Disability Information and Insight

Inclusion Europe

2012-01-30T19:18:00.000-07:00

The 2012 Europe in Action conference from May 30-June 12, 2012 will bring together self-advocates, family members, professionals, and representatives from organizations from all over Europe and beyond to share information about current employment policies and practices for persons with disabilities in Europe. Based on the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities, inclusive employment opportunities and policies have been further developed and provide service providers, policy-makers and other stakeholders with outstanding examples of good practice. This event, sponsored by the European Union and organized by Inclusion Europe, will take place in Brussels, Belgium. For more information and to register visit http://www.rights-into-action.eu/

Research ties learning disabilities, cadmium exposure in children

2012-01-30T19:16:00.000-07:00

Children ages 6 to 15 who had the highest cadmium levels in their urine were more likely to develop learning disabilities or require special education than those with the lowest levels, a study found. In the journal Environmental Health Perspective, researchers reported that cadmium levels were not associated with the risk of developing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. WebMD (1/27) http://children.webmd.com/news/20120127/study-links-cadmium-exposure-learning-disabilities-kids

Teens With Autism Avoid Email, Social Media

2012-01-28T07:40:00.000-07:00

Even as teens with autism use television, computers and other screen-based media more than their peers, new research suggests that they’re shunning some of the Web’s most popular offerings.
In the largest study ever to look at the use of screen-based media in those with autism as compared to other disabilities, researchers at the University of Missouri and Washington University analyzed data on more than 1,000 special education students ages 13 to 16 collected through the federal government’s National Longitudinal Transition Study-2. http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/01/27/teens-autism-email/14869/

Australia makes investment in students with special needs

2012-01-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

About one quarter of the federal funds provided to improve resources for students with disabilities will go to train teachers. The money -- about $48 million over two years -- can be spent on technical aids, teacher training or more staff. Officials say the funding will help schools develop the skills of students with special needs. The Sydney Morning Herald (Australia) (1/25) http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/48m-to-train-teachers-of-disabled-students-20120124-1qfst.html

Initiative targets high number of black students in special education

2012-01-28T07:31:00.000-07:00

A new initiative is aimed at using advocacy by parents and educators to address factors that contribute to a disproportionate number of African-American students being identified as having disabilities. Data show that black students comprise 17% of public-school students but account for 31% of those with intellectual disabilities, 28% of those with emotional disorders and 21% of those with learning disabilities, all diagnoses that could be influenced by bias. Education Week/On Special Education blog (1/12) http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/speced/2012/01/a_new_initiative_hopes_to.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OnSpecialEducation+%28Education+Week+Blog%3A+On+Special+Education%29

Study finds parents are involved in the IEP process

2012-01-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

A majority of parents of students in special education say they are satisfied with their level of involvement in the individualized education program process, a new study shows. Researchers surveyed the families of more than 10,000 students with special needs and found that most attended IEP meetings and were satisfied with their role. However, levels of satisfaction declined among families of older students and those with behavioral or social challenges. Disability Scoop (1/24)
http://r.smartbrief.com/resp/dsxtCammlKCcgEgtCidbaFCicNDbpD?format=standard

Percentage of students in special education differs across states

2012-01-25T14:31:00.000-07:00

About 18% of Rhode Island students are in special education, compared with just 9% in Texas, and an average of 13%, nationwide, an analysis of federal government data show. Some say states with higher percentages could face added challenges if a proposed $1 billion reduction in federal aid for special education is realized. "It is going to be a huge cut," said Lindsay Jones, senior director for policy and advocacy at the Council for Exceptional Children. "It will be felt in every school in the nation." Stateline.org (1/24) http://www.stateline.org/live/details/story?contentId=626715

Autism Therapy more Effective when Peers Involved too

2012-01-23T09:14:00.000-07:00

Kids with autism fare significantly better socially when their typically developing classmates are taught how to interact with them, new research suggests. http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/11/29/autism-therapy-peers/14528/

Bullying Police E-Book

2012-01-23T09:09:00.002-07:00

Bully Police E-Book is an extensive E-Book, with over 1,600 pages, and growing, divided into 6 sections. There are contributing article writers from all over the USA, experts in all aspects of bullying.

This will be a "never-ending" E-Book, updated periodically. It is expected that more anti bullying educators and experts will add articles from their article repertoire in the future and those who order this e-book will receive updates. The writers who contributed to this e-book have one thing in common - they want to help kids who are being bullied as well as the kids who are the bullies. We have come together for the common good of ALL of our children. http://www.bullypolice.com/bpebook.html

How technology is changing England's schools

2012-01-23T09:07:00.000-07:00

In England, many educators are using technology to change teaching and learning in the country's schools. Among the developments are the use of computer games to teach math, which officials say could help students' understanding of the subject and keep them engaged. Some classrooms also are testing the use of animation and computer-generated graphics to teach math. One teacher says she is using technology that recognizes students' motions in academic lessons that also tap into students' interest in games. The Guardian (London) (1/10 http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2012/jan/10/technological-innovations-classroom-learning

Young Voices: Young People's Views of Inclusive Education

2012-01-18T07:21:00.000-07:00

This book and film highlights the views and photography of several young people with and without disabilities in Tanzania and Uganda. Through dialogue and pictures the youth express what makes them feel excluded and included in education. The aim of the project is to encourage others to think about what makes their schools inclusive and to overcome barriers toward making their schools more inclusive for all young people. www.atlas-alliansen.no/English/-Young-voices-DVD-and-photo-brochure

Kno adds new features to digital textbooks ahead of Apple announcement:

2012-01-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

Tech company Kno, which produces digital textbooks, has added a number of new features ahead of Apple's expected move Thursday to join the digital-textbook industry. Kno Flashcards allows users to create virtual flashcards out of any key terms in its textbooks, while Kno Me is designed to help students track and improve their study habits. TechCrunch (1/17) http://techcrunch.com/2012/01/17/kno-adds-new-features-to-smart-textbooks-in-attempt-to-head-off-apple/

Apple may unveil textbooks made for iPads on Thursday

2012-01-18T07:15:00.000-07:00

Apple is expected on Thursday to take a step closer to fulfilling co-founder Steve Jobs' vision of displacing classroom books with tablets. The company will likely introduce textbooks for its iPad tablets, along with publisher partnerships and technology aimed at enabling the tablet user to interact with the content. The Wall Street Journal (1/17) http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203721704577159163902420548.html?mod=dist_smartbrief

Family Advocacy Support and Training (FAST) Project

2012-01-13T12:50:00.000-07:00

PACER Center’s National Family Advocacy and Supports Training (FAST) Project provides family support leadership training to families of children with disabilities in the United States & territories. The FAST Project developed four training curricula for families of children with disabilities from diverse racial & linguistic groups, families in poverty, those living in rural & urban areas, military families, & other underserved families to use in an effort to increase their ability of families to advocate for family support services & influence systems change. The four curricula addresses topics relating to Employment, Sexuality & Youth Development, Advocating for Your Family, & Strategies for Systems Change. http://www.fastfamilysupport.org/fasttraining/index.asp

Improving Reading Comprehension in Kindergarten through 3rd Grade.

2012-01-13T11:18:00.000-07:00

This guide presents a set of evidence-based practices that teachers and other educators can use to successfully teach reading comprehension to young readers. The expert panel review indicates that students who read with understanding at an early age gain access to a broader range of texts, knowledge, and educational opportunities, making early reader comprehension instruction particularly critical. The guide also describes the evidence that supports the practices and gives examples of how they can be implemented in the classroom. The practice guide can be downloaded from the COI website, http://centeroninstruction.org/resources.cfm?category=reading&subcategory=materials&grade_start=0&grade_end=3#308.

American Association on Health and Disability Website

2012-01-12T08:27:00.000-07:00

This is a website that specifically covers health and wellness initiatives. Their mission is to support health promotion and wellness initiatives for children and adults with disabilities. Please visit the AAHD Health Promotion Resource Center, a free on-line clearinghouse. Learn more about the peer-reviewed Disability and Health Journal on the AAHD website. http://www.aahd.us/page.php

•Officials: Students with ADHD must receive support in Ontario schools

2012-01-11T07:25:00.000-07:00

Students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder must receive appropriate support in school if their condition is found to affect their learning, according the Education Ministry in Ontario, Canada. Unlike autism or other learning disabilities, ADHD, which affects at least 5% of the province's school-aged children, has not been included among the conditions requiring schools to provide special education. The Toronto Star (1/10) http://www.thestar.com/living/article/1112930--students-with-adhd-have-legal-right-to-supports-in-school?bn=1

Bringing Speech Recognition to the Classroom

2012-01-09T11:01:00.000-07:00

According to the report of the National Reading Panel (2000), the single best practice for developing reading fluency is one-on-one guided oral reading. Most classrooms are not staffed to provide enough guided oral reading practice. In this new report from the Joan Ganz Cooney Center, Marilyn Jager Adams, a pioneer in literacy research and practice, points to evidence that basic speech recognition technology -- widely used in telephone call-routing and directory assistance -- can be tapped as a cost-effective and scalable way to provide individual reading support to improve early childhood literacy, particularly fluency. http://support.weta.org/site/R?i=KOv3iuCRfnL4EPP-284rVw

New disability law to be implemented in Ontario, Canada

2012-01-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

Small- and medium-sized businesses in Ontario, Canada, are working to comply with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, new provincial legislation to be phased in over the next 10 years. Phase One of the law requires changes in the way businesses provide customer service, but some say the requirement is unclear. Advocates and officials say businesses must identify potential barriers in attitude and services and devise a plan to address them, as well as provide training for employees on serving customers with disabilities. The Globe and Mail (Toronto) (1/6) http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/small-business/sb-marketing/customer-service/ontario-disabilities-act-creates-compliance-confusion/article2292901/

Windows 8 add-on puts navigation under the eyes' control

2012-01-09T07:12:00.000-07:00

A navigation tool designed for Microsoft's Windows 8 operating system aims to enable users to point, click and scroll simply by moving their eyes. Tobii Technology's webcamlike device replaces the single mouse click with a blink and the double click with a stare, and it allows users to scroll by "swiping" their eyes across the screen. TG Daily (1/6) http://www.tgdaily.com/software-features/60621-eye-control-add-on-for-windows-8-launched?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+tgdaily_all_sections+%28TG+Daily+-+All+News%29&utm_content=Google+Reader

New Treatment Section Added to Autism Video Glossary

2012-01-09T07:07:00.000-07:00

Autism Speaks, in collaboration with First Signs and Florida State University’s Autism Institute, recently added a new treatment section to its online Autism Video Glossary. The glossary is a free web-based tool that contains over 100 video clips illustrating the subtle differences in behaviors that are typical in contrast with those that are red flags for ASD. The new treatment section includes five categories: behavioral interventions, developmental interventions, structured teaching and supports, clinical therapies, and toddler treatment models. To learn more, go to http://www.autismspeaks.org/what-autism/video-glossary

Decoding Sight

2012-01-04T06:59:00.000-07:00

Neuroscientist Nirenberg is developing a non-surgical and vastly improved artificial retina strategy that deciphers neural cell codes, potentially reversing some types of blindness. Watch and see http://www.tedmed.com/videos-info?name=Sheila_Nirenberg_at_TEDMED_2011&q=updated&year=all

A Day in the Life of an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant

2012-01-02T11:24:00.000-07:00

Source: Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation - Retrieved December 29, 2011
Early childhood mental health consultation (ECMHC) is an indirect, prevention based service provided within early care and education programs to promote successful social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes in infants and young children. The Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation recently released a new paper that describes the general process of ECMHC using real-life vignettes to illustrate what consultants do within early care and education settings in collaboration with families, teachers, children and other partners every day. It is meant to help facilitate the integration of best practices in ECMHC into early childhood systems of care. A Day in the Life of an Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant: Real-Life Vignettes (December 2011) is available online at http://www.ecmhc.org/documents/Day_in_the_Life_MH_Consultant.pdf

New Chartbook on Children w/ Special Health Care Needs Now Available Online

2012-01-02T11:17:00.000-07:00

Source: Maternal and Child Health Bureau - December 8, 2011
In September 2011, the Maternal and Child Health Bureau released its latest chartbook on children with special health care needs (CSHCN). The chartbook is now available online & provides information on the health, health care, family environments, & school and neighborhood environments of CSHCN compared to their peers without special health care needs. The national & state level findings are based on the 2007 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH). Children with Special Health Care Needs in Context: A Portrait of States and the Nation 2007 (2011) is available at http://mchb.hrsa.gov/nsch/07cshcn/

Teaching & Providing Specific Modifications

2012-01-01T20:02:00.000-07:00

These videotapes answer the question that so many teachers ask today, "How is it possible to teach my lesson and provide specific modifications for certain students?" Teachers and instructors are shown coordinating a variety of activities and modifications in one regular classroom and during one instructional time--not in isolation. And in addition to subject area modifications and activities, complementary skill areas such as study skills, social skills, and organizational skills are presented as well http://www.disabilitytraining.com/lpml.html

Tinted lenses may offer reading improvements for those with dyslexia

2011-12-29T18:06:00.000-07:00

A type of tinted lenses originally developed for individuals with color blindness is helping improve the reading ability of some individuals with dyslexia. Developed in England, the ChromaGen Vision lenses reduce some of the visual distortions that cause reading difficulties for those with dyslexia. "He told me the letters stopped moving; they stopped popping out for him. He went from a child who hated reading to asking, 'Can we go buy chapter books?'" said Michelle Klinger, mother of a 6-year-old with dyslexia, who recently began wearing the specialized lenses. ABC News (11/30) http://abcnews.go.com/Health/EyeHealthCorrectiveLenses/chromagen-lenses-keeping-dyslexics-page/story?id=15044246

Group offers adults with disabilities a path to film careers

2011-12-29T17:50:00.000-07:00

Inclusion Films was founded by Joey Travolta, the older brother of actor John Travolta, to provide instruction in all aspects of filmmaking to adults with developmental disabilities. Participants, who have autism, Down syndrome and other special needs, are trained by industry professionals and receive help finding work in the film business. "I used to think that disability was something to hide," said former student Michael Cooney, who has launched his own production company. "I learned that having a disability is a gift and that I have abilities I didn't even know I had before I came here." Los Angeles Times/Company Town blog (12/27) http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2011/12/on-location-inclusion-films-opens-doors-in-hollywood.html

Social Security Administration Announces 2012 COLA

2011-12-26T15:47:00.002-07:00

The Social Security Administration has announced that it will increase its monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits by 3.6 percent beginning in January 2012. SSA has also added 13 new conditions involving the immune system and neurological disorders to its Compassionate Allowances program. Compassionate Allowances speed up disability decisions to make sure that Americans with the most serious disabilities receive their benefit decisions within days instead of months or years. These conditions include certain cancers, adult brain disorders, a number of rare genetic disorders of children, early-onset Alzheimer's disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. For information about the COLA go to http://www.socialsecurity.gov/pressoffice/pr/2012cola-pr.html ; for information about the Compassionate Allowances program go to http://www.socialsecurity.gov/compassionateallowances/

28th Annual Pacific Rim International Conference on Disability & Diversity

2011-12-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

The Pac Rim conference "Living to our Complete Potential" aims to inspire, educate and illuminate while 'pushing the envelope' to ensure all human beings can live to their complete potential. The conference will take place in Honolulu, Hawaii on March 26-27, 2012.

Please visit the website (www.pacrim.hawaii.edu) for information about the topic areas, registration and the call for proposals. This event is hosted by the Center on Disability Studies (CDS), at the University of Hawaii.

Evaluating the Educational Needs of Children with Mental Health Conditions

2011-12-22T07:08:00.000-07:00

For a number of reasons, students with mental health conditions are more likely than their peers to encounter academic, social, or emotional problems at school. Mental health conditions that affect mood, thinking, interactions with peers, and physical and emotional arousal levels may also interfere with a student's ability to focus on learning. This resource from Massachusetts General Hospital describes the evaluation process and includes important points for schools, parents, and clinicians. For more information go to http://bit.ly/kwQJvO

Youth Guide to Treatment & Treatment Planning: a Better Life

2011-12-22T07:04:00.000-07:00

This "workbook" provides strategies to engage young people in the treatment planning process and offers significant insights into strengths-based treatment planning. This new document is a follow up to the highly successful Youth Guide to Wraparound: Your Life, Your Future. http://www.cmhnetwork.org/news/youth-guide-to-treatment-treatment-planning-a-better-life

■Bookshare offers students with disabilities new access to books

2011-12-20T10:11:00.000-07:00

The nonprofit Bookshare provides free electronic copies of books that are adapted into formats that meet the needs of students with visual impairments or certain learning disabilities. The text of the books can be read aloud by computers, magnified or spaced differently, allowing the books to be read by those who struggle with print textbooks. The service is funded by the federal government and free to students. Education Week (premium article access compliments of EdWeek.org) (11/2) http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/11/02/10book_ep.h31.html?tkn=PVCCvrH2dVuvFLQHStFSjdd4XgBoTqCXhhCJ&cmp=clp-sb-cec and http://www.bookshare.org/.

Can iPads help schools differentiate instruction?

2011-12-20T07:48:00.000-07:00

Some educators in Olympia, Wash., schools are using iPad tablet computers as part of a pilot program aimed at using the devices to differentiate instruction for students. "We're really trying to get our teachers to meet the needs of the learner, and the iPads are able to accommodate that for different learning styles," Olympia High School principal Matt Grant said. Students use the devices in class for numerous tasks, including working on assignments, taking notes and listening to audio books. The Olympian (Olympia, Wash.) (12/18) http://www.theolympian.com/2011/12/18/1918639/with-ipads-olympia-students-have.html

National Latino Children's Literature Conference 2012!

2011-12-18T20:11:00.000-07:00

The next National Latino Children's Literature Conference will be held on March 29-30, 2012 at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, AL. The conference will include workshops, keynote speeches, and a special event at the Tuscaloosa Public Library on the evening of March 29th. Organizers have confirmed Latino authors & illustrators: Joe Cepeda, René Colato Laínez, Meg Medina, F. Isabel Campoy, Alma Flor Ada, John Parra, & Monica Brown. Proposals are still being accepted & registration is now open! We have attended this conference in the past & highly recommend it to teachers, librarians, & reading specialists.
http://support.weta.org/site/R?i=cY7ySDT6xm4h25WgK4HpCg

Global Competition for Innovation in Disability Programs and Services to be Launched

2011-12-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

The Ruderman Family Foundation President Jay Ruderman, announces that the Foundation will create the Ruderman Prize in Disability, which will support the pursuit of excellence and innovation in programs and services that foster full inclusion for people with disabilities. The global competition, which will provide a total of $200,000 to up to ten organizations that serve those in the Jewish community with disabilities, will be launched December 6th at ADVANCE 2011: The Ruderman Jewish Special Needs Conference, at Baruch College Conference Center in New York City.

To Learn More: http://eon.businesswire.com/news/eon/20111205006254/en

US Labor Department Proposes Historic Hiring Goal for Federal Contractors & Subcontractors

2011-12-12T07:02:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Department of Labor is proposing a new rule that would require federal contractors & subcontractors to set a hiring goal of having 7 percent of their workforces be people with disabilities, among other requirements. The proposed rule would strengthen the affirmative action requirements established in Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 obligating federal contractors & subcontractors to ensure equal employment opportunities for qualified workers with disabilities. The proposed regulatory changes detail specific actions contractors must take in the areas of recruitment, training, record keeping & policy dissemination - similar to those that have long been required to promote workplace equality for women& minorities. In addition, the rule would clarify expectations for contractors by providing specific guidance on how to comply with the law.

The department's Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs invites public comment on this proposal, which will be published in the Dec. 9 edition of the Federal Register. To read the notice of proposed rulemaking or submit a comment, visit the federal e-rulemaking portal at http://www.regulations.gov. Comments also can be submitted by mail to Debra Carr, Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, U.S. Department of Labor, Room C-3325, 200 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20210. All comments must be received by Feb. 7, 2012, and should include identification number (RIN) 1250-AA02.

One-in-five students in England has special needs

2011-12-12T06:43:00.000-07:00

In the past five years, the number of students in England labeled as having special needs, which includes behavioral problems, learning difficulties and physical disabilities, has risen by 10%, according to a recent report. The report also shows a link between students' diagnosis with special needs and low exam scores. However, officials say many students considered to have special needs might not. The Telegraph (London) (10/20) http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/educationnews/8836704/More-schoolchildren-being-diagnosed-with-special-needs.html

Understanding Differences between High School & College

2011-12-12T06:42:00.000-07:00

Doors to postsecondary education programs are opening for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities all over the country. The Think College web site, www.thinkcollege.net, provides a variety of resources and tools to help students and families explore these new options, including information on how disability services offered in college are different from the special education services families are used to: http://www.thinkcollege.net/for-students/understanding-college/high-schoolcollege-differences

Tracking Wristbands

2011-12-09T07:01:00.001-07:00

Tracking wristbands are encouraged for some people with special needs
Electronic-tracking technology could have helped to find a missing Texas man with autism before he had to spend the night outside and endure frigid temperatures, Lubbock County police officials say. The county offers subsidies for trackable Project Lifesaver wristbands to qualified residents with special needs such as autism and Alzheimer's disease. Lubbock Avalanche-Journal (Texas) (11/30) http://lubbockonline.com/crime-and-courts/2010-11-30/officials-remind-public-benefits-project-lifesaver-wristbands-after

Report: Students with special needs more likely are to be overweight

2011-12-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

Children with disabilities and special medical needs are more likely than those without disabilities to be overweight or obese, according to a report by the Health Resources and Services Administration. The report is based on results from a 2007 survey and also has concluded that children with disabilities or special needs more likely were to have repeated a grade in school, or have a parent who said he or she "usually or always" felt stressed. Disability Scoop (12/7) http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/12/07/obesity-special-needs/14599/

Top 10 things to Consider When Buying Toys for Children w/ Disabilities

2011-12-05T06:45:00.000-07:00

Author: Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services http://www.education.com/print/buying-toys-children-disabilities/depthhs/

1. Multisensory appeal: Does the toy respond with lights, sounds, or movement? Are there contrasting colors? Does it have a scent? Is there texture?

2. Method of activation: Will the toy provide a challenge without frustration? What is the force required to activate? What are the number and difficulty of steps needed to start?
3. Where toy will be used: Can the toy be used in a variety of positions such as side-lying or on a wheelchair tray? Will the toy be easy to store? Is there space in the home?

4. Opportunities for success: Can play be open-ended with no definite right or wrong way? Is it adaptable to your child's individual style, ability and pace?
5. Current popularity: Is it a toy most any child would like? Does it tie-in with other activities like T.V., movies, books, clothing, etc?

6. Self-expression: Does the toy allow for creativity, uniqueness, and choice-making? Will it give the child experience with a variety of media?
7. Adjustability: Does it have adjustable height, sound volume, speed, level of difficulty?

8. Child's individual characteristics: Does the toy provide activities that reflect both developmental; chronological ages? Does it reflect the child's interests & age?
9. Safety and durability: Consider the child's size and strength in relation to the toy's durability. Are the toy and its parts sized appropriately? Does the toy have moisture resistance? Can it be washed and cleaned?

10. Potential for interaction: Will the child be an active participant during use? Will the toy encourage social engagement with others?

With this list of parents, family members and caregivers will be able to make the best selection of fun, safe and appropriate toys to offer children with disabilities.

Compendium of community inclusion initiatives for people w/ psychiatric disabilities

2011-12-05T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Compendium is based on a national survey of consumer-run programs assisting consumers in reconnecting to their communities, to existing residential and vocational resources, religious and recreational organizations, civic and volunteer opportunities beyond those of mental health systems. Both consumer-run programs and more traditional mental health agencies will find examples of innovative ways to assist consumers in working with the community.

http://www.tucollaborative.org/pdfs/COMPENDIUM_of_Innovative_CI_Projects_11-29_10.pdf

Federal Student Aide Grant Programs

2011-12-05T06:42:00.000-07:00

The federal government provides grant funds for students attending colleges, career schools &universities. Grants are not loans and do not have to be repaid. Information about scholarships is also available. Enter the word disability in the search to find scholarships that are specifically for students with disabilities, or you can just search for a field of study or major such as music, law enforcement, biology, social work, etc.
For more information visit https://www.disability.gov/education/financial_aid_%26_scholarships/grants.

Autism fact sheet in multiple languages.

2011-12-01T09:33:00.000-07:00

The University of Southern California (USC), Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) at Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) has translated (with permission) the CDC "Learn the Signs. Act Early" Autism Fact Sheet into multiple languages to reach underserved populations & to encourage early identification of autism. The Autism Fact Sheet is available in Arabic, Armenian, Farsi, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Tagalog, Thai, & Vietnamese.

http://www.uscucedd.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=455&Itemid=426

“No Boundaries” Education

2011-12-01T08:05:00.000-07:00

By Patricia K. Ralabate, Ed.D., Director of the National UDL Center, and David Gordon, Director of Communications at CAST and co-editor of A Policy Reader in Universal Design for Learning (with Jenna W. Gravel and Laura A. Schifter, Harvard Education Press, 2009)

In reading & reflecting on Disability.Blog’s No Boundaries Employment Series, we are inspired by the many stories of individuals who have overcome tremendous barriers to enjoy meaningful and productive careers. And we know that meaningful careers begin with excellent education for everyone – a “no boundaries” education. The aspiration to expand learning opportunities for all individuals is gaining ground in education policy, practice and research through the growing field of universal design for learning (UDL)...

http://blog.govdelivery.com/usodep/no-boundaries-employment-series/

Disability Groups Urge Feds To Decide On Community Living

2011-11-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

Months after the end of a public comment period, advocates are pressuring Medicaid to make a final decision on new rules that would define what qualifies as community-based housing.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/11/29/disability-groups-community-living/14523/

FDA say synthetic dyes may exacerbate ADHD in children

2011-11-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

FDA experts who reviewed previous studies on food coloring said data suggest artificial dyes in food can exacerbate symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in some children. The preliminary analysis comes in advance of an FDA panel meeting this week on a petition filed by the Center for Science in the Public Interest to ban synthetic dyes in food. Reuters (3/25) http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/03/25/us-food-dyes-idUSTRE72O4S920110325

In a struggle to speak, the iPad is a communication marvel

2011-11-29T07:26:00.000-07:00

Columnist Jo Ashline describes the challenges her son with autism has experienced as he learns how to communicate. Fortunately, Ashline writes, he has been assisted by iPad applications. In the less than two years since its release, the tablet has given children with special needs a fun, inexpensive alternative to more complicated communication devices. Many behavior therapists have incorporated the device into their sessions with children as a result. The Orange County Register (Santa Ana, Calif.) (11/27) http://www.ocregister.com/articles/ipad-328880-andrew-needs.html

Supporting Inclusive Education Worldwide

2011-11-26T09:16:00.001-07:00

The Education for All Fast-track Initiative (EFA FTI) was created as the first ever global compact on education, to help low-income countries achieve a free, universal basic education. It was launched in 2002 as a global partnership between donor and developing country partners to ensure accelerated progress towards the Millennium Development Goal of universal primary education by 2015.

On the new FTI website homepage you will find the FTI movie 'Getting Every Child Educated, Everywhere' . This short video presents evidence on the ground of progress in universal primary education in FTI-supported countries. http://www.educationforallblog.org/issues/success-stories/efaftiisnowtheglobalpartnershipforeducation

NCD Releases Progress Report

2011-11-26T09:16:00.000-07:00

The National Council on Disability (NCD), has released "National Disability Policy: A Progress Report", in which NCD assesses the current state of people with disabilities in America and how emerging trends and government policies are impacting the quality of their lives. The report offers a broad range of recommendations for reforms designed to enhance the independence and self-sufficiency of people with disabilities. For more information go to http://www.ncd.gov/progress_reports/Oct312011 .

Social Security Announces Expanded Spanish Language Online Services

2011-11-24T07:42:00.000-07:00

The SSA has announced improvements to their Spanish-language website, http://www.segurosocial.gov ; they have also expanded online services available in Spanish; including the ability to apply online for retirement and Medicare benefits, completely in Spanish. This is an important step toward making Social Security's online services and information more easily accessible to the 35 million Americans who may prefer to conduct business in Spanish. Visitors to the wesite can also access a wealth of information and publications written in Spanish, and get an instant, personalized estimate of future Social Security benefits using theRetirement Estimator.

Educator: Keep a high bar for students with disabilities in revised NCLB

2011-11-23T15:21:00.000-07:00

Special educator Charles Seaton traveled recently to Washington, D.C., to take part in a Senate hearing on the re-authorization of the No Child Left Behind Act. In this article, Seaton explains his views on how the law has helped set a higher bar for some students with disabilities. To ensure continued progress, Seaton advocates the law include requirements that ensure teacher quality and that new measures of academic accountability include students with disabilities. The Commercial Appeal (Memphis, Tenn.) (free registration) (11/20) http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/nov/20/guest-column-schools-need-evaluations-for/

Inclusion & Accommodation of Employees w/ Disabilities

2011-11-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

Ernst & Young has been earning accolades for outstanding practices around workforce diversity. Concurrent with that broader agenda, it has been earning praise for its inclusive practices with regard to employees with disabilities. In fact, in 2010, Ernst & Young ranked #2 on DiversityInc’s Top Ten companies for the inclusion & accommodation of employees with disabilities. A video series demonstrates one of the many practices that have given Ernst & Young their well-earned reputation. This series of eighteen, minute-long, vignettes help all Ernst & Young employees to hone their abilities to be better coworkers of fellow employees with disabilities. See them at: http://www.ey.com/Media/vwCodeLibraries/AccessAbilities_Minutes_New/$file/accessibilities.html.

ADHD Symptoms in Girls Predict alcohol Abuse, Research Suggests

2011-11-23T06:54:00.000-07:00

Data on 1,545 Finnish teens with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder indicate that inattentiveness and hyperactivity significantly predicted their alcohol abuse by age 17.5, especially among girls. An expert added that ADHD symptoms predicted alcohol abuse and dependence by age 14 only among girls. United Press International (6/13) http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2011/06/13/Teen-girls-ADHD-predicts-substance-abuse/UPI-50421308007946/

Research Review: PreK-Grade 3 Reading and Literacy Practices That Matter

2011-11-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

The Education Commission of the States recently released a research review entitled PreK-Grade 3 Reading and Literacy Practices That Matter (October 2011) that reviews five studies of Pre-K to 3rd grade reading and literacy practices. Policy recommendations on practices that matter are included for each of the five studies. It is available online at http://www.ecs.org/clearinghouse/95/73/9573.pdf

New Tutorial on Partnering with Families in Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation

2011-11-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

The Center for Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (CECMHC) has published a new toolkit designed to provide early childhood mental health consultants with an understanding of key practices that support strong, relationship-based partnerships with families. Consultants can use the information to strengthen their own relationships with families and to coach other caregivers of young children to strengthen their bonds with families. Tutorial 8: Partnering with Families in Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation is available online at http://www.ecmhc.org/tutorials/family-engagement/index.html

Robot is designed to teach social skills to children with autism

2011-11-19T11:25:00.001-07:00

A robot that helps children with autism learn to take turns and initiate play with others is the focus of a program at the Robotics Research Lab at the University of Southern California. "Bandit," a child-sized robot, has been designed to maintain the look of a machine so as not to be too intimidating, and has a human-like face designed to engender empathy among children with autism. "It was a balance that we had to find," Maja Mataric, co-director of the lab, said. Los Angeles Times (10/17) http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-autism-robots-20111017,0,5798122.story

Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorders Learning Module Available

2011-11-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

The National Professional Development Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) recently posted a new on-line module on the early identification of ASD. The module comes with videos (including home movies of babies who later develop ASD), case studies and other resources. It is available online at http://autismpdc.fpg.unc.edu/content/early-identification-asd-module

Technology Impacting Individuals with Disabilities.

2011-11-18T10:55:00.000-07:00

The National Council on Disability (NCD) has released a new report: The Power of Digital Inclusion: Technology's Impact on Employment and Opportunities for People with Disabilities. The report explores six key digital technologies that can enhance social engagement, increase workplace participation, heighten employment prospects, or create new employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The report proposes that digital networks are likely more important for people with disabilities than for the general population and examines the potential of technological pathways to serve as conduits to social capital, via networks, and to employment: wireless communication platforms, social networking, virtual worlds and serious gaming, tiered digital interactions and electronic games, open publishing, and open-source process. To access the full report, visit http://www.ncd.gov/publications/2011/Oct042011.

Spanish Glossary of Special Education Terms

2011-11-17T12:10:00.000-07:00

Between 2010-2011, the US Department of Education Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) funded the development of an online and print Spanish Glossary. The OSEP Spanish Glossary was developed by SPAN, New Jersey’s Parent Training and Information Center.

It is essential that all families participate actively in decisions related to their child’s education. The language and terminology that exists within Early Intervention and Special Education law is very complex and can be difficult to understand even in its original language of English.

The OSEP Spanish Glossary includes a set of agreed upon translations from English to Spanish of more than 200 education and disability related terms. http://www.neparentcenters.org/glossary/glossary.html

FCC Offering Low-cost Broadband & Computers to Low-income Americans

2011-11-17T08:59:00.000-07:00

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced an initiative called "Connect to Compete" to bring low-cost broadband and computers to millions of low-income Americans. This effort will offer families eligible for the National School Lunch Program discounted monthly broadband Internet and a laptop or desktop computer, and free digital literacy training. "Connect to Compete" will begin in select cities in spring 2012. For more information e-mail info@connect2compete.org.

Work, Assistive Technology and Transition-Aged Youth

2011-11-15T06:51:00.000-07:00

Work, Assistive Technology and Transition-Aged Youth (2011), an updated version of an earlier publication, is now available on the web site National Assistive Technology (AT) Advocacy Project. http://www.nls.org/Work%20AT%20and%20TAY.pdf
The manual focuses on a case scenario involving a 17 year old with multiple needs for AT as she completes her special education program, attends college, & eventually moves on to her employment goal. In the process, she will access several different benefit programs as funding sources for AT, including the special ed program, the state vocational rehabilitation agency, Medicaid, Medicare, & SSI's Plan for Achieving Self Support. The National AT Advocacy Project of Neighborhood Legal Services, Inc. provides technical assistance, training, & a range of other support services, nationwide, to attorneys & advocates who work at Protection and Advocacy programs & specialize in assistive technology issues. Resources on AT topics are available on their website at www.nls.org/natmain.htm

Charter Schools

2011-11-14T10:22:00.002-07:00

NICHCY has released a new issue brief that addresses issues surrounding charter schools and people with disabilities. In this new issue brief, they answer 10 commonly asked questions that families and educators of students with disabilities have about charter schools and offer links to state-specific resources that can help you better understand how charter schools work in your individual state. Read this publication online today at http://nichcy.org/publications/charters.

Substance Abuse & Schizophrenia

2011-11-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

Heavy methamphetamine use may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia, according to a new study published online November 8th in the American Journal of Psychiatry. The study confirmed previous research showing a possible link between marijuana dependence and schizophrenia. Researchers at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto analyzed the records of patients who were admitted to California hospitals between 1990 and 2000 with a diagnosis of dependence or abuse for methamphetamine, marijuana, alcohol, cocaine or opioids. People who were hospitalized for meth dependence and who had never been diagnosed with schizophrenia or psychotic symptoms at the start of the study had a roughly 1.5- to three-fold higher risk of later being diagnosed with schizophrenia than patients who used cocaine, alcohol or opioid drugs. Researchers also found that the increased risk of schizophrenia in methamphetamine users was similar to that of heavy users of marijuana.

28th Annual Pacific Rim International Conference on Disability & Diversity

2011-11-10T08:04:00.001-07:00

Please visit the website
(www.pacrim.hawaii.edu)for information about the topic areas, registration and the call for proposals. This event is hosted by the Center on Disability Studies (CDS), at the University of Hawaii.

Apps for Children with Special Needs

2011-11-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

Videos of apps in action to help parents, educators, caregivers and professionals make more informed purchases. http://a4cwsn.com/

Sibnet Listserv

2011-11-10T06:53:00.000-07:00

The SibNet Listserv is an online community for adult siblings around the world to share information and discuss issues of common interest. You can now join the SibNet group via Facebook as well as Yahoo.com. to subscribe go to http://groups.yahoo.com/subscribe/SibNet

Appealing denied Social Security Benefits

2011-11-07T06:38:00.000-07:00

The Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse at Syracuse University released a new report, Social Security Awards Depend More on Judge than Facts: Disparities Within SSA Disability Hearing Offices Grow. The report utilized a court-by-court analysis of close to two million Social Security Administration (SSA) claims ; documented extensive; hard-to-explain disparities in the way the administrative law judges (ALJs) within the agency's separate hearing offices decide whether individuals will be granted or denied disability benefits. Social Security Administration officials, however, have called the study "unsupported grandstanding." From the report: “For example, during the very recent October 2009 — March 2011 period, the Texas SSA office in Dallas (North) had 15 administrative judges on its staff who had each decided 100 or more cases. … the SSA records indicate that the judge grant rates in this single location ranged across a full spectrum: from less than 10 percent being granted to over 90 percent. Yet, as discussed previously, because the incoming cases are by law assigned in rotation, the kinds of matters coming to each judge should have contained approximately the same number of creditable claimants…. This report documents very serious problems in the operations of a major federal agency with a vast impact, for good and ill, on the lives of millions of individuals" The Dallas; San Antonio offices rank number; 2 in the country in having the highest disparities in claims. Read the full report at: http://trac.syr.edu/tracreports/ssa/254/.

Making Schools Inclusive: How Change Can Happen

2011-11-07T06:36:00.000-07:00

Drawing on Save the Children UK's extensive experience in this field, Making Schools Inclusive is a report that presents program examples from 13 countries around the world. It describes case study programs that target specific groups of vulnerable children, build inclusive school communities, promote change throughout an education system and address financial barriers to inclusive education. This report offers inspiration about what can be achieved as well as drawing out practical learning from the challenges faced in different situations. Download this free publication here. http://www.savethechildren.org.uk/en/54_5432.htm

KU grads create mobile app to help people with Asperger’s

2011-11-03T10:16:00.000-06:00

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2011/oct/28/ku-grads-create-mobile-app-help-people-aspergers/

By Mark Fagan — Lawrence Journal-World October 28, 2011

Psychologists who earned their degrees at Kansas University are taking their work into the mobile world, offering applications for autistic kids, teens, young adults & their families to use on iPad, iPhone & iPod Touch devices.

The applications — Sosh, Sosh Lite & an increasing number of their component parts — are available through Apple’s iTunes App Store & already have been downloaded by 5,000 people in the United States and 22 other countries.

The apps are designed to help people with Asperger’s syndrome improve their social skills by giving them tools they can use at school, in restaurants & other places outside of their homes, therapist’s offices & other structured environments. The full version of the application offers 60 screens that help users interact with people, reduce stress, manage behaviors, think through problems and understand their feelings.

Among the most popular segments, which have been spun off into smaller apps of their own: “The Shredder,” which allows the user to describe a negative situation using text, then drag it down into an audible and visible shredder for destruction; and a voice meter that allows users to regulate how loud they talk, something that can be a challenge for people with Asperger’s.

The app also provides feedback, giving users and families information that can help users manage their condition and improve their social skills.

Diagnoses of child bipolar disorders rise amid concerns

2011-11-02T10:02:00.000-06:00

More young children are being diagnosed with bipolar disorder, though a lack of understanding about the disorder in younger individuals is raising concerns that some children may be misdiagnosed. At a recent conference, Mary Fristad, a psychologist at Ohio State University Medical Center, warned that a proper diagnosis takes time and expertise in mood and behavior disorders to distinguish bipolar symptoms from those of other diagnoses, such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity or oppositional defiant disorders. The Columbus Dispatch (Ohio) (10/30) http://www.dispatch.com/content/stories/local/2011/10/30/health/bipolar-diagnoses-rising-among-children.html

Fate Of Marine With Autism In Court's Hands

2011-11-02T09:57:00.000-06:00

A court is set to decide whether a young man with autism and a low IQ who enlisted in the Marines three years ago should have been allowed to do so in the first place. http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/10/31/fate-marine-autism/14339/

■U.K. considers providing special education for students beyond age 19

2011-10-31T07:55:00.000-06:00

An appeals court in the U.K. is considering whether a 22-year-old student with Down syndrome should be entitled to a publicly funded education until she turns 25. Lawyers for the student argue that the current law, which requires students be educated until they are 19, should be more flexible in offering ongoing education to students with disabilities. Observers say the case could have implications for about 223,000 students in special education across England and Wales. The Telegraph (London) (10/24) http://www.telegraph.co.uk/education/8846974/Downs-Syndrome-case-could-see-thousands-of-special-needs-adults-taught-alongside-children.html

New NICHCY App Helps Smartphone Users Find Disability Information

2011-10-31T07:27:00.000-06:00

The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY) is now offering a free app (application) for Android phone users called DisAbilityConnect. With just a tap of your finger, you can find contact information for organizations offering resources on disabilities, special education, early intervention, support groups and more http://nichcy.org/

Virtual worlds allow U.K. students with autism to practice social skills

2011-10-27T07:18:00.000-06:00

Researchers with the University of London and the London Knowledge Lab are using touch-screen technology and an interactive environment for teaching social skills to children with autism. The Echoes Project has children responding to simulated social scenarios in a virtual environment, which researchers say allows them to experiment without real-world consequences. United Press International (10/22) http://www.upi.com/Health_News/2011/10/22/Autistic-children-develop-social-skills/UPI-24051319256019/?spt=hs

Federal Virtual Hiring Event

2011-10-26T10:07:00.000-06:00

The U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Virtual Hiring Event. The event is 508 compliant & closed captioned.

HHS and FDA invite all veterans and people with disabilities who are interested in applying for federal positions throughout the country to a Virtual Hiring Event.

When: Thursday, November 3, 2011
Where: Broadcast Live on the Web at 8-10 am, 11-1 pm, and 2-4 pm (CENTRAL Standard Time)
For More Information and to Register: http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/WorkingatFDA/ucm275549.htm

All participants will have an opportunity to apply for open positions at FDA & HHS & have their resume sent to all selecting managers throughout HHS & its 12 operating divisions.

During three live presentations broadcast on the Web, HHS and FDA staff will walk you through the new version of USAJOBS 3.0, showing you how to set up your account, search for open positions, determine the position qualifications, develop a targeted federal resume, and apply using USAJOBS & Application Manager. They also will discuss working at HHS and FDA, the federal positions they are looking to fill, and much more.

Software seeks to improve language ability of children w/ autism

2011-10-26T08:27:00.000-06:00

New software by Scientific Learning is aimed at improving brain connections among children with autism to improve their language ability. The BrainPro Autism program includes activities and exercises designed to help children develop the connections between skills such as attention and memory. Researchers at Stanford University have found the training can improve students' reading and other skills. SmartPlanet.com/Smart Takes blog (7/22) http://www.smartplanet.com/blog/smart-takes/language-software-promises-to-help-children-with-autism/17831?tag=search-river

NEW Report on How School Discipline Relates to Academic & Juvenile Justice Outcomes

2011-10-25T07:49:00.000-06:00

The CSG Justice Center, in partnership with the Public Policy Research Institute at Texas A&M University, has released an unprecedented statewide study of nearly 1 million Texas public secondary school students, followed for at least six years. Among its startling findings are that the majority of students were suspended or expelled between seventh to twelfth grade. The study also found that when students are suspended or expelled, the likelihood that they will repeat a grade, not graduate, and/or become involved in the juvenile justice system increases significantly. African-American students & children with particular educational disabilities who qualify for special education were suspended & expelled at especially high rates. The report was funded by the Funded by the Atlantic Philanthropies & the Open Society Foundations. For more information go to http://justicecenter.csg.org/resources/juveniles .

Transition

2011-10-24T07:29:00.000-06:00

The Office for Disaiblity Employment Policy (ODEP) has released Customized Employment (CE) videos, http://www.dol.gov/dol/media/webcast/20110610-odep-ce/ each specifically focused on Employers, Youth, or a General audience, highlight the benefits of CE, an employment strategy which matches the skills and preferences of the individual with the specific business needs of the employer. This process results in expanded employment opportunities for those who utilize and engage in this innovative, evidenced-based approach to employment. The General audience video has been created in both English and Spanish. Videos also have audio description as an option.

Women with Disabilities

2011-10-24T07:27:00.000-06:00

Neither disability policies designed to ensure employment of people with disabilities nor policies aimed at gender equity in employment have recognized the specific employment barriers experienced by women with disabilities. ODEP is committed to working on initiatives, partnerships, and programs that examine the issues and eliminating employment barriers for women with disabilities. Follow this link to: Visit ODEP's Women topic page. http://www.dol.gov/odep/topics/women.htm

Powerful Documentary Chronicles History of America’s Disability Rights Movement

2011-10-21T11:35:00.000-06:00

While there are close to 50 million Americans living with disabilities, Lives Worth Living is the first television history of their decades-long struggle for equal rights. Lives Worth Living is a window into a world inhabited by people with an unwavering determination to live their lives like everyone else, & a look back into a past when millions of Americans lived without access to schools, apartment buildings, & public transportation. Lives Worth Living premieres on the Emmy® Award-winning PBS series Independent Lens, on Thursday, October 27, 2011 at 10 PM (check local listings).

Lives Worth Living traces the development of the disability rights movement from its beginning following World War II, when thousands of disabled veterans returned home, through its burgeoning in the 1960s and 1970s, when it began to adopt the tactics of other social movements. Told through interviews with the movement’s pioneers, legislators, and others, Lives Worth Living explores how Americans with a wide variety of disabilities banded together to change public perception & policy & finally secured equal civil rights with the 1990 passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, one of the most transformative pieces of civil rights legislation in American history.

Accessible Technology Coalition

2011-10-21T11:34:00.000-06:00

Provides people with disabilities, and those who work with them, answers to questions about assistive technology (AT) so they can identify the solutions that work best for them. AT is any device, hardware, software or handheld equipment that enables a person to participate in life's activities. ATC also has a searchable collection of easy-to-understand articles on many different types of technologies and online webinars and trainings. http://atcoalition.org/

Secretary of labor Announces Social Web Partnership to Connect Unemployed Americans with Jobs

2011-10-20T10:08:00.000-06:00

Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis has announced an innovative partnership that leverages the combined audience and expertise of officials from the U.S. Department of Labor, Facebook, the National Association of State Workforce Agencies, DirectEmployers Association and the National Association of Colleges and Employers. The initiative provides important employment resources to job seekers through the use of social networks. As part of the announcement, Facebook officials debuted a social jobs partnership page that highlights available training programs, educational opportunities and job search resources. http://www.dol.gov/opa/media/press/opa/OPA20111538.htm

Accessible Travel

2011-10-19T07:16:00.000-06:00

A decade or so ago, a common dream of the people with disabilities, as for most of us, was to go on a trip by themselves or with friends. A few travel services existed, mostly providing trips to younger travelers to destinations within the U.S. Since then travel for people with disabilities has grown into a huge industry, with over $13.6 billion spent on travel annually, including $3.3 billion on air travel and $4.2 billion on lodging. Today, many agencies are providing services for the sophisticated worldwide traveler with disabilities. Check out one of them at this link: http://www.easyaccesstravel.com/portal/.

Autism and Communication

2011-10-19T07:14:00.000-06:00

A recent study conducted by Auburn University and PUSH Product Design suggests that alternative forms of communication utilizing a visual interface can increase the communication rates for children with autism. This project was undertaken to capture the impact that various targeted iPad applications could have on children with autism and how they communicate. The study utilized two different apps on the iPad, one for making choices about their schedule (i.e. snack time) and the other to enhance social interactions. In their report, the research concluded that social stories could increase motivation, positive play, engagement and attention while decreasing inappropriate behavior. Find out additional information at this link: http://www.nationaltechcenter.org/Uploads/2011/04/Report.pdf.

Group expands ADHD guidelines to include those ages 4 to 18

2011-10-17T12:53:00.001-06:00

The American Academy of Pediatrics has released updated guidelines for diagnosing and treating children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, recommending that all patients ages 4 to 18 years old who show symptoms of the condition be evaluated. Previous recommendations called for the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in children 6 to 12 years old, but researchers said behavior disorders, attention problems and over-activity can manifest at an early age and that ADHD frequently persists until adolescence or adulthood. Reuters (10/16) Group expands ADHD guidelines to include those ages 4 to 18

Educators, researchers aim to address "quieter" forms of ADHD

2011-10-17T07:18:00.000-06:00

New research aims at more accurately identifying students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, particularly those who may be quietly inattentive -- a designation that often applies to girls. New methods for addressing the symptoms focus on the underlying problems with impulse control and brain function, rather than outward symptoms of attention and behavior. One school for students who have unstable families is using cognitive-training software to improve the focus and attention of all students, including those with symptoms of ADHD. Education Week (premium article access compliments of EdWeek.org) (5/20) http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/05/20/32add.h30.html?tkn=TOVFbqMHd6gJHtXOnqtQRaY8Soh7PNw6EJDv&cmp=clp-sb-cec

How You Can be Involved in School Improvement?

2011-10-17T07:17:00.000-06:00

This article from the National Research Center on Learning Disabilities discusses the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004. It also explains how parents can better understand their rights under IDEA, how to work within the school system and how to become better prepared to help their children with learning disabilities.
http://www.rti4success.org/images/stories/learningDisabilities/Parent_Involvement2007.pdf

Intervention Guide for Behavior and Emotional Problems

2011-10-17T07:15:00.000-06:00

Intervention Guide for Behavior and Emotional Problems is a step-by-step guide for choosing and implementing evidence-based interventions for behavior and emotional issues. Part of the BASC-2 family from Pearson, this comprehensive book is a must-have resource for behavior coaches, counselors and psychologists presenting practical strategies that work. http://psychcorp.pearsonassessments.com/pai/ca/Products/basc-guides-page?WT_id=CA_Psych_EM_BASC_Guides

US & UK Routes to Employment: Strategies to Improve Integrated Service Delivery to People w/ Disabilities

2011-10-13T06:54:00.000-06:00

This report identifies 12 strategies to strengthen integrated service delivery systems and to assist individuals with disabilities in gaining and maintaining productive employment. Implementing these strategies can benefit individuals with disabilities, who have the opportunity to realize their potential more fully; the taxpayer, who is paying less for disability assistance; and society at large, which gains the productive skill of talented individuals. The report is available at http://communityinclusion.org/article.php?article_id=276&type=project&id=52

Employment Concept From US Congress

2011-10-12T07:10:00.000-06:00

During a hearing of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee September 15, 2011, Sen. Tom Harkin, D-Iowa, said he wants disability employment policy to move toward what he called “a new cutting edge.” “In the past the default position for people with intellectual disabilities has been sheltered employment. I want to change that default to integrated, supported employment,” Harkin said at the hearing, which is one in a series he’s conducting this year to address disability employment issues. The senator, who chairs the committee, was clear that he’s not looking to eliminate sheltered workshops. Rather, Harkin wants to encourage a new mindset, especially as it pertains to young people moving into the workforce for the first time. “The assumption should be that everyone should be able to be in integrated employment,” Harkin said. “We’re trying to move in that direction.” To listen and/or watch the full hearing follow this link: http://help.senate.gov/hearings/hearing/?id=448c93b8-5056-9502-5d7e-35fed69d35e4.

Education officials issue advice on PE for students with disabilities

2011-10-10T13:09:00.000-06:00

The Department of Education is offering new guidelines for schools on providing physical education to students with disabilities. The recommendations include the use of technology and video games to simulate activities for those who are unable to participate, and the use of other specialized and more accessible equipment and spaces. The guidelines are in response to a 2010 Government Accountability Office report that found a number of barriers to inclusive PE, including under-developed federal policy on the issue. Education Week/On Special Education blog (10/10) http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/speced/2011/10/phys_edkids_wdisabilities.html

Early Motor Experiences Give Infants a Social Jump Start

2011-10-10T07:18:00.000-06:00

http://www.newswise.com/articles/early-motor-experiences-give-infants-a-social-jump-start

EXCERPTS: ...Researchers from the Kennedy Krieger Institute and Vanderbilt University found that early motor experiences can shape infants’ preferences for objects and faces...This study supports a growing body of evidence that early motor development and self-produced motor experiences contribute to infants’ understanding of the social world around them. Conversely, this implies that when motor skills are delayed or impaired – as in autism – future social interactions and development could be negatively impacted. “For parents, this means that early motor development is very important and they should encourage motor experiences and active exploration by their child.”

3 ways to help develop students' executive function abilities

2011-10-07T09:30:00.000-06:00

Judy Willis suggests three teaching strategies to help students build executive function skills, which allow students to apply what they know to new situations. Willis recommends students be given activities that require applying learning or support executive function, such as predicting and problem-solving. Willis also suggests cultivating higher-order thinking, including judgment, prioritization and goal-setting. Edutopia.org/Judy Willis' blog (10/5) http://www.edutopia.org/blog/brain-based-teaching-strategies-judy-willis

JobTIPS (2011) Toolkit

2011-10-06T07:09:00.000-06:00

JobTIPS is a program to help individuals with disabilities explore career interests, seek and obtain employment, and successfully maintain it. JobTIPS addresses social and behavioral differences that might make identifying, obtaining, and keeping a job more difficult. Though JobTIPS is
designed for direct use by individuals with autism and other disabilities, it is also suitable for delivery by teachers, family members, clinicians, mentors, and job coaches.
http://www.do2learn.com/JobTIPS//index.html

New CELLpops from the Center for Early Literacy Learning

2011-10-04T07:26:00.001-06:00

The Center for Early Literacy Learning (CELL) has released two new CELLpops for practitioners and parents. CELLpops are interactive web versions of CELL mini-posters that parents or practitioners can use to promote children’s early literacy learning. On a Field Trip can be used by practitioners to provide preschoolers with easy and fun ways to incorporate early literacy learning into field trip activities. Music and Movement shows parents of toddlers how using songs and music as part of everyday activities can promote early literacy learning. They are available at http://www.earlyliteracylearning.org/ta_cell_pop1.php

Leading Practices on Disability Inclusion

2011-10-04T07:20:00.000-06:00

The US Chamber of commerce and the US Business Leadership Network invited business leaders to share their successful disability inclusion strategies and from that initiative developed "Leading Practices on Disability Inclusion". This publication highlights successful strategies that can be used by businesses of all sizes to create a more inclusive workplace, marketplace, and supply chain. Real-life examples, such as these, are important to help businesses realize the wide range of opportunities available and the potential for replicating success. http://www.usbln.org/pdf-docs/Leading_Practices_on_Disability_Inclusion.pdf

Colleges work to meet the needs of students with dyslexia

2011-10-03T17:50:00.000-06:00

Dozens of admissions deans from colleges nationwide met at Stanford University this summer to discuss how best to meet the needs of students with dyslexia. Standardized tests needed for college entrance can be the biggest stumbling block for students, and some administrators say the event encouraged them to look beyond test scores. "Our goal is to help colleges realize that, because of their intelligence, out-of-the-box thinking, and perseverance, these students can add luster," said Sally Shaywitz, a professor in learning development at Yale University and an event organizer. U.S. News & World Report (9/27) http://www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/2011/09/27/colleges-step-up-to-meet-dyslexia-challenge

Obama signs reauthorization of $231M autism act

2011-10-03T17:22:00.000-06:00

The Combating Autism Reauthorization Act, signed by President Barack Obama on Friday, will provide $231 million in funding for autism programs over the next three years and is almost identical to the first autism bill passed in 2006. The funding will go toward research, screening, intervention and other initiatives. Many autism advocates applauded the new law, but the Autistic Self Advocacy Network opposes it because it leans too heavily toward children and not adults with the disorder. Disability Scoop (9/30) http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2011/09/30/obama-signs-autism-act/14150/, Education Week/On Special Education blog (9/30) http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/speced/2011/09/president_barack_obama_today_s.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+OnSpecialEducation+%28Education+Week+Blog%3A+On+Special+Education%29

Parents of children with ADHD dread a new school year

2011-09-28T07:47:00.000-06:00

A recent poll found that about 81% of Canadian parents with children who have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder dread the start of the school year. "School is the most difficult environment for children and teenagers with this condition," said Derryck Smith, a child psychiatrist. Philippa Fisher, a mother of two children with ADHD, said she adapts to the challenges of a new school year by instituting a rigid routine. The Vancouver Sun (British Columbia) (9/26) http://www.vancouversun.com/health/parent+approach+controlling+ADHD/5460420/story.html