Autism is a spectrum disorder (ASD) that affects each individual in distinctive ways. Perhaps in ways as unique as handprints and snowflakes. Though there is a wide variation of obstacles a child with ASD may experience (such as language deficits, sensory hyper/hypo sensitivities, and interfering behaviors), social isolation is perhaps the most painful hurdle for these families and children. Planning an play date for classmates with autism is as valuable for neurotypical children as it is for those in the neurodiverse community. * I … [Read more...]
SleepBuddy Complete Sleep System for Children on the Autism Spectrum | A Review
Sleep disturbances are commonplace for those with special needs. According to the Autism Research Institute, autism spectrum sleep disorders occur at a staggering rate of approximately 80%. Unfortunately, nightly routines are often extra challenging for these children, which can further delay crucial sleep developmental milestones. With the aid of behavior modification techniques, often parents can tackle the obstacles that come with napping, sleeping through the night, and/or transitioning from the crib to bed. SleepBuddy Complete Sleep System … [Read more...]
How runDisney Saved My Butt. No, Really.
It's not all tutus, tiaras, and Trader Sam's. Over the past six years, the runDisney brand has been all that and more; camaraderie, sunsets over Cars Land and World Showcase, and many, many a celebratory dinner. See the world! The side effect (even if unintended) of same? Fitness. My physical therapist self kinda knew this all along, but to be honest it was a backdrop to the magic and medals in my timeline. Until now... The invisible side effect of my twenty half marathons and umpteen 5Ks? Core strength. My oh my, that came in … [Read more...]
The Disney Minnie Van – Wheelchair Accessible Version
Special is as special does. The Walt Disney Company has long been a leader in its consideration towards the special needs community, and this recent foray into private transportation for Walt Disney World Resort Guests is thankfully no different. While to the majority of users this service will be a "whimsical" treat, to those utilizing a wheelchair or electronic convenience vehicle (ECV), these transports pack more Pixie Dust than Tink herself. These wings come in the form of the Disney Minnie Van Wheelchair Accessible Version. ** … [Read more...]
Blogger Bash 2017 | A Special Needs Playland
The swag is here, and I am re-living my two-day romp with Blogger Bash 2017 (@BloggerBashNYC). As a first-timer and elder blogger, I will admit hesitancy attending a conference I feared might have few meaningful take-aways. With each item I unboxed from the Toy Insider, I was reminded of how wrong I was; special needs-friendly the event and its sponsors were. This spectrum mom, Special Olympics physical therapist, and Autism Speaks Ambassador was pleased. My special highlights from each event: Babypalooza Tickle Water … [Read more...]
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