Person centered planning is not a system or policy but rather a way of thinking. It asks that we momentarily put aside what is currently offered and focus on what is important to an individual with special needs before thinking about what is important for them to fit in the existing system.
Read More***how to find an AAC specialist *** the importance of aided facilitated stimulation *** building communication autonomy *** avoiding prompt dependency *** overcoming common barriers teachers, parents, and support staff face in becoming fluent AAC users
Read MoreWould your loved one with disabilities have the support necessary to stay safe in the event of an on campus crisis? Are you a special educator? Would you have all you need to keep your students safe? What can we be doing NOW to prepare for later?
Read MoreDr. Lauren Moskowitz, of St John’s University, is known for her work with Self injurious behavior. In this episode she helps us understand why SIB is happening and discusses ABA as a method of treatment, including finding reinforcers that work.
Read MoreSexual assault in the special needs population is high. We look at who the perpetrators are, 10 things to do when abuse is suspected, and tools to utilize before, during, and after assault.
Read MoreWhat is the connection between autism and epilepsy? Does one cause the other? When is the first seizure most likely to happen? Are they harmful? Can they be missed? When do we need to call 911?
Read MoreAssistance dogs can bring independence, safety, comfort, dignity, companionship, (and cuteness) to the team. However the process is quite lengthy and choosing the right organization is important.
Read MoreWe see it in the news all the time. Physical and verbal abuse of special needs individuals caught on camera. Should cameras be the first line of defense in keeping those with differing abilities safe? Is it that simple? What does the law allow? Who has access to the recordings?
Read MoreThis episode is a must listen from beginning to end for parents, educators, and providers.
Restraining someone against their will or placing them in an area of seclusion where s/he can not get out are still widely used methods in the special needs community.
Why?
Today’s episode addresses this question.
Read MoreWandering and elopement are stressful and scary scenarios that, unfortunately, can end tragically. Today we are taking a proactive approach and putting plans in place so our loved one with special needs can be found quickly should he or she go missing.
Read MoreWhen 911 is called and an individual with special needs is on the scene, it can be at best confusing and at worse fatal.
It is important for caregivers and providers to prepare in advance. Today we learn how.
Read MoreIdentifying and recovering from trauma can be complicated for our loved one with special needs. There are only a handful of professionals in the country providing therapy for individuals with disabilities who have experienced trauma. Dr. Daniel Hoover of the Kennedy Krieger Institute (a partner of John Hopkins School of Medicine) is one of them. In this episode, he shares with us 3 red flags indicating trauma may be happening or may have happened and 3 things parents can do in partnering with the doctors to begin the recovery process.
Read More