all chairs in all their different forms. Autism
Bright Not Broken Gifted Kids ADHD and Autism – Feb 14,2013
Chef Dean Neff, Executive Chef at Hugh Acheson's "Five & Ten" highly rated restaurant in Georgia, visits with Olivia Wilder to talk about his culinary career. Bobby Seale co-founder ofThe Black Panther Party was an African-American revolutionary socialis
Love is in the Air – Media Profiles People with Disabilities
Bill’s and Shelley’s path to marriage is not unlike many others who fall in love, lose touch as life takes its turns, and reconnect later in life when the time is right.
A Life Defined Not By Disability, But Love
I love you. You're a good parent, and just because you're disabled doesn't mean that you do anything less for me.
Proximal Femoral Geometry Before and After Varus Rotational Osteotomy in Children With Cerebral Palsy and Neuromuscular Hip Dysplasia
You could be reading the full-text of this article now... Background: Surgical management of hip dysplasia in children with cerebral palsy (CP) usually includes varus rotational osteotomy (VRO) of the proximal femur. Several techniques of VRO (end-to-end
Parents ‘Stunned’ to See Disabled Daughter’s Feet Duct-Taped After School
An Indiana couple is looking for answers from their daughter’s former elementary school after the 8-year-old came home from her special-needs program with her shoes duct-taped to her feet and ankles. Nate and Elizabeth Searcy’s daughter, Shay
School looks into duct-taping of student’s shoes
INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — School officials and Child Protective Services are investigating an incident in which the shoes of an 8-year-old Indianapolis girl with Down syndrome were duct-taped to her ankles. The Wayne Township School Corporation has opened an i
Including Students with Food Allergies in the Classroom – 02/08/2013
Food allergies are becoming a very common concern in schools today. According to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Association, approximately 6 million children under the age of 18 have a food allergy. With these numbers of children, schools need ensure t
Deaf teen finds his niche at Richmond school
RICHMOND, Ind. (AP) — The seventh grade has been a whirlwind for Alex Brown . From relocating to Richmond and playing on the Test Intermediate School football team, the 14-year-old has had his share of new experiences. He was even credited with saving so
Autism Acceptance – Leading the Conversation
I want to talk about Autism Acceptance again. I want to talk about Autism Acceptance because soon we will be, again, referred to as tragedies, burdens, afflictions. This will go on, more than usual, for the whole month of April. April is the month chosen
Researchers develop Rx for deafness, impaired balance in mouse model of Usher syndrome
New Orleans, LA Â Jennifer Lentz, PhD, Assistant Professor of Otorhinolaryngology & Biocommunications and a member of the Neuroscience Center of Excellence at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans, is the lead author of a paper reporting that hearing an
Grieving Newtown Couple Raise Money for Autism
Josephine Gay's mother could not be with her in her final, harrowing minutes inside Sandy Hook Elementary School. She struggles with it every day, but she has taken comfort from learning that Josephine's aide wrapped her arms and body around her and othe
Asperger’s entry removal from manual decried
With orders now being taken by the American Psychiatric Association for its first updated volume on diagnostics in nearly 20 years -- and no hope for changes in the text -- Long Islanders are dismayed that an Asperger's syndrome entry no longer exists.Ed
Report: NM boy offered to stay with girl in cage
The son of a New Mexico woman accused of locking an 8-year-old girl with developmental disabilities in a wooden cage said he offered to stay with the girl while the rest of the household went out to a movie, authorities said. The boy said he was uncomfor
The Arc Applauds Social Security Administration’s Ending the Use of…
Changing how we talk about people with disabilities is a critical step in promoting and protecting their basic civil and human rights. In an historic change for people with intellectual disabilities (ID), the Social Security Administration (SSA) announce
Bills would strike ‘mental retardation’ from laws
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Two Alaska lawmakers have introduced legislation striking terms like "mentally retarded" from state laws. Sen. Kevin Meyer said "mental retardation" used to be a clinical term used with good intentions. But he said in a news release
Krip-Hop Nation: Music, Advocacy and Education
"Where were the other people who looked like me as a Black disabled young man? With this continuous question of race and disability along with my love of poetry and music, I started to question the arena of music and performance around the representation of musicians with disabilities, especially disabled musicians of color." - Leroy F. Moore, Jr.
‘Impaired Perceptions’ – Photographer Brian Steel Fights Ableism
"The overall message is that you cannot tell what a person is capable of or what their life is like simply by looking at them. " Brian Steel
A Child With Down Syndrome Keeps His Place at the Table
IT’S rare that our daily lives adhere to dramatic form. But as reported on Today.com/Moms (“Waiter hailed as hero after standing up for boy with Down syndrome”), among other places, a little morality play took shape a few days ago in a Houston restaurant
US DOE “Access to Sports for Students with Disabilities Is a Civil Right”
U.S. Education Department is telling schools they must include students with disabilities in sports programs or provide equal alternative options.
Stephen Kuusisto: Responding to Euthanasia of Deaf Blind Twins in Belgium
The National Association of the Deaf and the American Association of the Deaf-Blind have released a formal statement on the euthanizing of twins in Belgium who preferred death to becoming deaf-blind. Apparently the Belgians would imagine Helen Keller's l
Jennifer Byde Myers: Autism and the Quest for Knowledge
Great post by Jennifer Byde Myers at jennyalice.com. Jack doesn’t fit the mold. Not the mold for a typical kid, not the one for cerebral palsy, not autism, not ADHD. Whenever we try to "box him up", another piece of him pops out, unexplainable by a typical convention.
VIDEO: ‘We just want to be a family’
Two US women who recently adopted Russian orphans have spoken to the BBC of their heartache over changes to Russian law which have prevented them from taking the children out of the country. Rebecca Preece and Jeana Bonner are both mothers of children wi
Motherlode Blog: Solving New York City Bus Strike’s Impact on Special Needs Students Isn’t Simple
New York City’s bus strike is disproportionately affecting one of its most vulnerable populations: children with special needs, whose symptoms or travel limitations can make it extremely challenging for their parents to get them to school using other met
The Inclusive Education of Adults with Autism
This week on The Inclusive Class Podcast, we will be talking about educating adult students with autism. To lead our discussion, will be expert guest, Rhonda Greenhaw. Rhonda J. Greenhaw, MA, BCBA, is a leading clinician and researcher in the field of au
Violent Video Games
“We don’t benefit from ignorance. We don’t benefit from not knowing the science of this epidemic of violence.” Obama said. “Congress should fund research into the effects violent video games have on young minds.” Only a month after the Newtown, CT traged
Inclusion in Oklahoma
Ardmore City Schools has adopted a new program called Inclusion Education for students needing special services. Students, regardless of abilities, are kept in the general education classroom all day. "I believe in it wholeheartedly," said Carolyn Thomas, special services director. "The principal is to educate everybody. The method may be different and a different delivery, but the goal is to educate everybody." Before, students would be pulled out of class each day to receive instruction from the special education teacher. "At first, the students weren't sure and asked to come to my classroom," Knight said. "Now, they don't feel so
Lawsuit Says Special Needs Student Raped in NYC-area Classroom
A 15 year old special education student was gang-raped in class while a lesson was going on, according to allegations by her mother. The girl attended the Martin De Porres Academy in Elmont, New York, a community on Long Island, and the incident supposed
Person-First Language – ‘autistic’ vs. ‘with autism’
There is some debate about using the term ‘autistic child’ vs. ‘child with autism’, the latter being an example of what is typically referred to as ‘person-first language’. As you may have noticed, I typically use ‘autistic’. There are plenty of strong o
Center for Autism and Related Disorders Partners with Paper Clouds…
The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD), the world’s largest provider of effective, early-intensive behavioral intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), is proud to announce its new product line with Paper Clouds Appar
Self-Advocacy Organizational Development Grantees Announced
In 2011 and 2012, the Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AIDD) supported 9 regional Self-Advocacy Summits in collaboration with the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), the National Disabilit
AUCD 2012 Awards Presented to Outstanding Individuals
Our network members - advocates, trainees, professionals - work to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. They inform the public, provide services, conduct research, teach the next generation, develop policy,
Pushing Past Limitations and Aiming to Inspire
Otis Hampton once walked 40 blocks in Manhattan, and swelled with pride when he reached his destination. Librado Romero/The New York Times Otis Hampton, who was born with cerebral palsy, currently lives in a homeless shelter in Harlem. For the past 100 y
Pediatricians: Recess Crucial for Development, Academic Success
The move to add more instructional time by eliminating recess could prove to be detrimental to kids in the long run according to a statement released by the American Academy of Pediatrics. ABC News reports that the statement is the latest addition to the
Your brain on Big Bird: Sesame Street helps to reveal patterns of neural development
Using brain scans of children and adults watching Sesame Street, cognitive scientists are learning how children’s brains change as they develop intellectual abilities like reading and math. The novel use of brain imaging during everyday activities like w
Disneyland and autism
I’m stepping outside of my typical green business posts today for another autism-related article. This time, the topic is Disneyland and autism. On December 26, 2012 my husband and I surprised the kids at 5:00 am when we loaded them in the car for a surp
Q&A: IDEA and child care
This 4-page brief explains the basics of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to child care providers, including early intervention for children under the age of 3 and special education and related services for school-aged children. It
Why the Fiscal Cliff Deal Doesn’t Solve Our Education Funding Crisis
As the Washington Post points out, the deal "fails to defuse the prospect of a catastrophic national default two months from now" and it "does not raise the debt ceiling, leaving the Treasury to use what it calls 'extraordinary measures' as long as it ca
Consumer Groups File Complaint against Amazon for Not Providing Internet Captioning
December 20, 2012. Today several deaf and hard of hearing consumer groups filed a complaint at the FCC against Amazon for allegedly violating new FCC Internet captioning requirements. These consumers aver that Amazon.com has violated numerous times the F
Abuse reported at group homes in Washington
Listen to the families Abuse in group homes will continue because groups that claim to advocate for people with developmental disabilities (The Arc, Disability Rights Washington and Developmental Disabilities Council) do not listen to the families of the
IEP Team Member Apology: A Template for “Not Knowing It All – After All”
Have you just committed a real faux pas but find yourself at a loss for words to apologize? Perhaps you are a celebrity who needs to apologize for disability-related comment… A teacher who needs to apologize for outrageous classroom mistreatment… Or, a p
Crowdsourcing Site Compiles New Sign Language for Math and Science
A multimedia feature published earlier in December in the New York Times, "Pushing Science's Limits in Sign Language Lexicon," outlines efforts in the United States and Europe to develop sign language versions of specialized terms used in science, techno
Letter from National Council on Disability (NCD) to the President Following Newtown Tragedy
December 20, 2012 The President The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, DC 20500 Dear Mr. President: On behalf of the National Council on Disability (NCD), an independent federal agency, and in response to your recent national call to act
Expert: Asperger’s not linked to violence
Published: Dec. 22, 2012 at 10:07 PM PHILADELPHIA, Dec. 22 (UPI) -- To suggest a tie between Asperger's syndrome and violent, sociopathic tendencies is to undermine the research on autism spectrum disorder, a U.S. expert says. Michelle Rowe, executive di
COPAA Statement on the Newtown Tragedy
The members of Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, Inc. (COPAA) work in schools every day with teachers and on behalf of the 7.1 million children with disabilities in the United States. Because of our work, we feel intense, personal pain over the
Autism device hidden in designer vest
With files from the CBC's Chad Pawson A Vancouver entrepreneur's start-up company is hoping to put "the squeeze" on autism. Lisa Fraser, a recent graduate from Vancouver's Emily Carr University, has designed a special medical vest that helps children cop
A mother’s anger: Stop linking autism to violence
Sarah Darer Littman and her son shared their story at a StoryCorps booth in 2006. STORY HIGHLIGHTS Mother of son with Asperger's upset about misinformation spread recently Writer implores journalists to be responsible when reporting on the syndrome "Your
FCC Honors Designers of Communications Technology Benefiting People with Disabilities
445 12th Street, S.W. FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NEWS MEDIA CONTACT: December 19, 2012 Michael Snyder at (202) 418-0997 E-mail: Michael.Snyder@fcc.gov FCC CHAIRMAN GENACHOWSKI HONORS INNOVATORS IN ACCESSIBILITY COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY IN CEREMONY TODAY Demo
Report: State ignoring abuse at group homes
When lawyers for a watchdog group were combing through state files involving people with developmental disabilities, they stumbled onto a disturbing case: A paid caregiver allegedly had assaulted a resident of a state-funded group home. An examination re
Use of the ICF for Guiding Patient-Reported Outcome Measures
The World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) has been adopted by most professional organizations that are concerned with the rehabilitation process, including by the American Speech-Language-He
An Ethnographic Investigation of African American Mothers’ Perceptions of Augmentative and Alternative Communication
The purpose of this study was to investigate fourteen African American mothers' perceptions of the utilization of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) by their children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). The authors used ethnographic metho
Hearing disorder could be misdiagnosed as ADHD in kids
Not enough doctors are aware of auditory processing disorder, the Canadian Association of Speech-language Pathologists and Audiologists says. (iStock) A little-known hearing disorder affecting two to three per cent of Canadian children is being misdiagno
Sensory/Movement Differences and Diversity
For a lot of people, the most anticipated books each year are about vampires or girls with great archery skills, but the release I waited for was this book by friends, Martha Leary and Anne Donnellan. I am not exaggerating when I share that their first book, Movement Differences and Diversity in Autism, completely changed how I thought about disability, behavior, and autism. This new volume did not disappoint, and I am now recommending it to everyone in my circle (and now, to all of you)! To me, no other researchers/scholars in autism are doing more than these two women
TPGA’s All Ages Holiday Book Guide
Do you love to give and receive books? We love to give and receive books. So for you and for us, here's a short selection of recommended books by, for, about, and enjoyed by autistic people and their families. If you have additional suggestions for books
Alan Cumming picks 5 unconventional family films
"Any Day Now" follows the struggle of a gay couple in late-1970s Los Angeles to adopt an abandoned teenage boy with Down syndrome. It's not exactly your traditional, old-fashioned family unit. So who better than the film's star, Alan Cumming, to ponder t
‘Smartpen’ Pilot Program Helps Students with Disabilities
We often get questions about the legality of using a recording device or pen in class. Parents ask this question when schools tell them “recording devices violate the confidentiality” of other students in the classroom. Digital recorders or recording pen
Site helps deaf with signing science terms
Published: Dec. 10, 2012 at 9:43 PM SEATTLE, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- U.S. researchers say an online forum is helping develop sign language versions of specialized terms used in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Started at the University of Washi
Aide at Maryland School for the Deaf charged with sex abuse of minors
Posted at 01:55 PM ET, 12/06/2012 Dec 06, 2012 06:55 PM EST TheWashingtonPost By David Marino-Nachison An aide at the Maryland School for the Deaf’s Columbia campus has been charged with inappropriately touching three girls when they were students at the
Scientists identify molecules in the ear that convert sound into brain signals
IMAGE: Ulrich Mueller, PhD, (center) isa professor in the Department of Cell Biology,director of the Dorris Neuroscience Center at The Scripps Research Institute, and lead author of the Cell paper;Wei... LA JOLLA, CA Â December 6, 2012 Â For scientists w
Use Your Words: Non-Verbal, Speech, and AAC
I see a little girl every week at events that my child attends. She's great. She's nine years old, has a fantastic laugh, and a mischievous sense of humor. She loves puddles, chocolate cake, and apples. She has a small crush on my son. She's also non-ver
Editorial: Disabled Senate rejects U.N. rights treaty
Former Senate Republican leader Bob Dole is wheeled into the Senate on Tuesday.(Photo: CSPAN2 via AP) Dole, a former party leader and a disabled veteran, tried to champion the treaty in the Senate. The opponents persuaded 38 Republican senators to vote n
Which Congressman Is Blocking Bill That Would Protect Kids with Autism?
Legislation aimed at protecting children with autism and other disabilities from being injured in school has stalled in the House of Representatives at the hands of a single member who objects to federal intervention. Minnesota Republican Rep. John Kline
Emily Willingham “Autism Bingo: The Congressional Hearing Version”
Our science editor Emily Willingham live-tweeted Thursday's Congressional autism hearing from the perspective of a scientist, autism parent, critical thinker, and human. She Storified and annotated the experience, turning offensive keywords and laughable
Build Your App with Therapy Box
“After numerous requests, we have opened up our service to work with creative speech and language therapists, teachers and organisations who have an idea for an app they would like to deliver. We will make it happen” explains Therapy Box Therapy Box, the
CEC Celebrates IDEA’s 37th Anniversary
On November 29, 1975 President Gerald Ford signed into law the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94-142), landmark legislation that forever changed how American’s view individuals with disabilities. Now known as the Individuals with
Longview school suspends use of isolation box
The Longview School District has suspended the use of an isolation box for special education students while it reviews the policy for isolating students who may be a danger to themselves or others. The Longview School District has suspended the use of an
Police Ignored, Mishandled Sex Assaults Reported by Disabled
Patients at California’s board-and-care centers for the developmentally disabled have accused caretakers of molestation and rape 36 times during the past four years, but police assigned to protect them did not complete even the simplest tasks associated
ASAN Statement on Upcoming House Autism Hearing
“We’re profoundly concerned by the decision by the House Committee on Oversight & Government Reform to convene a hearing on autism next week without the inclusion of any Autistic witnesses or representatives from organizations run by Autistic people. Jus
Don’t label people with Down syndrome
Perceptions about Down syndrome have changed in recent years, says David M. Perry, who has a son with this disability. STORY HIGHLIGHTS Ann Coulter's "retard" comment not aimed at Down syndrome, she said David Perry has son with Down syndrome and says cu
Evaluating the Efficacy of the LRE
I attended an IEP meeting recently that really brought home for me the complex nuances of determining what placement, or blend of placement options, represents the Least Restrictive Environment (“LRE”) for an individual student with an IEP. Not only are
MIND Research Institute Receives $500,000 Grant to Improve Math…
MIND staff working with students in an ST Math lab. We see MIND Research Institute’s ST Math program as having tremendous potential to close the math achievement gap in New York City public schools.... The Dell family foundation grant will fund professio
Nathan Heller: Andrew Solomon’s “Far from the Tree.”
For Megan and Michael, a Los Angeles couple, the crucial turn of parenthood came not in the delivery room but eight months later, when they started to worry that something had gone wrong with their son. The baby, Jacob, didn’t respond to the surrounding
Now, It’s Our Turn!
Tonight, Terri and I had the tables turned on us! It was our turn to be on the "hot seat" when we were featured guests on HuffPost Live. Interviewed by host, Nancy Redd, we appeared live (and on camera - much more stressful than a phone interview!!) to d
CHOP presents new findings on pediatric cardiovascular disease at AHA 2012
Physician-researchers from the Cardiac Center at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia presented new findings on pediatric cardiovascular disease at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2012 in Los Angeles. They described racial dispari
Adding the I to IEP: H is at the table
We worked with the wonderful team at H’s Distributed Learning School to update his Individual Education Plan (IEP) and for the first time ever H was there to take part. He wasn’t completely interested – but we built-in other options for him so he could p
Open Letter from a Doctoral Student Who Needs Some Help with her Study
Hi, my name is Christina and I am a doctoral candidate at Grand Canyon University. The title of my dissertation is “Examining the Potential of Using Technology to Improve Academic Performance: The Experience of Autistic Children with E-Readers.” As a for
Seth’s case: Special-education battles with no end
Posted at 01:09 PM ET, 11/04/2012 Nov 04, 2012 06:09 PM EST TheWashingtonPost Seth turns 9 on Saturday. He is a radiant child who often looks better than he feels. He was born nearly four months prematurely and weighed 15 ounces at birth. He has many med
Supporting Students with Learning Disabilities – 11/02/12
Having taught at the primary, secondary and college levels, Dr. Horowitz has also worked as a consultant to school districts throughout the New York City metropolitan region. In addition, he is frequently cities in popular press topics including parentin
Conversations Between Autistic Self-Advocates and Autism Parents – Part 2
Self-Advocate Elizabeth (Ibby) Grace's blog Tiny Grace Notes is subtitled "Ask an Autistic," and that is exactly what people do -- solicit Autistic insights from her. We asked if we could republish a recent conversation Ibby had with Tina, an autism pare
Calling People the R word
Trigger Warning: R-slur as an insult, discussion of such (censored except in quotations and in a screen shot.) This is how we begin, sort of: I say sort of because this isn’t really a beginning, it’s a reflection. It’s a reflection of what we as a societ
No Progress. School Says “No Change is Good”?
I’m a sped teacher with a child who has an IEP. The IEP team agreed that my child’s progress in Math will be measured with the KeyMath test. When the school last administered the KeyMath test, her scores dropped! It is not good news when a child’s test s
URMC, Deaf Community, Study How to Improve Research Participation
Documents that explain life-saving medical procedures or how to take part in research can be difficult to understand, but with a $600,000 grant the University of Rochester Medical Center is studying new ways to deliver those messages to deaf patients and
Ann Coulter blasted for using the ‘r-word’
Parents of children with special needs are demanding an apology from conservative political pundit Ann Coulter for calling President Obama the "r-word" after Tuesday's foreign policy debate. Here's the tweet that sparked the outrage: John Franklin Stephe
2 Ohio nurses get probation in malnutrition death
Two Ohio nurses have been sentenced to probation in the malnutrition death of a 14-year-old girl who had cerebral palsy and weighed 28 pounds when she died. Mary Kilby of Miamisburg and Kathryn Williams of Englewood were sentenced in a Dayton courtroom o
Listen to The Inclusive Class Roundtable – 10/26
Inclusive Education, as defined and described by education experts, is a philosophy. It is not a program, nor does it happen in is... Parents of school-age children can often become bewildered by today’s education system and it’s expectations. Its quickl
Special ed in distress A few schools get it right, but complaints and lawsuits are mounting against a troubled program serving 7,000 Seattle students.
Five years ago, a high-profile report found that Seattle's public-school district was decades behind the rest of the country in serving students with disabilities. Today, the problems are even worse. Six special-education directors — and three superinten
Study: Puberty happening sooner in boys
Published: Oct. 20, 2012 at 1:12 PM NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found boys are entering puberty at earlier ages than they have in the past. The study, which was unveiled Saturday at the organization's natio
Why Won’t the School Provide Homebound Instruction?
My child’s doctor recommended homebound instruction. The school said they had the authority to override that recommendation. Why won’t the school provide homebound services? Issues of homebound are determined in part by state law and state regulations, i
COPAA Announces Keynote and General Session Speakers for 2013 Conference
COPAA is an independent, nonprofit membership organization of special education attorneys, special education advocates, related professionals, and parents/family members. Our primary mission is to secure high quality education services for children with
For collegians with disabilities, success linked to mentoring, self-advocacy
(Phys.org)—A Rutgers study of recent New Jersey college and university graduates with disabilities has found that students attributed their academic success to a combination of possessing such strong personality traits as self-advocacy and perseverance,
Low Eye Contact Is Not Just An Autism Thing
A news story about a Society for Neuroscience conference report on the discovery of “eye cell” neurons that register eye contact says: This new type of neuron was discovered in a Rhesus macaque. If humans have these neurons too, it may be that they are i
Feedback Loop: Autistic Student, Or Student With Autism?
Dean McIntosh criticized our describing Frost as a “student with autism.” The entire adult autistic community has been saying in one loud voice that “…with autism” is not acceptable. Myself and Lydia Brown are just two examples of autistic adults who wri
Justice Department Settles with Florida Bus Companies Over Accessibility Violations
The Justice Department reached four settlement agreements with over-the-road bus companies in Florida in the last month, to ensure that bus transportation is accessible for people with disabilities. The settlements under the Americans with Disabilities A
Wendy’s Franchisee to Settle Lawsuit for Refusing to Hire Applicant with Hearing Disability
DALLAS - CTW L.L.C., a Wendy's franchisee, has agreed to pay $41,500 and provide other significant relief to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the agency announced today. The EE
Landmark Decision Promoting Accessible Books for the Blind
Baltimore, Maryland (October 11, 2012): The National Federation of the Blind (NFB) today applauded a decision issued on October 10, 2012, by the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, which permits the distribution of millions of book
New report: Half of schools meeting state’s goal
(10-10) 17:13 PDT -- California schools have been weighed. They have been measured. And depending on who you ask, they have been found wanting or are doing really well. On Thursday, state education officials released the simplified roundup of state tests
Netflix pledges to caption all content by 2014
Netflix will offer closed captions on all TV and movie content by September 2014 as part of a settlement with a deaf Massachusetts viewer who sued the company. The on-demand Internet streaming service agreed to the settlement Tuesday in U.S. District Cou
Diabetic alert dogs save lives
Rebecca Farrar with her diabetic alert dog, Shirley. (Photo: ZUMA Press) Rebecca Farrar was just 4 years old when she became seriously ill and was diagnosed with diabetes. Today, as a Type 1 diabetic, 8-year-old Rebecca’s blood sugar can drop without war
Social Media Helps Student With Autism Find His Voice
Henry Miles Frost and his service dog, Denzel, protest outside a downtown Tampa building during the Republican National Convention. Since he posted the photo to Facebook, he’s found global support in his effort to enroll in his South Tampa neighborhood s
AAPC Publishing Releases Lesson Plan a la Carte: Integrated Planning for Students With Special Needs
Integrate learning objectives with therapeutic supports and necessary modifications right in the classroom. Multiple worlds exist within the educational universe. Integrated planning happens when each of these worlds (teaching, clinical, administrative,
Teen’s death shows gap in autism care, say advocates
Advocates for those with autism say the death of an Edmonton teen this week reveals a serious gap in the province’s mental health system. Jarrett Bortscher, 18, was found dead Wednesday after going missing from his family’s home Sunday. “This kid was an
National Council on Disability (NCD) Releases Report on Rights of Parents with Disabilities & Their Children
WASHINGTON, DC -- On Thursday, September 27, the National Council on Disability (NCD), an independent federal agency, released “Rocking the Cradle: Ensuring the Rights of Parents with Disabilities and Their Children” -- a groundbreaking policy study, inf
Almost Half of U.S. Kids With Autism Have Been Bullied
MONDAY, Sept. 3 (HealthDay News) -- Nearly half of U.S. children with an autism spectrum disorder are victims of bullying, a new study finds. "The rate of bullying victimization among adolescents with an autism spectrum disorder is alarmingly high, indic
StateImpact Florida A Finalist For Innovative, Investigative Journalism Award
From our investigation: Tres Whitlock types on the DynaVox tablet that serves as his voice. Whitlock, 17, has cerebral palsy and can’t speak on his own. He tried to enroll in a Hillsborough County charter school, but the school had concerns about the the
NeoSpeech Text-to-Speech Featured in AAC Speech Application
We believe that NeoSpeech Text-to-Speech will benefit people with speech disabilities to communicate with other people. NeoSpeech, a leader in text-to-speech (TTS) software and speech-enabled solutions, announced today that an Augmentative and Alternativ
Looking to November, Disability Advocates Call for Accessible Polling Places
A Federal Court Judge will hear testimony Monday about how to make city polling sites more accessible for people who use wheelchairs or have vision impairments. Earlier this month, U.S. District Judge Deborah Batts ruled there were pervasive barriers at
Dr Thomas Armstrong – Neurodiversity – Aug 27,2012
Call in to speak with the host "Neurodiversity" by Dr Armstrong - Brilliance "Neurodiversity - Discovering the Extraordinary gifts of Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and other brain differences. This book has it all - what research tells us about the specific str
USC’s Special Ed Infographic
Welcome to Making Special Education Actually Work, the official blog of KPS4Parents. We sincerely hope that this blog proves to enlighten and empower all responsible adults to ensure that all children, regardless of disability, receive a Free and Appropr
Listening to Autism: A letter from Mrs. Teacher Lady
I wanted to thank you for all the hard work you do in not only helping your son through his journey and helping him accept himself, but helping others on their own journey as well. I wanted to share with you a little bit of my story. I have always found
Cognition and behavior: Words bias impressions in autism
Positive response: People with autism are more likely than controls to see as a friend a man making a disgusted expression and saying “You are friendly.” Individuals with autism rely more on words than on facial expressions when interpreting social cues,
National Federation of the Blind Applauds National Council on Disability Report
Dr. Marc Maurer, President of the National Federation of the Blind, said: “We applaud the National Council on Disability for its strong affirmation of the value, equality, and dignity of workers with disabilities, and for its recommendation that Section
Another School year !!
Another school year begins August the 16th for us. My son is a young 1st grader , he will be 6 on August 23rd . But will still be five when school starts . His kindergarten experience wasn’t so great . Before he started school last year I met with the sc
Special needs kids staying in traditional schools
LOS ANGELES The high cost of educating students with special needs is disproportionately falling on traditional public schools as other students increasingly opt for alternatives that aren't always readily open to those requiring special education. The i
Mom seeks heart transplant for autistic son
A Pennsylvania woman whose autistic adult son was not recommended for a heart transplant because of his illness and the complexity of the process, among other factors, said she wants to bring more attention to the decision-making process so that those wi
London 2012 Takes Paralympic Torch Relay to New Heights
The Paralympic Torch Relay is the perfect moment to get your flags back out and get behind the incredible athletes taking part as the excitement builds once again right across the capital • Flames to be created at the summits of the UK’s four highest pea
Did doctor waterboard daughter in experiment?
DOVER, Del. — To many people, Dr. Melvin Morse was a brilliant pediatrician at a renowned children's hospital and a best-selling author who parlayed his research on near-death experiences into appearances on "Larry King Live" and "The Oprah Winfrey Show.
WEBSITE WEDNESDAY: The Accessible Principal
I am so thrilled to share the with you, which is a new blog that was launched this summer by one of the best administrators I have ever met. Marilyn is a school and district leader in a suburb here in Chicago and she has interests ranging from technology
NYC to Integrate Special Ed Students into Regular Classrooms
New York City’s pilot for special education inclusion has moved the district to apply the program to a majority of the schools in the city. The city’s conclusion is that students with special needs should get access to the general education curriculum, n
What is the Timeline for Developing a Section 504 Plan?
My 6 year old daughter had her 3 year reevaluation. She has Childhood Apraxia of Speech and fine motor difficulty. She is doing well academically. At the IEP meeting, one month ago, it was decided that she no longer qualifies for an IEP. The school sugge
Disability in an Ableist World
Disability as a constructed concept is not a commonly understood or propagated idea in the mainstream of an ableist society. The average non-disabled person, and frequently even disabled people who’ve had limited or no exposure to disability rights theor
My autistic son’s step into the wider world — through Facebook
Susan Senator , a writer in Massachusetts, is the author of “The Autism Mom’s Survival Guide” and “Making Peace With Autism.” She blogs at susansenator.com/blog . When my autistic son, Nat, was about 8, we learned that he loved looking at family photos o
Resources and Downloads for Differentiated Instruction
Educators from Mesquite Elementary School, in Tucson, Arizona, have provided these resources for you to use in your own school. Daily collaborative planning time at Mesquite Elementary enables teachers to plan differentiated instruction to address the pr
How to Make Inclusive Practices a Reality For Your School
The new school year is fast approaching and The Inclusive Class Podcast is set to help you prepare! On Friday, August 10, 2012 we will kick off our "Back to School" series which is 3 podcasts that will discuss tips, strategies and resources for helping y
Vitamin D Deficiency In Sick Kids Could Make Them Sicker
If you're an adult, and a relatively healthy one at that, then you've probably been confused in recent years about whether or not you're getting enough vitamin D. Indeed, a series of reports from some of the top medical institutions – including the Insti
“Yee Haw, Howdy, Amen” – When Schools Make Up their Mind in Advance!
IDEA requires Parent Involvement in Placement Decisions and developing an IEP for your child. Pre-selecting programs violates this right.
Researchers discover gene mutations in patients with alternating hemiplegia of childhood
Alternating hemiplegia of childhood (AHC) is a very rare disorder that causes paralysis that freezes one side of the body and then the other in devastating bouts that arise at unpredictable intervals. Seizures, learning disabilities and difficulty walkin
Child mental abuse as harmful as physical assaults
Children made to feel worthless, unloved or unwanted can suffer serious damage, says a report urging pediatricians to be alert to the problem. (iStock) Child psychological abuse can be as damaging as physical assault, but it remains underreported and not
Human rights complaint over Montreal girl forced off bus
The family of a 12-year-old girl who was forced off a public transit bus in Ville St-Laurent, Que., last month is filing a civil rights complaint against Montreal's public transit authority and the Montreal police department. According to a release by th
Turner Classic Movies Showcases Films About Disability
TCM to Examine Hollywood's Depiction of People with Disabilities in The Projected Image: A History of Disability in Film in October Lawrence Carter-Long Joins TCM's Robert Osborne for Historic Month-Long Film Exploration, Presented in Collaboration with
The Americans with Disabilities Act: CEC Celebrates 22nd Anniversary
On July 26, 2012 the United States will mark the 22nd anniversary of key landmark legislation, the Americans with Disabilities Act, also known as ADA (Public Law, 101-336). Signed into law by President George H.W. Bush, this historic legislation resulted
Self-directed learning helps some students reach goals, study suggests
Students with cognitive and learning disabilities that were taught the fundamentals of self-determination were more likely to access mainstream curricula and achieve their academic and other goals, according to new research by Karrie Shogren, a professor
Insights for autism from tuberous sclerosis complex
Genetic risk: Mustafa Sahin studies tuberous sclerosis, a rare genetic disorder that leads to autism in about half of the cases. Whole-genome sequencing studies published in the past few years suggest that there are somewhere between 100 and 1,000 rare g
Teaching Reading to Children with Special Needs
On Friday July 27, 2012, Nicole and Terri will be interviewing Dr. Kathleen Whitbread about the importance of including children with special needs in reading instruction. In todays schools, children who are deemed incapable of reading, are usually pulle
Insights into How Deaf Brain Processes Touch and Sight
People who are born deaf process the senses of touch and sight differently than those who are born with normal hearing, a new study reports. The finding supports the notion that loss of a sense, such as hearing, affects brain development. Hearing loss th
Community Conversation: Autism and Public Discourse
I agree with you 100%. Is raising my son easy? In no way it is...maybe harder than others, maybe the same, I don't know, I don't raise other's kids. But the constant complaints of parents about how difficult the children are, and I believe mostly so that
Autism, Siblings, and Fairness
Shannon Des Roches Rosa www.Squidalicious.com www.ThinkingAutismGuide.com Thirteen-year-old Iz is a wonderful big sister to Leo, who is just 21 months her junior. This photo is of the two of them at a family reunion earlier this month; she's letting Leo
Bright Not Broken – Dr Fred Volkmar – Yale Child Development – Jul 26,2012
This week we continue our conversation on ASD and DSM-5 with leading autism expert and bestselling author Dr. Fred Volkmar director of The Yale Child Development Center. Dr. Volkmar will address the overall rate of autism (1-88) and the percentage that i
School-Wide PBIS & Teachers Who Bully
One reason, I suspect, is that people are so focused on holding bullies accountable that they’re not focusing on the real causes of bullying. But, that’s a reactive strategy rather than a proactive attempt to prevent bullying in the first place. Addition
Mechanism of CSF drainage benefits unclear in normal pressure hydrocephalus
The beneficial effect of removing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from patients with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is not mediated by reduction of ventricle volume, research suggests. This would be an obvious mechanism, say Niklas Lenfeldt (Umeå Universi
Diencephalic-mesencephalic junction dysplasia: a novel recessive brain malformation
1 Department of Clinical Genetics, Division of Human Genetics and Genome Research, National Research Centre, Cairo 12311, Egypt 2 Department of Radiology, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt 3 Department of Paediatrics, Seattle Children’s Research Institute,
Dole, Coehlo Urge Congress To Ratify Convention On Rights Of Persons With Disabilities
(The Hill) July 18, 2012 WASHINGTON, DC-- [Excerpt provided by Inclusion Daily Express] As two individuals with disabilities who served in Congress, the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 1990 was not only a proud moment in our careers, it
The physics of autism
People sometimes say that children with autism “march to a different drummer” or “vibrate at a different frequency.” New research analyzing electrical activity in the brain—via electroencephalography, or EEGs—makes it tempting to speculate that these cli
“We Want Respect”: Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Address Respect in Research
Abstract Respect is central to ethical guidelines for research. The scientific community has long debated, and at times disagreed on, how to demonstrate respect in research with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To illuminate the v
Global Update: Children With Disabilities Are Victimized More Often
VIKTOR DRACHEV/Agence France Presse, Getty Images Children with disabilities are almost four times more likely to be victims of violence than other children, according to a new report commissioned by the World Health Organization. The report , published
Autism and the Feel-Good Story
When Yvonne Freaney killed her 11-year-old autistic son, she defended herself by saying that he must have wanted to be murdered because "he won't be autistic in heaven." There are some who regard heaven as their ultimate reward even if they have a reason
Hydrocephalus Research Conference Highlights
By Paul Gross, Chairman of the HA Board of Directors Dr. David Limbrick addresses attendees about the current state of bio-markers. The third NIH sponsored research conference on hydrocephalus concluded on July 11th and by all accounts was a resounding s
New Law Increases Safety for People with Developmental Disabilities Traveling on School Buses
Trenton, NJ – Taking another important step in the Christie Administration’s commitment to support individuals with developmental disabilities, Acting Governor Kim Guadagno today signed into law legislation that secures school bus safety precautions for
Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities
The Council is in the process of completing our annual update to the five-year state plan. This current plan is in effect for federal fiscal years October 1, 2011 through September 30, 2016. The plan is updated and resubmitted to our federal oversight ag
Bullying Prevention State Laws
This new brief focuses on bullying prevention legislation. To date, 47 states have passed legislation requiring schools to take leadership in addressing the problem. This brief provides information on elements of a bullying prevention plan, the school’s
New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council
The New York State Developmental Disabilities Planning Council is a Federally-funded New York State Agency working under the direction of the Governor's Office. The DDPC is responsible for developing new ways to improve the delivery of services and suppo
Saliva and pupil size differences in autism show system in overdrive
ScienceDaily (July 12, 2012) University of Kansas researchers have found larger resting pupil size and lower levels of a salivary enzyme associated with the neurotransmitter norepinephrine in children with autism spectrum disorder. However, even though
Support the Convention on the Rights of Persons With Disabilities (CRPD)
The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) is an international treaty that outlines the obligations of ratifying countries to promote, protect, fulfill, and ensure the rights of persons with disabilities. It embodies the American id
Strong communication between brain and muscle requires both having the protein LRP4
Communication between the brain and muscle must be strong for us to eat, breathe or walk. Now scientists have found that a protein known to be on the surface of muscle cells must be present in both tissues to ensure the conversation is robust. Scientists
Leaders@ED: Alexa Posny, Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services
Alexa Posny has had 23 jobs. While she never envisioned a specific career path, every position she held was a stepping stone towards her current position as the Assistant Secretary for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) at the U.S. Dep
Deaf people “feel touch” with hearing part of brain
(LiveScience) Individuals who are born deaf use the "hearing" part of their brain to feel touch and to see objects, suggests new research that highlights the plasticity of the human brain. The new study, detailed online July 11 in The Journal of Neurosci
A Letter to Parents of Children with Special Needs
I hope you have an enjoyable and relaxing summer with your family! Don’t forget to keep your child reading, practice some math facts or maybe even keep a journal of your family vacation. It's easy to forget about school for the summer and let the days pa
Special-Ed Students at Greater Risk of Bullying, Being Bullied: Study
TUESDAY, July 3 (HealthDay News) -- Students with visible disabilities and those receiving special education services for behavioral problems are at greater risk of being bullied and of bullying others, according to a new study. These children also are m
ASAN Public Comment on Defining HCBS in 1915i
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network applauds the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ decision to move forward on regulations defining the scope of settings acceptable under the 1915i state plan option. We concur with CMS that this definition, once
Parents of Malnourished Boy “Caring, Fit”
Victor and Oliafa Ramos may have been misinformed, Grey said, but they were trying to care for their sick child. The little boy was so depleted when he arrived at the hospital, he couldn't walk, according to court documents. He weighed 29 pounds, his sto
With mind-reading speller, free-for-all conversations that are silent and still
Researchers have come up with a device that may enable people who are completely unable to speak or move at all to nevertheless manage unscripted back-and-forth conversation. The key to such silent and still communication is the first real-time, brain-sc
Magnets in iPad2 May Alter Settings on Brain Shunt Devices: Study
TUESDAY, June 26 (HealthDay News) -- Magnets embedded in the Apple iPad 2 can interfere with the settings of magnetically programmable shunt valves, which are critical devices to drain excess fluid from the brains of those with hydrocephalus and other co
National Council on Disability (NCD) Honors Life of Justin Dart
Listen to the heart of this old soldier. As with all of us the time comes when body and mind are battered and weary. But I do not go quietly into the night. I do not give up struggling to be a responsible contributor to the sacred continuum of human life
Christine Ashby appointed director of School of Education’s Institute on Communication and Inclusion
School of Education Dean Douglas Biklen has announced the appointment of professor Christine Ashby as director of the Institute on Communication and Inclusion (ICI), effective June 1. The ICI, formerly the Facilitated Communication Institute, conducts re
Cooling Therapy for Birth Disorder Boosts Later Survival
A treatment that cools the bodies of infants who lack sufficient oxygen at birth brings benefits that last for years, a new study confirms. Infants sometimes develop severe oxygen deficiency during the birth process. This condition—known as birth asphyxi
ASAN Public Comment on DSM-5 ASD Criteria
Today is the last day to provide public comment to the American Psychiatric Association (APA) regarding the definition of ASD within the DSM-5, the manual used by physicians and many policymakers to define autism and other disability diagnoses. You can f
Threats from fellow inmates delay arraignment of woman accused of starving child
A 23-year-old Burien woman accused of starving her 2-month-old son did not appear for arraignment Thursday because of concerns about her safety. Katherine A. Mattern has been held in "protective custody" at the King County Jail since shortly after her Ju
43 arrested in Capitol protest over service cuts
Sacramento -- Hundreds of home care workers and their clients filled the hallways of the state Capitol on Wednesday, shouting and cheering as they made a last-minute push to save the In-Home Supportive Services program from the budget ax. Forty-three peo
U.S. Department of Education Announces New Awards in Technology and Media Services
The U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs has released applications for new awards in Technology and Media Services for Individuals with Disabilities--Models Promoting Young Children's Use of Assistive Technology. The purpos
An Oregon School for Troubled Teens Is Under Scrutiny
On April 28, the U.S. Supreme Court will hear arguments in a case that has caused anguish in the world of special education and children's mental health. The case, Forest Grove v. TA, centers on the question of whether families with a disabled child have
Genetics: 2q21.1 variations link autism, attention deficit
Copy cat: Repeated stretches of DNA on either side of the 2q21.1 genomic region (top and bottom, here) have made it difficult to spot the region in genetic screens. Researchers have found deletions and duplications of a small piece of chromosome 2 in peo
Phonological Awareness and Print Knowledge of Preschool Children With Cochlear Implants [Article]
Correspondence to Sophie E. Ambrose, who is now at the Center for Childhood Deafness, Boys Town National Research Hospital, Omaha, NE: sophie.e.ambrose{at}gmail.com Purpose: To determine whether preschool-age children with cochlear implants have age-appr
Why Do Schools Resist Writing Methodology into IEPs?
Our child has a learning disability and has difficulty reading, writing & spelling. Nobody at the school understands dyslexia or how desperate our child is. We want multi-sensory learning like an Orton Gillingham approach. The school said they get to cho
Hurtful use of the ‘R’ word
We are writing to express our offense at a term used in Robert McCartney’s May 24 Metro column, “ One way or the other, a grim conclusion about Mayor Gray .” In referring to the leadership of D.C. Mayor Vincent C. Gray (D), McCartney stated that he “help
Ohio runner with cerebral palsy, 11, becomes YouTube hit
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) – When John Blaine realized 11-year-old Matt Woodrum was struggling through his 400-meter race at school in central Ohio, the physical education teacher felt compelled to walk over and check on the boy. "Matt, you're not going to stop
$1 million suit alleges teacher abused autistic boy
By Chris Roberts, NBCBayArea.com SAN FRANCISCO -- A special education teacher in Redwood City has been hit with a $1 million lawsuit by the mother of a 5-year-old autistic child for allegedly kicking and starving him, according to reports. Nadia Cortez s
Stop IDEA Funding Cuts!
There could be some big changes awaiting you during the next school year if Congress does not act soon to save programs for children with disabilities such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Many federal programs will automaticall
The Lighter Side: Top 10 Signs of Advocate Overload
–From one of our favorite advocates who loves the 4 seasons in TX – drought, flood, blizzard, & twister, is a COPAA member and a faithful conference attendee. We hope, in spite of “advocate overload,” he made it safely home from Miami. 1. You noticed tha
Thirty national disability organizations blast “Deadly Consequences” segment of the Dr. Phil show
“This segment was such a horrific assault on people with intellectual disabilities that ignoring it would be a dangerous mistake.” According to the letter, the segment “presented the idea that parents should be able to euthanize their children who have i
MindSpec launches new science outreach website: Autism Reading Room
MindSpec proudly announces the public launch of its new science outreach website, Autism Reading Room (http://readingroom.mindspec.org). Autism Reading Room is the first comprehensive online project to build bridges between autism research scientists and
Supporting Adults With Autism
By Melanie Grayce West Over the last decade, there's been a general increase in awareness of the need to provide tailored services, support and education to children with autism and other developmental disabilities. But there's been less talk about the n
Science-Based Decision-Making in Special Ed
Last month, I wrote an article for Special Education Advisor, a blog operated by some folks located in Chatsworth, CA who are dedicated to helping parents of children with special needs. You can see the article by clicking here. The title of the article
Report: Disabled Face Transportation Barriers
WASHINGTON, DC -- Two civil rights organizations are highlighting disparities in transportation access for people with disabilities. "Equity in Transportation for People with Disabilities," a report by The American Association of People with Disabilities
Jackson, Miss., schools to no longer handcuff students
JACKSON, Mississippi (AP) — Public schools in Jackson, Mississippi, will no longer handcuff students to poles or other objects and will train staff at its alternative school on better methods of discipline. Mississippi's second-largest school district ag
Are charter schools bad at special ed?
Critics say public charter schools have an unfair advantage over regular public schools because they are less likely to have students with learning disabilities. That is not always true. Consider one D.C. charter management organization, DC Prep, with mo
Does “Eligible for Special Ed” Mean an IEP?
My 15 year old daughter was determined eligible for special education. The special ed teacher was pushing for a 504, I want an IEP. If she qualifies for special education doesn’t that mean she gets an IEP? The answer to your question about an IEP v. a 50
Cycling Study Aims to Improve Movement of Children with Cerebral Palsy
AUSTIN, Texas - (May 23, 2012) - Cycling training is an effective therapy for children with cerebral palsy, a type of brain injury that causes altered development in both children and adults. It is one of the most common movement disorders in children an
Helping Special Education Students, and Paying With His Career
There was no particular moment when Harris Lirtzman decided to blow the whistle, and so close the door on his teaching career. A former deputy state comptroller, he had decided to give public school teaching a midcareer whirl. In 2009, he landed a job as
Assistive Technology – What is UDL, NIMAS, and AIM?
The National Instructional Materials Accessibility Standard (NIMAS) creates a national standard for print materials in accessible formats. Schools and publishers must adhere to these standards when creating educational materials – textbooks, workbooks, a
Many Parents of Kids With Autism Don’t Put Faith in Pediatricians
WEDNESDAY, May 16 (HealthDay News) -- Many parents of children with an autism spectrum disorder don't feel they can turn to their pediatricians for advice on treatments, a new study finds. Likewise, many pediatricians don't think they have the knowledge
iPad gives voice to kids with autism
Sharia Siddiqui uses an iPad to help her communicate. Her father says it's "given her a sense of control she never had." STORY HIGHLIGHTS Touchscreen iPads are giving voice to autistic children, adults Apps for it and other tablets aid those with trouble
Autistic Kids at the Movies: Where Shhhh Isn’t Allowed
On April 10, thousands of children with autism will be able to do something that for many of them was impossible until recently: go to the movies. They'll see How to Train Your Dragon at one of 93 "sensory-friendly" screenings in 47 cities across 30 stat
1 In 3 Autistic Young Adults Lack Jobs, Education
CHICAGO (AP) â One in 3 young adults with autism have no paid job experience, college or technical schooling nearly seven years after high school graduation, a study finds. That's a poorer showing than those with other disabilities including those who ar
Howard graduate caps a four-year fight for access
Britney Wilson graduated Saturday from Howard University in a flourish of collegiate honors: Phi Beta Kappa, summa cum laude. But none of them brought quite the same rush of pride as the shiny new handicapped door-opener that awaited her back at the resi
Marine returns from war to surprise: Son with cerebral palsy walks for the first time
Staff sergeant Jeremy Cooney hugs his son, Michael, after the boy with cerebral palsy surprised his father by walking to him. (CBS) (CBS News) A U.S. Marine serving in Afghanistan traveled thousands of miles home for a reunion with his family, but it was
Growing Old with Autism
Noah Greenfeld, 42, who spent 15 years in a state mental facility, is now in an assisted living home near his parents in Los Angeles. Noah, my younger brother, does not talk. Nor can he dress himself, prepare a meal for himself or wipe himself. He is a 4
A Daughter With Down Syndrome Is The Perfect Sister
Kelle Hampton is the author of the memoir Bloom: Finding Beauty in the Unexpected. "See that right there?" the obstetrician asked as she glided the sonogram wand across my middle and pointed to a blurry image on the monitor. "It's a girl," she announced.
Sequencing Works in Clinical Setting to Help — Finally — Get a Diagnosis
Advanced high-speed gene-sequencing has been used in the clinical setting to find diagnoses for seven children out of a dozen who were experiencing developmental delays and congenital abnormalities for mysterious reasons. "I thought if we could obtain ev
Kids with cerebral palsy may benefit from video game play
ScienceDaily (May 7, 2012) Like their healthy peers, children with disabilities may spend too much time in front of a video screen. For children with cerebral palsy (CP), this leads to an even greater risk of being overweight or developing health issues
Autistic boy’s mother feels pressured by school
Amanda Edgett said her 10-year-old son is forced by his school to take a 40-minute walk each day at lunch. (CBC) Catherine Derry, a district education council candidate in the upcoming election, said Edgett’s story will sound familiar to many parents of
Comparing General Education to Special Education: What are the Differences?
Students with autism are educated in a variety of settings including general education (GE) and self-contained (SC) classrooms. In GE placements, students are educated with their peers by a general education teacher. In self-contained settings, students
The Coming Special Needs Care Crisis
Eli Toucey (left) has seizures and social issues that make it all but impossible to leave him with a random babysitter. What could really save Hillary Toucey’s life is a personal-care attendant to help with her 7-year-old son, Eli. Dark-haired, fair-skin
Being left out puts youths with special needs at risk for depression
The challenges that come with battling a chronic medical condition or developmental disability are enough to get a young person down. But being left out, ignored or bullied by their peers is the main reason youths with special health care needs report sy
Disability photography: Changing the world one photograph at a time
Researching the subject, I quickly realised that the majority of photographs of disabled people are very negative, and mainly used within charitable organisations. Having lived within a disability world all my life, I already knew that societies’ opinion towards disability is very negative, and that has to change. I knew from that moment on, that this was something that disability was passionate about portraying in a positive light.
Parents Wire Kids To Prove Teachers’ Verbal Abuse
CHERRY HILL, N.J. (AP) — Teachers hurled insults like "bastard," "tard," "damn dumb" and "a hippo in a ballerina suit." A bus driver threatened to slap one child, while a bus monitor told another, "Shut up, you little dog." They were all special needs st
U.S. Department of Education Reaches Agreement with School District on Services for Students with Disabilities
The U.S. Department of Education announced today that its Office for Civil Rights has reached a resolution agreement with the Memphis, Tenn., City Schools on aids and services to students with disabilities. The agreement resolves a compliance review init
SparkNotes – English Lit For Students With Attention Deficit Disorder
SparkNotes Android App Review by AndroidTapp.com | AndroidTapp. My first reaction to this new Android App, which makes English Lit short and to the point, was that I would never allow my kids to read the great works in summary form. We used to call littl
Dr Temple Grandin – Different Not Less – Apr 30,2012
We are honored to have Dr Grandin return for her fifth appearance on The Coffee Klatch. "Different Not Less " the phrase made famous by Dr Grandin's mother Eustacia Cutler in the HBO biopic Thinking In Pictures the story of Temple Grandins life, is the t
Working to Give All Students the Ability to Succeed
Tech-Now, Inc. is one of the many organizations across the country implementing the High School/High Tech Program, which provides young people with all types of disabilities the opportunity to explore jobs or further education leading to technology-relat
How to Use OAR’s Kit for Kids
The rising numbers of students with autism in public schools and the increased attention autism receives in the mainstream media further highlights the importance of student education about the disorder. OAR’s newest resource, the Kit for Kids, is a tool
Todd Drezner: Autism and the Hypothetical Child
Given how many autistic people there are in the world, it's odd how much of the conversation about autism revolves around children who don't exist. The most common such child is the one who is "indistinguishable from his peers." This is the child who will supposedly emerge after successful therapies or treatments for autism leave the child essentially "normal.
Struggle over how to evaluate special ed teachers
Lynne Sladky / AP In this April 3, 2012, photo, teacher Bev Campbell, left, holds up stuffed animals in front of student Sebastian Rodriguez in her special education class at Amelia Earhart Elementary School in Hialeah, Fla. More than a dozen states have
U.S. Education Department Reaches Agreement with Memphis City Schools on Aids, Services for Students with Disabilities
The U.S. Department of Education announced today that its Office for Civil Rights has reached a resolution agreement with the Memphis, Tenn., City Schools on aids and services to students with disabilities. The agreement resolves a compliance review init
Educational rights for children with AD/HD: A primer for parents
This primer for parents is aimed at helping parents recognize attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) and learn about the two main laws, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, th
Sad, But True. Decision-maker v. Equal Participant
My school told me, “You are the expert at home and the district is the expert at school.” I did not agree to my daughter’s IEP. The district refused to allow me to tape record meetings and include my notes with the district’s notes. I filed a state compl
Children With Autism Are Often Targeted By Bullies
Lots of kids get bullied. But kids with autism are especially vulnerable. A new survey by the Interactive Autism Network found that nearly two-thirds of children with autism spectrum disorders have been bullied at some point. And it found that these kids
Outing The Prejudice: Making The Least Dangerous Assumption
We highly recommend this brilliant article by Zach Rossetti and Carol Tashie on their interpretation of Anne Donnellan's concept of presuming competence, the least dangerous assumption.
RESNA Releases Wheelchair Position Statement
The Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) has issued a position paper titled "The Application of Ultralight Manual Wheelchairs." Developed through RESNA's Special Interest Group on Seating and Wheeled Mobility, the paper highlights that: Wheelchairs should conform to the individual, and not the individual to the chair; Wheelchairs should be as lightweight as possible while also being fully adjustable to meet the individual's needs; and Wheelchairs that are lightweight and adjustable cause the least amount of injury to users and increase functionality.
OT students on reliability of ADA-Compliance Assessment Toolkit
Misericordia University student researchers recently had their findings about the reliability of the Americans with Disabilities Act-Compliance Assessment Toolkit (ADA-CAT) presented at the California State University, Northridge Annual International Tec
Disabled Military Protection Act Allows Military Families to include Special Needs Trusts within the Survivor Benefit Plan
Currently, under the Survivor Benefit Plan (SBP), a military retiree can set aside up to 55 percent of his monthly retirement pay to provide their family members with a monthly stipend, after he or she dies. However, these benefits are counted as income
Upper Limb Therapy in Children With CP
Intensive goal-directed upper limb training programs using either constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT) or bimanual training (BIM) achieved domain-specific changes in quality of life relating to feelings about functioning and participation and physi
Scoliosis Treatment Might Reduce Need for Surgeries
THURSDAY, April 19 (HealthDay News) -- Magnetically controlled growing rods can treat the spinal disorder scoliosis in children without the need for repeat invasive surgeries, a small new study suggests. Scoliosis is an abnormal curving of the spine that
SchoolBook: Testing Takes Its Toll on Special Needs Students
April 19, 2012, 8:12 a.m. It has been a challenging week for many third through eighth grade public school students in New York City, as they have started their days on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday with the federally mandated English Language Arts exa
Few Answers In Abuse Probes At Homes For Disabled
Fairview Developmental Center in Costa Mesa, Calif., is a sprawling facility of offices, residential buildings and therapy rooms set between a noisy boulevard and a golf course. Some 400 people with developmental disabilities live at Fairview. And while
The school with more teachers than students
18 April 2012 Last updated at 19:16 ET With autism diagnoses rising more and more parents are plunged into a battle to understand the condition and find their child the right treatment, writes Louis Theroux. Joey Morales-Ward is a 13-year-old kid who liv
Utterly Mark : A Vermonter with autism makes his inner voice heard through film
Mark Utter sits at a computer keyboard with a broad, toothy grin, his eyes closed and head cocked slightly, as though he were listening to a muse whispering in his ear. After a long pause, he opens his eyes and, with slow, deliberate movements, pecks at the keys with a single, outstretched finger.
Inclusive education still best model, says advocate
Gordon Porter says there are now hundreds of specialized teachers and thousands of assistants in the province. (CBC) A long-time advocate for inclusive education maintains it is still the right approach for students with special needs. But Gordon Porter,
Implications of bringing genome sequencing Into the consulting room
These programs, which were discussed last month at a rare-diseases conference hosted by the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute near Cambridge, UK, aim to provide a genetic diagnosis that could end years of uncertainty about a child’s disability. “The overarching theme is that genome-based diagnosis is now hitting mainstream medicine,” says Han Brunner, a medical geneticist at the Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre in the Netherlands, who leads one of the projects.
RETHINKING AUTISM – Dana Commandatore
All too often in the world of autism, celebrity and sex appeal are used to promote pseudo-science and personal agenda. Rethinking Autism wants to change minds, change the current media conversation and help give autistic people a more prominent voice in
Neglect probe police arrest three
16 April 2012 Last updated at 13:47 ET Three people have been arrested by police involved in an investigation at a day centre for people with learning disabilities in Cornwall. The John Daniel Centre in Penzance caters for more than 80 people. A 21-year-
‘Seclusion rooms’ for autistic students raise questions
Andrew St. Vincent's parents pose questions around the coffee table as the middle-schooler with autism builds a Lego city. They want to know about the room. "So you were in there by yourself?" his mother asks. "When would you be in that room?" his father
Stereotypes of Children with Disabilities
Stigmatization is one of the greatest obstacles to the successful integration of people with Trisomy 21 (T21 or Down syndrome), the most frequent genetic disorder associated with intellectual disability. Research on attitudes and stereotypes toward these people still focuses on explicit measures subjected to social-desirability biases, and neglects how variability in facial stigmata influences attitudes and stereotyping.
Seahawks GM John Schneider knows: Autism is a family diagnosis
RENTON — Ten-year-old Ben Schneider is a fun kid. He has a great laugh, loves Legos and playing video games. You can hear the pride in his parents' voices when they tell you how smart he is. When Ben was 16 months old, he could arrange the letters of the
Autistic Hoya: End the torture. Make this go viral.
The public must see what the Judge Rotenberg Center is doing. Their experts claimed that the public would not understand the content of this video without "proper context." There is no context that justifies the use of torture against anybody ever. The public has not merely a right but a responsibility to watch this video and share it everywhere.
Teachers Weigh-In: Do We Over Accommodate? Join the Debate…
Read more as teachers debate accommodations for students. Pete & Pam Wright and Advocate Pat Howey join the discussion. Take the poll – then click “read more” to add your comment and join the debate! I teach at a charter school. We feel that if the stude
Watching TV: Even Worse for Kids Than You Think
It's no secret that sedentary behavior contributes to obesity and chronically poor health. But not all sedentary behaviors are created equal, according to a new study that examines the link between blood pressure in children and their choice of inactive
Aspiring to Conquer Crossover Acting Path
It didn’t take much rehearsing for Russell Harvard, who plays the deaf son of a loquacious and argumentative British family in the Off Broadway play “Tribes,” to get inside his character’s skin. Like his character Billy, the 30-year-old actor is himself
Marlo Thomas: The Givers: What Inspires Michael J. Fox? A Very Personal Interview
Unbowed by his disease and still exhibiting his trademark energy, Michael reminded me not only of the single-mindedness that is fundamental to fighting for a cause, but also of the indestructibility of the human spirit -- one that looks at each new day as another chance to enjoy the magic and the gift of life. If only all of us could learn that lesson.
Deaf children’s gesture mismatches provide clues to learning moments
In a discovery that could help instructors better teach deaf children, a team of University of Chicago researchers has found that a gesture-sign mismatch made while explaining a math problem suggests that a deaf child is experiencing a teachable moment. Teachers also frequently use their own gestures to help students learn. They can illustrate how numbers in an equation can be grouped, for example, to help students understand how to make both sides of an equation have the same value. The deaf child watching the interpreter will then miss any messages that the teacher sends in gesture and not in
Noncoding gene linked to autism
Small player: Moesin, a protein that is involved in brain development, appears to be regulated by a noncoding RNA that has been implicated in autism. Researchers have identified a noncoding RNA, a genetic message that is not translated into a protein, th
France’s autism treatment ‘shame’
By Hugh Schofield BBC News, Paris In many countries the standard way of treating autistic children is with behavioural therapy - stimulating and rewarding them to develop the skills they need to function in society - bu
3 genes linked to autism spectrum disorders
Mutations in three new genes have been linked to autism, according to new studies including one with investigators at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. All three studies include lead investigators of the Autism Sequencing Consortium (ASC). The findings, in
Mother pleads guilty in Ohio malnutrition death
CINCINNATI The mother of a 14-year-old girl who had cerebral palsy and weighed 28 pounds when she died last year pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and other charges Friday in southwest Ohio. Angela Norman, 42, of Dayton, entered the pleas in Mon
Shoreham students “experience” autism for a day
Fourth grader Nick Donnelly counted along with the rest of his classmates seated around the small cafeteria table at Miller Avenue School in Shoreham Thursday.When they reached 15, they pulled off the colorful bandanas that covered their eyes. Nick strai
Letter: Adults with autism must be a focus
Grim news regarding the prevalence of autism continues to make big headlines ["Keep effort going to unravel autism," Editorial, April 2]. It is jarring and heartbreaking.However, we must remember that autism is not specifically a childhood disorder. My 1
Adults with autism must be a focus
Grim news regarding the prevalence of autism continues to make big headlines ["Keep effort going to unravel autism," Editorial, April 2]. It is jarring and heartbreaking.However, we must remember that autism is not specifically a childhood disorder. My 1
Another Mom Faces Murder Charge in Child with Cerebral Palsy’s Death
A New York woman has pleaded not guilty to an upgraded charge of second-degree murder in the death last summer of her 8-year-old disabled daughter. Veronica Cirella, of Plainview, was initially charged with manslaughter after authorities said she admitte
2q37 Deletion Syndrome: Searching for Answers
The day after my son Aiden was born, the doctors noticed that his features were different from what they considered “normal”. As a new mom this frightened me, as I did not know or understand what was happening with my brand new baby. A geneticist was qui
Parents charged in death of Texas boy, 10
TEXAS CITY, Texas, April 5 (UPI) -- The parents of a disabled 10-year-old Texas boy whose body was found in a box are now charged in his death, authorities say. Texas City police said Tina Louise Madrid, 42, of Texas City was arrested Wednesday and was h
Hundreds of genes involved in autism, sequencing studies say
New network: Nearly 40 percent of the mutated genes identified in one exome sequencing study of autism are part of an interconnected network of interacting proteins. The largest set of exome sequencing studies, which analyze the protein coding region of
Never give up hope
My son Joey has Autism and Epilepsy. We want the world to know that Autism looks different for every child. Parents can't give up hope; they are the ones that lead the journey their kids are on and it is up to them how successful their kids will be. They
Therapists Address Esophageal Atresia
The Esophageal Atresia Treatment Program at Children's Hospital Boston in Boston, MA, is one of the only programs in the country specifically designed to care for children with this condition. Setting itself apart from the rest, Children's Hospital Bosto
Dysphagia (Swallowing Problems)
Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University
Releasing IEE Data Without Parent Consent
I am a private psychologist. I completed an IEE, then turned in the report to the district and parents. We held an IEP meeting to review the results. Can the district request that I release my raw test data, test protocols, and test materials to the scho
Bill Introduced regarding special needs trust
H.R. 4329 -This bill or resolution was assigned to a congressional committee on March 29, 2012, which will consider it before possibly sending it on to the House or Senate as a whole. To amend title 10, United States Code, to provide for the payment of monthly annuities under the Survivor Benefit Plan to a supplemental or special needs trust established for the sole benefit of a disabled dependent child of a participant in the Survivor Benefit Plan.
Recording catches teachers mistreating special needs student
Two Alabama teachers have been put on administrative leave after the mother of a 10-year-old student with cerebral palsy attached an audio recorder to the bottom of his wheelchair and caught them scolding him about drooling, among other things. Jose Sali
HHS Announces New Members of Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC)
Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced today that she has invited 15 individuals to serve as public members on the Interagency Autism Coordinating Committee (IACC). The IACC is a federal advisory committee established by th
The Upside of Autism
When it comes to disorders of the mind, our society has a tendency to seek out the safety of clear-cut categories. We want there to be a bright line separating normal from abnormal, health from sickness. Alas, the human brain is a category buster, an org
Communicate with Me | Savarese
Last year Dr. Sanjay Gupta of CNN wanted to talk to me so much that he flew me to New York and got me a room at the fanciest hotel in the city, but ironically at my school, most kids choose not to talk to me at all. Why is that? Recently I surveyed some of my close friends and discovered that most people aren't sure how to talk freely to me, and I greatly decided to use their questions as the basis for this piece.
People With Autism May Be Better at Processing Information
People with autism have an enhanced ability to process information, which may explain the apparently higher-than-average percentage of people with autism who work in the information technology industry according to a team of researchers at the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London. Dr. Nilli Lavie, Dr. Anna Remington and Dr. John Swettenham published their findings in the Journal of Abnormal Psychology. "Our study confirms our hypothesis that people with autism have higher perceptual capacity compared to the typical population. This can only be seen once the task becomes more demanding, with more information to process. In the more challenging
Two-Thirds of Kids With Autism Have Been Bullied: Study
FRIDAY, March 30 (HealthDay News) -- Nearly two-thirds of American children with autism have been bullied at some point in their lives, and these kids are bullied three times more often than their siblings without autism, a new survey finds. Bullying occ
School bans disabled girl from using walker
Kristi Roberts was stunned when school officials insisted that her disabled 5-year-old daughter switch to a wheelchair from the walker she’d been using for the previous two years. Little LaKay had battled cerebral palsy and epilepsy since she was born, a
Kyoto prof rolls out omnidirectional wheelchair
A mechanical engineering professor has taken the wraps off his vehicle that is designed to become a next-generation wheelchair. As its formal name suggests, this is the Personal Mobile Vehicle, or Permoveh for short. Rolling it around at
Outsourcing to the Autistic Rather Than to India
Part of the reason autism has captivated Hollywood movie makers more than other development disabilities is that, for all the difficulties it brings those who have it, it also gives some of them the ability to perform uncanny feats of brainpower: effortl
Eric Dompierre barred from playing basketball with his high school team
Eric never let the fact that he was born with Down Syndrome stop him from playing. But now, he may have to cheer on his team from the bleachers. The association says because he's 19 years old, he isn't allowed to play in his senior year of high school. "I'd be sad if I couldn't play with them and not have them in my life. They want me to play, and I want to play with them," said Eric.
Helping Rare Disease Patients Find Their Voice
Stephen P. Spielberg, M.D., Ph.D., FDA’s deputy commissioner for medical products and tobacco, talks about lessons learned from the study of rare diseases. Patients often need advocates, and that can be especially true for people with a rare disease, who
National Council on Disability (NCD) Releases New Recommendations & Guidance on Managed Care for People with Disabilities
The National Council on Disability appreciates the need to reform health care and life-long services and supports delivered through Medicare and Medicaid programs to all citizens, including those with disabilities. The role of state agencies is the lynch
Employer Best Practices for Workers with Caregiving Responsibilities
In 2007, EEOC issued guidance explaining the circumstances under which discrimination against workers with caregiving responsibilities might constitute discrimination based on sex, disability or other characteristics protected by federal employment discr
Education Department Awards $24.6 Million in Grants To Support Teacher and Principal Development
U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan today announced the award of nearly $24.6 million for three grants to improve student achievement by increasing the effectiveness of teachers and principals. Funded under the Supporting Effective Educators Development
ADA Kits for Hotel Guests with Hearing Loss
Harris Communications makes it easy to be in compliance with the new ADA requirements for deaf and hard of hearing hotel guests. Effective March 15, 2012, the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) changed the accessibility requirements for guest
AT&T Accused of Improperly Billing for Service for Deaf
The Justice Department has accused AT&T of knowing that a calling service it offered for the deaf was being used by Nigerian swindlers and others to steal from American merchants. The department, which intervened in a whistle-blower lawsuit in federal co
Student with Down’s Syndrome wins right to challenge high school placement
Belfast's High Court has granted the girl leave to seek a judicial review of the original decision A girl with Down's Syndrome has won the right to challenge the denial of a place at the high school of her family's
People with autism possess greater ability to process information
ScienceDaily (Mar. 22, 2012) People with autism have a greater than normal capacity for processing information even from rapid presentations and are better able to detect information defined as 'critical', according to a study published March 22 in the
250 children living in nursing homes in Florida should get home care
Five year old Andi lives in a nursing home in Tampa because his family says the state won't pay for 24-hour care that would let him live with his two brothers and parents. A second lawsuit claims several thousand other children could end up in those facilities in Florida because of decisions by the state about their care.
Responding to People with Autism during Emergencies
Author Geoff Crist is the proud parent of a beautiful, energetic, curious, daughter, Sydney (aka Beanie), 11, who was diagnosed with moderate/severe autism when she was 18 months old. He is a career firefighter and nationally registered paramedic, has wo
Obama Signs ‘Thank You’ to Deaf Supporter
President Obama didn’t miss a beat last week when he encountered a group of deaf students along a rope line after his speech at Prince George’s Community College in Maryland. “I am proud of you,” signed Stephon, a 26-year-old coll
Mitochondrial Disease: Jeans for Genes
Many of us struggle with not knowing how we can make an impact on Rare Disease. Whether we are faced with the day-to-day difficulties of a rare disease itself, or we are passerby’s watching others’ demanding fight – many of us find ourselves scratching o
Physical Activity Proves a Vital Function in Cognitive Ability in Recent Studies
Physical activity among today’s youth in the United States has been on a steady decline while learning disorders like attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and others are on the rise. Scientists have yet to draw a direct causal link to physical
Catastrophic failures handling inquiry into report of abuse
In June 2005, Mrs Jenkins, who worked at the day centre as an administrative officer, witnessed one member of staff, referred to as Officer B, "yank" a woman with severe learning disabilities off the ground and push her into a toilet
Police need training on autism
The arrest of an autistic teenager who could face four years in a Michigan prison shows the need to train police on dealing with autistic people, advocates say. In Maxson's case, Dungan said, he only became violent Feb. 9 when officers tried to handcuff him, and he was then stunned with a Taser and pepper-sprayed.
Differentiated Instruction in Today’s Classrooms
The IRIS Center is a national center that provides high-quality resources about students with disabilities for college and university faculty and professional development trainers. Visit IRIS’ website to find free, online, interactive training enhancemen
Understanding how social touch is processed differently by autistic people
A better understanding how social touch is processed differently by autistic and nonautistic people may lead to the development of strategies for family members and loved ones to touch people with autism in a way that soothes and fosters feelings of connection, rather than overwhelms.
Makayla Norman,14, was starved to death last year, attorney general calls for change
The Ohio attorney general is calling for change after learning a girl who starved to death was forgotten by the school system. Makayla Norman, 14, suffered from cerebral palsy and could not feed or care for herself. She died in Marc
iPad Summer Institute
Blog on the topic of assistive technology, eLearning, mind mapping, project management, visual learning, collaborative tools, and educational technology Presenters Brian S. Friedlander, Ph.D. & Christine Besko-Maughan, M.S., ATP July 10, 2012 Enhancing A
Never Lose Hope
Here is a letter to an individual who believed my children wouldn’t be successful. This is living proof that as parents, we are wiser than others who think they know better. I met you last year at a conference. This conference was held by a local organiz
Are These Good Annual Goals?
Is this annual goal written correctly for a high school freshman? Judy will improve reading comprehension skills by using graphic organizers to access the curriculum with 70% accuracy per quarter. 1. Judy will summarize or bullet important information in
Autistic Student Advocates for Herself, Other Autistics
“Because we see autism and other neurodevelopmental or neurological differences, conditions or disabilities as a natural variation of human diversity in terms of neurological diversity,” Brown says, “that means there’s nothing defective, wrong or diseased or broken. Therefore there’s no reason for a fix or for a cure.”
Family launches High Court challenge for inclusion
"This case is about inclusion. "It's about the right to access mainstream education in its fullest form, not some kind of sop to the legislative requirement by saying: 'Here's a mainstream school, you can go to that one'." Her legal team argued that the decision was a breach of human rights and special educational needs legislation. Read more on BBC News
School principal reprimanded told to work from home as a result of physical altercation with student
In April 2011 before a classroom of students and a security camera, Gray became violent with a special education student, according to a written reprimand in his personnel file. “During this incident you escalated the situation, became physically violent, grabbed the child by the shirt, and yanking the child out of the classroom and down the hallway,” reads York’s reprimand.
Deaf children four times more likely to be mistreated at school and have mental health issues
Researchers found that deaf children who cannot make themselves understood within their family are four times more likely to have mental health disorders and more likely to suffer mistreatment at school than deaf children who can communicate with their family members, according to a report published in March 15th issue of The Lancett.
The Lancet:The health of deaf people: communication breakdown
Andrew Alexander discusses how deaf people are often alienated from accessing the UK health-care system and what needs to be done to change this.
Reading Club | ‘Navigating Love and Autism’
On Dec. 26, 2011, the front page of The New York Times featured an extraordinary article. Part of a series by Amy Harmon chronicling the coming of age of a generation of autistic youths, the article, “Navigating Love and Autism,” told the story of Jack R
New telemetric system safe and effective for ICP measurement
A new implantable sensor device provides a less-invasive alternative for monitoring pressure within the skull (intracranial pressure, or ICP), suggests a pilot study in Operative Neurosurgery, a quarterly supplement to Neurosurgery, official journal of t
TASH Responds to AASA Position Supporting Restraint and Seclusion in Schools | TASH
Last week, the American Association of School Administrators issued an unsubstantiated, ill-informed and reckless report in which it voiced support for restraint and seclusion use on children in our schools. This report gained much attention through e-mail circulation and national news reports. TASH has responded in order to bring clarity and truth to the conversation. http://tash.org/tash-responds-to-aasa-position-supporting-restraint-and-seclusion-in-schools/ via TASH Responds to AASA Position Supporting Restraint and Seclusion in Schools | TASH.
A dark legacy of forced sterilizations
Sterilization victims seek compensation STORY HIGHLIGHTS California forcibly sterilized 20,000 people from 1909 to 1963 The goal was to rid society of people labeled "feeble-minded" or "defectives" California's response to victims stands in stark contras
Police assaulted boy with autism
Metropolitan Police (Met) officers assaulted a 16-year-old boy with severe autism by forcing him into handcuffs and leg restraints during a school trip, the High Court has ruled. The judge said the boy, now 19, also had his human rights breached. The boy, who also has epilepsy, was subjected to disability discrimination and false imprisonment, it was ruled.
Study may help understanding multiple sensory stimuli processing in autism
“Statistically optimal combination of multiple sensory stimuli has been well documented in humans, but many have been skeptical about this behavior occurring in other species,” said neuroscientist Anne Churchland, who led the study appearing in the March 14 issue of the Journal of Neuroscience. “Our work is the first demonstration of its occurrence in rodents.” People with autism are often unable to choose which sensory stimuli to pay attention to and which to ignore. “By observing this behavior in rodents, we have a chance to explore its neural basis – something that is not feasible to do in people,” Churchland explained.
Help for Families with ASD
Researchers at the University of Utah have created a program that helps children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) focus on building their skills and utilizing an aptitude for visual-spatial thinking, computers and other electronic media. Cheryl Wrigh
Stephen Hawking to Guest Star on ‘The Big Bang Theory’
It’s a dream come true for “The Big Bang Theory:” world renowned British physicist and cosmologist Stephen Hawking will guest star on the sitcom early next month. A press release put out by CBS said Hawking, 70, will “share his beautiful mind with his most ardent admirer, Sheldon Cooper” on the show’s April 5 episode.
Research on Rare Bone Disorder Reveals New Insights into Autism
“There is growing evidence that many autistic people have related genetic defects, or defects that are exacerbated by this one,” said Yu Yamaguchi, M.D., Ph.D., professor in the Sanford Children’s Health Research Center at Sanford-Burnham. Children with
Don Johnston Announces Snap&Read—A Simple Toolbar That Reads Any Text On-screen
Snap&Read reads text in a Flash website “A lot of districts are striving for Universal Design for Learning, and Snap&Read is a step in the right direction.” - Ruth Ziolkowski, president, Don Johnston Incorporated Don Johnston Incorporated today announced
Activists Seek To Curtail Restraining Students
WASHINGTON (AP) — Tens of thousands of students, most of them disabled, are strapped down or physically restrained in school, and disability advocates hope that a new Education Department report detailing the practice of "seclusion and restraint" will sp
Language and autism
More and more researchers, it seems to me, are trying to peek into the minds of children with autism by analyzing how they put together a sentence. Language impairments are one of the most common features of autism. But linguists have long debated the pr
Cellphone Video Provides Proof of Bullying Teacher
A special education student resorted to using his cellphone to record video that proved his teacher was bullying him. Such incidents are, unfortunately, far from uncommon. “Statistically about 1 to 2 percent of teachers are actually involved in bullying
Clinical research: Gut bacteria prevalent in autism
Common colonizer: Sutterella wadsworthensis is present in the intestines of children with autism, where it might displace other beneficial bacteria. A certain type of bacteria is prevalent in the intestines of children who have both autism and gastrointe
The Flutie Family Tackles Autism, National Autism Awareness Month
Doug Flutie Sr., 49, reaches his goals on the field and off. "For whatever reason, people have the feeling I can get things done," the Heisman Trophy winner says. Maybe they remember the former quarterback's famous heart-stopping, last-second Hail Mary p
Deafness penetrates more rapidly and deeply into the brain than previously thought
Portions of a songbird's brain that control how it sings have been shown to decay within 24 hours of the animal losing its hearing. The findings, by researchers at Duke University Medical Center, show that deafness penetrates much more rapidly and deeply
Cognition and behavior: Study probes speech processing
Hidden meaning: Children with autism are less able than controls are to detect the shifts in pitch that can transform a neutral statement into a question. Children with autism activate more brain regions than controls do when listening to tonal inflectio
U.S. report finds inequalities in courses and discipline for minority students
by Sally Holland , CNN (CNN) African-American boys and girls have higher suspension rates than their white or Hispanic peers, according to new data released by the U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights on Tuesday. The report looks at race
Burton Blatt Institute chairman to testify before National Council on Disability on future of disability law and policy
NCD is an independent federal agency that makes recommendations to the president and U.S. Congress to enhance the quality of life for all Americans with disabilities and their families. The public may join the meeting in a listening-only capacity (with t
Racial disparities found in school arrests
(L to R) Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, and U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano answer questions from students following an earthquake drill at Carnahan High School of the Future in St. Louis on Apr
Special Olympics Coach Accused Of Having Sex With High School Participant
MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (AP) — A teaching assistant from Cayce has been charged with having sex with one of his students while in Mount Pleasant for the Special Olympics. Twenty-nine-year-old Cornelius Davis is a special education teaching assistant at Broo
Compression Garments Designed by SPIO Now Offered by Rehabmart.com
“These discrete garments are very comfortable in all types of weather due to the wicking feature of the lightweight and breathable Lycra fabric, and there is no 'break-in' period..." Rehabmart.com, an online e-commerce company that sells rehabilitation a
Report: Minority students face harsher punishments
(03-05) 21:04 PST WASHINGTON, (AP) -- A report to be released Tuesday by the Education Department raises questions about whether students of all races are disciplined evenhandedly in America's schools. An early snapshot of the report says that more than
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia apologizes to Rivera family over kidney transplant flap
(CBS) The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has apologized to the family of Amelia Rivera, the girl whose family alleged she was denied a life-saving kidney transplant because she was disabled. "As an organization, we regret that we communicated in a m
A Deaf Son Struggles to Be Heard in ‘Tribes’
A family dinner in the beginning of Nina Raine's "Tribes" tells the audience all it needs to know about the crisis of understanding that plagues the characters in this bright and boldly provocative drama. Two parents and three twenty-something children s
National Database for Autism Research
Announcer: Unlocking the mysteries of autism and providing new hope for the families and individuals facing its challenges are missions shared by dedicated scientists across the country and around the globe. But despite an overwhelming need for answers, this disorder has not given up its secrets easily, as illustrated by Nancy Minshew, a leading autism researcher at the University of Pittsburgh. Nancy Minshew: Autism is so complex that there's not going to be one thing.
IEP Essentials Webinar
Thank you for supporting our mission. When a child qualifies for special education services, federal law requires the development of an Individualized Education Program. The IEP serves as a roadmap for services, including important information about a ch
Tool for Navigating the Hidden Social Curriculum for Individuals with Autism
Judy Endow is magical in her approach to helping so many living with autism. "Learning the Hidden Curriculum: The Odyssey of One Autistic Adult" is a must-read book for those living with autism, family members and those who want to know more about autism. Even if you think you are right, never argue with a police officer
U.S. Department of Education Announces Overhaul of IDEA Compliance System; More Emphasis on Student Outcomes
On Friday, the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) announced that it will revamp IDEA’s compliance system to better emphasize student outcomes, such as academic performance and graduation rates for students with disa
Large eye-tracking study highlights diversity of autism
Gaze mapping: Researchers measured the amount of time children spent looking at eyes (red), mouths (green), bodies (blue) and objects (yellow) when watching scenes from Welcome to the Dollhouse. Children with autism who have different verbal and intellec
Boy charts city’s disabled access
Nathan was inspired to create his website after finding access to a bowling alley blocked by stairs. Despite the challenges he faces, Nathan's disability does not stop him from leading a full life. What does occasionally stand in his way is more mundane - steps, staircases and narrow shop aisles.
Lloyd Coleman, deaf teen composer’s Olympic theme
Lloyd Coleman, 18, who is also visually impaired, recently won a place at London's Royal Academy of Music. "It's called Breaking the Wall because, after Giles and I started talking about marathons and how runners hit the wall and have to overcome humungous challenges, we realised there were parallels with the kind of challenges disabled people face," he said.
Motor Skills and ASD
Children with autism often have problems developing motor skills, such as running, throwing a ball, or even learning how to write. Scientists didn't know whether those difficulties ran in families or were linked to autism. New research at Washington Univ
The Smart List 2012: 50 people who will change the world
Welcome to the first Wired Smart List. We set out to discover the people who are going to make an impact on our future --by asking today's top achievers who, emerging in their field, they'd most like to have a leisurely lunch or dinner with. So we approached some of the world's brightest minds
State Obligations | UNESCO
Like all human rights, the right to education imposes three levels of obligation on States: The obligation to respect, protect and fulfil each of the “essential features” (availability, accessibility, acceptability, adaptability) of the right to education. The obligation to respect requires States to avoid measures that hinder or prevent the enjoyment of the right to education. The obligation to protect requires States to take measures that prevent third parties from interfering with the enjoyment of the right to education. In turn, the obligation to fulfil incorporates an obligation to facilitate and to provide. Facilitation requires States to take positive measures
A ‘Fountain’ of Kudos for First-Time Novelist Eliza Factor
The Fort Greene resident is not only about to release her first book, “The Mercury Fountain,” but she wrote the novel while raising three kids — one of them with cerebral palsy and autism — and starting Extreme Kids and Crew, a center catered to the needs of families with disabled children.
Choosing to Have a Child With Down Syndrome
If our culture assumes that across the board, a child with a disability is defective, and a problem best avoided, then we’re encouraging people who want to be parents to make a decision based on bad information. And having an abortion because of bad information is a preventable tragedy.
ALEC Equips Emergency Responders to Deal with Autism
In 2007, a child wandered off from his home in Massachusetts early in the morning. Someone called 911 to report the child alone at a bus stop. When firefighters responded, they found that the child was non-verbal. Thanks to the ALEC program, the firefigh
Landau-Kleffner Syndrome
Landau-Kleffner syndrome, or acquired epileptic aphasia, is a rare childhood disorder of the central nervous system that affects boys two to three times more than girls. The syndrome is characterized by seizures and the gradual or sudden inability to und
On To College : Autism Research Institute
I want to live where I feel safe and free to be myself without the stress of having to act normal. Home is safe because my mom and dad make me feel hopeful that changing people's attitudes toward nonspeaking autists is possible. As I go to college, I am hoping to create a really supportive community of fresh-thinking people who view me as caring and created as equal.
Planet of the Blind: D.J. Savarese, My Friend, Our Ally in Disability Rights
I am a lucky man. Although I bear the emotional scars of a tough childhood—a disability childhood, one with bullying, cruel teachers, lots of loneliness—I have had the startling fortune to meet magnificent people throughout my life.
Bullying and ASD
The Interactive Autism Network (IAN) Project has launched a national survey to study the impact of bullying on children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Bullying, a pervasive problem among youth, has attracted the national spotlight over the past ye
I Believe by Will Scheutze
They had no idea how much I know and I didn’t think they believed I was smart. They thought that functional was more important for me to learn than academics. I didn’t like that, so I never did good work and so they thought I couldn’t sort forks. I know how functional is important in life, but nobody knows how important the academics are to me. I just want to be able to learn more and be able to go to college. I think I can do that. My teachers made me believe I can do that. I never believed
Dean Biklen honored in Kuwait with UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah Prize
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) will present Syracuse University's School of Education Dean Douglas Biklen with the 2011 UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmed al-Jaber al-Sabah Prize, honoring him for his work promoting
CART Interpreting
The Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (A.G. Bell) filed two amicus briefs within days of each other in federal courts of appeal supporting the right of students who are deaf and hard of hearing to receive Communication Ac
The Inclusive Classroom 02/24 by SpecialNeedsTalkRadio
The Inclusive Classroom 02/24 by SpecialNeedsTalkRadio | Blog Talk Radio.
Genomics, Intellectual Disability, and Autism
During the past decade, advances in genetic research have enabled genomewide discovery of chromosomal copy-number changes and single-nucleotide changes in patients with intellectual disability and autism as well as in those with other disorders. These technological advances — which include array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), single-nucleotide-polymorphism (SNP) genotyping arrays, and massively parallel sequencing — have transformed the approach to the identification of etiologic genes and genomic rearrangements in the research laboratory and are now being applied in the clinical diagnostic arena.
Mock my pants, not my sister
The following was written by Brian Skotko , MD, MPP, a Physician at Children’s Hospital Boston’s Down Syndrome Program. It’s in response to a feature in GQ magazine that used insensitive language. Go ahead, GQ, and mock my blue whale-emblemed Nantucket-red pants. Laugh if you want at the loud argyles that I prefer to wear with my black suit. I don’t even care if you dismiss the sexy pink polka-dotted tie that I like to wear with my blue-checkered shirt in clinic. But, whatever you do, do not mess with my sister.
How to win an Oscar
With speculation mounting about which Hollywood stars will be taking home a much-coveted Academy Award this year, are certain roles more likely to be rewarded with a golden statuette than others? We've looked back at best actor a
Genetics: Different mutations lead to autism in same family
Gene splicing: A deletion within an autism-associated chromosomal region may predispose the DNA to recombination, resulting in a neighboring deletion. Twin brothers who have autism carry a non-inherited duplication that overlaps with 16p11.2, a chromosom
Pathophysiological distortions in time perception and timed performance
Distortions in time perception and timed performance are presented by a number of different neurological and psychiatric conditions (e.g. Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism). As a consequence, the prim
Neural systems for speech and song in autism
Despite language disabilities in autism, music abilities are frequently preserved. Paradoxically, brain regions associated with these functions typically overlap, enabling investigation of neural organization supporting speech and song in autism. Neural
Genomic Study of Disorders of Unknown Etiology
The goal of this study is to gain a better understanding of the genetic cause of complex medical cases in children involving unexplained developmental delay or intellectual disability or birth defects. Enrollment in the study involves evaluation in the G
Laura Shumaker: Financial planning 101 for special needs families
Families with children who have special needs or disabilities face even bigger hurdles than most people when it comes to planning for their financial futures. We actually prefer to bury our heads in the sand (at least my husband and I do) but we shouldn’t.
Special needs system ‘shocking’
The report suggests provision of special needs education is patchy MPs have expressed shock that almost a third of 18-year-olds with special educational needs are not in any form of education, employment or train
Probe: Disabled patient abuse cases overlooked
California has assembled a police force to protect about 1,800 of its most vulnerable patients - men and women with cerebral palsy, severe autism and other mental disabilities who live in state institutions and require round-the-clock monitoring and prot
GCAC Presents: VSA Ohio at the intersection of art and disability
Since its founding in 1986, VSA Ohio has evolved to become a community that helps inspired artists connect with their passions. Bridging arts and disability, their programs and services focus on providing equal opportunity, full participation, independen
Special Ed Teacher Accused of Inappropriate Contact
A male special education teacher at Crenshaw High School who was removed from the classroom three weeks ago amid allegations of inappropriate contact with a child has resigned, the school district confirmed Wednesday. There is an ongoing investigation be
The Greenspan Floortime Course for Parents of Children with Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, OCD, Anxiety, Aggression, and Sensory Processing Problems is Now Available Online
The Greenspan Floortime Approach™ announces a new video course for parents of children with special needs, now available for a special introductory offer online until May 13, 2012. Parents and professionals can view the course from the comfort of their o
A boy’s talk about his Asperger’s resonates in his school
Since Jack Lebersfeld told the entire sixth grade he has Asperger's syndrome and explained what that meant, his speech has taken on a life of its own that Jack and his parents could have never imagined. Asperger's is one of the autism spectrum disorders
Squag: Social media for teens and tweens with autism | Washington Times Communities
Two years ago, Sara Winter's nephew got in a skirmish at recess and was very upset. Winter suggested that the boy, who is on the autism spectrum, write a note to his parents on her Blackberry to tell them what he was feeling. Astounded by the way he was able to express himself, Winter began searching for software that could help him do so more. Finding none, she eventually created a social networking-style interface for kids on the spectrum called Squag.
Genetics Home Reference: DMD-associated dilated cardiomyopathy
DMD-associated dilated cardiomyopathy is a form of heart disease that is caused by mutations in the DMD gene. Dilated cardiomyopathy enlarges and weakens the heart (cardiac) muscle, preventing the heart from pumping blood efficiently. Signs and symptoms
Motor Skills Affected By Autism
Editor's Choice Main Category: Autism Article Date: 21 Feb 2012 - 10:00 PST email to a friend printer friendly opinions Often, children with autism have difficulties developing motor skills, such as throwing a ball, learning how to write, or running. How
Pressure Mapping
Thousands of Americans spend their days in wheelchairs. This adaptive technology has given many people the opportunity to enjoy activities of daily living and be independent in their mobility. But sedentary time spent in a wheelchair has a darker side ef
Autism Diagnosis Often Occurs Later for Black Children
MONDAY, Feb. 20 (HealthDay News) -- Black children with autism tend to be diagnosed later than white children with the disorder, and this delay can lead to longer and more intensive treatment, researchers say. Lack of access to quality, affordable and cu
Deafness triggered by mitochondria glitch
Mitochondria are cellular structures that function as “cellular power plants” because they generate most of the cell’s supply of energy. They contain DNA inherited from one’s mother. Mitochondria determine whether a cell lives or dies via the process of
SoundBite uses vibrations through the teeth to help the hearing impaired
SoundBite is a new hearing device that uses bone conduction through the teeth to help the hearing impaired. SAN ANTONIO -- The newest device on the market for the hearing impaired doesn’t use the ear canal to transmit sound. It uses teeth. Ear Medical Gr
Study: OT, Yoga are Keys to Combating PTSD
Occupational therapy with a focus on yoga could hold the key to reducing the occurrence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). A study to be published this month in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy provides evidence that using sensory-enha
Former UCLA Student Fights Cuts to Disabled, Elderly
Governor Jerry Brown recently introduced a new state budget calling for deep cuts in many departments. Looking through the huge document, it’s easy to get lost in the fine print -- the line items, the pie charts -- and overlook the people who will actual
Motor Impairments Appear to Be a Characteristic of Autism
FRIDAY, Feb. 17 (HealthDay News) -- Autism itself seems to be responsible for the problems children with the disorder have in developing motor skills such as running, throwing a ball and learning to write, according to a new study. Previously, it wasn't
How mitochondrial DNA defects cause inherited deafness
Yale scientists have discovered the molecular pathway by which maternally inherited deafness appears to occur: Mitochondrial DNA mutations trigger a signaling cascade, resulting in programmed cell death. The study is in the Feb. 17 issue of Cell. ...
Preventing ‘Absence Seizures’ In Children: New Drugs Show Promise
Main Category: Epilepsy Also Included In: Pediatrics / Children's Health; Clinical Trials / Drug Trials Article Date: 17 Feb 2012 - 1:00 PST email to a friend printer friendly opinions A team led by a University of British Columbia professor has develope
Jon Stewart tries to talk to Arne Duncan
Jon Stewart tried to engage Education Secretary Arne Duncan on “The Daily Show ” Thursday night, but the effort was an exercise in the futility of conversing with someone who won’t deviate from his talking points. Duncan was so programmed that Stewart wa
How mitochondrial DNA defects cause inherited deafness
(Medical Xpress) -- Yale scientists have discovered the molecular pathway by which maternally inherited deafness appears to occur: Mitochondrial DNA mutations trigger a signaling cascade, resulting in programmed cell death. The study is in the Feb. 17 is
AAPC Publishing Offers a Guide for Parents with Students on the Autism…
Parent’s Guide to College for Students on the Autism Spectrum This practical book is an invaluable guide to evaluating college readiness for students on the autism spectrum. Sending a son or daughter off to college can be a daunting task, but if the chil
African-American children tend to be diagnosed later for autism
The rate of diagnosis for autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is the same among all racial groups — one in 110, according to current estimates. However, a study by a Florida State University researcher has found that African-American children tend to be diag
Deaf debate: Caught between two worlds
16 February 2012 Last updated at 00:38 ET Some deaf people choose implants, but others remain wary The story of deaf teenagers who chose not to have implants offering the "sensation of sound" generated a huge response. Readers touched by the issue share
Hospital apologizes to Amelia Rivera who was denied kidney transplant
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has issued an apology to the parents of Amelia Rivera, a disabled three-year-old girl who, according to her parents, was initially denied a chance at a kidney transplant because she is “mentally retarded.” In a stateme
New information about IL-6 protein’s role in development of neurological disorders
A UT Dallas study is revealing new information about a key protein's role in the development of epilepsy, autism and other neurological disorders. This work could one day lead to new treatments for the conditions. Dr. Marco Atzori, associate professor in
When nerve meets muscle, biglycan seals the deal
In the absence of the protein biglycan, synapses at neuromuscular junctions in mice began to break up about five weeks after birth, according to a new study led by Brown University researchers. Reintroducing byglycan helped
Expanding Opportunities for People with Disabilities – Fact Sheet on President Obama’s 2013 Budget Proposals
We now face a make-or-break moment for the middle class and those trying to reach it. After decades of eroding middle-class security as those at the very top saw their incomes rise as never before and after a historic recession that plunged our economy i
Understanding the Individualized Education Program (IEP) Process
Your child’s IEP is the cornerstone of their education. This workshop offers an in-depth look at the evaluation process, qualifying for an IEP, the many components that must be addressed in the IEP document, as well as how progress will be monitored. As
Transition Planning & the IEP: Through the Doorway to Adult Life
Whether your child is 4 or 14, it's good to think about the future...The focus of this workshop is on the steps parents and students need to consider as they plan for the last years of school and the transition to adult life: personal futures planning; I
Details of Obama’s proposed $70B for education
The U.S. Department of Education would receive nearly $70 billion under President Barack Obama’s FY2013 budget, which he presented to Congress on Feb. 13. This is a 2.5 % increase from 2012. Obama's 2013 education budget focuses on STEM initiatives and workforce readiness. “In these tough budget times, the Obama administration is making a clear statement that high-quality education is absolutely critical to rebuilding our economy.If we want to strengthen the American workforce, we must continue to invest in education. U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan
SchoolBook: Do High-Needs Students Affect a School’s Grade?
New York City’s latest plan to reform special education services encourages public school principals to take more of the neediest students. Still, it’s not clear that there’s a link between having a lot of these challenging students and getting a poor grade, contrary to what some critics contend.
Autism affects motor skills, study indicates
Audio available Children with autism often have problems developing motor skills, such as running, throwing a ball or even learning how to write. But scientists have not known whether those difficulties run in families or are linked to autism. New resear
The President’s FY 2013 Budget: What does it mean for Special and Gifted Education?
CEC Calls for a Greater Investment in Core Programs in FY13 Budget: Special and Gifted Education The following is a statement from Deborah A. Ziegler, Associate Executive Director, Policy and Advocacy Services, the Council for Exceptional Children, regar
EpiPens could save lives at school
One day, when Patrick Murphy was 8 months old, a rash and swelling started around his mouth and spread to his body. That's when his mom, Jennifer learned her baby was allergic to dairy products. His reaction is potentially life threatening, it comes on f
Obama ignores special ed, again…
“Fully Funding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: Barack Obama has been a strong and consistent advocate for fully funding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Congress promised to shoulder 40 percent of each state’s “exc
Obama’s Education Budget Focuses on Teachers and Higher Ed
President Barack Obama’s budget, released Monday, built on the education priorities that he laid out during his State of the Union speech last month: an increased focus on higher education and strengthening the nation’s teaching workforce. For fiscal yea
Procedural Safeguards The Series – Part III
Image via Wikipedia This is the third installment in a multi-part series on procedural safeguards under the federal special education law, the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. I work a lot in this area, so it is near and dear to my heart. Des
Unified Sports Teams Open Doors for Inclusive Athletics
“Unified has transformed the culture of this school. It was almost as if these kids weren’t noticed before we began doing this. I don’t think anyone realized how powerful they are.” “Our athletes have an unconditional appreciation for other people. They persevere even in the face of being bullied and teased. We can pull back the veil of the unknown and make people real.” Born of the idea that athletic events can be especially transformative when they include individuals who have special needs alongside those who do not, unified programs have existed about two decades. In 2008, with money from
International Conference on Inclusive Education
Able, disabled all people together (ADAPT), a NGO, has organised a five-day 'International Conference on Inclusive Education, the North South Dialogue IV', in Goa from February 19. Dr Mithu Alur, founder chairperson of the organisation. told reporters he
Bullying of Kids With Disabilities – Part II
Bullying remains a hot button issue in special education law. This is the second post in the current series on this topic. Last week I discussed some of the key cases finding that bullying of children with disabilities can be a violation of the Individua
Goalbook – Social IEPs for everyone? Actually, yes
Summary: Goalbook could revolutionize how we approach differentiated instruction and outcome-based education. Four of my five kids have been on IEPs (Individual Education Plans) at one point or another. Two of them still are and I have little doubt that
Choosing Life and Beating the Odds: Accepting Down Syndrome
When my husband and I found out we were having another baby, it was a surprise. This test measures the thickness behind the baby’s neck. That, plus a blood test, tells you if there’s a chance the child has Down syndrome. Like most of my friends, I got th
How Does Autism Rewire The Brain?
Potential clues to how autism miswires the brain are emerging from a study of a rare, purely genetic form of a disorder that affects fewer than 20 people worldwide. Using cutting-edge technology, researchers funded by the National Institutes of Health ha
Loss of innocence befalls Los Angeles families at Miramonte School
STORY HIGHLIGHTS A teacher sexual misconduct scandal forces parents to have difficult talks with kids The scandal is centered at Miramonte Elementary School Working-class Mexican immigrants populate school's neighborhood "It's a conversation that is like
Six Strategies for Differentiated Instruction in Project-Based Learning
Project-Based Learning (PBL) naturally lends itself to differentiated instruction. By design, it is student-centered, student-driven and gives space for teachers to meet the needs of students in a variety of ways. PBL can allow for effective differentiat
CEC Member Brings UDL to the Senate!
For the past few years, George Van Horn, Special Education Director at the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation (BCSC) in Colombus, Indiana and current Indiana CEC President has implemented a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework across th
Genetics Home Reference: Fanconi anemia
Fanconi anemia is a condition that affects many parts of the body. People with this condition may have bone marrow failure, physical abnormalities, organ defects, and an increased risk of certain cancers. The major function of bone marrow is to produce n
Factors Associated With Self-Concept: Adolescents With Intellectual and Development Disabilities Share their Perspectives
Abstract How one perceives the self is critical to long-term development. The purpose of this study was to explore the self-perceptions of adolescents with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Participants included 51 adolescents with intellectua
Self-Report Computer-Based Survey of Technology Use by People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Abstract Advancements of technologies in the areas of mobility, hearing and vision, communication, and daily living for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has the potential to greatly enhance independence and self-determination. Prev
Transition Planning for Students With Intellectual Disability, Autism, or Other Disabilities: Data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2
Abstract To compare the status of transition planning for students with intellectual disability, autism, or other disabilities, we used data from the National Longitudinal Transition Study-2, a federally funded, national study of the secondary and postsc
An Update on Amelia
By Tim Shriver Several weeks ago, I wrote about a young girl named Amelia Rivera who was denied consideration for a kidney transplant at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia because she was, according to her doctors, “mentally retarded.” Amelia is now in the process of being considered again for a transplant. Our lesson is that we cannot let Amelia’s story be an isolated call to arms. We must continue to seek change and advocate for the dignity of every human life.
Yoga for Children with ADHD and Autism in Clearwater
I now have new ways to work with a child who had been labeled as dysfunctional, and they are all working! Shakta Kaur Khalsa, yoga teacher and founder of Radiant Child Yoga Program, and Allison Morgan, Occupational Therapist, will co-lead a weekend train
Killing of autistic boy shows need for support for developmental disabilities
An argument about computer use ended with a 15-year-old boy shot dead by police in Calumet City, family and officials said Wednesday. Stephon Watts, who the family said was autistic, was reportedly asked by his father to stop using the computer. Watts' father had been told in the past to call police when he had problems with the teen. He did, and officers responded to the home in the 500 block of Forsythe Avenue in the far south suburb.
More Autism-Friendly Shows Planned For Broadway
NEW YORK (AP) — Two more autism-friendly performances of Broadway musicals will be offered this spring and fall following the success last year of the first showing of a Broadway show specially altered for those diagnosed with the disorder. The Theatre D
Assistive technology solutions fact sheet
The Family Center on Technology and Disability has a new AT fact sheet that provides visual examples of a range of AT products to help parents begin their search for assistive technology. The fact sheet includes basic questions to consider when trying to
Cops: Fla. boy, 11, tried to set special education student on fire with Old Spice body spray
(CBS/WTSP/AP) NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. - Authorities say an 11-year-old boy cornered a special education student in the bathroom of a Tampa Bay area middle school and tried to set him on fire. According to CBS affiliate WTSP, the police report states that t
Surgery Effective for Tough-to-Treat Epilepsy
TUESDAY, Feb. 7 (HealthDay News) -- Surgery can significantly improve seizure control and quality of life among people with epilepsy, according to a study stretching over 26 years. "This study may be the longest follow-up of epilepsy surgery patients in
Cops: Autistic boy, 6, left on school bus
A young boy with autism was left Monday morning in the back of a school bus, which departed the school before staff realized he was missing, according to Nassau police, who are investigating the incident.Sean Feldt, 6, was returned to the Cherry Lane Sch
Teacher allegedly kicked student, withheld food
(02-06) 13:36 PST REDWOOD CITY -- A Redwood City special education teacher has been charged with numerous counts of child abuse for allegedly slapping and kicking a 5-year-old student while depriving another of food and twisting his arm, authorities said
Outcry over disabled girl’s transplant care renews eligibility debate
A parent's anguished online plea for an organ transplant for her developmentally disabled daughter and new research on kidney transplantation eligibility among elderly patients have refocused attention on the vexing decisions that face physicians who det
Living outside the hearing world
6 February 2012 Last updated at 06:31 ET By Lucy Wallis BBC News Sara met her boyfriend Asher at a deaf school five years ago For several years cochlear implants have offered some deaf people the chance to have a "sensation of sound". So why would some d
Model who has down syndrome made top 10 TODAY stories
By Steve Veres, TODAY.com The results are in! And TODAY's 60th anniversary celebration is the story fans interacted with the most on our Facebook page in January. And perhaps not so shockingly, you guys also loved Matt Lauer and adorable animals (though
Special-needs pupil barred from Israel trip
The father of a 14-year-old King Solomon High School pupil with moderate learning disabilities is "bitterly disappointed" that she is not being allowed to join the Redbridge school's Israel trip. But King Solomon teachers maintain the girl is unsuited to
The RARE List™ – You Must See it to Believe it!
The R.A.R.E. Project (http://RAREproject.org), a leading patient advocacy organization representing the rare disease community, today issued the RARE List™, a stunning 65 page alphabetical listing of roughly 7,000 known rare diseases and disorders. The rare diseases and disorders that comprise the RARE List™ impact 30 million Americans (or 10% of the U.S. population) and an estimated 350 million people worldwide. The RARE List™ was released by the R.A.R.E. Project as part of month long public awareness campaign leading up to World Rare Disease Day on February 29, 2012.
Neural systems for speech and song in autism
Despite language disabilities in autism, music abilities are frequently preserved. Paradoxically, brain regions associated with these functions typically overlap, enabling investigation of neural organization supporting speech and song in autism. Neural
Procedural Safeguards – The Series – Part I
This is the first installment in a multi-part series on procedural safeguards under the federal special education law, the Individuals With Disabilities Education Act. I work a lot in this area, so it is near and dear to my heart. Despite the importance
Inclusion of Blind and Low Vision Children in Regular Schools
This article looks into how the provision of appropriate and adequate resources in education will improve the quality of life of children who are blind and have low vision. It discusses the current provision made for blind/low vision children in The Gamb
38 Disability Organizations Oppose House ESEA Proposal
The organizations oppose the draft Student Success Act because “it abandons accountability for the achievement and learning gains of subgroups of disadvantaged students who for generations have been harmed by low academic expectations.
Letter from Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights Russlynn Ali
Dear Colleague: This year, we will celebrate the 22nd anniversary of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), 42 U.S.C. §§ 12101-12213. We at the Office for Civil Rights (OCR) in the United States Department of Education (Department) recognize the progress our country has made toward ensuring that educational opportunities are provided free from disability discrimination. As Secretary Arne Duncan has stated, the Department is “strengthening our efforts to ensure that all students, including those with disabilities, have the tools they need to benefit from a world-class education that prepares them for success in college and careers.”1 Pursuant to a
Students with autism learn to relax, focus with yoga
Stawicki, 12, works with his yoga group for about a half-hour. From 7:50 to 8:20 a.m., Stawicki focuses on breathing exercises and yoga poses like his favorites -- the tree and the airplane. Stawicki is one of six students from Parker Middle School's autism support class who gather to practice yoga twice a week. The students have learned about a dozen poses, and organizers said it helps them better control their emotions.
Elad Gevandschnaider, first person with Down syndrome to serve in Israeli Army
Because of his disability Elad, is not required to serve in the Israeli Army, still, he decided to volunteer. It started with two years of national service in a primary school in the southern part of Israel, Beer Sheva, and now Elad has just learned he has been accepted to serve two more years at an Israeli army equipment base. Talk to Elad and he will tell you that the primary reason he has been able to do something that no other special needs person has done in the history of Israel, and he will tell you the story of
Deaf education bill is ailing
The bill may have sailed through a key legislative panel, but Del. Richard P. "Dickie" Bell's proposed bill of rights for deaf and hard-of-hearing students is in trouble. After sending the bill on to the House of Delegates Education Committee to approve
Autism and the DSM V
The DSM V is the yet (2013) to be published Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, the handbook for diagnosing psychiatric and psychological illness or disorders. The latest iteration was the DSM IV TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual Four, Text Revision)
‘Handicap This!’ dispels myths of cerebral palsy with humor
His first words are a declaration uttered with a sense of urgency. “I have,” he says, “cerebral palsy.” A second man bounds out stage left, introduces himself and adds: “... And I don’t.” So begins a one-of-a-kind reality show starring Mike Berkson, a sharp-witted, movie-obsessed 22-year-old college student, and Tim Wambach, his aide, champion and sidekick.
There’s Nothing ‘Down’ About Having a Child With Down Syndrome
When my friend Jennifer Lister was expecting her third child, I was so happy. She's an amazing person, a fantastic mother. Jennifer and I don't live near each other anymore so we keep up on Facebook and I was so excited to virtually be there as her
Todd Drezner: Nickels, Dimes and ‘High-Functioning’ Autism
As Justin Canha's story shows, the autistic person who needs a lot of support in one area may become a person who needs much less support in that same area. Justin barely spoke before age 10. Now he's verbal. He didn't suddenly change from "low-functioning" to "high-functioning." Rather, he received the support he needed and developed his skills.
What I Learned During My “Sabbatical” at the MIT Media Lab (Part Two)
Why Inventing Technologies for the Disabled is Not Just Right but Smart Business Q. What do a child with autism, an Iraq war-veteran amputee and a senior citizen with Alzheimer’s have in common? (Other than having disabilities that begin with “A.”) A. They are all the early adopters of radical new technologies that will make all our lives better in the future. For my entire career as an entrepreneur, I assumed that developing innovative technologies for people with disabilities, while the “right thing” to do, was not a particularly promising business proposition. Within a year of becoming director of the
What I Learned During My “Sabbatical” at the MIT Media Lab (Part One)
Also, like an academic, I wrote a book during my sabbatical. The book is about the highly unorthodox research and researchers at the Lab, titled “The Sorcerers and Their Apprentices: How the Digital Magicians of the MIT Media Lab are Creating the Innovative Technologies That Will Transform our Lives”. At the Lab, not taking risks is the biggest risk of all. Crazy and wild-eyed ideas and inventions emerge from what appears to be chaos. Some of these seeds survive and grow into innovations that can improve our everyday lives, disrupt industries and even transform society.
Laser Beak Man- Tim Sharp
This is the story of autistic artist Tim Sharp, internationally recognized visual artist and creator of the super-hero character Laser Beak Man. Nominated for the Young Queenslander of the Year Award in 2008 and 2009, Tim works tirelessly for autism groups around the world.
The dirty little secret about ‘scream rooms’
Now that the dirty little secret about “scream rooms” is out, let’s hope legislators take notice and do something about this psychologically destructive practice employed routinely in special education schools across the state. As a parent of a child with autism who has spent many hours of his elementary school days in the rooms in various schools, I’ll say it straight: This is state-sanctioned, institutionalized child abuse. If I locked my kid in a closet it would be a crime. Yet some schools do it every day.
Brick Walls
“Oh, that’s ok! We plan on donating. If we aren’t a match, we come from a large family and someone will donate. We don’t want to be on the list. We will find our own donor.” “Noooo. She—is—not—eligible –because—of—her—quality– of –life—Because—of—her—mental—delays” He says each word very slowly as if I am hard of hearing. “STOP IT NOW!” The anger is taking over. Thank God. Why did it take so long to get here? The social worker is writing some things down.
Florida Charter Schools Failing Students With Disabilities
Tres Whitlock is stuck in a public school where he feels ignored. He wants out. The 17-year-old would-be video game designer researched his options online and found his perfect match – Pivot Charter School. “It’s computer-based and I think I will do better,” he says. But when Whitlock tried to enroll the school he found a series of barriers in his way.
Charter Schools
Charter schools are an idea dreamed up by an obscure education professor in the 1970s which have grown into a primary alternative to traditional public schools. One in 17 Florida students attended a charter school last year, a number that has increased almost six-fold in a decade. The original charter school model focused on local leaders forming an oversight board and spelling out the school’s mission, goals and methodology in a contract or charter.
ASAN disappointed with President Obama’s choice for committee on disability
The Autistic Self Advocacy Network, the nation's leading advocacy group run by and for Autistic adults, today expressed concern and disappointment over President Obama’s announcement Tuesday of his intent to appoint anti-vaccine activist Peter H. Bell as a member of the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities. “Bell’s appointment shows such contrast to the forward motion the Obama administration has shown in the areas of autism and disability as a whole..
Supreme Court Says NO to IDEA Case
In the special education case, Compton Unified School District v. Addison (Case No. 10-886), the justices had asked the U.S. solicitor general's office for its views last April on a question under the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act: whether a parent may bring a claim in a due-process hearing that a district violated the law's "child-find" provision.
Laughing At My Nightmare
A local college student suffering from spinal muscular atrophy is telling his life story through a brutally honest blog. You can read the blog, “Laughing At My Nightmare,” here. “Laughing At My Nightmare” is categorized as “local”. This video was license
Saving Grace
Addison Lennon met all her early milestones: she sat up on time, crawled on time and walked on time. At about 4 months, however, she had a seizure, and her parents started to worry. By 9 months, her head appeared small for her age. Her neurologist reassured the family that Addison could still be within the lowest 5 percent of the normal range. "We were thinking she was typical," says Kari Lennon, "she would be in that 5 percent." At 15 months, however, Addison had another seizure that was a lot more severe. She had been tested for
Meet Ryan, the six-year-old show-stealer in ads for Target and Nordstrom
With his floppy blonde hair, blue eyes and natural manner front of the camera, it is not difficult to see why Target has cast child model Ryan in its newest childrenswear ad. But the retailer has taken an unusual step in doing so, as the six-year-old suf
This Time Its Personal
Truly student-centered learning has a lot of support in high places in education, but it can’t happen without the right technology infrastructure to drive it. Educators have known for some time now that a one-size-fits-all approach to learning does not l
Boy With Down Syndrome Becoming an Unlikely Ad Star
One young man is making great strides in the modeling world despite what many might see as a significant impediment—he has Down syndrome. His name is Ryan, and he appears on page 9 of the new Target circular, just a few months after making an appearance
It’s OK to make noise at this church service
Church can make some proverbial commands. The Rev. Andrew Butler, seen here in this file photo, is launching a nondenominational worship service for children, particularly those with special needs. But a worship service being offered at
Top Ten Autism Research Achievements of 2011
The young but burgeoning field of autism research continued its exponential rate of discovery in 2011-fueled in no small part by the joint commitment by government health agencies and private organizations to support this vital work. Our Top Ten Autism R
Blogger Shane Burcaw uses humor and honesty to cope with spinal muscular atrophy
Shane Burcaw is like any other 19-year-old college student. He goes to class, hangs out with friends and enjoys going to concerts. What sets him apart from his peers is his ability to use a wry sense of humor to cope with a life-threatening illness. Bu
A rare disease gets a new champion
A hedge fund manager and his battalion of scientists are hunting down a cure for Spinal Muscular Atrophy A new $490 million business deal pits pharmaceutical companies against each other in a race to develop drugs for a rare genetic disease: Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA). One in 8,000 babies is born with SMA compared to one in 4,000 born with Cystic Fibrosis, a similar degenerative disease that has garnered much more public attention and fundraising.
How David Met Sarah, by Anne Kelleher
I wrote How David Met Sarah at my mother's suggestion when she explained that as much as David is interested in reading, it's hard to find stories he likes. He reads at approximately a third grade level but as an adult, David doesn't relate to third grade level stories. It's also hard to find stories that have a hero with which he can identify. via How David Met Sarah.
Amy Julia Becker: Explaining Down Syndrome, To My Daughter, And Myself
A few months back, I mentioned to our daughter Penny that she would be meeting another little boy who had Down syndrome, just like her. She didn't say anything in response, but later on that day, when Penny was at school and William was getting ready for a nap, he said, "Mom, what down syn mean?" via Amy Julia Becker: Explaining Down Syndrome, To My Daughter, And Myself.
Neil Young launches film of storied benefit concerts
(Reuters) - A concert DVD featuring Neil Young and a generation of music icons will launch this month with live screenings across the United States. The movie and related CD collection showcases rare live, acoustic performances by many of music's biggest names, all of whom have played over the past 25 years at the annual Bridge School benefit concerts organized by Young and wife Pegi via Neil Young launches film of storied benefit concerts | Reuters.
Operator of N.Y. Group Homes Thrived Despite Lapses in Care – NYTimes.com
The federation has amassed more citations for serious lapses of care than any other organization in the state licensed to run group homes for developmentally disabled people — those with autism, Down syndrome or cerebral palsy. An analysis by The New York Times of state inspection data from 2004 to 2010 found that the federation had been cited 27 times; via Operator of N.Y. Group Homes Thrived Despite Lapses in Care - NYTimes.com.
Geri Jewell: Geri-ism #2: Unmasking the Real Disabilities
It involves the beating of a 16-year-old girl with cerebral palsy. The perpetrators were the girls' parents -- primarily her father, Judge William Adams, who serves as a family law judge in Texas. It was very graphic and painful to watch, but I forced myself to see the whole thing through. via Geri Jewell: Geri-ism #2: Unmasking the Real Disabilities.
Olivia Rosewood: Top 15 Films About Differently-Abled People
Having a child with special needs, whether it's autism, ADHD/ADD, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, or any of the other myriad of extraordinary variations from the norm, is becoming surprisingly... the new normal. It seems that nearly every family I meet is facing some set of challenges that veer from the average expectations of parents via Olivia Rosewood: Top 15 Films About Differently-Abled People (VIDEO).
Senate Introduces Bill Limiting Restraints, Seclusion – On Special Education – Education Week
A U.S. Senate bill filed late last week would limit physical restraint and locked seclusion of students—measures often used with students with disabilities who are considered out of control, harmful to themselves or others, or in need of being calmed. Iowa Democratic Sen. Tom Harkin's "Keeping All Students Safe Act," via Senate Introduces Bill Limiting Restraints, Seclusion - On Special Education - Education Week.
The other side of Down syndrome: DS parents say their children have improved their outlook on life
Matt and Meghan Wilkinson at home playing with their sons. The Wilkinsons say Down syndrome is just a small part of what defines their boys. Twin nineteen-month-old brothers Casey, left, and Connor play at their home in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. The twins we
Author, Educator Will Speak on Differentiated Instruction
Carol Ann Tomlinson, the William Clay Parrish Jr. Professor at the University of Virginia's Curry School of Education, will speak on the Knox College campus at 7 p.m. February 9 in Kresge Recital Hall, Ford Center for the Fine Arts. Her lecture is titled
RIT Offers National Writing and Arts Competitions for Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students
Deaf and hard-of-hearing high school students are encouraged to enter two creative competitions for cash prizes offered by Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT). The first contest is the RIT Digital Arts, Film and Animation Competition for Deaf and Har
Navigating Love and Autism – NYTimes.com
Only since the mid-1990s have a group of socially impaired young people with otherwise normal intelligence and language development been recognized as the neurological cousins of nonverbal autistic children. Because they have a hard time grasping what another is feeling via Navigating Love and Autism - NYTimes.com.
More on Students With Disabilities and the Law
By JOHN O’CONNOR Tres Whitlock is trying to enroll in a charter school. The school has said they can not provide needed services. Last week we ran a story talking to attorneys about what the law requires for students with disabilities. One expert we spoke with, Joy Zabala with the Center for Applied Special Technology, responded to clarify her position.
Information Commonly Unreported in Intervention Effectiveness Studies
Sharon A. Gutman, PhD, OTR, FAOTA, is Editor-in-Chief, American Journal of Occupational Therapy, and Associate Professor, Columbia University, Programs in Occupational Therapy, New York; ajoteditor{at}aota.org Susan L. Murphy, ScD, OTR/L, is Assistant
UNH Institute on Disability Launches Person-Centered Planning Tool
Look Back, Plan Forward, a new website launched by the UNH Institute on Disability, will help individuals with disabilities and people who are aging to capture their life stories in ways that can inform caregivers and service providers about the individual’s history, values, preferences, and support needs during the person-centered planning process. via UNH Institute on Disability | News > Institute on Disability Launches New Online Person-Centered Planning Tool.
Will A $35 Product Change Multi-billion-dollar Indian Education System
Education has always been a high priority for the Indian government. Although the percentage of GDP (gross domestic product) spent by India on education lags behind the developed countries, it has increased over the past years. The Right to Education Act
“The Genetics of SMA” Translated into Spanish.
Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Releases “The Genetics of SMA” Care Series Booklet Translated into Spanish.
Charter Schools Excluding Students with Significant Disabilities in Florida
A new report by the Miami Herald and StateImpact Florida – a National Public Radio initiative - confirms CEC’s ongoing concern that many charter schools are failing to serve students with disabilities, particularly students with significant disabilities
The Gift of Knowledge
It’s been a couple of years now that I’ve been blogging about special education legal issues. Unfortunately, the realities of juggling a busy law practice, a family, and other professional commitments don’t allow me to do it enough, and I continue to ye
Respect: The Joy of Aides
Respect: The Joy of Aides is a new documentary exploring the relationship between people with disabilities and their aides by Eva Sweeney.
Loving Lamposts, A Documentary by Todd Drezner
We love this documentary about autism by Todd Drezner.
WERE $50,000 PER YEAR DC PRIVATE SCHOOL ESE KIDS ILL-SERVED BY DCPS?
Washington Post E.W. — that’s how he is identified in the report — is an 8-year-old diagnosed with trauma and post-traumatic stress whom the District placed at Rock Creek.. That’s the private special education school in upper Northwest closed by OSSE earlier this month after an investigation revealed many problems, including staff members who improperly restrained or isolated exceptional education students. On May 23, according to a Rock Creek employee who came forward to OSSE, E.W. arrived at school without his medication, leaving him “running around aimlessly, knocking over chairs and books, and hitting the wall.” He was placed in a
Autism Now: MacNeil Interviews Director of Education
An extended transcript excerpt of , PBS' Robert MacNeil's interview with Jesse Mojica, director of education policy for the Bronx borough president, on treatment and education for children with autism.
University Students Design Tray to Fit Most Walkers and Wheelchairs
THE GRAND RAPIDS PRESS At 5 years old, Dakota Tomac wants to do things himself. He doesn’t want his cerebral palsy to require others to carry his book or figure out how he will get his lunch on the table. His independent spirit got a boost with a tool created by Grand Valley State University students, thanks to an idea from a physical therapist at the Kent Intermediate School District. The students made a tray that fits onto Dakota’s walker so he could move around at school and carry his iPad, which helps him communicate. “It’s so
From Skin Cells to Motor Neurons
HARVARD GAZETTE Harvard researchers have succeeded in reprogramming adult mouse skin cells directly into the type of motor neurons damaged in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), best known as Lou Gehrig's disease, and spinal muscular atropy (SMA). These new cells, which researchers are calling induced motor neurons (iMNs), can be used to study the development of the paralyzing diseases and to develop treatments for them. “One of the utilities [of this new method for producing motor neurons] is it makes a much more rapid way to grow motor neurons. This could allow us to test very rapidly whether a new therapeutic is
Autism: The Musical
AUTISM: THE MUSICAL counters todays bleak statistics with one womans optimistic pledge to lead a group of autistic children in defying diagnosed expectations by writing, rehearsing and performing their own full-length musical.
Brain’s Synaptic Pruning Continues Into Your 20s
Pasko Rakic at Yale University and colleagues at the University of Zagreb, Croatia, and the VU University Medical Center in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, have now found that the brains of adults in their 20s are still subject to synaptic pruning.
Celiac Disease
Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease can have similar symptoms. However, gluten intolerance does not classify as an auto-immune disease. A study by the University of Maryland identifies the pathogenic differences of the two disorders. The study also demonstrates that gluten sensitivity and celiac disease are part of a spectrum of gluten-related disorders. Gluten refers to certain proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley. People with Gluten Intolerance and Celiac Disease cannot tolerate the proteins found in foods containing these grains, and eating them can cause serious health problems, including malnourishment, chronic fatigue and damage to the small intestine.
A Mother’s Determination And Next Generation Sequencing
When Noah and Alexis Beery were diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age 2, their parents thought they at last had an answer to the problems that had plagued their twin infants from birth. However, that proved only a way station on a journey to find an answer to the children's problems that combined their mother's determination, the high tech world of next-generation sequencing in the Baylor Human Genome Sequencing Center (HGSC) and the efforts of talented physicians from across the country. When the twins reached age 4, it became apparent to their parents that the diagnosis of cerebral palsy did not match the problems
Occupational and Physical Therapy Collaboration
"Occupational therapists and physical therapists function in slightly differing roles depending upon whether services are performed in a clinical or educational setting," explains Samuel Merritt University adjunct instructor Robin Wu, OTR/L. "Other than having an extra set of hands, co-treats cut down on overall treatment time and offer patients a more all-inclusive approach to therapy." According to Samuel Merritt University faculty in the Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) and Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs, collaboration between occupational and physical therapists in both the educational and clinical settings ensures high quality and comprehensive care, and contributes to program planning. Collaboration between the various disciplines
Student Software Opens World For Motion Impaired
49-year-old Rick Hoyt has cerebral palsy and communicates using assistive technology. Hoyt has collaborated with Margrit Betke, a College of Arts & Sciences associate professor of computer science, and James Gips, a Boston College professor of computer science and their students. Camera Mouse, is an augmentative communication tool for people with movement and communication challenges. Cameramouse uses a webcam to lock onto and track a chosen section of the user’s face—a nostril or the tip of an eyebrow, for example—and then links that person’s head movement to a cursor on the screen. Chris Kwan and John Magee , graduate students in
The Affordable Care Act
Senior advisor to the President Valerie Jarrett and Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius speak to parents, advocates and experts at an Autism Awareness Month Conference.
IDEA Money Watch Responds to Something’s Got to Change
In June 2011, the American Enterprise Institute (AIE) released “Something Has Got to Change: Rethinking Special Education,” a paper that examines special education spending and seeks to offer practical solutions to “tame out-of-control special education spending while serving special-needs students better.” IDEA Money Watch responds to the points AIE brings up. AEI also provided a teleconference during which the paper’s author, Nathan Levenson, presented a brief overview and responded to questions. Full Article at IDEA Money Watch
Best and Worst States for Disability Services
UCP's invaluable analysis of Medicaid for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities reports that progress is being made for community inclusion, but every state has room for improvement. According to the report Vermont provides the best services for individuals with disabilities and Missippi provides the worst. There are still approximately 58,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities living in facilities with 16 or more beds.Too much money is being spent isolating people in these large instititutions and the waiting lists for services has also increased dramatically, up 56% from 2005 to 2009. Top ten states in terms of quality of
The Pearls Project-Teaching Empathy
Students at Ridgewood High School were shown photos of young people with genetic disorders and told not to look away. The unusual lessons are part of a new effort, called the Pearls Project, to promote tolerance and empathy in a school culture where being different can mean social exile. Ridgewood teachers developed it this year in partnership with Positive Exposure, a nonprofit group in New York City founded by Rick Guidotti, a fashion photographer. “Genetic conditions are depicted as images of sickness and sorrow — it’s always a kid up against the wall in a doctor’s office,” Mr. Guidotti said.
Toronto Police Defend Handcuffing a 9 Year Old Child with Autism
CTV reports that a 9 year-old boy with Asperger's Syndrome was handcuffed by police officers responding to 911 calls from Toronto's Fairbank Memorial Day Care Center about an "uncontrollable autistic boy" . Toronto police officers are defending their decision to handcuff the 9 year old child. On July 28th the police received two calls from the day care center where the child was reportedly was throwing chairs, tables, and yes, even paint. Reports say the child was upset after being bullied by other children during lunch about his disability. The school placed him in an empty classroom after
The Importance of Special Needs Trusts
One of the most important move parents of children with special needs can make is to set up a special-needs trust, also known as a supplemental-needs trust. This is crucial, financial planners say, because a child can be denied significant Medicaid and Social Security benefits if more than $2,000 of assets are in his or her name, excluding a residence, car and basic personal items. Proper planning is key for funding for special-needs trusts for children with special needs. Funding for the trusts typically comes mainly from the parents' life insurance. Money can also be placed in a special-needs trust
Computer Based Program May Relieve Some ADHD Symptoms
Children can experience the relief of some symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) by participating in an intensive memory training program based on software designed to improve their working memory. Researchers at Ohio State University found that the program had a significant impact on many children with ADHD, particularly in the areas of attention, planning, organization, and working memory. The software was developed in Sweden by Cogmed in partnership with the Karolinska Institute. The software comprises 25 progressively more challenging exercises in the form of a computer game to be completed by children with ADHD within five to six weeks
IQ Scores Inaccurate Portrayal Of Intelligence for Individuals with Autism
A discrepancy between IQ scores and performance on academic tests has been identified in 90 percent of high-functioning children with autism. A study at the University of Washington's Autism Center concluded that many children with autism can gain the sense of self-worth associated with academic achievement. Improvements in the diagnosis of autism and the greater incidence of early intervention have resulted in more children ranked in the high-functioning range of the disorder. These children have average or above average IQs and are able to take advantage of regular classroom activities when early interventions are used to improve their social
Who’s Leading Your Individualized Education Program (IEP)? The Importance of Self Advocacy – Part 2 of 2
This is Part 2 in a two-part blog post by Emalie Fogg provides guidance and resources for youth on how to get involved and take a lead in their own Individualized Education Program (IEP). When we’re growing up, our families, teachers, and adults make most of the decisions about our lives. As we become teenagers it’s important to start participating in the decision-making so that as we near adulthood, we’re ready to decide things for ourselves. No one knows better than you do what you want for your life today and in the future (your goals), what you’re good at
The brain in myotonic dystrophy 1 and 2: evidence for a predominant white matter disease
Myotonic dystrophy types 1 and 2 are progressive multisystemic disorders with potential brain involvement. We compared 22 myotonic dystrophy type 1 and 22 myotonic dystrophy type 2 clinically and neuropsychologically well-characterized patients and a c
National Council on Disability Report Examines How to Improve Access to Health Care, Special Education and Services for USMC Family Members with Disabilities
WASHINGTON, Nov. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On November 28, the National Council on Disability (NCD) will release "United States Marine Corps Exceptional Family Members: How to Improve Access to Health Care, Special Education, and Long-term Supp
Ollibean Art for Change: Wretches & Jabberers Screening and Q & A at Tampa Museum of Art
Ollibean Art for Change: Wretches & Jabberers Screening and Q & A at Tampa Museum of Art from Scott Englert on Vimeo.
Saving Grace: A who-dunit solved with clues from the Middle East
Vector Blog of Children’s Hospital Boston recently family’s experience with a very rare neurological condition called Microcephaly (small head size) with Seizures (MCSZ). The disease had never been seen outside of the Middle East, but researchers at Chil
