Have you ever thought about getting a service dog to help you or a loved one?  What about a therapy dog for school or an emotional support companion dog for home?  Here’s a guide to the different types of service dogs and a few of the organizations that train both dogs and owners.

Service Dogs

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) of 2011 defines service dogs as those trained to do work directly related to a person’s disability.  Emotional support animals and dogs used as crime deterrents are excluded from this definition.  A service dog is expected to accompany a person with a disability at all times.

Over 90% of service dog handlers say that their animals improve their quality of life by assisting with life skills and increasing physical activity and community involvement.  Each service dog is matched to an handler’s unique needs after extensive training to perform specific tasks while maintaining a calm temperament.  Before going home, the new handler also receives instruction for the animal’s care and handling.

Most service dogs receive training in one of the following areas:

Mobility  Assistance: 

• Opens doors using a strap
• Pushes doors closed
• Assists with dressing/undressing
• Assists wheelchair user to upright position when slumped over
• Moves feet onto wheelchair footrests, moves arms to wheelchair armrests
• Prevents fall by bracing handler
• Retrieves wheelchair or walker when out of reach

Where to find mobility service dogs:

1. New Life Mobility Assistance Dogs
2. 4 Paws For Ability
3. Shore Service Dogs, Inc.
4. Pawsibilities Unleashed, LLC
5. New Horizons Service Dogs

Medical Response (seizures, diabetes, severe allergies):

• Retrieves medication,
• Calls 911 in an emergency,
• Opens door for first responders,
• Identifies medical symptoms and gets help
• Lies down on chest to help person cough or take a breath
• Barks for help or finds help on command.

Where to find a medical response dog:

1. Service Dogs for America
2. Service Dogs for Independence
3. Canine Assistants
4. Alert Service Dogs (diabetic emergency response)
5. Angel Service Dogs (anaphylactic allergy response)

Signal (Hearing Impairment):

• Alerts handler to the presence of people or sounds
• Retrieves unheard dropped objects
• Carries messages
• Warns of vehicle approaching from behind

Where to find dogs for the hearing impaired:

1. Dogs for the Deaf
2. International Hearing Dog, Inc.
3. Little Angels Service Dogs

Guide (Visual Impairment):

• Avoids obstacles or moving vehicles
• Signals changes in elevation
• Locates object or person on command
• Retrieves dropped objects

Where to find dogs for the hearing impaired:

1. The Seeing Eye, Inc.
2. Leader Dogs for the Blind, Inc.
3. Guide Dogs for the Blind

Autism Assistance:

• Braces handler for stability while walking,
• Finds specific places such as home or car when owner is disoriented
• Finds and retrieves wandering handler to a safe place
• Helps handler fall asleep during insomnia episodes,
• Signals self-stimulatory behaviors
• Interrupts self-harming behaviors
• Places body on chest or lap for deep pressure during panic attack or meltdown
• Signal significant sounds such as smoke alarm
• Guides around obstacles in visually confusing situations

Where to find autism service dogs:

1. Autism Service Dogs of America
2. Wilderwood Service Dogs
3. 4 Paws for Ability

Psychiatric Assistance:

• Assesses safety of situation in cases of paranoia or hallucinations
• Guides handler away from stressful situations
• Interrupts flashbacks and self-harming behaviors
• Reminds handler to take medication
• Retrieves medication and other important objects
• Braces handler to prevent fall
• Calls 911 or gets help in emergency

Where to find psychiatric assistance dogs:

1. Heeling Allies
2. Little Angels Service Dogs
3. Canines 4 Hope

Therapy Dogs/Facility Dogs

Therapy dogs are trained to provide affection and comfort to children and adults who need emotional support or people in stressful situations.

These dogs are typically mature pets with calm temperaments, they enjoy being petted by lots of different people and are not easily frightened or excited.  Therapy dogs visit schools, group homes, nursing homes hospices and hospitals.

At school, students may find it easier to read a book to a therapy dog than to a teacher.  After a natural disaster such as a tornado or hurricane, therapy dogs can help comfort people who have suffered a loss.  Many physicians agree that therapy dogs can decrease the levels of the stress hormone cortisol in hospital patients while increasing the hormones oxytocin and dopamine, which are associated with feelings of attachment and happiness.

Where to find therapy dogs:

1. Canine Companions for Independence
2. Delta Society Pet Partners
3. Love on a Leash
4. Bright and Beautiful Therapy Dogs
5. West Michigan Therapy Dogs, Inc.

Emotional Support Animal/Companion animal

Emotional support dogs usually do not have specialized training, although sometimes they are trained to call 911 in an emergency.  These animals are chosen for their gentle, calming temperament, and may be of any size or breed.

While therapy dogs work outside the home with groups of people, emotional support animals primarily provide comfort at home for one or two people.  Federal law in the USA allows people with disabilities and psychiatric conditions to live with their emotional support animals even in housing that prohibits dogs.

Airlines also have a broad definition of assistance animals that allows emotional support animals to fly with their handlers.  The handler must provide a recent letter from a physician prescribing the emotional support animal for a specific physical or mental illness that limits one or more life activities in order to apply for housing or to fly with the dog.

Do you have a service dog?  How has your dog helped you?

Housing challenges for individuals with disabilities

People with disabilities face obstacles like discrimination, few opportunities for accessible living and housing prices that out-pace costs of living and benefit payments.  There is an incredible need for affordable, accessible and appropriate housing for people with disabilities to truly embrace an inclusive community.

This article outlines the basic elements for establishing discrimination and describes how one can go about filing a discrimination claim.

What Is The Rehabilitation Act?

The disability rights movement had its first major achievement with the enactment of the Rehabilitation Act.  The Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination based on disability in Federal programs, in programs receiving Federal financial assistance, in Federal employment, and in the employment practices of Federal contractors and subcontractors.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act extends civil rights to people with disabilities and provides opportunities for people with disabilities in education, employment and various other settings.  Each Federal agency has its own set of section 504 regulations that apply to its own programs.

Agencies that provide financial assistance also have section 504 regulations covering entities that receive Federal aid.  Each agency is responsible for enforcing its own regulations; however, section 504 may also be enforced through private lawsuits.

Housing and the Rehabilitation Act

The Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) section 504 regulations under the Rehabilitation Act made it unlawful under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) to discriminate in any aspect of housing provision or to deny a dwelling to a buyer or renter because of the disability of that individual, an individual associated with the buyer or renter, or an individual who intends to live in the residence.  The FHA also requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations in their policies and operations to afford people with disabilities equal housing opportunities.

Step 1: Is the Home Covered by the Act?

The Fair Housing Act covers most housing.  Generally, any person may be held liable under the FHA unless they fall within an exception to the Act’s coverage.  In some circumstances, the Act exempts owner-occupied buildings with no more than four units, single-family housing sold or rented without a broker, and housing operated by organizations and private clubs that limit occupancy to members.

Step 2: Do I (or Does My Loved One) Have a Disability Based on the Act?

The ADAAA (ADA Ammendments Act) has a three-prong structure for the definition of disability that is also used in the Rehabilitation Act and the FHA.  Disability, with respect to an individual, means:

1. A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities of such individual.
2. A record of such an impairment; or
3. Being regarded as having such an impairment.

A housing provider may not inquire as to the nature or severity of the disability unless it is necessary to respond to a reasonable accommodation request and only to the extent needed to verify the person’s status as having a disability and to determine the necessity of the reasonable accommodation.

Step 3: Was the Conduct Prohibited?

Once you have shown that you or a loved one has a covered disability, you next need to show that the conduct was prohibited.  The FHA prohibits housing providers from discriminating against applicants or residents because of their disability or the disability of anyone associated with them.  Discrimination can occur in any aspect of the housing process including the decision to rent or sell a property, the terms of that rental or sale, and whether any modifications can be made to the structure or policies.

Refusal to rent or sell

With respect to buying, selling, and renting a property, the FHA makes it illegal to refuse to rent or sell to a person because of a disability or to impose different application or qualifications, increase rental fees or prices, or other terms and conditions based on the person’s disability status.

Modifying the property

The FHA also prohibits housing providers from refusing to allow (at the expense of the person with a disability) reasonable modifications to the property (including common areas).  With respect to a rental, the landlord can require that the person with a disability restore the property to its original condition (without the modifications) upon vacating and at the tenant’s expense.

What is a reasonable Modification?

A reasonable modification is a structural change made to the existing premises, and can interior and exterior aspects of the property include common or public areas.  A request can be made at any time.  However, there must be an identifiable relationship between the requested modification and the person’s disability.  The request must also be “reasonable.”

Some examples include widening doorways to allow wheelchair access, installing grab bars in bathrooms, lowering kitchen cabinets to a suitable height, removing carpeting to make it easier for wheelchair or mobility devices to maneuver, or adding a wheelchair accessible ramp.

Reasonable accommodation also applies to policies or services.  For example, waiving a “no pet” policy to allow for a service dog, or requesting a disability-accessible parking space close to one’s residence.

Who pays for the modifications?

The tenant or homeowner is responsible for the costs of making these modifications as well as the cost of restoring the property upon moving out.  The exception to this is with respect to housing that receives federal financial assistance.  In that case, structural changes must be paid for by the housing provider unless providing them would be an undue financial or administrative burden.

Multi-family dwellings built after 1991 generally must have been constructed to meet certain minimum accessibility standards.  If these minimum standards are requested by a person with a disability, the housing provider may be liable for the cost of providing the accommodation.  However, if the request is not a structural change that should have been part of the minimum standards, the tenant is responsible for paying for the costs of the changes.  For multi-family housing built prior to 1991, the tenant can request reasonable accommodations but he or she must pay for them, even if they are now considered minimum standards.

The housing provider cannot require an additional security deposit or insurance coverage for the modification.  However, the landlord may negotiate a restoration agreement that requires a tenant to make payments into an interest-bearing escrow account (with interest accruing to the benefit of the tenant) to ensure there are funds available to pay for restoration at the end of the tenancy.  However, the decision to require an escrow account cannot just be based on the fact that the person has a disability.  Rather, the decision must look at factors like the nature of the modifications, the duration of the lease, and the credit history of the person.

Denial of Accommodation

To show that a request for a reasonable accommodation or modification was denied, you must show that the housing provider clearly understood that the request was being made for purposes of disability accommodation.  This should include letting the housing provider know you have a disability, you are requesting an accommodation, the type of accommodation you are seeking, and the relationship between the disability and the requested accommodation.  As a good practice, requests should be made in writing.

Step 4: Filing a Housing Discrimination Claim

People who feel they have been discriminated against with respect to housing can file a claim with their regional HUD office (http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/housing_discrimination).  The complaint must be filed with HUD within one year after the alleged discrimination.

Once a claim is submitted, it will be reviewed by a fair housing specialist to see if discrimination occurred.  If you suspect you or a loved one has been discriminated against, you should document dates and times and any witnesses to conversations and provide these to HUD.  You should also keep all copies of documents, and document telephone calls.

Once the housing specialist has reviewed the claim, he or she will determine whether or not discrimination has occurred.  If discrimination has occurred, the Housing Specialist will help file a formal complaint with HUD.  If the housing specialist has found no discrimination, you may still be able to pursue your claim through the federal court system.  At any point, you may want to consult with an attorney experienced in housing discrimination litigation.

The person may also file a claim in federal district court within two years from the date of discrimination.  However, if the complaint is filed with HUD, it will be investigated at no cost to the person with a disability.

To learn more about housing discrimination or filing a claim, please visit HUD’s website at: http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/information_for_disabled_persons

Today, Valerie Strohl and her daughter, Sarah have launched Sarah’s Kitchen Creations, A cooking show that is fun, entertaining and most importantly includes individuals with special needs.

Sarah’s Kitchen Creations is an upbeat, refreshing, yet also instructive and helpful show for our loved ones and their families to learn how to cook and gain independence.

Check out the first episode below and make sure to visit their site at www.unitedmedianow.com

1. Medicaid Waiver Programs

Many times, an adaptive bicycle can be purchased through waiver programs. Each state is different in their coverage and the process for accessing waiver funds. Some states require a denial from the primary insurer first prior to covering with waiver funds, others require a physician’s prescription with a therapist’s letter of medical necessity and evaluation for the equipment. It is best to speak with your caseworker for specifics in your state on coverage.

2. Charitable Clubs

There are many organizations that can provide funding for an adaptive bike. Often the United Way can direct a family to organizations or people that are willing to help fund equipment for children. The local chapters of the Kiwanis, Rotary, Elks, and Lions Clubs also tend to donate money to families in need.

3. Grants

There are a number of grants available from organizations that focus on helping children with disabilities. Here are some links to organizations that may provide grants for adaptive bikes.

1. United Health Care
2. Variety Children’s Charity
3. Special Kids Fund
4. Disabled Children’s Relief Fund
5. Children’s Charity Fund
6. Wheel To Walk Foundation
7. First Hand Foundation

4. Fundraising

Holding a benefit or fundraiser for a child is a great way to get the community to help out. Many times, the local media will also help to spread the word about the fundraiser or interview the family and child to help communicate the need for the equipment. One of the most efficient ways to fund raise for an adaptive bike is hold an online fundraiser through email and social networks. Consider using one of these platforms.

1. indigogo
2. Go Fund Me
3. YouCaring

It is imperative that a family contact a special needs attorney prior to holding the fundraiser to establish a proper trust for the funds earned. If it is not set up properly, the money can be viewed as income for the child potentially making them ineligible for state health plans and waiver programs.

5. Registry

Tadpole Adaptive offers a unique service for funding adaptive equipment. As a company founded by both a health professional and a user of adaptive equipment; they truly understand how difficult it can be to fund all of the equipment that is wanted and needed. Because of this, they have created a registry which is similar to the wedding and baby registries we are all familiar with. A family will create a registry listing the equipment that is wanted, a short story or narrative about why it is important and the financial goal to purchase the equipment. Families can then spread the word about the registry and people are able to donate to the registry and towards purchasing the equipment.

This post was written by  Terri Oxender, OTR/L of tadpoleadaptive.com. If you need help finding the perfect adaptive bicycles or any other piece of adaptive equipment, please do not hesitate to contact them.

Disclosure: Tadpole Adaptive is one of the participants of the Great Bike Giveaway. Friendship Circle recently finished its annual Great Bike Giveaway which gave 29 adaptive bikes to individuals with special needs. For those who did not win make sure to you sign up  to receive updates about Great Bike Giveaway 2014.

To make you a little less worried Netbuddy has collected 19 tips from parents of children with special needs on who to get through the summer break.

1. Timelines

Visual timelines are really important during the holidays, as every day is different.   Get a calendar for the holiday and use photographs of who is visiting and where you are going.  Try and stick to some kind of routine e.g. visits out are always in the afternoon, or a soft play center is always on the same weekday.

2. Leisure time planner

We have a leisure time planner for our eldest so that he can do things in one hour rotations, otherwise he would spend all day doing exactly the same thing during the holidays.

3. Go for picnics

Eating out on vacations can be quite difficult for us. Instead we have lots of picnics – lovely countryside and weather helps! Picnics are easier to manage and therefore more relaxing. What a vacation should be about.

4. Separate outings bag

I keep a separate outings bag always packed and ready to go with a change of clothes, pads and wipes etc. I just need to add snacks and that way I’m not flying around at the last minute when going out.

5. Transporting medications

When we are out and about, instead of taking my son’s medication bottles with us, we measure the meds out in a syringe and pop them in one of his old glasses cases to transport them (it holds 2 syringes perfectly!)

6. Camping success

Slippery sleeping bags and inflatable mattresses don’t mix for my son who has cerebral palsy. We got a good quality DOUBLE mattress and sewed 12-14 big sturdy eyelets around the edges of a fitted sheet. Then we attached a SINGLE duvet cover onto the top of the sheet, sewing down either side leaving enough room for getting in and out/ comfort. Put duvet in first then fit sheet onto mattress using webbing through the eyelets tied underneath. Works like a dream!

7. Bike it

To make a change from using the buggy/wheel chair we often take Pete out on a Tricycle.

8. A real catch!

A velcro ball and catch mitt set has been fantastic for my son who is unable to catch a regular ball.  Great for fun, cause and effect and coordination.

9. Trampolines

Our family bought Janet a trampoline which has been brilliant for her and has also been great for our other kids and their friends.

10. Vacation routine

Without the routine of school, my son acts up, so vacations can be hell. I now prepare a vacation routine for him. Even just a basic structure helps, like: ‘wash, get dressed, breakfast, park or some other activity, lunch, play or video, dinner, bath-time, bed with story or DVD’.

11. Summer time eating therapy

Meals times are often a source of friction, so  in the summer I put a tent up in the garden and we eat in a tent. For some reason the change of scene distracts from what the food is and it gets eaten and I get to lie down whilst he eats!

12. No surprises

Every time we go to a new vacation destination my son is adamantly against it.  We have to get him excited about a new place.  Show him what they have there, why he is going to like it and prepare him for the adventure. We involve him in the research and planning, and most importantly, don’t surprise him.

13. Clean change

Changing older kids can be challenging when you’re out and about.  They are too big for change units & the floors are too dirty to lay them on.  I take a plastic tablecloth out to lay on a dirty floor & just wipe clean afterwards – its small & portable.

14. Remembering days out

Make it easier to communicate about days out – use a camcorder or camera phone and scrapbook to record special moments that you can look at together at the end of the day. Use a scrapbook to tell other people about favorite days out.

15. Cue cards

If you use visual cues to communicate – have small versions of the pictures laminated and attached to a belt ring so that “toilet” “stop” ” drink ” signs or whatever is most important to the child is readily and quickly available.  You can then take them out when shopping etc.

16. Practice beforehand

It’s a good idea to role play with the person what to do if he/she gets lost, making sure they know where to find and how to present their identification card and what to say.

17. Planning ahead

Always have little snacks and toys when you go on an outing. John loves his special Mary Poppins backpack where we keep his favorite things which I use to comfort and calm him if it all becomes too stressful or noisy for him.  I put in his Nintendo, a toy, a book, drink, snack/treat and also a walkman so he can listen to a story or music.

18. We can see you

When we go out to busy places with Lilly she wears a bright colored cap for us so we can quickly see where she is at all times.

19. Handy toys

When travelling in the car attach favorite toys or fidgets to long springy key-rings or ribbons. I clip these onto a loop of elastic around the headrest. This way everything stays within their reach.

Share your best summer tips in the comments below!

You may also be interested in:

• 82 Summer Activities for Families with Special Needs
• 10 Activities For Practicing Life Skills This Summer
• How to get through 82 Days of Summer Vacation
• The Complete Guide to Special Needs Travel
• 9 Creative Sensory Ideas for a Summer of Fun

1. Get a library card

Most public libraries have some type of summer reading program with incentives, so it’s a good opportunity to get a library card and learn how to find and check out books, music and movies.

This means that your child will need to approach the librarian’s desk in the library, ask for a new card and answer all of the questions that follow.  In most cities, the only requirements for a library card are being able to sign one’s name and proof of residency from a guardian.

2. Lemonade Stand 

When my son got his library card, he immediately insisted on getting a wallet to keep it in.  Once he had his own wallet, he wanted spending money.  So he had to think of ways to earn money.

A neighborhood lemonade stand is an excellent way to encourage an entrepreneurial spirit as well as basic life skills.  Each customer must be greeted, lemonade must be poured carefully, money must be counted.

3. Clean out a closet

Cleaning out a closet is a positive rainy-day activity.  Put aside the outgrown clothing and neglected toys.  Arrange the closet to maximize accessibility.

You can also check out some more ideas for chores here.

4. Garage Sale

Now that you have a few boxes of stuff you don’t need anymore, start planning a garage sale.  Multi-family garage sales are more successful with less work per person than single-family sales.

We recently hosted a multi-family garage sale at our home to raise funds for a new playground at the local elementary school.  We had to talk about storing items before the sale, pricing items to make sure they were sold quickly, finding free advertising venues online, and how to organize the merchandise.  And then we talked to customers and made change all day!

5. Yard Work 

Occupational therapists strongly recommend “heavy work,” that is, any type of exertion that puts pressure on the joints of the upper body, for individuals with special needs.  The benefits of heavy work are increased attention, arousal level, body awareness and muscle tone, as well as decreased sensory defensiveness.

Get out a rake and clean out the old leaves from under the shrubbery, dig up some weeds, pull out the hose and water some plants, use the wheelbarrow to carry mulch to the backyard and compost the yard waste.  Since yard work is a multi-step process with unique tools for each stage, you’ll also be modeling organizational skills.

6. Pick fruit at a local farm 

I haven’t taken the leap to start a home garden yet, but my family does visit several local farms every summer to pick fruit.  It’s a basic economics lesson to understand where the food comes from and the resources needed to grow the food.

My children also learn to identify which fruit is ripe enough to be picked, how to pull it gently off the plant without damage and how to handle food safely for the trip home.  At the cherry orchard I had each child count 100 cherries as they were picked.

7. Explore a new park 

Instead of going to the same park 5 minutes from your home, try a different one.  Challenge yourself and your loved one on the new playground equipment.  If there’s a nature trail, pick up a map and find your way together.

8. Plan a picnic 

Let your loved one pack lunch for everyone on your next outing.  Write out a menu, count the water bottles, find the ice packs, and make sure the cooler isn’t too heavy!

9. Hit the beach 

The beach offers a great incentive to learn self-care skills such as dressing and undressing, applying sunscreen and keeping a hat and sunglasses nearby.

The beach is also the perfect place to practice safety skills such as the buddy system and treading water.  Many beaches are now wheelchair accessible, so call first to ask if beach wheels are available.

10. Camping 

With all of my family’s sleep and food issues, I was afraid to try camping for a long time.  An opportunity arose when our city sponsored an overnight family camp out at a local park.  We practiced pitching our tent at home first.

I decided that I wasn’t ready to try outdoor grilling in addition to caring for my son, so we packed sandwiches, bagels and lots of fresh fruit to eat.  We took long walks in the woods all afternoon, and we roasted marshmallows and sang songs at the evening bonfire.  On the way home, my son was already planning our next camping trip.

Some state and national parks offer wheelchair accessible, air-conditioned cabins in scenic locations.  Other parks offer yurts with a wood-burning stove for a different type of rustic experience.  Whatever your comfort level is, there’s something out there just for you.

How will you practice life skills this summer?

William

William is a happy 6 year old boy who longs to ride with his 7 yo sister. He was born with Spastic Quad CP and then had a catastrophic stroke at 2.5. He now has very low trunk tone and needs full support to ride. Thank you for this chance!

Morgan Santangelo

Morgan is a 7 yr old triplet who has Spastic Diplegia CP & Cortical Visual Impairment. Morgan is always trying to keep up with her other 2 sisters & older brother. She asks constantly when she will have a bike to ride so she can join them.

Dallas J Henderson

Dallas is a 13 yr old boy who has NF1 amongst other things. For is 11th birthday he received a tracheotomy after a very bad dentist appointment, we would love for him to have some freedom back as he is now dependant on an attendant at all times.

Meliq Shadley

Meliq is a vibrant,happy 6 year old who loves people ans smiling! He has had a trying past starting at 6 weeks old, but 6 years later he’s still here and progressing well. Ladies and gents here is our miracle on wheels Meliq, Keep Smiling!

Jon Paul

Jon Paul is blind and has a global developmental delay, but that doesn’t slow him down! He’s an active 5 year old who plays adaptive sports. A buddy bike would be the perfect way for him to enjoy biking with his big sister and family!

Audrey Huddlestun

I am a 9 year old with Down Syndrome that loves to be outside! I have worked very hard to learn to petal a bike, but steering and breaking are too hard! This bike would help me ride with my brother and sister and my mom would get to ride too!

Jon Miles Wendling

Born @ 1lb 8oz. Jon is non verbal , has autism &cerebral palsy A happy kid when he is not sitting at the front window sadly looking out at the kids riding their bikes. His muscle tone does not let him ride a bike. please vote for him and others!

Abbie Levine

Abbie is a sweet, amazing 11 y/o girl. We are so blessed to have her here w/ us. She was born healthy, but got really sick a few years ago. She received a Heart AND Kidney Transplant and lost her right leg. This bike is just what she needs! Thnx.

Kendall Mulvihill

Kendall was a 1½ lb preemie and has cerebral palsy. Our favorite activity were bike rides along the beach. As he grew out of his WeeRide seat, it became too difficult and dangerous to ride any other way. Now 12, we pray to regain our family fun.

Grayson Hicks

Grayson is an amazing seven year old boy that happens to have Down syndrome. Grayson loves playing outside. We have tried many different bicycles with him, but because of his body type and lower muscle tone, none have worked.

Victoria Paige Webb

Victoria 12 with Down syndrome. Currently she is overweight at 137 lbs even on a low-fat diet. The Flaghouse will help her lose weight to maintain a healthy lifestyle. She wants to be able to ride with her sister and get the exercise she needs.

Anna Fix

Anna is 13 yr old little girl who longs to ride bikes with her 14 yr old sister, but do to her Mitochondrial Disease and rare form Epilepsy she is unable to ride a conventional bike. Having a special bike would definitely allow her to accomplish it.

Foster Stetts

Foster is our incredible 10 yo. He was born with severe hypotonia & autism. His lack of muscle tone, balance & coordination have led to many falls & broken bones, & made it hard to play sports. He would love to be able to ride bikes with his family.

Rachel Weigle

Rachel is a 17 year old with CP. She had a trike when she was younger and loved to ride it. She outgrew it and had a spinal fusion so she needs something more adapted to her needs. She needs exercise to prevent weight gain.

Maureen Reyes

Maureen suffered 2 brain hemorrhages just over 2 years ago as the result of an AVM in her mid- brain leaving her with many limitations; including the ability to walk or ride a regular bike. This bike will allow her to do something she enjoy.

Megan Greshem

Megan is an 11 year old with a heart of gold. She was diagnosed with Heriditary Spastic Paresis. This disease causes her to be weak in the lower extremities, causing frequent falls. She is unable to ride a regular bike and feels left out.

David Borgol

David is 10 years happy. He has Down Syndrome, a congenital heart disease, low muscle tone and lack of coordination skills but that does not stop him from wanting to keep up with his peers. Please give him the opportunity to be like any other child.

Dylan

Dylan just turned ten this week and is diagnosed with autism. He is about to move to town where he would be able to ride the bike at the park and on the school grounds. He had a trike when he was younger, but has outgrown it.

Kayli Whistler

Kayli is surviving a life threatening, Trisomy 18 syndrome. She has overcome 32 min. of death, a perforated bowel, a misplaced Gtube, and a nursing accident resulting in a trach. Kayli is gaining major motor skills, and challenging the impossible!

Casey

Casey had an adaptive bike when she was younger but outgrew it. We later donated to an org. with children with special needs similar to hers. Free wheeling in the driveway is her way of getting around for fun. A new bike would be an awesome gift!

Charles Judd Nash

Judd is 5 and has Cerebral Palsy.Typical trikes are too small and he can’t keep his feet on the pedals. The Rifton Adaptive Tricycle would be perfect for him. Riding would be therapeutic for his muscles and would be so much fun! Please help him win!

Jack Levesque

Jack is three years old and he has a rare illness that encompasses many conditions. We would love this bike for our hero. He is brave and strong! He has had over 35 surgeries and keeps on smiling! Jack Jack is our hero! Thank you.

Hailee Warren

Hailee was born with Spina Bifida (Myelomeningocele). She is 6 years old and wants to ride a bike so much. She wears KFOs when she walks with her walker. I think this trike would help her so much and give her much needed independence.

Abigail Reyes

Abigail is an amazing strong 4 1/2 year old, who has left hemiplagia due to a massive stroke she suffered from last year. She would love to join not only her brother for a bike ride but also her classmates on bike days at school.

Director’s Choice

Ashley Palodichuk

Ashley is a sweet eighteen year old that enjoys spending time with her family. She has recently lost 38lbs. Receiving an adaptive bicycle would not only provide her with freedom and enjoyment but a healthy lifestyle as well. Please help Ashley!

Carlo

Carlo is a giggly, happy 4 year old who was born in Haiti. We were blessed to adopt him into our family in July 2011! He is legally blind and autistic, but making remarkable progress. He LOVES any kind of movement and so this bike is perfect!

Zachary Rice

Zachary is 17 years old and loves to be on the go! Zach has Ring 22 Syndrome and Autism. We are always looking for things to do as a family and this bike would be a wonderful way for us to have some heart healthy family fun together!

Mya VanPelt

Mya was born a micropreemie at 1lb 2ozs. She is an amazing, loving and wonderful little girl. She has had to fight to achieve all of her goals every single day of her life. This bike would allow her to feel like she is included with her peers!

Nicolas Selz

Nick is 9 years old & a special child. He has Hydrocephalus, seizures & CP. Nick loves bikes & would love nothing more to have one that he could ride. Your bike, in no uncertain terms, would give him a childhood that he hasn’t had the luxury of yet.

About Enbrighten

Enbrighten™ is an engaging and thought-provoking comprehension game designed to empower students with the tools necessary to approach and ultimately understand both narrative and informational text. This strategy emboldens students and teachers to establish comprehension as a process of cognition rather than something assessed by an isolated set of comprehension questions.

Enbrighten™ also encourages the development of metacognition, critical thinking, listening, and speaking skills within the classroom environment. It is designed to act as a supplement to any curriculum and can be used with any preexisting classroom text.

Although the game was developed for a classroom setting, I think there are many ways it could be adapted for parents to use when reading with their children as well. Here is an overview of the Enbrighten Comprehension Game

Materials Needed

Step 1

Each student is assigned a strategy job. If playing the game with a large group, students can work in teams.

Step 2

Understanding the strategy jobs:

Summarizer:
The student who is assigned this role needs to summarize, or recap in 1-2 sentences, what the story is about.

Vocab Master:
The student who is assigned this role needs to refer to the text to pick out 1 or 2 “trick” or “interesting” words, write that word down, and use context clues to come up with a definition. They may then use a dictionary or other resource tool to check their definition.

Connector:
The student who is assigned this role needs to make a connection to the text. They can make a text-to-text connection, text-to-self, or text-to-world (these types of connections will need to be taught before the game is played!)

Clarifier:
The student who is assigned this role needs to clarify any part of the story that may be confusing. This person should go after the questioner. If another student (or team) poses a question, it is the clarifiers job to answer. This is arguably the most difficult strategy job and should only be assigned to those students who would succeed at this job. Personally, I have yet to introduce this strategy job into my classroom.

Visualizer:
The student who is assigned this role needs to draw a picture of what is happening in the text.

Predictor:
The student who is assigned this role needs to make a prediction, or guess, as to what is going to happen next in the story.

Questioner:
The student who is assigned this role needs to pose a question to the other students/groups about the text. They can also ask an open-ended question or write down a question that they were confused on while reading.

*Students are provided with sentence starters to help them begin to process what they want to write about/discuss

Step 3

Text is read aloud, within the small groups, or independently. (You can differentiate depending on skill level of students and level of text.) Students can take notes on what is being read.

Step 4

At an appropriate stopping point, ask the students to each write down one idea from the text based on their strategy.

Step 5

Call on a group, or student, to share their idea. Stress to the students that points are not earned for correct answers but for sharing ideas, getting the discussion started, or explaining your thinking. Students (or groups) can also receive points for expanding on another person’s (groups) idea.

The Enbrighten website does provide a rubric for each strategy job that can be purchased. This is beneficial if the game is played in a classroom setting to allow for student progress to be monitored and their work to be evaluated.

Overall, this game seems like a great way to get students discussing books. Each strategy is aligned to the common core and can be paired with other reading supports to assist students in the skill of comprehension. Again, please visit the website for more detailed information! I have provided an overview of the game but for more information, please visit their website at: http://www.saneandsavvystrategies.com

What Is A Sensory Story?

A sensory story is usually quite short, with each sentence of the story being accompanied by a sensory stimulus. When choosing stimuli it is important to try and think of really good ones! Which one of these would make a good touch experience? Feeling a cuddly toy or feeling the air from a hair dryer on the sole of your foot? You want to aim for the really great experiences when creating a story. Sensory rooms and sensory resources can provide great experiences but we can also discover them ourselves simply by being alert.

The Benefits of Sensory Stories

As children, and as adults too, we enjoy sharing a favourite story repeatedly. There is a security to be found in familiarity. Sensory stories use repetition to build children’s confidence as they learn from stimuli, they give children opportunities to fine tune their responses to stimuli.

For children with profound and multiple disabilities (PMLD) the world can be a daunting place. Through sharing sensory stories we can help children to build their confidence at encountering new stimuli.

Consider how you would feel if you were placed in the position of an individual with PMLD – with restricted movement, impaired senses and possibly cognition,- and whilst you were wheeling to the car one day a dog barked at you suddenly. The sound could be terrifying, your anxiety levels could rocket, and your outing could be spoiled.

Now consider what would happen if you had already encountered that sound in a place where you felt safe, with someone whom you trusted. In this latter version of events the dog bark doesn’t throw you, and your outing is still an adventure waiting to be had. By supporting our children in encountering stimuli in a safe environment we open the world to them.

About the Author
Joanna Grace, I am a special needs consultant in the UK. I work creating these stories. I have free resources to download at http://jo.element42.org and I currently have a Kickstarter project running with the aim of creating affordable stories for everyone The Sensory Story Project the film accompanying the project will give you more information about sensory stories.

According to United Cerebral Palsy, Assistive Technology (AT) often plays a vital role in the lives of people with disabilities. AT is any item, piece of equipment, or product that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.  AT has allowed accessibility for everyone.  No one, regardless of their abilities, should be left feeling like they have no independence or confidence.  Modern technology offers a plethora of products to assist individuals with CP on a daily basis.

There are four classifications of Cerebral Palsy.  Each classification pertains to how the muscles in the body are affected.  For example, individuals with Ataxic Cerebral Palsy may have very poor balance and be extremely unsteady when they walk, due to the muscles being too weak.

Depending on the type of Cerebral Palsy, the needs of AT may differ greatly.  There are numerous AT products on the market available to individuals with CP.

Here are 10 assistive technology/accessibility product for individuals with Cerebral Palsy.

1. Wheelchairs

An individual with spastic CP may have difficulty in walking because of the tight muscles in the hips and legs.  When both legs are affected (spastic diplegia), a wheelchair is a popular device for mobility and accessibility.  At Convaid, there are a variety of wheelchairs specially designed for individuals with CP.  For example, their chair with 30-fixed tilt, headrest, and h-harness are suited for someone with weak trunk muscles, and needs assistance to sit upright.

2. Adaptive Tricycle (for therapeutic cycling)

According to makers of an adaptive tricycle, therapeutic cycling can improve respiration, swallowing and the development of head and trunk control while strengthening anti-gravity muscles, improving eye-hand coordination and self-esteem.

3. Stool Scooters and Standing Equipment

Depending on your child’s life stage and ability, there are products developed for assisting with movement while promoting stability or when difficulty holding themselves in an upright position.

4. Stair Glides/Elevators and Mechanical Lifts

Stair glides and elevators are important devices to have in a home, work or school setting where there may be multiple levels.  An individual with CP is often unable to walk or climb stairs with ease.  With the use of a glide or elevator, an individual can travel up and down the stairs with independence, safety and ease.  A mechanical lift is often helpful for transporting an individual with CP into the bathtub, wheelchair or bed.

5. Car Seats

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, there are different regulations to follow when traveling with your special needs child.  Depending on their disability, you may need an adaptive car seat.  It is important to never adapt a car seat on your own.

6. Adapted Vehicles

Depending on the transportation needs of you and/or your child, an adapted vehicle may be an easier and much safer transportation option.  For more information on Adapting Motor Vehicles for People With Disabilities, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

7. Communication Devices

Some individuals with CP have speech problems and are not able to speak due to the muscle spasms in their mouth, throat and tongue.  Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) devices allow individuals the ability to communicate in different ways, specialized to their needs, such as signs, letters, pictures, and even a voice.

8. Adaptive Art Supplies

Art can be an effective and powerful form of expression, especially when a child feels limited by a disability.  Because there is no right or wrong way to “do art”, individuals with CP may feel confident.  Bright Hub Education suggests some excellent ways to make the process of making art more accessible.  For example, a child with spastic CP may find it easier to use large markers or paint brushes, as they are easier to grip.

9. Commode and Bath Chairs

The ability to use the toilet may be very empowering for an individual with CP, however, there may need to be modifications made in order to remain safe and hygienic.  Bath chairs are also helpful in providing a safe and stress-free bathing experience.

10. Writing tools

There are numerous devices to aid a student with CP in writing.  For example, the Steady Write Writing Instrument is designed to improve the handwriting of individuals with shaky handwriting due to involuntary movements.

Improve Life with Accessibility products and assistive technology

Whether you are looking for ways to modify your home to make it wheelchair accessible or looking for products to make daily bath time a little bit easier, there are numerous helpful accessibility products available for individuals with CP.  If you know of a product that can help individuals with cerebral palsy please share it in the comment section below.

About the Author
Adrienne Domeier is an avid blogger and freelance writer. She writes primarily in the health, social sciences, and legal fields. She strives to provide relevant and informative content to her readers. You can find her on Google+