BY EMILY ILAND, M.A. & THOMAS W ILAND, B.S., CPA An inclusive peer mentoring class, character education, and highlighting the capacities and value of each person are excellent ways to increase protective factors of vulnerable individuals. “You see that girl over there? She wants you to kiss her.” I looked across the crowded high school quad at the lovely young lady sitting under a tree. I could not believe my luck. How did the guys […]
This year our country proudly celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the 40th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the 50th anniversary of Head Start. All three efforts have been transformative in ensuring equal opportunity for all Americans. While tremendous progress has been made, the anniversaries of these laws are cause for reflection on the work that lies ahead. Children with disabilities and their families continue to […]
BY DEANNA PICON Parents and the teaching staff share a common objective: working together to ensure the best experience for your son or daughter. Every fall, parents and students gear up for a new school year, with high hopes for a successful academic term. At the same time, teachers, therapists and administrative staff anxiously await a fresh school session filled with both returning and new students, classes, activities and challenges. Parents and the teaching staff […]
GENETIC ALLIANCE BY SHARON ALEXANDER, MPA The Advocacy ATLAS has over 200 tools and resources developed by parents, parent advocacy groups, condition-specific advocacy groups, disability groups and other partners. This time of year can be both exhilarating and challenging for the whole family. Whether returning to school or starting school for the first time, there are a lot of things to do and moving pieces to consider. For children with special healthcare needs and their […]
BY JENNIFER WOODWORTH, PSY.D AD/HD that is not treated with therapeutic or medical interventions can have a large impact on the person experiencing the symptoms and the people they interact with. As school begins, children will be asked to sit still, focus on lessons, and concentrate for extended amounts of time. The first month of school is generally considered an adjustment period, yet after about four weeks have passed, teachers are able to identify students […]
