News and Notes from The Johnson Center

Catching Autism Early

JCCHD | Mon, March 18, 2013 | [Autism Treatment][Assessment Corner]

Early identification of an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is critical in order for children to receive the early intervention services that lead to best outcomes. But how early can autism and related ASDs be diagnosed? Recent research is showing that signs of autism, such as social deficits and repetitive behaviors, can be detected as early as 12-18 months. Recognizing early warning signs and symptoms can help children begin the necessary intervention to help decrease further risk. 

Better standardized assessments are being …

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Sibling Spotlight: Not another therapy appointment!

JCCHD | Fri, March 15, 2013 | [Autism Treatment][Sibling Spotlight]

If you have a child with autism, there is little chance of avoiding a tight weekly schedule of various therapy appointments. This is hectic for parents, of course, and it is also challenging for siblings, who often have to tag along. Some siblings won’t mind, but most will view it as boring or unfair, and some might experience even more difficult feelings and emotions.

It is common for children to feel envious of their brother’s or sister’s therapy appointments.  Therapy can look fun. Their sibling appears to be getting lots of attention from a nice therapist …

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Lard: Making a Comeback

JCCHD | Wed, March 13, 2013 | [Family and Food]

Over the past 50 years, lard has been criticized as an unhealthy fat as industrial and commercial foods have become commonplace.  Recently, this fat has been making a comeback, because professional and home cooks want to return to real food sources and avoid adding trans-fats to their foods from commercially prepared fat sources.

What is lard, anyway?  Lard is the rendered …

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Resource Review: Wrights Law From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide by Pam and Pete Wright

JCCHD | Mon, March 11, 2013 | [Autism Treatment][Community][Resource Review]

If you have a child with special needs and are looking for a special-education-survival guide, Wrights Law: From Emotions to Advocacy is the book you need.  The authors, Pam and Pete Wright, founded Wrightslaw.com as a resource to provide advice and guidance on educational law and advocacy. They have published numerous books on the topic and offer a wealth of relevant information on their website. Whether you are just starting to learn about options for special education, or are well into the process, this guide is a wonderful resource. 

From Emotions to Advocacy equips parents with knowledge, empowering them …

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Q & A: My clinician recommended a “PPCD” program? What is that?

JCCHD | Fri, March 08, 2013 | [Autism Treatment][Q and A ]

A PPCD program is a Preschool Program for Children with Disabilities. A PPCD program provides special education to children of pre-school age (3-5 years) with a documented condition or disability that affects their learning.

There are several ways that your child might enter into a PPCD program. The first step is to determine their eligibility. If your child is already receiving services through Early Childhood Intervention (ECI), your service provider will …

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Assessment Corner: “I disagree with the results of my child’s school evaluation. What are my options?

JCCHD | Mon, March 04, 2013 | [Autism Treatment][Assessment Corner][Q and A ]

Educational evaluations carry significant weight in educational decisions concerning your child. They will help determine your child’s eligibility for special education services, educational placement, and Individualized Education Program (IEP). Schools are required to complete a Full and Individual Evaluation (FIE) for children suspected of having disabilities or differences that impact their ability to succeed in school. Re-evaluations are also required to be completed at least once every three years so that educational planning can be updated based on your child’s changing needs.

If the school assesses your child and you do not feel that they did an …

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Sibling Support Resources

JCCHD | Fri, March 01, 2013 | [Community][Events][Sibling Spotlight]

Our most recent Sib Connections group was a great success.  The sessions were packed with valuable learning activities designed to help kids understand autism, navigate family and peer situations, and add to their coping skills. One of the highlights was the summer Sib Camp¹s coping tree. The tree ³grew² as our siblings added leaf after leaf of creative coping activities.

Since the needs of siblings are getting more attention, there are now more resources than ever. Here are a few helpful sibling-support resources:

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Brussels Sprouts: Give Them a Second Chance to Make a First Impression

JCCHD | Wed, February 27, 2013 | [Family and Food]

It seems no one is indifferent when it comes to Brussels sprouts. There is a clear divide between those who like them and those who don’t.  If you are already a fan, feel free to skip to the recipes and enjoy. If you are not yet converted, keep an open mind. You will probably be pleasantly surprised.

To start, Brussels sprouts have a strong nutty flavor. However, they can become bitter and give off a sulphur-like smell if overcooked.  Most critics of this cruciferous vegetable have had similar experiences. Brussels sprouts deserve another chance to make a good impression because they are one of the most nutritious vegetables around. They are packed …

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School and Evaluations: What are the laws?

JCCHD | Mon, February 25, 2013 | [Assessment Corner][Q and A ]

If you have a child with special needs who is going to a public school, it is important to know your rights. IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, was developed to allow all children access to a free and appropriate public education with individualized services to meet their needs ‹appropriate evaluations are a key part of IDEA. The following summarizes the laws regarding educational evaluations. (Rights regarding evaluations can …

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Broccoli:  Become a Fan

JCCHD | Wed, February 20, 2013 | [Family and Food]

No one likes broccoli more than Tom “Broccoli” Landers.  He holds the world record for eating one pound in 92 seconds.  Compare that to the average American, who eats 4 pounds of broccoli a year.  To think this member of the cabbage family was virtually unknown to most Americans before 1920!  Broccoli production has increased 700% since 1971, and its popularity continues to grow.
 
There are many reasons to join …

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