Still My Boy

BY KIMBERLEE RUTAN MCCAFFERTY I hear Justin’s bus before I see it, motor revving loudly from a block away so I have time to get up from my curb and wait at the end of the driveway. I’ve been away for two days and am anticipating this homecoming, am usually greeted by effusive hugs and kisses upon any lengthy absence. As I move closer to the bus door however, I hear his unmistakeable unhappy sounds, […]

Five Summer Activities For Children With Special Needs

BY NATASHA CORNIN Find inclusive or targeted activities welcoming of special needs kids, where we and our kids feel safe among others and create enriching experiences. Summer has arrived, and with it the challenges presented as we seek to maintain our special needs kids’ familiar routines while taking advantage of the seasonal activities available. Whether your child has a 10-month or 12-month program may impact your priorities as it relates to the quantity and cost […]

How We Made Our Vacation Work for Sammy and the Family

Is it truly vacation if we are constantly hovering over Sammy to make sure he doesn’t ruin something that doesn’t belong to us? Going away is supposed to be an exciting activity for most yet, at the same time, finding the right vacation spot can end up being a big stressor. My family and I know this from experience. We’ve always needed to find vacations that fit the needs of my brother, Sammy, who has […]

Healthy Snacks

HEALTHY CHOICES, HEALTHY LIFESTYLES BY BARBARA B. MINTZ, MS, RD Snacks do not have to be unhealthy. In fact, they are a very important part of a healthy diet. Summer is vacation time and we are busy enjoying the warmer weather with friends and family. Some people like to stay very busy on their time off, others like to slow things down. Either way, the rhythm of our lives changes and sometimes that keeps us […]

An Indoor And Inclusive Play-Away Room Can Be A Building Block For Happy Children

AN EP HOME IMPROVEMENT EXCLUSIVE BY CHARLES M SCHWAB ARCHITECT, AIA, UNIVERSAL DESIGNED AND SUSTAINABLE ARCHITECTURE “Play is the highest form of research,” noted Einstein. So let’s take a look at how your little Einstein’s, or Dr. Frankenstein’s, as the case may be, can play safely and creatively in an interior space within your home. Let’s design a Play-Away Room, designed specifically for inclusive play for your children and their playmates. Play is learning and […]