Free Webinars and Training P.16
2019 Special needs summer CampS p.24
TIMES
MAGAZINE
Exceptional
Surviving Mardi Gras p.7
What's Going ON?
From the Executive Director, Mary Jacob TITLE P.4
ISSUE 13
march 2019
success story - closing the gap with intervention P.21
COVER STORY
EXCLUSIVE
MISSION The Mission of Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans is to educate and connect children and adults with disabilities, and their families to resources, services, and supports to attend school, work, and thrive in their communities.
OUR TEAM Mary Jacob, Executive Director mjacob@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 207 Sharon Blackmon, Community Outreach Specialist sblackmon@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 208 Bebe Bode, Director of Public Relations bbode@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 226 Nicole Desroche, Information & Training Specialist ndesroche@fhfofgno.org - Ext.218 Liz Dumas, Administrative Assistant ldumas@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 202 Minerva Flores, Intake Specialist mflores@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 217 Laura S. Nata, Director of Peer to Peer Support lsnata@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 209 Thuy Nguyen, CSHS Parent Liaison tnguyen@fhfofgno.org 504.896.1340 phone | 504.896.1360 fax Steven Nguyen, CSHS Youth Liaison snguyen@fhfofgno.org 504.896.1340 phone | 504.896.1360 fax Jessica Rodrigue, Director of Training jrodrigue@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 204 Denise Sweatman, Director of Administrative Services dsweatman@fhfofgno.org - Ext. 203 Paul LeBlanc, Property Manager
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gregory Brenan, CPA, CCIFP, CGMA Lisa Gennusa Ledet Jo Ann D. LoRusso, Ph.D. Denise Barrera, MPH, MSW Judith Otto, LOTR, CDRS Debra Dixon M.Ed.+30 Jedidiah Jackson Ashley Bourg
OFFICE HOURS Monday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM Tuesday: AFTER HOURS 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM - 8:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 12:30 PM - 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
700 Hickory Avenue Harahan, LA 70123 504.888.9111 800.766.7736 504.353.2350 fax info@fhfofgno.org fhfofgno.org
MARCH 2019
Exceptional Times
04 Till Our Paths Intersect Again 05 What I've learned in making Self Care a Priority 07 Surviving Mardi Gras 10 Love Because, Never Despite, Disability 14 Bullying has Consequences for All Involved 15 Jefferson Parish Community Resource Fair 16 What's Going On? 18 A Lifetime of Inclusion 19 March Awareness 20 Strengthening Families Against Opioids 21 Closing the Gap with Intervention 23 Resources for Families & Educators 24 2019 Special Needs Camps 34 Jefferson Parish Regional Advisory Committee Meetings 35 Louisiana School Finder
CONTENTS
From the
Mary Jacob
Executive Director
Every once in a while someone comes into your life that makes an undeniable impact. You hope that an impact that great is good for you, and for me it was certainly better than I ever anticipated. My children were huge impacts as well as my loving husband, but this was a bonafide girl crush type impact. A friend, colleague, and sometimes partner in crime. I have had people in the past that have impacted me this way. I’ve previously written about my original sheroes – Rose, Carol and Brenda. Then there are others, I haven’t had the opportunity to publicly acknowledge yet – but the day will come. But this recent impact was different – mainly because it was so unexpected. About two years ago, that new impact was Katie Corkern. Katie was hired by the Northshore Families Helping Families' Board of Directors as their newest Executive Director. The center had some great staff, but needed a true leader that could motivate them to the next level. Katie showed up like a ray of sunshine ready for the challenge. She showed up with her bouncy self and bright smile and introduced herself to us in a silly boomerang video and my immediate thought was, what, not who have they hired. Her tenacity was off the chart. Her humor was contagious and yet there was never a single doubt about her authenticity. She was truly amazing – not because she did in fact bring NFHF to a new level, but because she did it with such grace, sprinkled with her Katie style enthusiasm and people instantly fell in love with her. During her short two-year tenure as the Executive Director, she never missed a beat. She always showed up ready for the challenge and no mountain was too high to climb. Even during adversity, she marched forward. The thing is, my adversities compared to hers were minor speed bumps. Her adversities included the unexpected death of her beloved sister Kelle and a very lengthy hospital stay for her son Connor that was so often touch and go, she wasn’t sure if she’d ever bring him home again. It was through all of this adversity, I learned to admire her on a whole new level. As a mother and sister, I know these life-altering events shattered her heart, yet she was always smiling, cheery and seeing the cup half full. Her grit was undeniable. In spite of these unimaginable events, her faith in God never wavered. This faith pushed her to celebrate life and her passion for NFHF and the families they serve. Sadly, Katie’s last day as Executive Director of NFHF is February 28th. What she has accomplished in two short years is simply amazing. I can honestly say, she has taught me as much, if not more, than I taught her. I taught her nonprofit governance stuff, while she was teaching me what life was really all about. She pushed me out of my comfort level at times and because of her creativeness, she inspired me to try new things. She opened her heart and life and shared her family victories and saddest moments with the world. I wrote on Facebook that when our paths intersected, I was officially Katized and once you have been Katized, there is no going back. So as sad as this day is, I am overjoyed that I’ve been blessed with two years of laughing and learning from someone that has truly inspired me to reach higher. Did our paths intersect by chance? I think the man upstairs knew exactly what he was doing. Katie, you will be missed, but never forgotten. And as long as there is a Yugo to get me there, our paths will indeed intersect again!
Till Our Paths Intersect Again
continued on p. 13
What I’ve learned in making
Self Care a Priority
As an occupational therapist, I absolutely love dedicating my time and energy to my patients. Each day is filled with personal interaction; with children, their parents, families, doctors, and teachers just to name a few. My patients need and deserve my full attention as we move through intentionally planned activities that are both fun and therapeutic. A side effect of this dedication, however, is a level of stress and anxiety. Am I planning the right activity? Will my patient reach his goal? Will my therapy help him in daily life? Am I doing enough?! Sometimes, it’s hard to leave this drained feeling at work. In my sessions I display high energy and employ a plethora of patience; however, my tank is pretty depleted at the end of the day. I drive home with the radio off, and try to prepare for a non-therapist life with other roles and relationships. Often the recharge period is quick, but other times more intentional methods of decompression are necessary. I’ve realized that I need better self-care strategies in my tool box to help me remain my best self after a full day of work, so I’ve been concentrating on this for the past few weeks. This OT made self-care the priority, and this is what I’ve learned so far. 1. Bubble baths are too much after 15 minutes I’ve never been one for baths in adulthood, but recently I’ve given them another try. I’ve realized that the first 5-10 minutes is glorious: I read, listen to calming music, and inhale my newly purchased Stress Relief bubble bath. After that, though, remaining in the bath makes me feel too low, calming my body to the point of I-need-to-go-to-sleep-right-now. I have found through trial and error that 15 minutes is just right to help me relax and recharge, but still be a functioning person when I get out. 2. A written out To-Do list is underrated. There is something about the act of physically writing down, then physically crossing off items on a to-do list. I’ve started writing down both personal goals and work goals for each week in a planner, and I have realized that I am more successful in meeting these goals than when I was just putting notes in my phone. Being productive lessens my feelings of being overwhelmed, so a physical to do list is a win-win in the stress relief department. 3. Sometimes I have to say no. As an extrovert, I often get energized by social interaction with others. What I’ve noticed, however, is that after a long day of work, what in the past has energized me can actually have the opposite effect. Despite my natural inclination to be social, sometimes I have to put away the Fear of Missing Out and say no to an after work event in order to not completely deplete my energy reserve. 4. Cooking can help you feel accomplished. After a long day, often times the last thing I feel like doing is spending the time on cooking a meal. I’ve found that shorter, simpler meals that do not take too much time or brain power is best. For example, a cup of soup and a grilled sandwich, or stir fry with steamed vegetables- 30 minute meals that help me feel accomplished and healthy without involving lengthy recipes and a large time commitment. 5. Book clubs are way more fun than reading alone. My clinic recently started a book club where we read books both related and unrelated to our field. Having friends reading the same book at the same time as you definitely adds to the fun. Now at work, we have something extra to talk about that has nothing to do with therapy or our patients. Reading has always been a relaxing and enjoyable past time for me, but the added deadline and social interaction help make me prioritize a relaxing night in with a book. 6. Emotional TV is cathartic. I am often met with confusion when I tell others that I seek out highly emotional television shows in order to decompress from an emotional day. Doesn’t seem to make sense, right? Wrong! Crying is cathartic. Entering into a world of a fictional family and crying along with their highly dramatic, yet realistic life is the best medicine for a stressful day. Instead of ignoring the emotional state I’m in after work, I’ve realized that meeting it head on through an outlet such as TV can be helpful in feeling recharged. 7. Thank people like Marie Kondo would After watching some of Marie Kondo’s Tidying Up show, I was drawn to her practice of thanking the clothes you no longer need to keep and realized that this practice can definitely apply to all things. For example, rather than being frustrated after a difficult treatment session, I have found it helpful to internally thank that session for teaching me patience, before I metaphorically give that frustration away. It’s all about perspective, and I’ve learned that I can be in control of what I allow to stress me out (Thanks Marie). Ultimately during this experience, I’ve learned that self-care is a state of mind and a way of thinking. What relaxes me one day may not feel right the next, so I’m constantly trying to be mindful of what I need in that moment, adding strategies I’ve found to be successful along the way. My routine is far from perfect, but it is helping me towards my goal of being the best Me all day, every day.
Rebecca Connick is an occupational therapist at Crane Rehab Center- Pediatrics in New Orleans as well as an Early Steps provider. A certified user of The Sequential Oral Sensory (SOS) Approach to Feeding and a Mentored Clinician of the STAR Institutes's SPD Level 1 Advanced Intensive Mentorship program, Rebecca treats many children with sensory processing deficits and feeding disorders. For more educational articles by Rebecca, follow her blog at https://fingertips.home.blog/ or on Facebook @fingertipsblog.
Well, here we are at Mardi Gras again! And having such a looooong season can be good (more time for king cake and parades!) and bad (more time for king cake and parades!). I’ll be honest, I haven’t taken the kids to anything more than a neighborhood truck parade in quite a long time. It’s daunting, taking a young man with serious medical/physical needs and in a wheelchair into a large crowd of people for an extended period of time. But….I’m thinking this may be the year I bite the bullet and JUST DO IT! I’ve been polling some peeps on social media for strategies on successfully attending a parade with a child/young adult with a disability. Here’s what we’ve come up with; it may be a good list to share with your families: BEFORE you go to a parade: Know where to park. Of course, if you have any contacts with business owners or residents on the parade route, shamelessly take advantage of that relationship and beg for a parking space! But if you don’t, do a little Google Map search of the parade route and figure out a good spot to park. Know where a public restroom is located. If you go early and have a meal at a restaurant near the route, you may be able to talk your way into bathroom privileges during the event. Of course, there are always the tidy and sanitary “Go Cans,” if you must…. Have a quick-exit strategy. In case things don’t go as planned or you need to leave early. Keep in mind when parking that you DON’T want to park IN the parade route; find a spot with access to main roads that won’t be blocked. Check out accessibility. Check out the area if you will have a wheelchair or someone with poor mobility along. Is your child a runner, or you fear getting separated from them, consider an attached ID of some sort (especially if they don’t talk): dog tag or ID jewelry, temporary tattoos, even a name/phone number on an arm with a Sharpie will work in a pinch! When you go: Take snacks. I think this one goes without much explanation from me! And don’t forget drinks—water, in particular, especially if it’s a warm day. Take comfort items. If your child tends to become restless or overwhelmed after a period of time, bring a backpack with some items they will enjoy. On the same note, take alternative activities. If your child will have difficulty attending—or waiting until the start of the festivities—bring along books, a tablet, crayons, bubbles, etc. to keep them occupied if necessary. Take noise-canceling headphones. If noise is going to be a problem. Also be sure to have some good sunglasses for everyone (and sunscreen!). If your child is afraid of being pelted with throws consider making some fun-looking, creative headgear. One dad I heard from created a parade hat for his daughter; it was basically a hard-hat with a clear face shield. Those kinds of things can be decorated with stickers, paint, stenciling, rhinestones (for some added BLING!)—the possibilities are endless! Of course, you can also use an umbrella or Mardi Gras parasol to achieve a similar effect and block them from the barrage. If your kiddo is small consider using a parade ladder. It lifts them up and away from the throng of madness, keeps them safe and in one spot, and still gives them personal space out of the faces of obnoxious parade-goers. Case the area. Look for a safe, maybe quieter place to get away from the action in case it’s needed. Remember, you don’t have to be in the front row to enjoy the show. Sit farther back if that’s more comfortable. Sometimes it’s easier to see back there anyway, and it won’t be as overstimulating as it is close up. If your kiddo is of the adventurous, thrill-seeking variety, consider making a target for them to use to entice float riders to ping them with the good stuff! You can use a fancy tall hat that begs to be rung with beads; a toy basketball goal hanging over a small laundry basket; a laundry basket or bag; a crab/fish net… use your (or their) imagination!
Surviving Mardi Gras
By Sharon Blackmon
Erica Thompson Broussard: Our first year using a ladder seat. Wish I had done it years ago. He loves sitting up high and seeing all the people while still feeling safe in his own space. It also prevented him from running and saved my and my hubby's backs from holding him. Plenty of snacks, a car close by, and an easy exit in case things went south.
Our Executive Director, Mary Jacob, also reached out to families on our Facebook group page, LAdisABILILTY Talk, for recommendations on taking a child with a disability to a parade. Some of the responses are below.
Rose Gilbert: When Nick was young I had dog tags made for him to wear. Just in case he got separated from us.
Danelle Indovina: Be prepared for the unexpected. Today he may love parades , tomorrow he may have to leave before it starts. Apparently, having a BFF is a game changer.
Georgia Purscell: Have a safe place to bring them away from the action if they get overwhelmed!
Patricia Ehrle: Looooves parades
Lori Mazell Jones: My guy LOVES his parade Ladder. We were quite surprised since he's very high energy. It's the only place he will sit still. :) We borrowed a friends first to see if it would work before we made the investment.
Alli Autismla: Ear protection is a must! Try to find a viewing location where you and your kid can step back out of the crowd if it gets to be overstimulating for him or her.
Katie Ide: Get a GPS tile to attach to their shirt or shoe, and Sharpie contact info on their arm. (Especially if your child is nonverbal and tends to run, as mine does.) Park in a place where you know you can get out during the parade!
Nancy W. LeBlanc: My husband combined a hard hat and a welding mask to protect her. There is a hole in the top to decorate. There is a Christmas tree in this photo. A laundry bag attached to a fishing net.
Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans will be closed on March 4 - 5, 2019 in observance of Mardi Gras. Laissez les bons temps rouler!
There are few stories told in TV shows and movies about people like me in romantic relationships, and those stories that are told rarely paint being with someone like me as desirable. Me Before You is perhaps the most extreme depiction of this type, painting disability as a fate worse than death for a relationship. I imagine abled people have no idea how it feels to be surrounded by messages implying that no one could ever want to be with you: if they did, they wouldn’t write stories like this, would they? When we got married five years ago, Karl and I were more different than we were alike, our strengths balancing each other’s weaknesses. In the years since, as happens with most couples, we’ve grown together, becoming more alike and, somehow, more different at the same time. Our story is not a fairy tale, but it’s also not the tragic picture painted by Hollywood of relationships involving disabled people. Instead, our story is a lesson in empathy practiced by real people who certainly don’t understand each other all the time, but will always continue to try. In that sense, I suppose we’re not that much different from abled couples. Karl’s seeming inability to wipe down the sink after he trims his beard, leaving a bazillion obnoxious, tiny hairs everywhere, will never cease to annoy me. Likewise, he tells me that my habit of putting the empty toilet roll not in the garbage but on the back of the toilet drives him up a wall. Every couple I’ve ever talked to has a similar story: quite a few of them seem to involve socks not in the hamper, but next to it. These are the small conflicts we make a practice of letting go, attempting to remember that loving someone is more important than a spotless bathroom. Yet, in so many other ways, our love story is shaped by ability and disability. Abled couples will never know the uncomfortable stare of a stranger trying to figure out why someone so young walks with a cane. How amusing it is to me that they never stare the same way at people wearing glasses. They will never know what it’s like to arrive at an event, realize that it’s up a flight of stairs, and have to turn around with disappointment because someone’s knee is acting up and stairs just aren’t happening today. Abled couples will live in an environment built for their bodies and minds. Meanwhile, the burden will be on me and my husband to ask if a space is accessible to me and to know that, if it’s not, people like me, couples like us, were an afterthought, if a thought at all. When most spaces are not designed for people like me, of course we feel as though we are undesired: it is not just TV shows and movies that tell this story, but the very spaces we occupy that demarcate which bodies are welcome and which are not. Nor will abled couples understand the unique ways chronic pain influences a relationship. The last time I remember being without pain, I was 17 years old. Perhaps you, the reader, are feeling bad for me right now, as Karl often has before. Yet, as I have taught Karl, it is not the pain itself that is negative: pain is equal parts teacher as it is a cause of suffering. To learn ways of navigating both the lessons and the suffering, and to learn how to value the lessons more than we hate the pain, these are no small tasks for any couple. Pain has taught both of us to feel more compassionately toward others and each other, to desire to serve others, and to work for justice: these are valuable lessons. This is not to say that living with chronic pain is easy: while I would not trade the lessons pain has taught me, there are days I look at Karl with a bit of jealousy. Karl is not just able-bodied; he’s the kind of able-bodied that goes for 50-mile bike rides multiple times a week and spends time on weekends building trails in parks. His tall, lanky, fit frame could not present more of a contrast to my petite crippled self. My task, then, is to work on my jealousy, and his task is to avoid feeling bad for me, as in this case, it is not the pain that has caused the suffering, but our reactions to it. And, of course, there are some days when the pain is pure physical agony, when such philosophical musings can change nothing. Abled couples are not faced with the immediacy of learning these lessons, but Karl and I often joke that when all our bodies grow old, Karl and I will have the most practice navigating this dynamic. Disability is also not just physical, and stigma surrounding disability and relationships extends into the worlds of developmental disability, intellectual disability, and mental health. As an Autistic person, I know how painful it is to read stereotypes about people like me being unable to love or feel empathy, or to understand the implications of the anti-vaccination movement: that parents who falsely believe vaccines cause autism would rather have children dead from preventable diseases than have them be like me. I know that the stigma surrounding relationships and sexuality is even stronger for people with intellectual disabilities, who can love and be loved too. The relationship that Karl and I share is beautiful, not in spite of my disability, but in part because of it. I share our story because we live in a world where social movements talk about marriage equality, but leave disabled couples out of the equation. Many people with disabilities rely on programs like Medicare, Medicaid, SSI, and SSDI, among others because these programs are the only way to afford necessary services. Qualifying for these services essentially means living in poverty, and often means that getting married would result in losing these services. In this sense, Karl and I are privileged because my care needs are mostly covered by insurance and not particularly expensive beyond what is covered. This meant we could get married without worrying about the impact on my quality of life, an option not available to many people with more extensive care needs. I want to live in a world that does not force any disabled person to choose between basic necessities and marriage, a fundamental injustice too often ignored. I also share our story because our society needs to grow in its understanding of disability and romance, as viewing all disabled people as incapable of understanding romance and sexuality comes at significant cost. People with intellectual disabilities are seven times more likely to be the victim of sexual assault than people without disabilities,[1] while people with disabilities generally are 2.5 times more likely to be victimized than people without disabilities.[2] While lack of oversight, insufficient caregiver background checks, and other factors are significant, not teaching people with certain disabilities, especially intellectual and developmental disabilities, about their bodies and about consent also plays a role. I want to live in a culture where sexual education teaches people about more than just straight abled sex in a shame-based abstinence model. I want people to learn about how good sex can be with queer people, with disabled people, with people that don’t fit the sex ed workbook norm. I want people to learn how to make love with people like and unlike them, reveling in their bodies and their personhood, recognizing and valuing their differences, asking for enthusiastic consent and guidance. I want a world where disabled people learn how to have healthy relationships alongside their abled peers, where disabled people are seen as valuable friends, lovers, partners, spouses not in spite of their disability but because disability adds to the fullness and beauty of their being. I want a world where abled people compliment my sparkly cane much like they would a stylish pair of glasses, accepting it as an emblem of who I am, rather than wondering from across the room why I need it. Ultimately, I want a society that teaches disabled people, through media portrayals, through accessible building design, and so many other avenues, that their bodymind, their personhood is valuable and worthy of love just the way they are.
Love Because,
Never Despite, Disability
RAISE Center
"I want a world where disabled people learn how to have healthy relationships alongside their abled peers, where disabled people are seen as valuable friends, lovers, partners, spouses not in spite of their disability but because disability adds to the fullness and beauty of their being."
Katie has founded Katie Corkern Consulting, LLC and is moving into the world of legislative lobbying and hoping to bring positive changes to our mental health system and medical cannabis.
paths - p.4
Jessica Benham, Director of Development at The Pittsburgh Center for Autistic Advocacy [1] The Sexual Assault Epidemic No One Talks About [2] Crime Against Persons with Disabilities, 2009-2015 - Statistical Tables
RAISE is funded by the US Department of Education to provide technical assistance to, and coordination of, the 7 PTI centers (RSA-PTIs). It represents collaboration between the nation's two Parent Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC) and the seven Regional PTACs. National RAISE Center@SPAN, (2/14/2019). Love Because, Never Despite, Disability, Newark, NJ, Jessica Benham. © 2018 RAISE Center
Everyone involved in a bullying situation is affected. A recent study on cumulative experiences of bullying found that youth involvement in bullying over time - either as the one who bullies, the one who is bullied, or as a bystander who helps bullies - resulted in multiple negative outcomes. Negative outcomes for the targets of bullying included depression, anxiety, and lower self-esteem. Bullying perpetrators and the bystanders who helped them over time were associated with increased aggression. All three groups experienced decreased levels of optimism about the future. There's some good news in the study that suggests becoming an upstander to bullying has positive impacts for youth who address bullying. Bystanders who helped the targets of bullying through pro-social behavior were associated with higher academic achievement, self-esteem, and future optimism. Taking action to address bullying could include things like confronting the perpetrator or telling a teacher. The study suggests that these bystanders also worried about being bullied next, but they felt good about helping. There are many ways that bystanders can prevent or address bullying. For instance, they can interrupt a bullying situation by using humor, they can walk with a target of bullying to show support, or they can stand up to a perpetrator of bullying with a group of peers. Implementing bullying prevention and intervention strategies can help lower the risk and consequences of bullying for all. StopBullying.gov has a blog post on the negative consequences of bullying for all involved, a research summary on the Consequences of Bullying, and resources for bystanders to bullying and how schools can build a safe and supportive environment to prevent bullying. Latest Bullying Research Highlights LGBTQ–inclusive bullying laws associated with fewer teen suicide attempts, study finds Internalizing Symptoms and Externalizing Problems: Risk Factors for or Consequences of Cyber Victimization? ‘Nobody wants the parents involved’: Social norms in parent and adolescent responses to cyberbullying Minor Symptoms Talk: How Children React to Encountered Bullying In the News New design for the CDC’s Adolescent and School Health website! How to Help Tweens and Teens Manage Social Conflict
There are many ways that bystanders can prevent or address bullying.
BULLYING Has Consequences for ALL Involved
StopBullying.gov
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What's Going On?
Extended School Year (ESY) Services: Summer IEP Services - Did you know that data collected during the holidays often determine if your child will qualify for ESY Services? This training provides an overview of the ESY process for children with disabilities including how children qualify and why in many circumstances the school uses the holiday breaks in determining if a child will qualify for ESY. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families of Acadiana Date: Thursday, March 7, 2019 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students. Do You Know Your Rights if You Disagree? - Since the first federal law dealing with the education of students with disabilities in public schools passed, legal rights for parents has been an important part of the law. These legal rights for parents generally referred to as “procedural safeguards”, are a critical component to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The purpose of this webinar is to let parents know they have legal rights and to help them understand these rights and what to do when you disagree with the school. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families of Northeast Louisiana Date: Thursday, March 7, 2019 Time: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students. Understanding the Importance of Inclusion - Why is inclusion of children with disabilities in schools, classrooms, and communities important? This webinar will answer these questions. It explores what inclusion is and is not, who is involved in making meaningful inclusion successful, and its underpinnings in federal law. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge Date: Tuesday, March 12, 2019 Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students. Introduction to Special Education - Do you suspect your child could benefit from special education and related services? Is your child newly evaluated? If so, this training is perfect for you. This intro to special education will give you a strong foundation to build future knowledge. You will learn the very basics through the philosophy of special education, the laws, evaluation process, and ultimately an IEP. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families of Northeast Louisiana Date: Tuesday, March 12, 2019 Time: 9:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students. IEP Tips and Pointers - This webinar features tried and true tips on how to positively advocate for your children, strengthen the relationships between parents and service agencies, and help create the appropriate IEP program. This webinar is perfect for families looking for ways to make the IEP meeting a more positive experience for everyone involved. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families at the Crossroads Date: Thursday, March 14, 2019 Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students. Anatomy of an IEP - Like a biology student, this presentation will dissect the parts of the IEP document and examine their functions individually, learning their meanings and application. It will provide constructive and practical tips to help create an IEP that supports all of the student's needs. We will explore the parent’s role in the IEP process and learn the basics of their child’s right to special education services, the process of developing special education plans, and the parent’s role. Co-Sponsor: Bayou Land Families Helping Families Date: Thursday, March 14, 2019 Time: 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students Section 504 & Transition - In this webinar, we will assist you to understand the ITP process as it pertains to postsecondary education and other related services. We will also provide an overview of programs and resources available to your child entering postsecondary education or employment. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families of Greater Baton Rouge Date: Thursday, March 21, 2019 Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students. Basic Rights in Special Education - Whether you are new to special education or involved for a while, this workshop is for you. This presentation provides families with an introduction to their rights and responsibilities as parents of children with special needs under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Parents begin to identify dreams and goals for their children, understand laws and learn advocacy strategies that will help them help their children reach those goals. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families of Northeast Louisiana Date: Thursday, March 21, 2019 Time: 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students. Accommodations vs. Modifications - Meeting after meeting, parents and teachers use the words “accommodation” and “modification” almost interchangeably when discussing IEPs and student needs. If understood and used correctly, these words can greatly impact the success of a child’s educational program. Get answers to these questions and more: How can accommodations and modifications help my child in the general education classroom? How are accommodations and modifications included in IEP? Which accommodations are provided for state testing? Accommodations and Modifications can be a game changer for your child. Co-Sponsor: Families Helping Families of Southwest Louisiana Date: Tuesday, March 26, 2019 Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Audience: Parents, Caregivers, and Professionals of School-Aged Children/Students.
M A R C H 2 0 1 9
Families Helping Families of Northeast 5200 Northeast Rd., Monroe, LA 71203
Inclusion isn't a program or place. Inclusion isn't just about school. Inclusion is a philosophical commitment that recognizes a right to a sense of welcome and belonging. Inclusion means that all people, regardless of their abilities, have the right to be respected and appreciated as valuable members of their communities. Join us to learn how inclusion begins at birth and continues through school and throughout adulthood. You'll learn about: The laws that support inclusion; Inclusion of Infants and Young Children; Inclusion of K-12 Children; Inclusion in College; Inclusion in Adulthood Act 378 - Home and Community-Based Services
Debra Dixon
Konstance Causey
Multiple Sclerosis Education and Awareness Month National Bleeding Disorders Awareness Month National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month National Endometriosis Awareness Month National Kidney Month National Nutrition Month National Traumatic Brain Injury Awareness Month Save Your Vision Month Trisomy Awareness Month World Kidney Day (March 14) World Sleep Day (March 15) National School Breakfast Week (March 4–8) National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (March 10) Patient Safety Awareness Week (March 10–16) National Sleep Awareness Week (March 3–10) Brain Awareness Week (March 11–17) National Poison Prevention Week (March 17–23) National Native American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (March 20) World Tuberculosis Day (March 24) American Diabetes Alert Day (March 26) Purple Day for epilepsy awareness (March 26)
GiveNOLA returns on May 7, 2019! Join us for 24 hours of giving to benefit our local nonprofits and make a difference. Now in it's 6th year, GiveNOLA Day is a 24-hour event hosted by the Greater New Orleans Foundation to inspire people to give generously to nonprofits making our region stronger, creating a thriving community for all. Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans will participate again this year. Please consider making your donation to our nonprofit.
Closing the Gap with INTERVENTION
By Dominga Sequeira
We were concerned about my daughter, Andrea’s, reading skills when she was in 2nd grade. We began to realize that she was falling behind her progression level from that of her peers. We realized her reading and comprehension skills were not improving and knew we had to do something. For many years, I requested help for my daughter, as she was not showing progress. I began sounding like a broken record. The years with no support started to take effect on her mentally and she began withdrawing, becoming very quiet, and was losing sleep. At worst, she became anxious and started biting her nails. We knew it was because of the stress and tension she felt at school. Instead, her school promoted her to 3rd and then 4th grade. However, we knew an immediate intervention was necessary to help close the gap in her learning delay. We were not getting the assistance we needed from the school. Her IEPs were not reflective of the situation she was in nor her grades. I sought help and was referred to Ms. Laura Nata at Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans (FHF). She immediately made us aware that documentation is EVERYTHING. Without documentation, it is hard to make adjustments and demand assistance from a standardized system like the school system. She made us aware of our rights as parents to demand answers to our questions as well as the resources that are available to all parents to help assist students at home. Thanks to Laura and FHF, we were able to develop a working plan to put all the resources available to ensure we can close in the gaps in Andrea’s education. This new plan will work to propel her forward in her learning experience. Before meeting with Laura, we thought bringing our concerns to the school would make a difference; Today we stand corrected that unless we document everything, stay on top of our concerns as notified to the school, and we demand the resources available to all students nationwide nothing will be done. We are so grateful for Laura and FHF for helping give Andrea a fighting chance. Not only is she improving academically but she also qualified for the gifted and talented program due to her artistic gift. Andrea’s self-esteem and enthusiasm towards school are also positive, she has many friends, we finally get to see her smile, her nail biting has stopped, and she is no longer showing her previous signs of anxiety. We are excited for once and are seeing progress in her academics due to tutoring, the attention teachers have given to her learning style, how they welcome parent participation, and, overall, we are all a very happy family. We thank Ms. Nata, for we know this would not be possible and appreciate how she has continued to educate and guide us. We are also thankful for the existence of the parent resource center Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans.
Video | One Family's Story In this nearly 4-minute video, a mother tells her compelling story about a family living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. You Are Not Alone: Toolkit for Parents of Teens with Epilepsy This toolkit includes an easy-to-read introduction (with a link to a PDF of a 2-page brochure you can download and share with families), a Parent’s Guide, a Facilitator’s Guide, and a Resource Guide. The English Language Proficiency (ELP) Standards for English Learners with Significant Cognitive Disabilities presented in this document were developed with explicit consideration of the range of learners who make up the English learner with significant cognitive disabilities student population. The standards are further intended to support these students as they learn critical English language knowledge and skills and communicative competence that are necessary to access and meaningfully engage in and succeed in social and academic contexts in the same way as students with significant cognitive disabilities who are not English learners. The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) supported this standards development effort to address states' request for help in meeting the Federal requirement for developing alternate ELP assessments. States Leading: Supporting Underserved Students. Every student deserves a high-quality education. Providing the right tools and resources necessary is critical, especially for traditionally underserved students. This newsletter highlights how states are using promising practices and innovative policies to drive educational equity for all students. CCSSO Framework on Supporting Educators to Prepare and Successfully Exit English Learners with Disabilities from EL Status The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), signed into law on December 10, 2015, requires that state education agencies (SEAs) establish standardized, statewide entrance and exit procedures for their English learners (ELs), including ELs with disabilities. For certain ELs with disabilities (i.e., ELs for whom it is determined on an individual basis that they are not able to be assessed in all four domains – listening, speaking, reading, and writing – of the English language proficiency (ELP) assessment, as well as ELs who are students with the most significant cognitive disabilities who may take an alternate ELP assessment) state exit procedures may include additional considerations that take into account the unique needs of this small group of ELs.
Resources for FAMILIES & EDUCATORS
2019 Special Needs Camp Guide
Camp Tiger: Camp Tiger is a week-long day camp for children with special needs in the Greater New Orleans area. Each day campers encounter different parts of the city. Past campers have visited the zoo and aquarium, played at the Saints practice arena, explored City Park, gone on safaris at the Global Wildlife Center, and many more fun activities throughout the city. Camp Tiger is staffed by rising second-year and incoming first-year medical students of the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans. For over thirty years, these future doctors have thoroughly enjoyed spending their first week of summer with such amazing campers. We have a 2:1 counselor-camper ratio to ensure campers’ safety and satisfaction. Campers and counselors form a close bond over the week and make memories that both will surely treasure. We are excited to have your interest in our camp and hope that you take part in such a fun and rewarding experience. Lion's Camp: The Lions Clubs of Louisiana proudly present the Louisiana Lions Camp for youth with special needs, diabetes, and pulmonary disorders. With a rich history of 60 years, we proudly serve the youngsters of our state and give to them “Their Summer Place.” The Camp is located in west-central Louisiana on 173 acres, 6 miles north of Leesville, LA on US Hwy 171 Louisiana Lions Camp is free for boys and girls with qualifying Special Needs, Diabetes, and Pulmonary Disorders. Krewe De Camp: Krewe de Camp provides a traditional, overnight summer camp experience to children with developmental disabilities while also giving their parents and caretakers a much-needed rest. We operate the one-week long camp without charging the campers or their caretakers any fees so that the experience is available to all families regardless of financial need. Our campers get to experience an array of activities including swimming, outdoor games, guest presenters, arts and crafts, concerts, a dance, and a fair. Camp is also an opportunity to socialize with peers and relax in a fun nurturing atmosphere. MEDCAMPS of Louisiana: MEDCAMPS of Louisiana holds a series of one-week, fun-filled camps each summer free of charge for children in Louisiana facing the challenges of a variety of physical and mental disabilities. These include Spina Bifida and orthopedic conditions, cerebral palsy, asthma, sickle cell anemia, autism, epilepsy, visual impairment, hearing impairment, speech impairment and those developmentally disabled. The focus is on what campers can do, and all campers are encouraged to reach their full potential. In the safe environment of MedCamps, surrounded by other children with similar challenges, these special campers discover they are not alone and gain a genuine sense of belonging, accomplishment, and self-worth. MedCamps also has camp dates available to adults with developmental disabilities ages 22 and up. Camp Friendship: Camp Friendship is a free, week-long, summer camp for children, 3 years of age through high school, with Spina Bifida and similar orthopedic conditions. Camp attendees are paired up with trained high school aged counselors. Attendees' medical needs are met by trained staff. A nurse is also available on site. Camp activities include arts and crafts, swimming, field trips and much more! Breakfast and lunch are provided throughout the week. We offer travel and hotel stipends to families who travel in from outside the Greater New Orleans area. Camp ABLE NOLA: Camp Able is a vacation, birthday party and family reunion all rolled up together. Camp Able is a gift of mutual respect and compassion wrapped up in silliness and love. We aspire to be a community that celebrates our diverse abilities and gifts. Camp Able is not about what we can't do, whether camper or staffer, the focal point is what we "can" do. Camp Able was specifically created to provide a unique camping experience for persons with diverse abilities. We seek to love our neighbors as ourselves understanding that our neighbors don't always look, sound or think the same way we do. Camp Dream Street Ellie Streiffer Board of Advisors Camp Dream Street, MS Dream Street is a five day, four night camping program for children with physical disabilities. The camp is held on the grounds of URJ Henry S. Jacobs Camp in Utica, MS and is sponsored by NFTY’s Southern Region. Dream Street campers are primarily from Mississippi, Louisiana, Arkansas and West Tennessee and are between the ages of 8 and 14. All of our campers are children with physical disabilities. Predominant diagnoses of our campers include cerebral palsy, spina bifida, limb deficiencies, spinal cord injury, communicative disorders and other developmental disabilities. 2019 Camp Dates: Campers: Monday, May 27 to Friday, May 31 Staff: Saturday, May 25 to Friday, May 31 American Diabetes Association: Camp provides a fun and unique experience, inviting kids and their families to become part of a community where they can grow together. For nearly 70 years, we’ve run camps across the country serving over 100,000 children and their families. Camp is a lifeline for both children living with diabetes and those at high risk for developing type 2. We know first-hand how children respond to learning in a safe and fun environment. We believe every child should have the life-changing experience of summer camp. 2019 DATES ARE NOT LISTED YET Camp PowerUp - New Orleans New Orleans, Louisiana Age Range: 7 to 12 years 2019 DATES ARE NOT LISTED YET Camp PowerUp - Baton Rouge Baton Rouge, Louisiana Age Range: 1 to 1 years 2019 DATES ARE NOT LISTED YET Camp Victory - Session I Anacoco, Louisiana Age Range: 6 to 11 years 2019 DATES ARE NOT LISTED YET Camp Victory - Session II Anacoco, Louisiana Age Range: 11 to 14 years Camp Shriver, Special Olympics Camp Find when Camp Shriver is coming near you! Camp Shriver is an inclusive sports camp where athletes and partners will learn and play different sports throughout the week. On the final day of camp, awards will be given to everyone who attended the camp. A detailed schedule will be provided at a later date. A link to sign up will be provided by early March. Monday, June 3 - Fri, June 7, 2019 Camp Shriver Baton Rouge First Church of the Nazarene (9955 Old Hammond Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816) Wednesday, June 26 - Fri, June 28, 2019 Camp Shriver Jefferson Ree Alario Special Needs Center (6600 Saints Dr, Metairie, LA 70003) Tuesday, July 16, 2019 Camp Shriver Jefferson Ree Alario Special Needs Center (6600 Saints Drive, Metairie, LA 70003) This camp will feature athletes from the Greater New Orleans area. Lighthouse for the Blind Summer Camps (Visual Impairments) Contact: Eric Mills 123 State Street, New Orleans, LA 70118 (504) 899-4501 S.T.A.R.S. is a unique 6-week summer camp program to provide an outlet for fun and creative play. Camp activities include swimming, arts and crafts, cooking, technology training, fun with music, and much more. Campers are paired with sighted student volunteers who are specially trained to assist them in all activities. Any blind or visually impaired child between the ages of 6 and 13 is welcome to join. The S.T.A.R.S. program also offers recreational activities on the first Saturday of each month during the regular school term. S.T.A.R.S. activities include: bowling, horseback riding, sculpture classes, nature trips, special movie showings, and holiday crafts. CHOICE camp’s goal is to assist teens in healthy life choices as they transition to adulthood through career exploration, skill development, self-awareness, team-building, social skills, technology training, and goal-planning. Any blind or visually impaired child between the ages of 14 and 20 is welcome to join. The CHOICE program also offers career-development activities on the third Saturday of each month. S.T.A.R.S. ages 6-13 / CHOICE ages 14-20 / No cost Speech ‘n’ Motion Camp (Varying Disabilities) 2019 DATES ARE NOT PUBLISHED YET Crane Rehab Center, Pediatrics 8300 Earhart Blvd., Suite 100, New Orleans, LA 70118 (504) 866-6990 Speech-N-Motion is social skills program which promotes social interaction and social communication skills. Through cooperative games and imaginative play, the children learn to generalize social skills and problem solving skills. Our camp is designed to create a fun and playful environment in which children are motivated to interact and engage with others. Our staff of pediatric specialists including occupational, speech, physical, art, and music therapists utilize a theme-based curriculum filled with play, art, music, and games. A screening is required for new enrollees for observation and group placement and must be scheduled prior to beginning camp. Write from the Start (Varying Disabilities) 2019 DATES ARE NOT PUBLISHED YET Crane Rehab, Pediatrics 8300 Earhart Blvd., Suite 100, New Orleans, LA 70118 Write from the Start is another program offered from Crane Rehab Pediatrics and is a pediatric handwriting program utilizing a multi-sensory approach to handwriting instruction. It emphasizes hand skill development, pre-writing skills, and functional writing abilities. Writing curriculum are designed by pediatric occupational therapists with extensive training in a variety of handwriting curriculum's. All classes are fun and provide functional opportunities for writing practice to prepare children for writing success. Jefferson Parish Recreation Department Summer Camps (West Bank) (504) 349-5000 Ext. 105 – Susan Hirschman Camp Sunshine ( Ages 8 to 13 ) Camp Moonbeams ( 14 & up ) Session 1: JUNE 3 - JUNE 28, 2019 Session 2: JULY 8 - August 2, 2019 Nicholson Playground Rm 101 Mon - Fri, 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Camp Fee: $300 per camper per session Campers must be self-controlled, communicate effectively and be able to function in a small group independently. Must be mobility independent and able to attend to personal needs. NO ONLINE OR MAIL-IN REGISTRATION ACCEPTED. You can check availability at JPRD.org Registration is only accepted at the West Bank Office 7437 Lapalco Blvd., Marrero Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. Make checks payable to JPRD, Visa, Discover and Master card accepted Camp fee does include field trips and $35 non-refundable service charge. The $7 annual insurance fee is required prior to participation in camp program. Campers will receive only one camp shirt per summer. Jefferson Parish Recreation Department Summer Camps (West Bank) (504) 349-5000 Ext. 105 – Susan Hirschman Camp Sunshine ( Ages 8 to 13 ) Camp Moonbeams ( 14 & up ) Session 1: JUNE 3 - JUNE 28 Session 2: JULY 8 - August 2 Nicholson Playground Rm 101 Mon - Fri, 7:30 am - 5:00 pm Camp Fee: $300 per camper per session Campers must be self-controlled, communicate effectively and be able to function in a small group independently. Must be mobility independent and able to attend to personal needs. NO ONLINE OR MAIL-IN REGISTRATION ACCEPTED. You can check availability at JPRD.org Registration is only accepted at the West Bank Office 7437 Lapalco Blvd., Marrero Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 4:30 pm. Make checks payable to JPRD, Visa, Discover and Master card accepted Camp fee does include field trips and $35 non-refundable service charge. The $7 annual insurance fee is required prior to participation in camp program. Campers will receive only one camp shirt per summer. Jefferson Parish Camp Rainbow, Teen Scene, and & Summer Hang About Club 6921 Saints Drive, Metairie, LA 70003 (504) 736-6999 Ext. 100 Leslie Dunn, East Bank ldunn@jeffparish.net SPECIAL POPULATION SUMMER CAMPS at the Ree Alario Special Needs Center Camp Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:00 am - 3:30 pm Optional Before Care: 7:30 - 9:00 am - Included Optional After Care: 3:30 - 6:00 pm - Additional Fee REGISTRATION FEE: $25 per summer Registration deadline: May 17 for Session 1 & June 14 for Session 2. CAMP RAINBOW (Ages 6 - 12) Session 1 - JUNE 3 - JUNE 28, 2019 $350 (4 wks) PM Care $50 Session 2 - JULY 8 - JULY 26, 2019 $263 (3 wks) PM Care $38 CAMP TEEN-SCENE (Ages 13 - 18) Session 1 - JUNE 3 - JUNE 28, 2019 $350 (4 wks) PM Care $50 Session 2 - JULY 8 - JULY 26, 2019 $263 (3 wks) PM Care $38 PINNACLES SUMMER HANG ABOUT CLUB at Pontiff Playground - Room 3 (Ages 18/up) For Active Pinnacles Members Only Must be social, mature & high functioning adult with mild disabilities. He/She must be mobility capable with independent self-help skills, self-controlled & capable of following verbal direction with minimal supervision. The individual should be able to attend to personal needs, feeding & personal hygiene. An annual non-refundable secondary medical reimbursement fee & $15 membership fee must be paid before participating in this program. Session 1 - JUNE 3 - JUNE 14, 2019, $175 (2 weeks) Session 2 - JUNE 17 - JUNE 28, 2019, $175 (2 weeks) Session 3 - JULY 8 - JULY 26, 2019, $263 (3 weeks) Boys’ and Girls’ Club of Southeast Louisiana Summer Camp 650 Poydras Street Suite 2225, New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 566-0707 Covington Club Ron Smith, Club Director – (985) 327-7634 NFL – YET Club Connie Smith, Club Director- (504) 309-7952 Slidell Club Cynthia Johnson, Club Director- (985) 643-3464 West Bank Club Will Giannobile, Club Director- (504) 368-3434 The Creative Learning Center of Louisiana, Summer Camp (Autism) Contact: Sheila Ealey sheilaealey@yahoo.com 2432 General Ogden Street, New Orleans, LA 70118 (504) 975-7961 This summer camp is for campers who have a primary diagnosis of Autism. Activities include a social integration group, music, academics, bowling, swimming and field trips. Age Range 4 - 21 years. Therapeutic Learning Center Contact (504) 323-3450 Camp ages: 4 - 12 years Spend the summer with Therapeutic Learning Center where your child will engage in activities to build their self-esteem, social skills, problem solving and much more while having tons of fun with our experienced staff! Camp Wawbansee (Girl Scouts) Contact: Briana Luers Highway 309, Arcadia, LA 71001 (800) 960-2093 & (318) 868-7222 Camp Wawbansee is an ideal area for learning about the outdoors and world around us. Activities include: aquatics, archery, arts and crafts, canoeing, fishing, music, nature/environmental studies, instructional and recreational swimming. This camp is not equipped to accommodate children with extreme special needs. Camp Wawbansee also different times with different themes such as Camp Hogwarts where girls will make potions and watch a Harry Potter movie every night and Camp Hakuna Matata which features a Disney Theme. There’s also Camo Amazing Race which features the Amazing Race and crafts from different countries. For more information and to see all the different themes being offered visit the link above and click on the 2017 Camp Guide. Financial Assistance is also available. Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts Summer Camps (including Attention deficit disorder (ADD), Autism, developmental disabilities, and Down syndrome). Mandeville School of Music, 316 Girod St., Mandeville, LA 70448 (985) 674-2992 River Ridge School of Music & Dance, 2020 Dickory Ave #200 - Harahan, LA 70123 (504) 738-3050 Our Summer Camps provide all campers (beginning, intermediate, and advanced) with the opportunity to explore up to five of our instrumental, theory, and vocal programs. Campers (with little or no musical background) are able to receive initial training and see what program(s) interest them. Our camps can also provide experienced students with a week of concentrated study to accelerate proficiency and to generate motivation to learn new and improved methods of study, giving new life to the student’s instrument or vocal study. 25 students are admitted per week. Accommodations are provided for children with disabilities Ages 5-17. St. Charles Parish Parks and Recreation (985) 331-3010, (985) 331-3007, Fax (985) 783-5059 Inclusive Summer Day Camp Cajun Camp (Deaf) Deaf Action Center Social and Recreational Services 1408 Carmel Drive, Lafayette, LA 70501 TTD & Voice (337) 232-3959 and TDD & Voice (337) 232-3463 daclaf@bellsouth.net Two week Summer Day Camp with arts and crafts, field trips, Tae Kwon Do, therapeutic animals. Camp can accommodate 50 campers. Camp Sunshine (Developmental Disabilities) BREC’s Womack Park IRP Room 6201 Florida Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70806 (225) 272-9200 ext. 572 kcoots@brec.org Camp Sunshine designs summer camp for children with mental and developmental disabilities, aged 6-25 years old. All BREC summer camps are inclusive, but Camp Sunshine is for children who need to function within a staff ratio of 1:5. Each themed week consists of games, activities, arts and crafts, field trips, water activities and inclusive activities with other recreation camps to give the children opportunities to interact with their typical peers. BREC staff conducts recreation assessments to determine if Camp Sunshine is the right choice for children or if they should attend an inclusive summer camp. Creative Scholars Camp (Dyslexia) 2019 DATES ARE NOT PUBLISHED YET Rachel Hebert - Program Coordinator- rachel.hebert@nicholls.edu Nicholls State University Youth Programs LA Center for Dyslexia and Related Learning Disorders P.O. Box 2050, Thibodaux, LA 70310 Rachel (985) 493-2569, Sue (985) 449-7194 A week-long summer camp for students with dyslexia or other related learning disorders for grades 4 – 9 (age may not exceed 16 years). Students with dyslexia can improve their reading comprehension, writing, and math skills at a summer camp that mixes fun activities with learning. There is an overnight option for 5th – 9th graders for an additional fee. Space is limited, applications accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Muscular Dystrophy Assn. (MDA) Summer Camp (Neuro MuscularDisease) Contact: Diane Dobbs Camp Grant Walker, 300 Highway 8, Pollock, LA 71467 (504) 455-4460 Children participate in a variety of activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, arts and crafts, horseback riding, and canoeing. The camp has a nurse and a physician on site. Ages 6-17 / No Cost Audubon Zoo Summer Camp 6500 Magazine Street New Orleans, LA 70118 (504) 212-5380 or (504) 861-5103 Campers can attend one to eight one-week-long sessions. Children are grouped by age and each group experiences hands-on learning, animal encounters, arts and crafts, and lots of wild play throughout Audubon Zoo. Audubon Nature Institute strives to accommodate all interested children. Please understand that our camps are very active, with multiple transitions and sensory changes throughout the day. Audubon Nature Institute strives to accommodate all interested children. Please understand that our camps are very active, with multiple transitions and sensory changes throughout the day. All campers are expected to follow directions and safety rules. If you have specific concerns, please contact our camp director Ellie Fallaize at (504) 212-5357 or efallaize@auduboninstitute.org to discuss your child’s needs. While we are a traditional camp (not specialized for specific special needs), we welcome all children and do our very best to accommodate every child. Please see our FAQ's for more information. Creating New Connections, LLC (504) 231-8981 christine@creatingnewconnections.com Helps children with autism spectrum disorders create meaningful interactions with the world. Creating New Connections employs the techniques of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to teach children on the autism spectrum and offers support and training to families in the Greater New Orleans area. (This is not specifically a summer camp, but there is summer programming available.) Kingsley House Summer Camp Karen Chustz– Program Officer for Community Services – kchustz@kingsleyhouse.org (504) 523-6221 ext. 125 1600 Constance Street, New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 523-6221 ext. 261 Kingsley House offers its historic summer camp to more than 200 children ages 5 to 12. Our 8 week, full day camp activities include indoor and outdoor sports and recreation, drama, arts and crafts, swimming, individual and group mental health counseling, academic enrichment (with a special focus on math and reading), drug and violence prevention education, and weekly field trips to fun and exciting locations throughout the area. Kingsley House facilities are wheelchair accessible/Kingsley House is not equipped to accommodate children w/extreme special needs. Within Reach NOLA 3313 Jurgens St., Suite A, Metairie, LA 70002 (504) 885-4327 Emily@WithinReachNOLA.com The goal of the Within Reach preschool program is to equip children with the necessary tools to be successful in future school enrollment. While developing individualized academic skills during group activities, such as circle time, story time, and arts and crafts, “school readiness behaviors” are also targeted. Some of these “school readiness behaviors” include walking with a group of peers, participating and attending during group activities, toileting, appropriate manipulation of arts and craft materials, and mealtime behaviors. They offer special needs summer programming. More Resources: KidsCamp.com - scroll over to the drop down menu tab labeled "Special Needs" where there is a list of camps throughout the United States classified under each disability. Jefferson Parish Parks and Recreation 2019 - Select East Bank or West Bank for list of Summer Activities & Camp Elmwood Fitness Center - Kids Camps & More The 2019 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp in New Orleans and the Surrounding Areas & An Alphabetical Listing of New Orleans Summer Camps Summer Camps in & Around New Orleans 2019 - New Orleans Moms Blog The 2019 Ultimate Guide to Baton Rouge Camps - Red Stick Moms Blog 2018 Northshore Summer Camps - 2019 DATES ARE NOT PUBLISHED YET 2019 New Orleans Summer Camps NOLA Family - overnight, art & drama, preschool, special needs camps and more. New Orleans Recreation Development Commission (NORDC) YMCA Summer Camps
If you are aware of any activities or camps available for children with special needs, please share them with Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans so we can add them to our 2019 Guide to Summer Fun for Families. Please contact Bebe Bode at 504-888-9111, 800-733-7736, or bbode@fhfofgno.org.
The following meetings will be held at Jefferson Parish Human Services Authority 1500 River Oaks Road, Suite 200, Harahan July 30, 2019
Regional Advisory Committee (RAC) Meetings
Parents and Caretakers of individuals with developmental disabilities, individuals with developmental disabilities, and concerned citizens are invited to attend these meetings. All guest will have the opportunity to make public comments about developmental disability topics.
The following meetings will be held at Jefferson Parish Human Services Authority 5001 West Bank Expy., Room 118, Marrero April 30, 2019 | October 29, 2019
The Louisiana Parent Training and Information Center (LaPTIC) is a program of Families Helping Families of GNO and a grant from the US Department of Education; Office of Special Education (OSEP) as Louisiana's official and only statewide federally funded Parent Training and Information Center.
e-Learning Mini Modules are formatted for all devices so even if you are at a ball game, dance practice or waiting for your dinner to arrive in a restaurant, you can log onto our website and watch one of our e-Learning Mini Modules in approximately 10 minutes. That's right - you only need about 10 minutes! CLICK HERE to go to our website and learn more about the e-Learning Modules!
Any information provided by Families Helping Families of Greater New Orleans (FHF) and/or Louisiana Parent Training and Information Center (LaPTIC), its staff, and/or its volunteers is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Any information expressed or implied is not intended nor should be construed as legal, medical, or other professional advice. FHF and/or LaPTIC does not render legal, medical, or professional advice or recommendations; nor is legal, medical, or other professional advice implied by any information given. Any information provided should not replace consultations with qualified legal, educational, healthcare, or other professionals to meet individual or professional needs. Reference to any program, service, therapy, or treatment option does not imply endorsement by FHF and/or LaPTIC or by its organizational staff/members and should not be construed as such.
The Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) has four developmental disability home and community-based waivers, New Opportunities Waiver (NOW), Residential Options Waiver (ROW), Supports Waiver, and Children's Choice Waiver have now been operationalized to a tiered waiver system of service delivery, which will allow for individuals to be supported in the most appropriate waiver. To learn more, click here.
The Louisiana Department of Education is committed to helping families find the right school or early childhood center for their children, and providing them with helpful information about Louisiana’s schools. The Louisiana School Finder is an interactive, online tool that provides families with: school performance scores and early childhood performance ratings to show how well schools and centers are preparing students for the next grade-level; basic information about schools and centers such as their address, website, hours of operation, and principal or director’s name; and listings of course offerings, clubs, enrichment and extracurricular activities. To find out information about schools and early childhood centers in your area, visit www.louisianaschools.com, and type in a school or center’s name, or your zip code.
700 Hickory Avenue Harahan, LA 70123 504-888-9111 800-766-7736 504-353-2350 fax info@fhfofgno.org fhfofgno.org
