Horseback Riding Can Treat Cerebral Palsy?

It may surprise you to learn that horseback riding is one of the many treatments available for children with cerebral palsy. The treatment is called hippotherapy and it has been used to treat disabled children and adults alike since the 1960’s. Research has shown that hippotherapy has a positive effect on both motor function and emotional well being in children with cerebral palsy. What is the Procedure? Hippotherapy is usually conducted by a team consisting of a physical therapist, a horse handler and, in some cases, a speech/language therapist. The therapy often takes place at a horse farm, though there are also facilities specifically built with hippotherapy in mind. During the procedure, the physical therapist will be monitoring your child’s reactions in terms of balance and control, while the horse trainer will ensure that all safety precautions are taken. It is the horse handler who will also train both you and your child on how to properly ride the horse. What are the Benefits? The act of riding a horse forces the rider to match the rhythms of the horse’s movement. In this way, the horse’s natural movement helps the child with cerebral palsy match its rhythm and, therefore, reduce abnormal walking patterns. Studies indicate that the pelvic movement of a horse is similar to that of a human. With consistent riding, children with cerebral palsy could see improved motor function, muscle tone and balance. Working in conjunction with a horse handler can also help your child improve his or her speech and language skills, as they hear and respond to advice and commands from the handler. Finally, the act of riding a horse can be empowering for patients, improving their self-esteem and emotional well-being. Is it the Right Choice for My Child? Of course, hippotherapy is not the best treatment for every child and it may not apply to your child’s specific needs. Your child’s doctor or physical therapist will have the best idea as to whether hippotherapy is the best option, either on its own or as a complimentary therapy. It is also important to note that health insurance typically does not cover this type of therapy. There are always some risks involved with working with an animal, and hippotherapy is no different. Make sure that your child is outfitted with proper safety equipment such as a helmet or padding around their body. Your child should also carefully follow the instructions of the horse handler to ensure all safety precautions are taken. With adherence to the rules and safety guidelines, it is likely that hippotherapy will be a rewarding experience for both you and your child. By John Lehman - CP Family Network

From a Child with Autism: An Open Letter to the IEP Team About Play

20 Bikes, Trikes and Tandems for children with special needs

20 Bikes, Trikes and Tandems for children with special needs

Autism and the Church - How to serve autistic children

This is a great article that deals with the issue of inclusion at church  and although it is about autism, it really is applicable for any special needs child.

We are very fortunate that there are many churches in the Houston area that have thriving special needs ministries to help families of all kinds of special needs feel welcome. These ministries not only offer programs for special needs children while parents can attend worship, but many have camps and respite nights.

The programs are very detailed and often time include individualized safety plans, offer sensory friendly environments and special pals that each child is matched up with to meet their needs.

For more information on where to find special needs ministries, look under Respite Care in the resources.

For families dealing with autism, going to church can be difficult. Children with autism often struggle in new environments. Large crowds of people can be overwhelming to them. They are often bothered by certain noises, bright lights and even smells. Many of the individuals have limited verbal skills. There are safety issues for those who have a tendency to wander. I have talked to way too many families who said, "it is just too hard, so we don't go" or "we can't find a church willing to accept our child." What a terrible shame. The families are not to blame. The children with autism certainly are not to blame. The fault lies completely on the Church. I am speaking about the Church as a whole. I don't care what denomination you are.... The mission of the Church should be to bring people to Christ; to make each and every person aware of their divine purpose in life. We are each created in God's image and we each have a divine purpose. The rates for autism are growing at an alarming rate. The time for acceptance is long overdue.... Especially in the church.

 

Individuals with autism (and their families) are often ostracized in our community. They are made to feel different, less than, and unwelcome. They struggle in schools, they struggle to make friends, they are laughed at and made fun of. It is hard for these families to go out. Many of them may be struggling financially to meet the growing costs of therapy, treatments, and adaptive equipment. The parents are often serving as full time caregivers with little to no help. They are tired, they are frustrated, and they are in desperate need of someplace safe. A place that makes them feel it is ok if their child makes odd noises or flaps their hands. They want and need to be accepted. They want their children to feel safe and accepted. If there is one place they SHOULD be accepted and feel most safe, it is in church.

So, what is the problem? Is it that churches really don't care? I doubt it (if that is true, find another church to attend immediately).  I think the problem however may lie in the fact that churches don't understand. They don't make the family feel welcome and make accommodations for the individual with autism because they don't know what autism really is and they don't know how to help.  
I have a different perspective on this than most. I am not only the mother of a child severely affected by autism, but I am a pastor's wife. I teach Sunday School and Children's Church. For me, not going to church was not an option. I had to find a way to make it work for my son.
So, what can churches do? First of all, love and accept the individual and their family as they are right now. Get over the image of a perfect church where everyone sits perfectly still and quiet and obeys all the "rules." A quiet pew is an empty pew. You want your church to grow? The mission field is right in front of you. However, if you put out unreasonable expectations, you will soon find an empty church. So there is a little more noise. Do you think God is not big enough to move in the midst of a little noise? So there is a child who won't sit still. Get over it. One day we will all be held accountable to God for our actions. Do you really want to look God in the face and explain that you asked that family to leave because their child with autism was "disruptive" to your service?
Take a long hard look at the Bible.  Jesus never said someone had to be perfect to be accepted and loved.  Actually, we are told that we are all a part of the body of Christ. There is no one part more important than another...... if we believe the Bible, than that means, EACH INDIVIDUAL IN THE CHURCH IS JUST AS IMPORTANT AS ANOTHER. That child that maybe loud and jumping up and down everytime the sermon starts.... Guess what? They are just as important to the body of Christ as the pastor, the board members, the Sunday School teachers. Hmmmm.... So if they are just as important, than they have a vital role in the church. It is the church's responsibility to be sure they have a role to play. They have a gifts and abilities to be used for God. Help them find those gifts and use them accordingly.

So, where do we start? The best place to start is to ask the family how you can help the individual feel more comfortable. Respect the wishes of the family
 If you have children's church available, ask if they would like to attend. Let them know they are WANTED. However if the family wants to keep the child in service, let them know that is ok. If they want to sit in the back pew, make room for them. If the child with autism prefers not to be touched during greeting time, then abide by that. Many individuals with autism have difficulty sitting still. Perhaps there is an area in the sanctuary they could move around a bit if that makes them more comfortable. Just because they are moving around, does not mean they aren't listening. Their bodies just often CAN'T sit still.

Make a room (or even just a corner of a room) available as a quiet area to go to if the child needs it. Put a bean bag chair and perhaps a box of fidget toys or books next to it. Often the child with autism can be easily overwhelmed and just having a quiet area to go to for a few minutes can be a huge help. That room (or area) should be "autism safe." Be sure there are no sharp edges of furniture, no small parts that can be put into the mouth, and that electrical outlets have safety plugs. Be sure the lighting is soft and the area is clutter free.

If they choose to attend children's church, welcome them in and make any accommodations that you can. That means you may need an extra helper for just that child. If your church does not have a "special needs buddy system" in place, start one now. I know that churches are often low on volunteers willing to help, but make the need known and pray for the right individuals to step up. Believe me, the blessings will far outweigh the burden. Each child that comes into your chuch with any special needs should be paired with a responsible person  to assist them in Sunday School and Children's Church. My child is entitled to a full time teacher's aide in the public school system. If the public school system has seen fit to make sure my child is safe and accommodated, shouldn't the church be willing to do the same by providing a volunteer to sit with the child for a couple hours a week so they can attend church? Be sure the individual is responsible and well educated on autism (what they don't know, they can learn). Provide them with training.  Remember that these children often have safety needs that the average child does not have, so the role MUST be taken seriously.
Take a look at your Sunday School/Children's church for areas you can improve on. Structure is important for a child with autism. Provide a visual schedule (simple picture cards can be found free on the internet) that shows the child what to expect next. Stick to that schedule as much as possible. Consider using visual timers so the child knows how much time is left for things like snack time, crafts, ect. These can be purchased at most educational supply stores.

Provide visuals during the lesson as much as possible. Children with autism often learn better visually. Consider using a felt story board to tell the story or even just pictures that can be shown to the child regarding the lesson. If the child is not verbal, provide other means for them to express what they know. (ask the parent if the child uses PECS or a communication device and be willing to learn how to use those items if desired by the parent). Giving picture choices for a child to answer with are a big help. Even presenting items to them to choose if possible is appropriate. For instance, instead of just verbally asking if they want to use markers or crayons... put both in front of them and ask them to show you which they want to use. Giving children with autism choices as much as possible gives them more of a sense of control that can help prevent behavior problems in the long run. However, keep the choices simple. 2 or 3 choices is plenty. Don't overwhelm them with options.
For things like memory verses, consider writing each word of the verse on a cut out shape and showing the child the order of the verse and asking them to do the same. My son learns his Bible verses this way (you would be surprised at how well the other children will respond to this method as well). I simply write out each word on a colored shape and cut it out and laminate it. He learns and "recites" his verses perfectly this way.

If the child has trouble sitting still, or does a lot of stimming (repetive movements like hand flapping or tapping items with fingers) consider purchasing some inexpensive "fidget toys." You can find things fairly easily if you know what to look for. Check the dollar store or WalMart for things like silly putty (they can stretch and squeeze it), squishy balls, slinkies, Koosh balls, ect. Again, check with the parent for what types of things work best for the child, keeping in mind safety issues. Perhaps the child has a favorite fidget they would like to bring from home.
Know the child's diet restrictions. Perhaps the parent would prefer to bring a snack from home if there are restrictions. Children with autism are often on special diets and are usually very sensitive to certain textures, smells, and flavors. If they need assistance, like a special cup, or cutting the food up into small pieces, ect, be aware of that as well.

Look around for things that might make the child uncomfortable. If the child is sensitive to bright lights, a cover can be purchased to soften lighting. If they don't like loud noises, be sure to keep them at a distance from a cd player or instruments during music time. Often the things that overwhelm their sensory system are unpredictable so look to the child for cues of being bothered by something.
Try to include the child in as much as possible, but if there are certain things that the child is uncomfortable with, don't push it. Give them an alternative. For instance if music time is too much, perhaps the helper could let them go to a quiet area during that time and join the group back when music is over. Ask the parents what works and doesn't. We as parents are very happy to explain our child's needs to someone who shows an interest.

Finally whatever happens, don't judge. Autism is not some cookie cutter disorder where all kids behave the same way. There maybe odd behaviors. They are just trying to cope the best way their little bodies know how. Autism is often an uncomfortable and downright scary disorder for the child. When you understand this, you will understand their behaviors. See it as your job to make the time they have in church is a happy and safe one. By doing so, you are not only helping that child, but their entire family to be able to attend church. In the end, you will probably be surprised at what they will teach you as well.

By speaking4sam, Crossmap On May 4, 2013


http://crossmap.christianpost.com/news/autism-and-the-church-how-to-serve-autistic-children-2482

What is the Difference Between a State Complaint and Due Process?

There are times where a parent of a child with special needs has a valid complaint against their child’s school or school district. There may be some confusion about what complaint to make and where to make it.

State complaints and due process complaints are two separate means to allege a violation by the LEA, or Local Education Authority (typically the school district) of any Part B requirement of their state or federal special education law (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, “IDEA”).  This article will explain the differences between the two types of complaints, and which mechanism would best serve you should there be a disagreement between you as the parent/guardian and your child’s LEA.

Subject Matter

A state complaint or resolution system considers violations of any state or federal education law. An example would be if a child’s IEP slated him to have speech 1 time a week and no speech was provided for 2 months then a state complaint should be filed.
A due process complaint considers the proposal or refusal to initiate or change the identification, evaluation or educational placement of a child with a disability, or the provision of FAPE to a child. An example would be If a child is placed in a center-based program or given a category of eligibility that the parent(s)/guardian(s) disagrees with, i.e. cognitive impairment, then a due process complaint would be the proper mechanism.
Please visit the following link for the full article that goes into detail of how to file a complaint and what steps to take. www.http://www.friendshipcircle.org/blog/2014/02/06/what-is-the-difference-between-a-state-complaint-and-due-process/?utm_source=Friendship+Circle+Blog&utm_campaign=6b709b7c78-RSS_EMAIL_CAMPAIGN&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_3ec270b4ae-6b709b7c78-199156493

Agency Option or Consumer Directed Services?

 

 

 

 

Applying for services from Medicaid for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities can sometimes be complex and confusing. The two main criteria used by the State in determining eligibility are personal income and level of need for the individual. The local authority in Fort Bend County can help you through the application process. If you are approved for Medicaid and offered services through one of several Medicaid waiver programs, your case manager or service coordinator will give you the choice of receiving the services through an Agency option or Consumer Direct Services option.

Choosing the Agency option places the responsibility for your program services with a provider agency. That agency will:

Select, schedule and manage attendants and substitutes.

Set wages and benefits for the attendants.

Manage time sheets, payroll and employment records.

Choosing the Consumer Directed Services (CDS) option allows you more control over your program services and service providers. If you choose CDS, you or your designated representative will:

Select and hire your own service providers and backup employees (including family, friends or neighbors).

Set wages and benefits for your employees based on a service budget.

Select a state contracted Financial Management Services Agency (FMSA) to:

train you to hire and manage employees,

process your timesheets and payroll,

process receipts and invoices, and

act as your agent to pay federal and state employment taxes.

Submit timesheets for your employees to your FMSA.

In most cases, the CDS option allows you to pay higher wages and attract a wider range of qualified service providers/employees. Additionally, the dollar amount of hourly units charged against your allocated funds from Medicaid is usually less in the CDS option. This can allow you more funds available for more units of service.

The CDS option is available in the following programs:

Texas Home Living(TxHmL)

Home and Community-based Services(HCS)

Community Attendant Services(CAS)

Medically Dependent Children Program(MDCP)

Community Living Assistance and Support Services(CLASS)

Deaf Blind and Multiple Disabilities(DBMD)

Primary Home Care(PHC)

Family Care(FC)

Community Attendant Services(CAS)

Community Based Alternatives(CBA)

Personal Care Services(PCS)

　

Neither option is designed to be a "one size fits all" program. You should explore both options and see what works best for you or the individual you are responsible for. While your service coordinator or case manager can help you understand the benefits for both, I would suggest speaking with individuals who have selected both options and see what their experience has been from a consumer’s perspective. You can also contact a state contracted Financial Management Services Agency (FMSA) who can explain in more detail the process of the Consumer Directed Services option.

A big thank you to Craig Coward from BWC Healthcare Services for being our guest blogger this week.

List of Medicaid Waiver Programs

I am sure you have heard that  you need to add your child's name to the waiver list, which in many cases is a 10 year wait or so. However, what does it mean to be on these lists and how do you know what list you should be on? Here is a comprehensive look at the programs that are available to you and the services that they offer once your child is selected. Although the wait is long, there are rumors saying Texas is going to a well managed system that will cut these wait times in half. However, your child has to be on the list now because you will not be able to add it after the system changes. Thank you to Elaine Himes with the Resource Guide for compiling the information.

 

1. Medically Dependent Children Program (MDCP)

Community Care Services, TxDADS

1-877-438-5658, 713-967-7597

www.dads.state.tx.us/services

This Medicaid waiver program provides qualified children with a variety of services that allow the children to live at home. MDCP provides respite, adaptive aids and supports to enable eligible children to participate in child care. To qualify, only the child’s income is considered. A physician must agree that your child meets medical necessity criteria for admission to a nursing home. MDCP is limited to a certain number of children on a first-come, first-served basis. Once accepted, your child also qualifies for Medicaid benefits.

Note: Long waiting list.

A number of MDCP slots are reserved for children who reside in Texas nursing homes, enabling them to return home with support. The MDCP ends when a child reaches age 21. After that the Community Based Alternative (CBA) continues most services, but the change from MDCP to CBA is not automatic. You must apply for CBA separately, but the eligible child will access CBA services directly without being placed on a waiting list. State that the child is reaching 21 and on the MDCD. For more information, call 713-692-1635 (intake line).

2. Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS)

Community Care Services, TxDADS

www.dads.state.tx.us/services

To be placed on a waiting list, call 1-877-438-5658 (state office); for information only, call Vita-Living, Inc., 713-271-5795.

CLASS provides home and community services such as therapy and personal-attendant care, limited nursing care, job training, daily living skills, adaptive aids, psychological counseling, home medication and respite care for persons with disabilities other than the primary diagnosis of mental retardation.

CLASS is funded by Medicaid through a waiver that allows participants to live in the community with a degree of freedom and choice. Qualification is based on approved needs. Applicants for CLASS services must have demonstrated needs for and be able to benefit from habilitation assistance and support services. Once accepted, the child also qualifies for regular Medicaid benefits.

Note: Long waiting list. Program is not statewide.

 

3. Home and Community-Based Services (HCS),

Mental Retardation Services Dept. (MRSD), TxDADS

Under contract to MHMRAs

www.dads.state.tx.us/services

The HCS program is a Medicaid waiver program that provides services to individuals with mental retardation who either live with their families, in their own home, in a foster/companion care setting or in a residence with not more that four individuals who receive services. HSC services include residential assistance, day habilitation, respite, nursing, attendant care, adaptive aids, counseling, therapy, minor home modification, and supported employment. Call for eligibility. Telephone numbers:

Harris County

For waiting list, 713-970-7799

For information, 713-970-7649

Gulf Coast Center – MR Division, 1-800-643-0967

(in-take) or 281-585-7490

Texana MHMRA, 281-342-0090 (intake)

Tri-County MHMRA, 936-521-6226

4. Texas Home Living Waiver (TxHmL)

Mental Retardation Services Department

(MRSD), TxDADS

Under contract to MHMRAs

www.dad.state.tx.us/business

The TxHmL program is one type of Medicaid waiver that waives a Medicaid requirement so that a list of services such as respite can be delivered by someone other that a licensed practitioners (doctor, etc.) and paid by Medicaid. Therefore, the family’s income must meet eligibility for Medicaid to qualify. The TxHmL program provides essential services and support so that Texans with mental retardation can continue to live with their families or in their homes in the community. TxHmL services are intended to supplement. TxHmL is limited to an annual cost of $10,000 per participant. This is a new program and MHMRAs contacts families from the HCS waiting list.

MHMRA of Harris Co. - 713-970-8385

Texana MHMRA - 281-342-0090

MHMR Gulf Coast Center - 1-800-643-0967

Tri-County MHMRA - 936-521-6226

5. Primary Home Care (PHC)

Community Care Programs, TxDADS

713-692-1635

PHC provides non-skilled, non-technical, medically related personal care, household tasks, meal preparation, escort, shopping and assistance with self-administered medication. A physician must order the service and a nurse must supervise delivery. There is an income limit, and your child must be Medicaid-eligible. A case manager will assess the needs to determine eligibility and service delivery.

6. Blind and Visually Impaired Services,

TxDARS

713-802-3100

The Texas Commission for the Blind provides an array of services to blind and legally blind children. The services include eye restoration services, eye medical care, parent counseling, educational and training opportunities, and case management.

7. Youth Empowerment Services (Yes) – New program

Texana

281-239-1485

YES waiver to provide a continuum of appropriate services and supports for families with children who have severe emotional disturbances. The program is designed to help families, when they have reached or exceeded their financial, emotional, or health care support resources. The YES waiver was developed and implemented to assist in the prevention of custody relinquishment of youth with serious emotional disturbances.

Texana Center and YES expect to;

·         provide a more complete community based services plan with supports for children with serious mental disturbances (SED)

·         prevent or reduce inpatient psychiatric admissions

·         prevent entry or recidivism into the foster care system or juvenile justice system in Fort Bend County

·         improve the overall potential of youth and their families, through the waiver funding.