Delco Caring Network

MEETING CANCELLATION - JANUARY 19th

2012-01-18T11:24:00.000-05:00

The January 19th meeting has been canceled.

The Delco Caring Network will be taking a hiatus from monthly meetings until further notice.

January Meeting Invitation - Thursday, January 19th @ 7:30 - Support Group Discussion Topic - Acceptance

2012-01-11T09:21:00.000-05:00

You are invited to attend our next meeting which will be held on Thursday, January 19th @ 7:30 p.m.

Support Group Meeting Topic:

ACCEPTANCE

Do you remember when you first realized that your child was disabled? For some of you, it may have been evident at birth. For others like myself, it was a gradual realization that you could no longer deny. Accepting that fact that your child has special needs is a painful process. Daily acceptance is something that we often find difficult; however, many of us have found ways to find joy in each day with our children who often inspire and motivate us to become better parents.

We invite you to come and talk about your experience, difficulty, challenges, strength and hope with other parents who are traveling a similar journey.

My 5 year-old daughter, Meghan Kelly, has Developmental Delays due to a genetic deletion (Chromosome 16 has 12 genes missing) She is the joy of our lives!

Location:

Cardinal Kroll Center @

Don Guanella Village

1799 S. Sproul Road

Springfield, PA 19064

610-543-3380

The meeting is held in the first floor conference room.

RSVP: By Wednesday, January 18th

Contact : Jeannine Kelly

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

Mobile: 484-557:4639 cell/(text)

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.ht

NOVEMBER 29th MEETING- DISCOVER MUSIC THERAPY!

2011-11-27T08:41:00.005-05:00

DELCO CARING NETWORK

Support Group for Parents of

Children with Special Needs

Invites you to discover music therapy!

Please join us at

MUSIC WORKS

NEW Music Therapy Treatment Center located at 2050 West Chester Pike, Suite 115, Havertown PA.
http://musicworkswonders.org/

When: Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Time: 7:30 pm

Come and hear an informative presentation and discussion on “How music therapy can help children with special needs”. You will be guided through music therapy techniques and get a better understanding of “How” and “Why” music therapy is an effective treatment for children, young adults and families managing special needs. The presentation will conclude with a short, interactive demonstration of a typical music therapy session.

RSVP by Monday, November 28th

Contact : Jeannine Kelly

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

Mobile: 484-557:4639

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.ht

Bully Awareness Seminar - Thursday, October 20th @ 7:30 p.m.

2011-10-13T08:34:00.002-04:00

Bullying Awareness Seminar

Thursday, October 20th @ 7:30 p.m.

Has your child ever been bullied because he is “different”?

Would you like to learn some strategies to help prevent bullying?

Has your child been accused of bullying in school?

Presented by:

Beth O’ Rourke

Social Worker

Upper Darby School District

Ms. O’Rourke graduated from West Chester University in 2006 with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Worker. She then went on to earn her Masters in Social Work and Home & School Visitor Certification from Widener University in 2007. She has spent the past four years as the School Social Worker at Hillcrest Elementary School in the Upper Darby School District.

Location:

Cardinal Kroll Center

1st Floor Conference Room

Don Guanella Village

1799 S. Sproul Road

Springfield, PA 19064

610-543-3380

RSVP by Tuesday, October 18th

Contact : Jeannine Kelly

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

Mobile: 484-557:4639

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.ht

IEP Preparation for Parents Workshop - Thursday, Sept. 15th @ 7:30 p.m.

2011-09-03T10:07:00.001-04:00

You are invited to attend

IEP (Individual Education Plan) Preparation for Parents

Thursday, September 15th @ 7:30 p.m.

Presenting:

Kimberly A. LaCoste

Special Education Coordinator

Learning Support K-12

Upper Darby School District

Kim is celebrating her 21st year in education! She spent 8 years as an elementary school teacher at Stonehurst Hills Elementary School in Upper Darby School District. She also was a reading specialist for 7 years at Stonehurst Hills. She then became a district Literacy Specialist at Walter M. Senkow Elementary School for 3 years. The last 3 years she has been a Special Education Coordinator. Kim describes herself as a life-long learner. She has a bachelor's degree from Neumann College in Early Childhood/Elementary Education, a Masters in Reading Specialist from St. Joseph's University, as well as a Masters in Special Education from Cabrini College. Kim is currently a doctorate candidate at Neumann University and is writing her dissertation on Autism and Inclusion. She is married to Stephen and has one child Samuel who is a child with autism. The LaCoste family resides in Drexel Hill, PA.

Kim will cover the key components of an Individualized Education Plan as well as help participants understand special education jargon.

Ever wondered what Present Levels are or Measurable annual goals in your child's IEP?

Have you heard these acronyms FBA, SDI, or BASC and thought what does this mean?

Then this presentation is for you!

Location

Cardinal Kroll Center @

Don Guanella Village

1799 S. Sproul Road

Springfield, PA 19064

610-543-3380

RSVP by Wednesday, Sept. 14th

Contact : Jeannine Kelly

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

Mobile: 484-557:4639 cell/(text)

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.ht

1st Annual Delco Caring Concert for Parents of Children with Special Needs

2011-04-19T19:58:00.000-04:00

1st Annual Concert for Parents of Children With Special Needs

Thursday, April 28, 2011 @ 7:30 p.m.

Presenting:

Jean Coppa Milani

Jean, a talented singer and composer, has written many songs for and about children with special needs. She worked at the Timothy School for several years as a music therapist for children with autism prior to starting her family.

The concert will be held at a private residence in Drexel Hill, PA. If you are interested in attending, please RSVP by Wednesday, April 27th. When responding, please let us know that you need the address.
(Since the concert is being held at a private home, the exact address is not being listed here.)

Contact : Jeannine Kelly

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

Mobile: 484-557:4639 (text)

Mental Health Services Informational Session - March 24th

2011-03-15T06:35:00.008-04:00

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, March 24th @ 7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center@ Don Guanella Village

1799 S Sproul Rd

Springfield, PA 19064-1137

(610) 543-3380

Presentation will be held in the 1st Floor Conference Room

Mental Health Services Informational Session

Presented by:

Marlene Daniels
Mental Health Clinician, Elwyn

Mental Health Services that are available to individuals who have Medical Assistance are:

• Outpatient Therapy

• BHRS* (WrapAround Services)

• Family Based Services

• Residential Treatment

*Bureau of Children's Behavioral Health Services in the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) administers mental health services, including Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS). Individuals who have medical assistance (MA) are eligible to receive medically necessary BHRS services until the day before their 21st birthday.

RSVP by Wednesday, March 23rd

Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone or text:

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

Mobile: 484-557:4639

Meeting Invitation - Thursday, February 17th @ 7:30 p.m.

2011-02-15T06:28:00.000-05:00

DELCO CARING NETWORK

Support Group for Parents of

Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, February 17th @ 7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center@ Don Guanella Village

1799 S Sproul Rd

Springfield, PA 19064-1137

(610) 543-3380

Our meeting will be held in the 1st Floor Conference Room

Sensory Processing Disorder

Sensory integration is a normal, neurological, developmental process which begins in the womb and continues throughout one’s life. Sensory processing is the process by which our brain takes in sensory input and interprets this information for use. If this neurological process becomes disrupted somewhere in the loop of intake, organization or output, then normal development and adaptive responses will not be achieved and can result in a Sensory Processing Disorder impacting physical, emotional and behavioral development. Join us to learn about sensory processing and what it means to your child.

Interactive Metronome Therapy

Interactive Metronome is a computerized program incorporating 13 exercises using hands and feet while listening to a steady beat. IM benefits children that have been diagnosed with ADHD, ADD and/or Autism. Interactive Metronome recognizes that what is fired together is wired together when talking about the brain. The multi-sensory input that occurs during each session creates new pathways in the brain that can be generalized to other skills such as motor planning, attention, focus, fine motor skills and communication to name a few. Join us to learn more about this foundation building therapy.

Presented By

Nancy Handschuh, C.O.T.A/L

Occupational Therapy, B.S., Elementary Education/Early Childhood Development

RSVP by Wednesday, February 16th

Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone or text:

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

Mobile: 484-557:4639

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.ht

In the event of snow, please check our website and/or blog for cancellation information.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

2011-01-12T22:38:00.000-05:00

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, January 20th @ 7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village

is on Route 320 Directly Across

from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC)
Device Overview

Presented By

Valerie Bauer

AAC Consultant, Philadelphia

DynaVox Mayer-Johnson

valerie.bauer@dynavoxtech.com

http://www.dynavoxtech.com/

What is AAC? It is a communication resource that allows a person to select symbols, pictures, letters, words or phrases to generate oral communication.

RSVP by Wednesday, January 19th

Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com

WEBSITE: http://delcokids@homestead.com/index.html

In the event of snow, please check our website and/or blog for cancellation information.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-29T10:35:00.012-05:00

Delco Caring would like to wish you and yours all the best in 2011!

We are looking forward to a great year ahead...new opportunities to bring you up to date on the latest information available to assist you in helping your child to reach his or her full potential.

On January 20th, we will be holding a presentation on Assistive Technology (communication devices for speech impaired).

Our February meeting will feature a presentation on Sensory Processing Disorders and Metronome Therapy.

Please let us know if there are any specific areas of interest that you would like to see discussed at our upcoming meetings. We welcome your input and your suggestions.

We hope to see you soon and would love to hear from you.

Happy New Year!

December Meeting Announcement - Cancellation

2010-12-16T05:36:00.001-05:00

Our December 16th Meeting has been canceled.

We will resume our regular monthly meetings on Thursday, January 20th. A presentation on Assistive Technology (Communication Devices for the Speech Impaired) will be given by Dynavox. More Details will follow soon.

Meeting Invitation - Thursday, November 18th - Stress Reduction through Yoga for Parents of Children With Special Needs

2010-11-13T16:44:00.002-05:00

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, November 18th @ 7:30 p.m

Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380
Our meeing will be held in the Conference Room on the 1st Floor

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

Stress Reduction through Yoga for Parents of Children With Special Needs
Featuring Instructor Victoria Aslan (Vimukti)

Living in today’s world puts us in a lot of stress. Having the added pressure of being the parent of a special needs child makes daily life that much more demanding. At this meeting you will learn some simple principles that you can incorporate into your daily life to help you to relax and be less stressed.

Yoga, for centuries, has been proven to help with stress, health, immunity and longevity.
Some of the proven health benefits of yoga and meditation include:

Meditation is the most direct of all stress management-training exercises, since stress begins in the mind. The aim is not to sit, but to function more effectively throughout your day.

Gives the body a deeper rest than sleep.

Heart and respiratory rate, blood pressure is decreased; cholesterol levels fall.

Decreased acid and pepsin secretions are found in the stomach, helping to protect against ulcers.

Biochemical change: Natural pain-killers, the endorphins and enkephalins, are increased, along with the neurotransmitter serotonin.

Yoga keeps the spine supple, the protection for a healthy, easeful body.

Breathing practices (pranayama) calm, clear and focus the mind.

Integral Yoga® was exported to the U.S. through Swami Satchidananda, disciple of Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh, India and has grown with branches worldwide. Swami Satchidananda was the guru to the stars, opening the Woodstock Festival in 1969. He taught the Baby Boomers to chant om, and over the years has attracted thousands of students.

About Vimukti
Vimukti Aslan is a registered yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance®, certified in Hatha Yoga and Therapeutic Yoga. She teaches private clients, classes and workshops. She brings her deep understanding of yoga and emotional recovery to create powerful healing experiences.

The Integral-style hatha yoga class taught by Vimukti can be a 60- or 90-minute journey within, comprised of 30 or 60 minutes of asana (poses), 15 minutes deep relaxation, 15 minutes of pranayama (breath work) and meditation.

Vimukti Aslan, RYT
917 . 991 . 4249
vaslan@verizon.net

For Additional Information Please Contact:
Jeannine Kelly
Founder
Delco Caring Network
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341
Mobile: 484-5574639
BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids@homestead.com/index.html
FACEBOOK: Delco Caring

MusicWorks Receives Star of Excellence - Most Innovative Children’s Program Award

2010-11-13T15:22:00.006-05:00

MusicWorks Receives Star of Excellence - Most Innovative Children’s Program Award

Jerry O'Leary and Meghan Kelly

(Havertown, PA) September 30, 2010 – MusicWorks, a nonprofit music therapy service provider for individuals with challenges, was honored yesterday by the Delaware County Office of Behavioral Health and Magellan Behavioral Health at the first annual Delaware County Provider Recognition Event. MusicWorks received the Star of Excellence Most Innovative Children’s Program Award in Recognition of Outstanding Service & Dedication to Promoting Recovery & Resiliency.

Executive Director, Lori O’Leary was thrilled and humbled to accept this award on behalf of MusicWorks. Lori said, “For the past 8 years, our primary goal has been to provide music therapy services to restore, improve and maintain the quality of life of all individuals throughout the Delaware Valley who are challenged by autism, special needs, illness or aging. Through music therapy, we have made huge strides in helping children on the autism spectrum. Watching these children learn, grow, make friends and develop their own talents has been amazing.”

MusicWorks facilitates small group music therapy sessions for children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other special needs. Through music, their Board Certified Music Therapists work on learning and communication, fine and gross motor skills, focus and attention, and socialization within the group.

MusicWorks looks forward to continuing the partnerships with all of the fine organizations, people, families and children who help to make MusicWorks the premier music therapy service provider.
________________________________________________________________________________________________

MusicWorks provides music therapy services to restore, improve and maintain the quality of life of all individuals throughout the Delaware Valley who are challenged by autism, special needs, illness or aging. Founder, Jerry O’Leary is a Board Certified Music Therapist. Jerry holds his Master’s Degree in Music Therapy from Immaculata University. MusicWorks has grown to four Board Certified Music Therapists and services over 200 clients weekly.

For More Information:
Contact: Lori O’Leary, Executive Director

MusicWorks
610-449-9669 office
610-449-5566 fax
lori.oleary@musicworkswonders.org

http://www.musicworkswonders.org/

OCTOBER 21st INVITATION - WHAT IS HYBERBARIC THERAPY?

2010-10-18T13:45:00.001-04:00

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, October 21st @ 7:30 p.m.

Meeting Location:
Hyperbaric Therapy USA
3744 West Chester Pike
Newtown Square, PA 19073
610-355-1747

Please join us for a special presentation on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Presenting:
Patrick L. Elliott D.O., F.A.C.S.
Executive Medical Director
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Center

Questions?
Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341

PLEASE RSVP BY OCT. 20th to delcocaring@gmail.com

Autism is Treatable
At HBTUSA’s Center of Excellence, patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder benefit from our comprehensive approach through education, consultations with our physicians and various therapeutic treatments including:

· Nutritional Support and Dietary Intervention

Integration of Biomedical and Behavioral Treatment Modality
HBTUSA’s innovative cutting edge approach helps families deal with the complex challenges of ASD, maximizing the potential of children with Autism, Attention Deficit and Developmental Delay.

Patrick L. Elliott D.O., F.A.C.S., Medical Director at HBTUSA's Newtown Square Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Center of Excellence, is a board certified general and trauma surgeon. His passion and belief that Autism Spectrum Disorder in an "acquired brain injury" with toxic and metabolic components associated with a genetic predisposition is based on his extensive personal experience as both a physician and parent of children with ASD. After his twin boys were both diagnosed with Autism at age 3 in 2004, he worked tirelessly to help his children overcome the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Using a combined behavioral and biomedical approach has yielded extraordinary results with both his twins and countless others he has helped and learned from along the way. In addition to the recommended standard interventions of speech, occupational therapy, sensory integration, applied behavioral analysis and floor time, Dr. Elliott's use of alternative interventions such as nutritional support, dietary intervention and when appropriate detoxification to treat heavy metal toxicities continues to help children improve dramatically and maximize potential of children with ASD, ADHD, Aspergers and other developmental delays.

The dramatic improvements he observed in his own children (and others) with the addition of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, led him to HBTUSA as its Medical Director. HBOT, which decreases inflammation and accelerates the healing process of wound and complex infections, has, through recent case studies, shown great promise in the treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury and other neurologic disorders. HBOT is an "off label” treatment for ASD (not FDA approved), however, improvement shown in case studies when using a hard chamber for this condition have been impressive.

After Dr. Elliott’s children were diagnosed with ASD 6 years ago....Dr. Elliott describes how his "panic " became "passion......his “desperation” became “determination” and as his children recovered and made dramatic improvement he saw his own “HOPE” for his boys turn into..."EXPECTATION".........

At HBTUSA Newtown Square we turn hope into expectation ...one patient, one family, one child at a time!"

Call Deneen to schedule your complimentary consultation.

HBTUSA, Center of Excellence

3744 West Chester Pike

Newtown Square, PA

610-355-1747

www.hbtusa.com

Visit www.HBTUSA.com/news to see the recent clip from Good Day Philadelphia, Fox 29 and

www.HBTUSA.com to learn more about the modalities hyperbaric oxygen therapy can treat.

SEPTEMBER 23rd INVITATION - IEP’s (Individual Education Plans)

2010-09-02T15:38:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends,

I hope you had a wonderful summer! Just as all of you are getting back to your regular routines, so are we here at the DELCO CARING NETWORK. Our monthly support group meetings will resume starting with our meeting on Thursday, September 23rd. (Please see invitation below for details).

Kathy Zepka, Parent Advocate (formerly of the ARC of DELAWARE COUNTY) has graciously offered to speak with all of you in regard to IEP’s- Individual Education Plans. Now that school is starting once again, this is a topic that is on many of your minds. If you are confused, need advice or advocacy in regard to your child’s IEP, you will not want to miss this opportunity to meet Kathy.

On another note, if there are any topics that you are interested in learning about, please let us know. We have many contacts with professionals in the field that are willing to come to speak with our group and answer your questions.

We are also looking for volunteers….if you would be interested in chairing a future meeting, presenting to the group or assisting us in any other way; we welcome your talents and abilities. Please contact me and let me know of your interest.

Looking forward to seeing all of you soon and hearing from you. If you are unable to attend the monthly meetings, we encourage you to stay connected through our website, blog and Facebook page. We encourage you to share your experience, strength and hope with us and other parents who are on the same journey of raising a child with special needs.

Warmest Regards,
Jeannine

Jeannine Kelly
Founder
Delco Caring Network
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341
BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids@homestead.com/index.html
FACEBOOK: Delco Caring

“Every child born into the world is a new thought of God, an ever fresh and radiant possibility.”
~ Kate Douglas Wiggin

DELAWARE COUNTY CARING NETWORK
Support Group for Parents of
Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, September 23rd @ 7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

IEP’s (Individual Education Plans)
EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK
a presentation by:
Kathy Zepka
Parent Advocate For Children with Special Needs

Questions?
Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341

Estate Planning Workshop - Tuesday, May 18th

2010-05-16T09:15:00.002-04:00

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Tuesday, May 18th @ 7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center

@ Don Guanella Village

1799 S Sproul Rd

Springfield, PA 19064-1137

(610) 543-3380

ESTATE PLANNING WORKSHOP

PRESENTED BY ED TITTERTON

The purpose of this workshop is to explain the need and reasons for estate planning for beneficiaries with special needs. It will explore the history behind currently available alternatives, the importance and effect of proper planning, and that which families can do on their own with minimal professional intervention. Participants should come away with a more in-depth understanding of what is involved, enabling them to have more meaningful discussions as to their family member’s needs.

The workshop will be presented by Ed Titterton, an attorney with nearly 30 years experience in this and other disability related fields. A 1975 graduate of Villanova University Law School, he has been active in special education law, and has assisted more than 100 families with members having disabilities in establishing the legal framework for their estate plans. He was a participant in the original development of trust language to protect the government benefits of people with disabilities

Questions: Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing@blogspot.com/

WEBSITE: http://delcokids@homestead.com/index.html

FACEBOOK: Delco Caring

CONQUER COLLEGE WORKSHOP - APRIL 27, 2010

2010-04-26T10:05:00.011-04:00

You are invited to attend a Workshop on

Tuesday, April 27th @ 7:30 p.m.

CONQUER COLLEGE

DID YOU KNOW THAT ONLY ABOUT 16 OUT OF 100 STUDENTS WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES GO ON TO GRADUATE COLLEGE?

Find out how your teen can be one of them! Learn about the inherent risks of college for this cohort and how parents can proactively maximize their teen's chances of college success.

Presented By:

Joan Azarva, Ms.ED,

Former Learning Specialist at Montgomery County Community College

www.ConquerCollegewithLD.com

Cardinal Krol Center

1799 S Sproul Rd

Springfield, PA 19064-1137

(610) 543-3380

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village

is on Route 320 Directly Across

from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

Questions?

Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

FACEBOOK: Delco Caring

April 15th - Meeting Invitation

2010-03-27T17:33:00.000-04:00

DELAWARE COUNTY CARING NETWORK
Support Group for Parents of
Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, April 15th @ 7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

MEETING TOPIC:

HOW DOES HAVING A SPECIAL NEEDS CHILD AFFECT YOUR RELATIONSHIPS?

Speaker: Jeannine Kelly
Founder of Delco Caring Network

Group Sharing will follow
Light Refreshments will be served

Questions?
Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

MARCH 18th INVITATION - IEP's - EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK

2010-03-04T14:31:00.000-05:00

DELAWARE COUNTY CARING NETWORK
Support Group for Parents of
Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, March 18th @ 7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

IEP’s (Individual Education Plans)
EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK
a presentation by:
Kathy Zepka
Education Advocate, Birth to 21
The Arc Of Delaware County
www.delawarecountyarc.org/

Group Sharing will follow
Light Refreshments will be served

Questions?
Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

SNOW CANCELLATION OF DELCO CARING MEETING ON THURS., FEB 25th

2010-02-24T20:05:00.000-05:00

Due to the impending snow, our meeting on Thursday, February 25th @ 7:30 p.m. will be canceled. Our next meeting will be held on Thursday, March 18th. The meeting topic and speaker will be the same. Kathy Zepka has been kind enough to reschedule with us for 3/18.,

Thank You,

Jeannine Kelly

Founder

Delco Caring Network

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

_____________________________________________________________________________

Making Friends with Autism

2010-02-13T07:34:00.002-05:00

From a very creative parent and network here in NJ...

Hi all. I have been working very hard on a community-focused autism initiative for the past year. Hopefully worth the wait for the group. Please visit www.makefriendswithautism.com to see all the components of this program. I've posted the press release below that describes the whole initiative. It has been released nationwide. All materials are free and downloadable/printable. Use them and share them. Let your local businesses and recreation providers know about them. I hope this will help many of you in your community interactions. Please share any comments (there are surveys on the website too! ) Would love to know what you think. We've have such a great response so far. Also the press release has been posted on hundreds of websites. Publications as Business Week, Forbes, Wall Street Journal. MSNBC, and CNN have posted the release and it is my hope that businesses far and wide begin to understand and use the resources to be more understanding and inclusive. (PS there is some content within the program that is worship-based.)

FIRST AND ONLY PROGRAM DESIGNED TO EDUCATE BUSINESSES ABOUT AUTISM AND PROVIDE TOOLS TO SUPPORT POSITIVE COMMUNITY INTERACTIONS

- Children's Specialized Hospital and Kohl's Department Stores Collaborate to Launch This New Comprehensive Autism Awareness Campaign -

Haga clic aquí para ver este comunicado de prensa en Español.

New Brunswick, NJ - February 04, 2010 /PRNewswire/ - Children's Specialized Hospital, New Jersey's preeminent provider of pediatric rehabilitation services and the largest comprehensive children's rehabilitation system in the country, has created and launched Make Friends with Autism. This brand new multilevel program is the first of its kind anywhere in the country. Make Friends with Autism is designed to educate our business partners and communities about autism and provide the tools necessary to support positive community partnerships. This program is made possible by the Kohl's KidsAbilities program at Children's Specialized Hospital through the generosity of the Kohl's Cares for Kids® program.

The announcement was made today at PSE&G Children's Specialized Hospital in New Brunswick by Amy B. Mansue, president and CEO, Children's Specialized Hospital; Lew Ferrero, district manager, Kohl's Department Stores and Jim Watkins, news anchor, WPIX News.

The current estimate of children in the United States with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is approximately 1 in 100i. As the number continues to grow, more individuals with autism are seeking community inclusion and health care providers are encouraging families and patients to make community connections. Make Friends with Autism offers a bi-lingual (English-Spanish) multi-media approach that provides significant resources for businesses, recreation providers and families with children who have autism.

"With an increasing number of families impacted by autism, it's important for these families to feel accepted in their own communities," said Amy B. Mansue, president and CEO, Children's Specialized Hospital. "Children's Specialized Hospital recognizes the importance for all people to participate in community activities, including people with autism and their families. We hope with Make Friends with Autism, we can help make a positive progression in the acceptance of these individuals."

Autism is a neurobiological disorder characterized by difficulty in communication, socialization, and repetitive or restricted interests and behaviors. Approximately 1.5 million people in the United States are living with autism. With a website, documentary and downloadable resources and materials, Make Friends with Autism seeks to:

Provide useful information to help people understand Autism Spectrum Disorders

Help families with children who have autism prepare for safe and successful community outings

Promote positive relationships between individuals with autism and businesses, recreation providers and the community

Reduce the level of anxiety a parent or caregiver might experience when engaging in everyday activities with a person with autism

Dispel fears and misconceptions associated with autism

The Make Friends with Autism webpage provides a centralized location to access information about autism. The resources consist of bilingual (English/Spanish) multimedia materials, available for free download at www.makefriendswithautism.org. The initiative features an original documentary, which was created in collaboration with Emmy® award-winning producer Mary Olive Smith. Print materials are also available for business owners, operators and recreation providers that emphasize providing services that embrace every individual, supportive material for parents and caregivers that can assist in the teaching and learning process of addressing the needs of those with ASD, and general information about autism.

"As a parent of a child with autism, my family has unfortunately experienced seclusion from community activities and businesses because of a simple lack of education," said Adrienne Robertiello, autism educator, Children's Specialized Hospital. "This program provides important tools to help break down the barriers that prevent many people from living the full life to which all are entitled."

Kohl's Department Stores has partnered with Children's Specialized Hospital to bring meaningful programs like Kohl's Kids Abilities. The Kohl's sponsored programs focus on raising community awareness, as well as provide families a free, fun day and the opportunity to learn more about caring for children with special needs through carnivals held each spring. Since 2000, New Jersey Kohl's stores have donated more than three million dollars to Children's Specialized Hospital through the Kohl's Cares for Kidsâ program, through which 100 percent of the net profit from the sale of books and plush toys benefit children's health and education initiatives nationwide. Additionally, Kohl's A-Teams have volunteered a total of 330 hours in 2009 at various events and activities for Children's Specialized Hospital.

Children's Specialized Hospital is the preeminent provider of rehabilitation services for children with special needs. The hospital serves children affected by brain injury, spinal cord injury, premature birth, autism, developmental delays, and life-changing illnesses. Children's Specialized Hospital has seven sites in New Jersey and treats 17,000 children each year, making it the largest pediatric rehabilitation system of its kind in the nation. Services include outpatient services, acute rehabilitation, and long-term care through its sites in Mountainside, Toms River, Fanwood, Hamilton, New Brunswick and Roselle Park as well as outreach programs in many communities.

Children's Specialized Hospital Foundation supports the programs and services of the hospital. The Foundation is ranked among the top six pediatric hospital foundations in the country. To help, or find more information, visit www.childrens-specialized.org.

Kohl's Department Stores

Based in Menomonee Falls, Wis., Kohl's (NYSE: KSS) is a family-focused, value-oriented specialty department store offering moderately priced, exclusive and national brand apparel, shoes, accessories, beauty and home products in an exciting shopping environment. Kohl's operates 1,059 stores in 49 states. A company committed to the communities it serves, Kohl's has raised more than $126 million for children's initiatives nationwide through its Kohl's Cares for Kids(R) philanthropic program, which operates under Kohl's Cares, LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kohl's Department Stores, Inc. For a list of store locations and information, or for the added convenience of shopping online, visit www.kohls.com

###

i. Health Resources and Service Administration, "Prevalence of Parent-Reported Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder Among Children in US, 2007," Pediatrics 5 Oct. 2009.

MEETING REMINDER: FEBRUARY 25th - IEP'S - EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK

2010-02-06T15:17:00.002-05:00

DELAWARE COUNTY CARING NETWORK

Support Group for Parents of Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our meeting on

Thursday, February 25th @ 7:30 p.m.

The Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380
Meeting will be held in the Conference Room

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village is on Route 320 Directly Across from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

IEP’s (Individual Education Plans)

EVERYTHING YOU WANTED TO KNOW BUT WERE AFRAID TO ASK

Presented By:

Kathy Zepka

Education Advocate, Birth to 21

The Arc Of Delaware County

www.delawarecountyarc.org/

Group Sharing will follow

Light Refreshments will be served

Questions?

Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:

Email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/

WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

ADVOCATING FOR YOUR CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS - JAN 27 INVITATION

2010-01-26T14:13:00.000-05:00

Please join us for a Parent Workshop on Wednesday, January 27 from 7 to 9pm on

ADVOCATING FOR YOUR CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

Featuring Joshua Kershenbaum, Esq. and Kristy M Asral, M.Ed.*

•Learn about your legal rights from an experienced special education attorney.

•Learn valuable strategies and tips from an experienced parent advocate.

•Learn about important resources in the area that can assist in your advocacy efforts.

Josh and Kristy will also be discussing the following:

*Special education services

*Special needs trusts

*Advocating for your child at IEP meetings

*IDEA vs Section 504

This workshop is being hosted by

West Chester Center

638 Brandywine Parkway

West Chester, PA 19380

RSVP by January 22 to Laurie Watkin - 610-436-3600x16 or lwatkin@theraplayinc.com

Space is limited.

Please reserve your spot quickly.

Theraplay, Inc. is a leader in pediatric therapy, providing high quality physical, occupational, speech/language and feeding therapies to children of all ages.

*Josh Kershenbaum is a founding member of the law firm of Frankel & Kershenbaum, LLC in West Conshohocken, PA. As a Special Education Law attorney, Josh represents children with special needs and their families, advising his clients on all aspects of their educational rights.

*Kristy Asral, M. ED is a special education consultant and behavior specialist. She supports parents in their efforts to help their struggling children.

Check out the Theraplay website for detailed biographies for both presenters – www.theraplayinc.com.

Sensory Processing In Children - Jan 21st Invitation

2010-01-01T10:04:00.005-05:00

You are invited to attend our meeting on
Thursday, January 21st @ 7:30 p.m.
Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd Springfield, PA 19064-1137 (610) 543-3380
The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

Sensory Processing in Children

An overview of the sensory systems and successful strategies when challenges occur within these systems.

A presentation by:
Theraplay, Inc.
Melissa Abrams, MS, OTR/L, Occupational Therapist

http://www.theraplayinc.com/
Group Sharing will follow
Light Refreshments will be served
Questions?
Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341
BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

STRESS REDUCTION SEMINAR FOR PARENTS - 4 WEEK SERIES

2009-12-27T11:32:00.005-05:00

STRESS REDUCTION SEMINAR FOR PARENTS - A FOUR WEEK SERIES

PRESENTED BY: DR. THOMAS J. CASEY, NEURODEVELOPMENTAL PEDIATRICIAN

Dates: January 28, February 4th, 11th and 18th, 2010

Time: 7:00 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

Location: 937 Haverford Rd., Suite 101
Bryn Mawr PA 19010

Phone: 610-527-0147

This series is designed to provide experiences and techniques parents can use to reduce stress in their life and in their children’s lives. Each session will feature guided experiences in mindfulness meditation. Mindfulness means paying attention on purpose to present moment reality. There will be periods of small group and larger group discussion.

The first session will introduce methods of brief relaxation and mindful eating. There will be an extended guided body scan meditation. We will review the principles and attitudinal foundations of mindfulness. Participants will receive an audio CD for guided home practice.

The second session will begin with a brief body scan meditation. We’ll review the home practice experience. We will discuss the brain/body mechanisms of stress reactivity and how mindfulness changes them. Class experience will focus on cultivating relaxed awareness through sitting meditation. Participants will receive an audio CD for guided sitting meditation during the next week.

The third session will begin with a brief sitting mediation and introduce the practice of mindful stretching. We’ll discuss the connection between embodied awareness in the present moment and the cultivation of empathy and compassion in ourselves and our children. A home practice CD of mindful stretching will be distributed

The fourth session will consist of guided experience in each of the three prior weeks’ practices and a presentation of a fourth practice of loving kindness meditation. Exploration of resources for further mindfulness practices will be reviewed.

REGISTRATION: By Phone ~ 610-527-0147
Calls for registration will be taken after January 1, 2010. Space is limited.

INTRODUCTORY COST: $120.00 per couple.
NOTE: If both parents cannot come, you are encouraged to come with a relative, friend or another person who can be a mutual support in learning stress management.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS FROM DELCO CARING NETWORK

2009-12-19T09:09:00.006-05:00

Meghan (3), Christine (8) and Kevin (12) go to pick out a Christmas Tree at the Don Guanella Christmas Tree Sale

OUR LITTLE MEGHAN WISHES YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!

Delco Caring Network would like to wish you and yours all the joys of the holiday season from our family to yours!

WHAT IS MUSIC THERAPY? Meeting Invitation - December 17th

2009-12-13T09:24:00.008-05:00

DELAWARE COUNTY CARING NETWORK
Support Group for Parents of
Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our next meeting on

Thursday, December 17th @ 7:30 p.m.
Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380

The CK Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

What is Music Therapy?”
a presentation by:
MusicWorks
Lori O’Leary, Executive Director
Jerry O’Leary, MA, MT-BC, Music Therapist
www.MusicWorksWonders.com
(soon to be “.org”)

Group Sharing will follow
Light Refreshments will be served

Questions?
Contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
Email: delcocaring@gmail.com
Phone: 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

Stress Management Workshop for Parents of Children with Developmental Challenges

2009-12-07T22:08:00.024-05:00

Dr. Tom Casey

STRESS MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL CHALLENGES

Featuring Dr. Thomas Casey*

Hosted by: Delco Caring Network

Date: Tuesday, January 12th
**Snow date: Wednesday, January 13th

Time: 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Location:
Cardinal Krol Center @ Don Guanella Village
1799 S Sproul RdSpringfield, PA 19064-1137(610) 543-3380

RSVP by Friday, January 8th to Jeannine Kelly
by phone 610-259-3341 or email: delcocaring@gmail.com

Space is limited.

Please reserve your spot quickly.

Dr. Casey will be discussing mindfulness, a set of practices that quiet the mind and release physical distress. Research studies show that mindfulness is effective in anxiety, depression, sleep disorders, high blood pressure and heart disease. Studies are underway to investigate the effects of Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) on adults and adolescents with ADHD, autism, cognitive impairment and many other conditions.

Mindfulness is a powerful means of strengthening compassion and empathy. It can help parents of children with special needs to manage the stress in their lives, while at the same time helping their children. A parent who is less stressed improves their child's quality of life.

Dr. Casey will guide a few very brief practices, so the workshop attendees get a taste of what mindfulness is. He will review resources for mindfulness practice.

Dr. Tom Casey has practiced Neurodevelopmental pediatrics in various settings, including academic medicine, residential facilities for children and adults with multiple disabilities and in an office based practice. His private practice is in Bryn Mawr, PA where he evaluates and treats children and adolescents with autism, ADHD, developmental delay, cognitive impairments, learning disabilities and communication disorders.

In 1999, he participated in professional training under the direction of Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD, founder of the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center.

In 2007 he completed a practicum in teaching MBSR with Dr. Diane Reibel at the Thomas Jefferson University Center for Integrative Medicine.

In 2008 he became certified as a Prankriya Yoga teacher.

He is Board Certified in Pediatrics and in Neurodevelopmental Medicine. He incorporates mindfulness and other mind-body techniques in his practice of developmental medicine. He brings a scientific foundation and an open heart to his work.

The Joy of Sharing Campaign Toy Drive

2009-12-01T13:30:00.003-05:00

The Joy of Sharing Campaign Toy Drive
Benefiting The Salvation Army

Join CBS as they broadcast LIVE with Bob Kelly

Wednesday, December 2nd @ from 3:30 – 6:30 p.m.

Featuring the Christmas Display

at 737 Fairfax Road, Drexel Hill, PA

Please bring an unwrapped toy to donate.

Enjoy the Amazing Christmas Light Display and Live Music by the Eagles Pep Band.

Please tell your friends and family to come out and show their support.

The more the merrier!

For more information on Joy of Sharing call: 215-977-JOYS.

CHRISTMAS TREE SALE TO BENEFIT DON GUANELLA

2009-11-26T07:50:00.011-05:00

The Christmas tree sale will run from the Friday after Thanksgiving until Christmas Day. There will also be a great selection of wreaths and cemetery blankets. The sale benefits the various programs at Don Guanella Village.

1797 S Sproul Rd Springfield, PA 19064-1137 (610) 543-3380
Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

History of Don Guanella

In 1881, Blessed Luigi Guanella founded a religious congregation, the Servants of Charity, whose primary mission is to minister to persons with developmental disabilities. In 1959, this congregation accepted the invitation of two late American Cardinals � Cardinal O'Hara of Philadelphia and Cardinal Mooney of Detroit � to come to this country. The Servants of Charity began their work with boys who had developmental disabilities at Don Guanella School in Delaware County, PA, and at St. Louis School, now in Chelsea, MI.Don Guanella School opened its doors for the first time in the fall of 1960 to serve young men and boys with a primary diagnosis of mental retardation along with other developmental impairments as well. Located in Springfield, Delaware County,Pennsylvania, Don Guanella School continues today to serve young men and boys between the ages of six and twenty-one. Don Guanella School welcomes referrals from throughout the five county area and most especially from the Department of Human Services in Philadelphia.In 1976, the Cardinal Krol Center opened its doors in response to the needs and prayers of families of men and women over 21 years of age withdevelopmental disabilities.

http://www.cssmrserv.org/dgvtop.htm

What Is Music Therapy ? Meeting Invitation 12/17/09

2009-11-25T07:35:00.006-05:00

Freedom Playground Fundraiser - Nov. 29th

2009-11-19T07:31:00.005-05:00

Freedom Playground’s Family Spaghetti Dinner

Grab your family and friends and join us for a Family Spaghetti Dinner. The food will be provided by JR Monaghan's. Please join us and support Freedom Playground. For $25 a family you will eat a delicious meal and be entertained by various children's act such as the Great Holtzie and Jerry O’Leary of MusicWorks.

Date:
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Time:
4:30pm - 7:30pm
Location:
St. John Neumann Parish Center
Street:
380 Highland Lane
City/Town:
Bryn Mawr, PA

RSVP via Facebook

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=172182004899&ref=ts

Freedom Playground The new all-abilities playground coming to Haverford Reserve at the old Haverford State Hospital grounds between Darby Road and Marple Road. The play structure, known as Freedom Playground, will be a state of the art, custom built play structure, made from composite lumber. It will be 100% accessible to people of all abilities and ages.

Musically yours,

Lori O'Leary
Executive Director
MusicWorks
610-449-9669 phone
610-449-5566 fax
www.MusicWorksWonders.com
soon to be ".org"

For More info on Freedom Playground:

Welcome to the Freedom Playground

November 19th Meeting Annoucement

2009-11-18T20:31:00.004-05:00

You are invited to attend our next meeting on

November 19, 2009
7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center

1799 S Sproul Rd
Springfield, PA 19064-1137
(610) 543-3380

The Cardinal Krol Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

Speaker: Lori Singer White

Group Sharing will follow

Questions?

Please contact Jeannine Kelly

email:delcocaring@gmail.com
phone 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

Free Speech and Language Screenings Bryn Mawr Hospital Health Center - Nov 18th

2009-11-17T05:18:00.006-05:00

Free Speech and Language Screenings
Screening for children 3yrs to 6 yrs and takes approx 20-30 mins.

Where: The Byrn Mawr Hosp Health Center, Suite 200
3855 W Chester Pike, Newtown Square

When: Wed Nov 18th from 8AM- 2PM and Thurs Nov 19th from 1PM - 6PM

Call: 484-337-6087 to set an appt. Walk-ins not recommended.

Performed by Colleen Boyle, MS CCC-SLP

DCIU WORKSHOP - What Is Medical Access?

2009-11-17T04:40:00.005-05:00

What is Medical Access?

Does my child qualify?

How do I apply?

What benefits can my child receive through Medical Access?

GOT QUESTIONS?

We have answers!

WHO? The PEACH Club
Speaker: Barbara Cuff

WHERE? Delaware County Intermediate Unit
200 Yale Avenue
Morton, PA 19070
WHEN? November 18, 2009
7 – 8 P.M.

For More information or if you need babysitting, call Joanne Mallon
610-938-9000 Ext. 3343

Workshop Invitation - Families First

2009-11-11T15:26:00.008-05:00

Upcoming dates!

*Saturday, November 14th

10AM-3PM

Center for Autism

2801 Grant Avenue

Philadelphia, PA 19114

*Tuesday, November 17th

11:00AM – 1:00PM

Spin Frankford

1642 Orthodox St

Philadelphia, PA 19124

*Wednesday, Nov 18th

5:30PM-8PM

Comhar Vanderwoude Center

3825 Whitaker Ave

Philadelphia PA 19124

And you won't want to miss this semester's

Topical Brunch!

Legislative Topical Brunch

Wednesday, December 2nd

10AM-12:30PM

Elwyn SEEDS

The Falls Center

3300 Henry Avenue,

Philadelphia, PA 19129

Learn just how powerful YOUR voice is and how and when to use it!

Are you… ·

...trying to understand Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP’s), Individual Education Plans (IEP’s ), and how to get help for your child? ·

...confused about how to get the services your child needs like speech, physical or occupational therapy?

...overwhelmed and needing help?

Find direction, information and support from families who know at

****** Families First ******

Free information sessions

Know your child’s rights!

Learn the Early Intervention System.

Get the services your child needs.

Refreshments • Prizes • Reimbursement for childcare (for qualified participants*)

Don’t see a scheduled training at a location near you?

Need a session in a language other than English?

We’ll work with you, contact us!

Conducted by the Institute on Disabilities at TempleUniversity

Funded by MRS (Philadelphia Mental RetardationServices)and

Elwyn SEEDS (Special Education for EarlyDevelopmental Success)

2009 Fall Schedule /

Families First Training Sessions

To register for a session or to learn more about FamiliesFirst,

please contact:

Cathy Roccia-Meiertel 215-204-1772

email cathyRM@temple.edu www.disabilities.temple.edu

* for families of children from birth to Kindergarten/Age of Beginners

November 19th - Meeting Invitation

2009-11-08T22:12:00.011-05:00

You are invited to attend our next meeting on

November 19, 2009
7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center

Please contact Jeannine Kelly

email:delcocaring@gmail.com
phone 610-259-3341

BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

Sensory Mealtime Challenges - Parent Info Night - Nov. 4th

2009-10-29T20:50:00.007-04:00

Parents...

If you have a child who struggles with complex feeding challenges, particulary issues related to sensory selectivity, tube feeding, autism or oral motor complications, we would like to extend this invitation to you.

Marsha Dunn Klein is a pediatric occupational therapist who specializes in feeding infants and young chldren. Marsha has co-authored several books on feeding and nutrition. She is the founder of Mealtime Notions, LLC, which provides consultative support for families, professionals, and feeding teams along with education, videos and books.

Marsha will be coming to Delaware County for a two day professional training. She is offering a 2 hour parent night, free of charge on :

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2009

6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Children and Adult Disability and Educational Services

401 Rutgers Avenue

Swarthmore, PA 19081

610-543-8089

The program will be held in our upper gymnasium. If you are interested in taking advantage of this night of information, please call Cindi Clark @ 610-543-8089.

We look forward to seeing you!

For more information about CADES...Children and Adult Disability Educational Services

Go to:

http//www.cadeservices.org/index.htm

November Meeting Announcement

2009-10-23T17:24:00.004-04:00

DELAWARE COUNTY CARING NETWORK
Support Group for Parents of
Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our next meeting on

November 19, 2009

7:30 p.m.

Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul RdSpringfield, PA 19064-1137(610) 543-3380

The Cardinal Krol Center @ Don Guanella Village
is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

Speaker
Lori Singer White

Group Sharing will follow

Questions?
Please contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
delcocaringandsharing@gmail.com
610-259-3341
BLOG: http://delcocaringandsharing.blogspot.com/
WEBSITE: http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

Support Group Meeting Reminder - October 15, 2009

2009-10-13T07:16:00.001-04:00

DELAWARE COUNTY CARING NETWORK

Support Group for Parents of
Children with Special Needs

You are invited to attend our meeting on
Thursday, October 15, 2009
7:30 p.m.
Cardinal Krol Center
1799 S Sproul Rd Springfield, PA 19064-1137 (610) 543-3380
The CK Center @ is on Route 320 Directly Across
from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery

Speakers:
Maria Unger
Speech Therapist
TEEMS

Kim LaCoste,
Special Education Coordinator for Learning Support K-12
Upper Darby School District

Group Sharing will follow

Questions?
Please contact Jeannine Kelly by email or phone:
delcocaringandsharing@gmail.com
610-259-3341

Check out our website:
http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

Travel Advice for Children with Autism/ Special Needs

2009-10-08T07:53:00.010-04:00

My friend Lori O'Leary from Music Works passed this along to me. This information was recently posted on the ASA Philly Yahoo Group. I found this to be very informative and thought I should share this with all of you.

TRAVEL ADVICE FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM/ SPECIAL NEEDS

I've been travelling with my autistic son since he was 3. Air travel, bus travel, train travel, etc. He/I have motion sickness and this is especially difficult on planes. (These trips were to see family and that was the driving force to let me work up strength/guts to fly with him.)

Here are some things that have made our trips more bearable. (I'll focus on air trips since these are most difficult cuz once you're in the sky..you're stuck there!) I have travelled on 24 hour flights with him (including layovers and flying time) on 4 occasions now. ..

1) Have a dvd player. Whether on a laptop or one just bought special for the occasion, ( I personally bought a netbook which is a mini laptop...killed two birds with one stone) the prices have decreased a lot in recent years and they are extremely, extremely useful. Because they are portable you can take it with you anywhere. (I took mine to an IEP meeting when I didn't have anyone to watch him.) I make sure I have some old favorite movies and some new ones to keep him interested. This is much easier to do nowadays as there are electrical outlets all over airports. I charged mine up b4 boarding.

2) If child is likely to have a meltdown/tantrum (each of us can pretty accurately guess what will cause one...then again, there are those moments when you say "What on earth are you upset about?") inform flight attendants beforehand. Explain situation as briefly as you can and that you can handle it. Maybe have them explain to surrounding passengers if it does happen that your child has a disability.

3) I book my flights at night. I time them to be within an hour of his bedtime. I get to airport about 2.5 hours before flight and we walk around airport/ duty free zone. This gives him the chance to get some energy out before boarding and to tire him out a bit as well so he will sleep easier.

4) I buy him a quiet toy that will keep him interested for awhile. Again this is useful as battery will eventually run out (at least on my 7 hour flying- 5hour layover- 5 hour flying trips they do) and while in line waiting..and waiting...and waiting. An old fave toy is helpful too (something comforting from home...not too cumbersome. I recall attaching his fave little people doll "Eddie" to his backpack with yarn) Gift wrap new toy. Presents are cool even at 20,000 feet.

5) I bring a stock of books. Books to read and books that have activities. There is such a wide variety out there, from sticker books to mazes, to coloring etc. Gift wrap these too. No such thing as too many presents.

6) Notify personnel at ticketing ahead of time that you will be coming and would like to be put at front of line due to child's condition. I have only used this once when he had a fever in U.K. and guard automatically put me in front of a 50 person line.

7) If your child requires a wheelchair (again child does not necessarily have to be unable to walk...sometimes sitting in a chair being wheeled around is more comforting than being expected to walk..or run!.. to keep up at airports. Sometimes you just need them to stop flailing and sitting in a chair so you can get to where you need to) call ahead and inform arrival airport. They can have one waiting for you right at door as soon as you get off plane.

8) When everyone has settled in their seats and u have reached ur flying altitude, ask flight attendant if it is possible to change seats. Some planes have 3 seats in middle which give more space to move around. My son puts his head on my lap and stretches his legs across other two seats. Not the most comfortable in the world..but better than sitting upright trying to sleep. (he's done that too, my little trooper). On smaller planes, try to choose an area with less people in case child makes too much noise.

9) Some airlines let you pick your meal ahead of time. Choose something your child will like and if they are old enough, show them menu and have them choose. This involves them in the process and gives them something to look forward to. (British Airways actually gave us gluten free-casein free meals). In addition I packed him some of his fave snacks to eat as well.

10) SOCIAL STORY!! They do wonders. A simple bunch of papers stapled together with layout of trip illustrated and written out will help them to know what is coming. This is useful for verbal and nonverbal kids. If you want to get really into it, you can cut magazine pix of airports, place you are visiting , glue pix of people u will be seeing, etc. Go over it a few times before trip and give to child during trip. Every time you've done one thing in book have them check it off. GIves them some reference as to what is coming next.

11) I put his snacks, dvds, books, into a backpack for him to carry. I have him pack it and choose one toy to take along (within reason...the 2 foot wood pirate boat as cool as it is, is NOT going across the world). It gives him a feeling that he is involved in process.

12) OH YEAH, inform security guards that check you that your child is autistic. One time they wanted us to walk separately in metal detector and I was on my own with him. Worried to death that if I walked first he'd run back to watch suitcases twirl around and around on belt all day and that if HE went first, he'd make a beeline for airplanes, I panicked. After they tried to get me to go first, I said "Make sure you grab him if he runs off cuz he's autistic" surprisingly they let us pass holding hands. :)

13) Develop a thick skin. Chances are if you have a child with behaviors, you will get glances, rolled eyes, comments, remarks and advice from other people around you. (half of which aren't even parents...I had a teenager say once "Isn't he too old to be in a stroller? You should make him walk!") Just remember, 90% of these people would never be able to handle in a month what we endure in a day. Remember in 2 minutes or 2 hours, you will never see this person again and focus on your child. No one knows him/her better than you and I have had to come up with creative stuff to keep him entertained on these trips.

14) If flight is particularly long one, consider staying overnight half way across journey. I stay overnight sometimes on my way back and although it costs us more as well worth it. We were able to spend the day doing fun things, took time to rest, breathe, regroup before continuing next leg.

The trip may go smoother with some of these suggestions. It may not. Either way it'll be an experience. No one trip has ever been like another for us. I have had people come up out of nowhere to help and I have been fortunate that the airline crew I explained our situation to were understanding. There is no reason our children shouldn't be able to see the state, the country or the world. If we educate more community helpers in general (think policeman trying to pry away a superman doll from a teen-ager obsessed with superman) , it will make this easier for all involved.

__._,_.___

Meghan's Story - A Pearl of Great Price - Part II

2009-10-05T23:00:00.016-04:00

I will never forget the day I called my pediatrician's office to make an appointment to discuss our concerns about Meghan's slow development. I had to leave a message for one of the nurse practitioners to call me back. When I finally received a return call, it was a new nurse practitioner that I had never met or spoken to before. She basically "pooh-poohed" me and told me that I had nothing to be concerned about and that I should "wait and see". I stood my ground and told her, "I don't mean to be disrespectful to you, but I am the oldest of 10 children and have two older children of my own. I know enough about the development of babies to know that there is definitely something wrong with my daughter." She finally relented that she might be mistaken and suggested that I wait to see the doctor during Meghan's 9-month check-up which was only a few weeks away. I cannot tell you how frustrated and angry I felt after hanging up the phone.

I must admit now that making that phone call was extremely difficult. It was the first step that I took toward acknowledging that my child had a problem. Like many other parents I think I was still experiencing some denial that something was "not quite right" with my daughter.

When we finally took Meghan to see the pediatrician at her 9-month check up, her physician confirmed our fears that she was certainly behind. She was unable to sit up, she wasn't rolling over or attempting to crawl. She wasn't interested in trying solid food and she had not yet begun to vocalize or babble at all. Her body was very floppy which we soon learned was called "hypotonia" otherwise known as low muscle tone. He suggested that we contact Early Intervention (A State Funded program which provides therapy services for children from Birth to Age 3) and a neurologist. He also gave us phone numbers for several Developmental Pediatricians. We soon learned that it would be at least an 18-month wait to see a developmental pediatrician. (To be continued)

THERAPLAY

2009-10-01T22:56:00.009-04:00

THERAPLAY - MISSION STATEMENT

To provide pediatric therapy services in a play environment that will enable a child to maximize their potential.

Children learn and develop best through play experiences; therefore, Theraplay, Inc. provides all therapy services in a play environment. This philosophy helps children develop to their fullest potential. Family members are encouraged to participate in therapy sessions to make them active facilitators in their child's rehabilitation. Home programs are developed with family members to ensure the program's success in each unique family environment.

Theraplay's staff consists of highly skilled, pediatric experienced and licensed physical, occupational, and speech/language therapists, assistants and special educators. Every child is evaluated to identify their needs, and an individualized therapy program developed specific to that child.

Our highly qualified therapists are dedicated to assisting children in developing to their fullest potential in a play environment. Theraplay therapists work together in a team environment communicating closely with the referring physician, specialists and family members to develop individualized therapy programs in order to meet the unique needs of each child and family.
Our intervention strategies include:
interdisciplinary work with other treating therapist;
collaboration with family and teachers;
environmental and material adaptations;
everyday activities/exercises that enable children to reach their potential.

Theraplay, Inc. was founded in November of 1991 by Lisa Mackell, PT, a pediatric physical therapist. Theraplay initially provided physical, occupational, speech and feeding therapies to children in their homes, schools, and early intervention centers. Theraplay has also added special education and social work intervention to the services provided.

In October of 1996, Theraplay opened its first pediatric outpatient rehabilitation center in Malvern, Chester County. This office provided physical, occupational, and speech therapies to children.

In July of 2000, Theraplay opened its second outpatient office in Horsham, Montgomery County, providing the same services as our Malvern office.
In May of 2002, Theraplay moved its Malvern office to West Chester, Chester County. This office serves as a pediatric outpatient therapy office, as well as the corporate office for Theraplay, Inc.

In April of 2004, Theraplay opened its third outpatient office in Drexel Hill, Delaware County.

In July of 2006, Theraplay became direct early intervention providers for Berks and Lancaster counties.

In January of 2007, Theraplay opened its fourth outpatient office in Limerick, Montgomery County.

Theraplay, Inc. continues to analyze the market to grow its business in areas where pediatric therapy services are needed. Look for Theraplay to continue to expand and meet the pediatric therapy needs of the community at large.

Press Article
By Susan L. Serbin Times Correspondent

Lisa Mackell plays all day at work. That's what she says. Even though it looks like fun, Theraplay is serious business.

Mackell is a physical therapist who knew from the beginning of her training she was headed into pediatric work. In November 1991, she began a business as a provider of therapy services which was home-based, both in the sense of running it from her home and furnishing therapists for home care. Last October, Mackell opened a facility in Malvern, still offering home care, but expanding to a cheerful, primary-colored office for kids to spend an hour or so in all play-related therapy.

"I realized there were not enough places doing what we do," said Mackell, whose trusted office manager is her mom, Marcy Moyer, of Upper Darby, where the family was raised.
Speech, physical and occupational therapies may be offered at a number of fine facilities, but, Mackell indicated, the environments of rehabilitation centers or hospitals may be far less appealing to her population of kids from birth to 21 years of age. Theraplay has a staff which includes Mackell, six part-time therapists in the various specialties, and a pool of 150 other professionals who do home care across the region. In choosing the Malvern site, a former school just off Paoli Pike, Mackell said she wanted a location no more than half-hour drive from most of Delaware and Montgomery counties.

The children seen at Theraplay receiving PT, OT, ST or a combination of treatment, have a wide range of conditions among which may be developmental delays, neuromuscular disorders, orthopedic rehabilitation, genetic syndromes, sensory dysfunction and language disorders. While some children may need short-term therapy, to rehabilitate a broken bone, for example, others require long-range treatment. Mackell and staff appear adept at sorting through the maze of insurance coverage, even suggesting alternatives for using amounts of approved coverage.
Generally parents and children come to Theraplay as a result of conditions discovered from examinations. A physician's referral is needed, although physician, parent or insurance provider can contact Theraplay.

Chris Stellman, of Primos, has just started bringing daughter Sara for physical therapy. Stellman said Sara's needs were identified after seeing a pediatric neurologist last summer. While Mackell works with Sara, 4-1/2, mom sits by, offering encouragement. Even after only five visits, which Stellman said Sara seems to enjoy, there are improvements in daily activities like holding silverware and coloring.

Parent involvement varies, but Mackell said the staff is always happy to recommend and demonstrate ways children can be further helped at home, even if as seemingly simple as the way a baby is held during feeding.

Theraplay has just introduced two new therapeutic play groups, Move and Play and Talk and Play. The eight-week program of 45-minute classes costs $100. The programs have been developed for toddlers who do not fit into typical play groups available in the community, and meet various financial, social and physical needs for children and families.
"Families intrigue me," said Mackell, the mother of two children under 3. "You have to consider the medical condition, but the social condition as well, and use a common sense approach. I understand that a single mother might not have that 15 minutes some days to do exercises with a child, or the extra money for a toy that might be useful."

Watching Mackell work, one understands there is more to pediatric therapy than opening an office, buying equipment and scheduling appointments. Imagine trying to engage your child in an activity at a specific time in a specific way. Mackell and colleagues have a wealth of patience and many bags of tricks to go with their expertise.

"Kids won't work for anything, but they will play for everything," Mackell says.
Theraplay is located at 638 Brandywine Parkway, West Chester, PA and can be contacted at (610) 436-3600.

www.theraplay.org

STRESS MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL CHALLENGES

2009-10-01T19:26:00.007-04:00

Please join us for a Parent Workshop on Thursday, November 5, 2009 from 7 to 9pm on:

STRESS MANAGEMENT FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL CHALLENGES

Featuring Dr. Thomas Casey*

Dr. Casey will be discussing proven techniques for parents of children with special needs to help them to manage stress in their lives.

This workshop is being hosted by
Springfield Center
130 South State Street
Springfield, PA 19380

RSVP by November 2 to Laurie Watkin - 610-436-3604x16 or lwatkin@theraplayinc.com

Space is limited.
Please reserve your spot quickly.

Theraplay is a leader in pediatric therapy, providing high quality physical, occupational, speech/language and feeding therapies to children of all ages.

*Dr. Tom Casey is board certified in Pediatrics and in Neurodevelopment Medicine. He has practiced in many settings including academic medicine and residential facilities for individuals with multiple disabilities, serving patients with a wide range of needs.

Fundraiser for Children in Need of Special Education in Haverford Township

2009-09-24T05:49:00.005-04:00

FUNDRAISER: CHILDREN IN NEED OF SPECIAL EDUCATION IN HAVERFORD TOWNSHIP

W.C. MURPHY'S

1254 West Chester Pike

Havertown PA 19083

DATE: OCTOBER 17, 2009

TIME: 6-9 PM

Drink Specials: $2.00 bottles & $3.00 mixed drinks

Appetizers and Snacks

COME AND SUPPORT LOCAL VENDORS AND START YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING...... WHILE DONATING TO SPECIAL EDUCATION

Lia Sophia - Karen Cummings/Karencgems@aol.comBonnie Belts & Things - Bonnie Cecil/bonniececil@comcast.netSouthern Living - Colleen Bassett/Athome.Colleen@verizon.netCreations Salon - Katie Fortebuono/www.creationsfullservicesalon.comBowTessa - Jess Young/www.bowtessa.comTupperware - Jackie Massey/jackiemassey@my2.tupperware.comRaffle and 50/50 tickets will be sold HomeSource: www.creationsfullser...Read More

Home
Source: www.creationsfullservicesalon.com

Developmental Delay

2009-09-19T08:48:00.005-04:00

Developmental Delay

What is developmental delay? Developmental Delay is when your child does not reach their developmental milestones at the expected times. It is an ongoing, major delay in the process of development. If your child is slightly or only temporarily lagging behind, that is not called developmental delay. Delay can occur in one or many areas—for example, motor, language, social, or thinking skills. Developmental Delay is usually a diagnosis made by a doctor based on strict guidelines. Usually, though, the parent is the first to notice that their child is not progressing at the same rate as other children the same age. If you think your child may be “slow,” or “seems behind,” talk with your child's doctor about it. In some cases, your general pediatrician might pick up a delay during an office visit. It will probably take several visits and possibly a referral to a developmental specialist to be sure that the delay is not just a temporary lag. Special testing can also help gauge your child's developmental level. The first three years of a child's life are an amazing time of development...
...and what happens during those years stays with a child for a lifetime. That's why it's so important to watch for signs of delays in development, and to get help if you suspect problems. The sooner a delayed child gets early intervention, the better their progress will be. What causes developmental delay? Developmental delay can have many different causes, such as genetic causes (like Down syndrome), or complications of pregnancy and birth (like prematurity or infections). Often, however, the specific cause is unknown. Some causes can be easily reversed if caught early enough, such as hearing loss from chronic ear infections, or lead poisoning. What should I do if I suspect my child has developmental delay? If you think your child may be delayed, you should take them to their primary care provider, or to a developmental and behavioral pediatrician or pediatric neurologist. An alternative to seeing a specialist is to work through your local school system (see below). If your child seems to be losing ground—in other words, starts to not be able to do things they could do in the past—you should have them seen right away. If your child is developmentally delayed, the sooner you get a diagnosis, the sooner you can begin appropriate treatment and the better the progress your child can make.If you are concerned about your child's development, check out First Signs http://www.firstsigns.org/, a website with information and resources for early identification and intervention for children with developmental delays and disorders. Explore the many resources for parents available on the site. What can the school system do for my child? Ask your school system in writing for an evaluation of your child, even if your child is a baby, toddler or preschooler. They are required to provide it, at no cost to you. The purpose of an evaluation is to find out why your child is not meeting their developmental milestones or not doing well in school. A team of professionals will work with you to evaluate your child. If they do not find a problem, you can ask the school system to pay for an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE). There are strict rules about this, so you may not get it. You can also have your child tested again privately, and pay for it yourself. But check with your school district first to make sure they will accept the private test results. By law, the school system must consider the results of the second evaluation when deciding if your child can get special services.

Tips for your child's developmental assessment, from Zero to Three, is a guide for parents who are concerned about their baby's, toddler's or preschooler's development and learning. It will help you prepare for an evaluation, and know what to expect.

Basics for Parents: Your Child's Evaluation explains what parents of school-aged kids need to know about the evaluation process. If testing shows your child has developmental delay, the school system will start your child in either an early intervention or a special education program, depending on your child's age.

To view the entire article on Developmental Delay from The University of Michigan Health System go to the following link:

http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/devdel.htm

Developmental Milestones

2009-09-19T08:33:00.007-04:00

Developmental Milestones

What is child development? Child development refers to how a child becomes able to do more complex things as they get older. Development is different than growth. Growth only refers to the child getting bigger in size.

If you are concerned about your child’s development, please see Developmental Delay Go To: http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/devdel.htm

When we talk about normal development, we are talking about developing skills like:

Gross motor: using large groups of muscles to sit, stand, walk, run, etc., keeping balance, and changing positions.

Fine motor: using hands to be able to eat, draw, dress, play, write, and do many other things.

Language: speaking, using body language and gestures, communicating, and understanding what others say.

Cognitive: Thinking skills: including learning, understanding, problem-solving, reasoning, and remembering.

Social: Interacting with others, having relationships with family, friends, and teachers, cooperating, and responding to the feelings of others.

What are developmental milestones?
Developmental milestones are a set of functional skills or age-specific tasks that most children can do at a certain age range. Your pediatrician uses milestones to help check how your child is developing. Although each milestone has an age level, the actual age when a normally developing child reaches that milestone can very quite a bit. Every child is unique!

To view the entire article and information on Developmental Milestones, please go to the following link from The University Of Michigan Medical Center:

http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/devmile.htm

Early Intervention

2009-09-19T08:27:00.005-04:00

Office of Early Intervention

The Office of Early Intervention offers services to children from birth to 3 years who experience developmental delays. Professional, independent evaluators assess the child's level of delay to determine if Early Intervention services are needed. Available services include audiology, health services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, special instruction, nutrition services and service coordination. For a list of helpful links, please click onto Mental Retardation http://www.co.delaware.pa.us/humanservices/mret.html and then Click onto Helpful Links. http://www.co.delaware.pa.us/humanservices/mrlinks.html

For more information, please call the Office of Early Intervention at 610-713-2406. The office is located at 20 S. 69th St., Upper Darby, PA 19082.

Or Go to the Office of Early Intervention website:
http://www.co.delaware.pa.us/humanservices/earlyinterven.html

Support Group Meeting Reminder - October 15, 2009

2009-09-18T07:07:00.007-04:00

Check out our website:
http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

MEETING REMINDER - Thursday September 17 @ 7:30 p.m

2009-09-16T22:17:00.003-04:00

First Meeting Annoucement - Sept. 17, 2009
On Thursday, September 17th, at 7:30 p.m. Delaware County Caring Network will hold its premier meeting @ The Cardinal Krol Center, 1799 Sproul Road, Springfield, PA. (610) 543-3380. The CK Center is located on the grounds of Don Guanella Village directly across from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery on Route 320.The purpose of our meetings is to build a network of parents of children with special needs so that they can support one another and share information and resources.The first meeting will be opened by Father Dennis Weber, S.C. who has been kind enough to offer us the space at the CK Center. The meeting topic will be ACCEPTANCE...a talk will be given by Jeannine Kelly, founder of Delaware County Caring Network.

Group Sharing will follow.

If you have any questions, please contact Jeannine Kelly at delcocaringandsharing@gmail.com
Directions can be found on our website http://delcokids.homestead.com/index.html

Welcome to Holland by Emily Pearl Kingsley - A Description of Raising A Child With A Disability

2009-09-16T22:09:00.002-04:00

I am often asked to describe the experience of raising a child with a disability - to try to help people who have not shared that unique experience to understand it, to imagine how it would feel. It's like this......

When you're going to have a baby, it's like planning a fabulous vacation trip - to Italy. You buy a bunch of guide books and make your wonderful plans. The Coliseum. The Michelangelo David. The gondolas in Venice. You may learn some handy phrases in Italian. It's all very exciting.

After months of eager anticipation, the day finally arrives. You pack your bags and off you go. Several hours later, the plane lands. The stewardess comes in and says, "Welcome to Holland."

"Holland?!?" you say. "What do you mean Holland?? I signed up for Italy! I'm supposed to be in Italy. All my life I've dreamed of going to Italy."

But there's been a change in the flight plan. They've landed in Holland and there you must stay.
The important thing is that they haven't taken you to a horrible, disgusting, filthy place, full of pestilence, famine and disease. It's just a different place.

So you must go out and buy new guide books. And you must learn a whole new language. And you will meet a whole new group of people you would never have met.

It's just a different place. It's slower-paced than Italy, less flashy than Italy. But after you've been there for a while and you catch your breath, you look around.... and you begin to notice that Holland has windmills....and Holland has tulips. Holland even has Rembrandts.

But everyone you know is busy coming and going from Italy... and they're all bragging about what a wonderful time they had there. And for the rest of your life, you will say "Yes, that's where I was supposed to go. That's what I had planned."

And the pain of that will never, ever, ever, ever go away... because the loss of that dream is a very very significant loss.

But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things ... about Holland.

Music Works - Delaware Valley's Premier Music Therapy Service Provider

2009-09-12T09:04:00.013-04:00

Meghan attended her first music therapy session on Saturday, September 12th. She and the four other children accompanied by their parents enjoyed a wonderful variety of music and movement during the half-hour session. Mr. Jerry O'Leary is a gifted and magical musician who has a way of drawing in each child and making them feel unique and special.

We are thrilled to have discovered Music Works and give them an outstanding recommendation!

MUSIC WORKS
The Delaware Valley's PremierMusic Therapy Service Provider
610-449-966
www.musicworkswonders.com/

WHAT IS MUSICWORKS?
MusicWorks is a music therapy service provider practicing in Delaware County and the surrounding market. The company was formed in 2002 by Jerry O'Leary to identify, address, and treat the social, physical, psychological, cognitive, and personal needs of children and adults of all ages. A distinctly unique feature about our service is that the music therapy session is conducted directly in the clients' home or community setting.
MusicWorks is dedicated to the restoration of health and well being of all people experiencing special challenges while actively managing their focus on everyday life through the use of music therapy intervention.

If you would like to find out more about Music Works and how music therapy can benefit your child, please contact:

Lori O'Leary

610-449-9669

lori.oleary2@verizon.net

http://www.musicworkswonders.com/

The Special Mother By Erma Bombeck

2009-09-12T00:31:00.006-04:00

The Special Mother
by Erma Bombeck

This poem was sent to me by a very special mother, my cousin and friend, Jeanne Hallinan.....

I send this out to her and to all of you Special Mothers....

Most women become mothers by accident, some by choice, a few by social pressure and a couple by habit.This year nearly 100,000 women will become mothers of handicapped children. Did you ever wonder how these mothers are chosen?Somehow I visualize God hovering over EarthSelecting his instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As he observes, he instructs his angels to take notes in a giant ledger."Armstrong, Beth, son. Patron Saint, Matthew.""Forrest, Marjorie, daughter. Patron Saint, Celia.""Rutledge, Carrie, twins. Patron Saint...give her Gerard. He's used to profanity."Finally he passes a name to an angel and smiles. "Give her a handicapped child."The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy.""Exactly," smiles God. "Could I give a handicapped child a mother who knows no laughter? That would be cruel.""But does she have the patience?" asks the angel."I don't want her to have too much patience, or she'll drown in a sea of self-pity and despair.Once the shock and resentment wear off she'll handle it.""I watched her today. She has that sense of self and independence so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has a world of it's own. She has to make it live in her world, and that's not going to be easy.""But Lord, I don't think she even believes in you." God smiles. "No matter, I can fix that. This one is perfect. She has just enough selfishness."The angel gasps, "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she will never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child less than perfect.She doesn't know it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a spoken word.She will never consider a step ordinary. When her child says momma for the first time, she will be witness to a miracle and know it.I will permit her to see clearly the things I see--ignorance, cruelty, prejudice--and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life Because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side.""And what about her Patron Saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in the air. God smiles. "A mirror will suffice."

Meghan's Story -A Pearl of Great Price

2009-09-09T22:25:00.007-04:00

"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant, seeking goodly pearls; who when he had found one pearl of great price, he sold all he had and bought it."
Matthew 13: 45- 46

The name Meghan means Pearl. I didn't realize how fitting this name would be for her until several months after she was born.

I became pregnant with Meghan when I was 39 years old. The pregnancy was uneventful and unproblematic. On the day that I went into labor it was discovered that Meghan was in a breech position and had to be delivered by emergency C-Section. She was a beautiful and perfect baby.

When we brought Meghan home, she adapted well to her new surroundings. Her big brother and sister were so happy to have a new sister and she was just as pleased with them. She was a very happy and contented baby, always pleasant and easygoing with a big smile for everyone. We soon started to call her "Smiles".

Over the next few months I began to notice that she didn't seem to be as energetic and as mobile as my older two children had been at the same age. I attributed her lack of initiative to the fact that she was constantly being entertained by an older sibling or mom and dad. I felt a bit worried, but kept my concerns to myself. After all, she was the "third baby".

To this day, I will never forget the phone call that I received from my mother (who bore 11 children of her own) the day after Mother's Day. My mom said to me, "Jeannine, there is something I need to talk to you about." By the tone of her voice I thought perhaps my father had fallen ill and she was calling to let me know. She then said the words that set our lives on a path of shattered dreams and unexpected realities,

"We are concerned about Meghan. She doesn't seem to be developing properly." My first reaction was to be angry. Initially, I felt offended that my mother and other members of my family were thinking that something was wrong with my child. (Can you say DENIAL?) I then caught myself and took a deep breath...in the split seconds that it took me to respond to my mother's statement, all of the doubts and misgivings that I had felt prior to this phone call came rushing to my mind. My worst fears were confirmed for me that day.
The anger left me as quickly as it came and I asked my mother to tell me what her thoughts were about Meghan.

It took a lot for Mom to pick up the telephone that day to say that she and my sisters noticed that Meghan wasn't rolling over or sitting up or trying to reach for her toys....etc.
I thanked my mom for having the courage to talk to me about her worries for my daughter. I assured her that I would call my pediatrician the next morning.

To Be Continued.....

A Sibling's Perspective

2009-09-08T19:34:00.004-04:00

Having a sister with disabilities is hard. There is the frustration, the denial and finally there is acceptance. I am very close to her and I would do anything to make her happier.

Dealing with the prejudice is difficult to cope with because kids use discriminating words to describe people like her. Also, I know that our Friend upstairs (way upstairs) wanted this to happen so I don't question him. Its hard to grasp what she will grow up to be like in future years; however, I do know she will be happy.

By Kevin Kelly

12 Years Old

(Meghan Kelly's Big Brother)

First Meeting Annoucement - Sept. 17, 2009

2009-09-08T05:17:00.008-04:00

On Thursday, September 17th, at 7:30 p.m. Delaware County Caring and Sharing will hold its premier meeting @ The Cardinal Krol Center, 1799 Sproul Road, Springfield, PA. (610) 543-3380. The CK Center is located on the grounds of Don Guanella Village directly across from Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery on Route 320.

The purpose of our meetings is to build a network of parents with special needs so that they can support one another and share information and resources.

The first meeting will be opened by Father Dennis Weber, S.C. who has been kind enough to offer us the space at the CK Center.

The meeting topic will be ACCEPTANCE...a talk will be given by Jeannine Kelly, founder of Delaware County Caring and Sharing.

Group Sharing will follow.

If you have any questions, please contact Jeannine Kelly at delcocaringandsharing@gmail.com

Sand Between Your Toes...

2009-09-08T05:04:00.005-04:00

Ahhh...the feeling of sand between your toes on a sunny beach in late July...is there anything better? Apparently not for Meghan pictured here on the beach in Ocean City, NJ wearing her sandy sneakers. The moment her tiny toes hit the sand, she gestured for me to wipe the offending grains from her feet. Our compromise was to let her keep her sneaks on. She was then content to play in the sand with her big sister and friends provide none of the sand got on her hands....