Ollibean Think Tank

Autism and Psychiatric Diagnoses

At different times during my growing up and even during my adult years autism wasn’t something people knew much about. I often came in front of

Ollibean Mama Spotlight

Connect and learn with other parents like Tonya who presume competence and celebrate their children for being exactly who they are. #allofakind

Sensory Tool Kit or Purse ?

Notebooks, silly putty, colored pencils, a favorite book..

I did many of these suggestions with all three of my kids when they were little. A mom carries around ever so many things in her purse to entertain

Inclusive Educational Practices for Students with Special Needs

Studies have shown when kids with disabilities are educated in inclusive settings, the classrooms are better for all of the students.

Senator Harkin Delivers Speech in ASL Upon ADA Passage in 1990

Upon passage of the landmark Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) on July 13th, 1990, Senator Tom Harkin delivered a speech on the Senate floor in American Sign Language. Harkin, whose brother Frank was deaf, was the lead Senate author of the ADA, which was enacted later that year. His speech is the first in American Sign Language to be delivered from the Senate floor.