Dallas-based syndicated radio personalities Lex and Terry (97.1fm) are auctioning off a pair of Yamaha Road Star cruisers, completely custom built with a custom paint job as dictated by Lex & Terry to the Martin Bros. Proceeds will benefit the Autism Society and Susan G. Komen for the Cure.
You can see Lex’s bike at North Texas Yamaha, 2301 N. Stemmons Frwy in Lewisville and Terry’s bike at Motion Cyclesports, 9938 Plano Road off 635 just west of Garland.
Bidding ends May 15, 2009.
You can see pictures of the bikes and place bids here.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Research News: Researchers Find Common Genetic Variations In Autistic People
Exciting research breakthrough:
LA Times: Researchers Find Common Genetic Variations in Autistic People
US News and World Report: What the Autism Gene Finding Means for Parents
And other news:
Forbes: Autism Tied to Older Moms, Breech Birth--But it's unlikely these factors cause the neurological condition, experts say. . .
Washington Post: Devices Aim to Help Children With Autism Speak
LA Times: Researchers Find Common Genetic Variations in Autistic People
US News and World Report: What the Autism Gene Finding Means for Parents
And other news:
Forbes: Autism Tied to Older Moms, Breech Birth--But it's unlikely these factors cause the neurological condition, experts say. . .
Washington Post: Devices Aim to Help Children With Autism Speak
Monday, April 27, 2009
World's largest park for special needs kids coming to Texas!
Dallas Special Needs Examiner: World's largest park for special needs kids coming to San Antonio (click to read)
How exciting!
How exciting!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Educational Toys for Play and Therapy Use
I went into the Lakeshore Learning Store on Dallas Parkway by the Galleria today, and I am glad I didn't have much time to browse or I would have wanted to buy everything in the store. My son had a good time there, too. They have a lot of toys out in the store where kids can play with them, and they were having arts and crafts activities in the middle of the store. It was my first time in the store but I have ordered puzzles and picture cards from their online store before and I have been pleased. I highly recommend visiting the store though for great therapy toys and products, and bring along your kid if you can.
There are also several great websites where you can purchase quality educational and therapeutic toys and games online. And sometimes just browsing the sites gives me ideas for things I can make myself or look for on craigslist or ebay, or in secondhand stores.
Check out:
Lakeshore Learning
Different Roads to Learning
Kidscope Toys
Baby Bumblebee
There are also several great websites where you can purchase quality educational and therapeutic toys and games online. And sometimes just browsing the sites gives me ideas for things I can make myself or look for on craigslist or ebay, or in secondhand stores.
Check out:
Lakeshore Learning
Different Roads to Learning
Kidscope Toys
Baby Bumblebee
Research News: A Link Between Autism and Vitamin D Deficiency; Phthalates
A Link Between Autism and Vitamin D Deficiency?
US News and World Report: Researchers are looking into whether Vitamin D deficiency might be a cause of autism (click to read)
A Chemical Found in Plastics Possibly Linked to Both Autism and Childhood Obesity
Also recently linked to autism in a research study: vinyl floors. Specifically, the chemical phthalates contained in the plastic of vinyl flooring would be the "main culprit." Another study has also linked phthalates to childhood obesity. Phthalates are present in many household products such as: personal care products like shampoos and liquid soaps, toys, plastic bottles, and many other items. Read more about the dangers of phthalates at the Environment Working Group's website, and tips on how to avoid products containing phthalates at thedailygreen.com.
In February, a federal law became effective that bans children’s toys and child care articles that contain more than 0.1% of six phthalates. Read more about the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) in this informative WebMD.com article.
US News and World Report: Researchers are looking into whether Vitamin D deficiency might be a cause of autism (click to read)
A Chemical Found in Plastics Possibly Linked to Both Autism and Childhood Obesity
Also recently linked to autism in a research study: vinyl floors. Specifically, the chemical phthalates contained in the plastic of vinyl flooring would be the "main culprit." Another study has also linked phthalates to childhood obesity. Phthalates are present in many household products such as: personal care products like shampoos and liquid soaps, toys, plastic bottles, and many other items. Read more about the dangers of phthalates at the Environment Working Group's website, and tips on how to avoid products containing phthalates at thedailygreen.com.
In February, a federal law became effective that bans children’s toys and child care articles that contain more than 0.1% of six phthalates. Read more about the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) in this informative WebMD.com article.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Richardson Coach Makes Fitness Fun For Special-Needs Adults
A recent Dallas Morning News article featured a local gym that hosts a program for special needs adults twice a week. The activities are part of the My Possibilities program, a full-time day program for adults with disabilities based in Plano. My Possibilities is hosting an open house on May 9th; see their website for details.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
Free Developmental Screening this Saturday
What: free developmental screening for children under 3 years old
When: Saturday, April 25, from 11am to 1pm
Where: Denton County's 2nd Annual Health Fair and Roundup, at CCA, 200 South Mill Street, Lewisville, TX
There will also be free immunizations for ages 0-18 (bring your child's shot records), health screenings for adults, vision screenings, and fun activities for children (bounce house, face painting, & a fire truck).
For more information contact Sandra Lindorm at 940-383-1508.
When: Saturday, April 25, from 11am to 1pm
Where: Denton County's 2nd Annual Health Fair and Roundup, at CCA, 200 South Mill Street, Lewisville, TX
There will also be free immunizations for ages 0-18 (bring your child's shot records), health screenings for adults, vision screenings, and fun activities for children (bounce house, face painting, & a fire truck).
For more information contact Sandra Lindorm at 940-383-1508.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Easter Seals Autism Resource Fair this Wednesday
Easter Seals of North Texas are holding an Autism Resource Fair next Wednesday, April 22, from 6:30 to 8:30pm at the Trinity Center, 4443 N. Josey Lane, Suite 100 Carrollton, TX 75010.
From ntx.easterseals.com:
For more information visit the North Texas Easter Seals website or call the Easter Seals North Texas office at 972-394-8900.
From ntx.easterseals.com:
Friends, family, providers and caregivers, please join us! Light refreshments will be provided. Local agencies that provide support and resources to families and individuals with Autism and special needs will be available to provide information regarding their programs and services.About the Autism Resource Fair
Open to all who care for loved ones of any age with Autism or
special needs.
On hand will be exhibitors from local organizations providing services and support to caregivers and their loved ones including:
1. Health agencies
2. Local organizations
3. Parent support groups
Schedule:
6:30PM Open exhibitors
7:00PM Presentation- Easter Seals Living with Autism Study
8:00PM Q & A’s and Refreshments
For more information visit the North Texas Easter Seals website or call the Easter Seals North Texas office at 972-394-8900.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Texas Legislation Update: House Considers Bill to Expand Autism Insurance Coverage Up to Age 18
The Texas House of Representatives is currently considering HB 451, a bill that would expand the health insurance mandate to cover children ages 2 to 18. The current law covers only ages 3 to 5.
Currently, the Texas Autism Insurance Law (Insurance Code 1355.015) signed on June 15, 2007 and effective as of January 1, 2008:
You can learn more about pending state legislation that affects our community by visiting Texas Autism Advocacy's Legislative Action Center and take action by sending an email to your elected representatives.
Currently, the Texas Autism Insurance Law (Insurance Code 1355.015) signed on June 15, 2007 and effective as of January 1, 2008:
- Includes: Autistic Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified
- Requires health insurance plans to provide coverage for generally recognized services perscribed in relation to autism spectrum disorder by a primary care physician
- To be eligible for coverage, an individual must be older than two years and younger than six years (ages 3 to 5)
- Coverage for behavioral therapies are subject to a $50,000 maximum per year
- Covered services include:
- Evaluation and assessment services
- Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)
- Behavior training and behavior management
- Speech therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Physical therapy
- Medication or nutritional supplements used to address symptoms of autism spectrum disorder. (summary from autismvotes.org)
You can learn more about pending state legislation that affects our community by visiting Texas Autism Advocacy's Legislative Action Center and take action by sending an email to your elected representatives.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Research News: Melatonin Is An Effective Treatment For Sleep Problems In Children With Autism, Study Suggests
From ScienceDaily.com: A recent study by UC Davis's M.I.N.D. Institute has found that "over-the-counter melatonin medication can shorted the length of time it takes for children with autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), or both to fall asleep at the beginning of the night."(Click to Read)
Note: I can testify that I personally have been giving my 3 year old 1mg of melatonin nightly and it has made a huge difference. Before it was taking up to 2 hours or so for him to fall asleep, even when he was clearly exhausted. Now he falls asleep within a half hour. Of course, as with any supplement, it is something that should be discussed with a pediatrician FIRST.
Sleep hygiene is important, too. Check out Akron Children's Hospital's "Healthy Sleep Habits" page which discusses sleep problems and provides information on how much sleep a child needs (at each age) and gives lots of helpful advice on how to improve your child's sleep hygiene.
Note: I can testify that I personally have been giving my 3 year old 1mg of melatonin nightly and it has made a huge difference. Before it was taking up to 2 hours or so for him to fall asleep, even when he was clearly exhausted. Now he falls asleep within a half hour. Of course, as with any supplement, it is something that should be discussed with a pediatrician FIRST.
Sleep hygiene is important, too. Check out Akron Children's Hospital's "Healthy Sleep Habits" page which discusses sleep problems and provides information on how much sleep a child needs (at each age) and gives lots of helpful advice on how to improve your child's sleep hygiene.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Sensory-Friendly Showing of Hannah Montana movie this Saturday
This Saturday at 10am, local AMC theatries will be showing Hannah Montana: the Movie as part of their "Sensory Friendly Films" program.
DFW Participating AMC Locations:
AMC Stonebriar 24
2601 Preston Rd., Ste. 300, Frisco, Texas 75034
Parks at Arlington 18
3861 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76015
AMC Firewheel 18
From autism-society.org:
DFW Participating AMC Locations:
AMC Stonebriar 24
2601 Preston Rd., Ste. 300, Frisco, Texas 75034
Parks at Arlington 18
3861 S Cooper St, Arlington, TX 76015
AMC Firewheel 18
100 Coneflower Dr., Garland, Texas 75040
From autism-society.org:
AMC Entertainment (AMC) and ASA have teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis with the "Sensory Friendly Films" program.In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for this unique audience, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie. Additionally, audience members are welcome to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing - in other words, AMC’s “Silence is Golden®” policy will not be enforced unless the safety of the audience is questioned.
McKinney ISD to host "Autism University" workshop this Saturday
Dallasnews.com: McKinney ISD will host a free Autism University from 8:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Saturday April 18th at Faubion Middle School, 2000 Rollins St. Speakers will present topics such as guardianship, transitioning to middle school and self-advocacy. Child care is available, but call 469-742-6300 by Thursday.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Summer Fun: Camps and Activities for Special Needs Kids
Time to start making summer plans? Here is a great article on autism/special needs summer camps and activities in the DFW area.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
New Feature: Events Calendar!
See post below. The calendar will be updated regularly, and there will be a permanent link to it on the page (see sidebar). It will feature local events such as workshops and seminars, fundraisers, and family activities.
If you would like to add your event to the calendar, or if any of the information on this calendar is incorrect, please email me at: dallasspectrum at gmail dot com.
If you would like to add your event to the calendar, or if any of the information on this calendar is incorrect, please email me at: dallasspectrum at gmail dot com.
EVENTS CALENDAR
Click on the event, then click "more details" for event information.
If you would like to add your event to the calendar, or if any of the information on this calendar is incorrect, please email me at: dallasspectrum at gmail dot com.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Local News: Coverage of the Voucher Bills
The Houston Chronicle featured an AP article today on the school voucher bill debate: Proposals to give private school vouchers to children with disabilities provoked heated debate in the Texas Legislature on Tuesday, as educators, parents and lawmakers weighed in on the controversial issue (click to read)
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Texas Legislation Update: Heated Debate Over School Vouchers for Kids With Disabilities
Today the Texas legislature debated two bills that would allow Texas children with disabilities to attend private schools.
Senate Bill 1301 by Sen. Florence Shapiro, R-Plano, would provide vouchers for students with autism and autism spectrum disorder.
SB 183 by Sen. Tommy Williams, R-The Woodlands, would create a broader voucher program for students with disabilities.
The Associated Press reports:
What do you think?
Senate Bill 1301 by Sen. Florence Shapiro, R-Plano, would provide vouchers for students with autism and autism spectrum disorder.
SB 183 by Sen. Tommy Williams, R-The Woodlands, would create a broader voucher program for students with disabilities.
The Associated Press reports:
At a hearing on the bills in the Senate Education Committee on Tuesday, Sen. Dan Patrick, R-Houston, pounded on his desk as he berated opponents and urged them to "pray about" the families who aren't receiving proper instruction from public schools.
Proponents of the programs say private schools would provide better options for children with disabilities, such as autism. Opponents call the plan an unwise diversion of public resources and say it would strip schools of the ability to educate special needs children who don't qualify for a voucher.
What do you think?
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Autism Awareness!
Lots of newsworthy happenings...Check out:
Nationally:
Nationally:
- Autism Society of America: Comprehensive autism legislation introduced in US Congress.
- AutismSpeaks.org's coverage of World Autism Awareness Day, including President Obama's statement on World Autism Awareness Day (pdf format).
- Kyle's Treehouse -- a recently relaunched website "dedicated to empowering all people touched by autism to make effective choice." A great resource for information and support!
- Didi Conn's (actress: Frenchy from "Grease") CNN.com commentary: "I was the Queen of Denial on Autism."
- The Dallas Morning News' front page article on Elizabeth Scott, the Cedar Hill mom who wrote about her son's recovery from autism in her new book "Raindrops on Roman." They also featured a list of "red flags" and treatment tips from Scott.
- Don't forget: FEAT of North Texas's Easter Eggstravaganza this Saturday.
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