Connections Volume 1 2011 by The Connections Project

â&#x201E;˘ www.ConnectionsKids.com

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RESOURCES Vol.3 No.1 FREE

FIND Quality resource providers DISCOVER Hope EXPLORE the possibilities

CO M P E L L E D TO CO N N E C T R E S O U R C E S W I T H FA M I L I E S

Our Patients Are Our Stars Count on our Support and Training

Rely on our Products

Pediatric Formula Adult Nutrition Metabolics Enteral Feeding Supplies Our Formula Vendors:

Abbott, Nestle, Nutricia North America, PBM (Bright Beginnings) Mead Johnson, Llorens Pharmaceuticals, Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s One, Applied Nutrition

Enteral Pumps:

Abbott, Kangaroo, Zevex

Feeding Buttons & Supplies Ballard, Mic-key, Bard, Viasys Corpak, AMT, Kendall

We Accept:

Medicaid, Medicare, WIC, all private insurance and private pay

Contact us today! 1-800-368-2065 www.star-medical.net Established in 1995. Star Medical Specialties has grown by focusing exclusively on specialized nutritional products and equipment. We provide a wide variety of hard to find pediatric and adult formulas for tube feeding and oral consumption, modular components for increasing calorie, and protein content. Therapeutic nutrition to aid with wound healing and thickeners with honey or nectar consistency are also available. We stock over 150 formulas!

INDEX

Educational Resources Advocates

hools

Specialized Sc

™

Tutoring

Medical Resources Hospitals

Our Story is Your Story...................................................................2 Our Mission Statement..................................................................3 Connections Project Wins National Award....................................4

Main Content Medical Supplies Specialists

Nutritional Resources

Educational Resources........................................ 5-13 Winner! Your Kids on Our Cover Contest....................................6 Celeste’s Story.........................................................8,10, & 139

Medical Resources............................................15-28 Nutritional Resources .....................................29-33 Health Food Stores Cookware

Organic Co-ops

Parental/Family Resources Respite Care ent Nanny Placem

Family Counseling

Recreational Resources Art Classes

Parental & Family Resources............................34-40 The Power of Self-Compassion.........................................38-39 A Place to Worship.................................................................40

Recreational Resources....................................41-44 Therapeutic Resources.....................................45-58 Bonus Articles..............................................139-144

Technology & Therapy at Pumpkin Littles............................139 Technology & The Future.....................................................141 DPS Partners with Connections....................................142-143 Autism Trust USA.................................................................144

ses Cooking Clas Church Special Needs Programs

Therapeutic Resources ™ www.ConnectionsKids.com

Name: Celeste Age: 5

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FIND Quality resource providers DISCOVER Hope EXPLORE the possibilities

Photo provided by:

Play Therapy Hyperbaric

Speech and Language www.ConnectionsKids.com

See their ad on Pg. 35 CO M P E L L E D TO CO N N E C T R E S O U R C E S W I T H FA M I L I E S

INDEX

Connections • 2011

INDEX

Our Story is Your Story…..

his journey began for our family seven years ago. I can remember the smell of the doctor’s office, the sounds of a baby screaming in the exam room next to us and the sick feeling in my stomach as the doctor handed us a simple piece of paper that had been hurriedly copied by one of the nurse staff and was off center and blurry, but the word at the top was impossible to mistake as it was the diagnosis that we had feared . . . AUTISM. My eyes filled with tears as the doctor walked toward the door and it clicked shut with an enormous finality. I clutched the paper as if it were my only possession on this planet and began to read the sterile and tormenting prognosis for my little girl. The words stung my soul like poisonous darts bringing despair and waves of emotion that is difficult to put into words. Was this it? Was this piece of paper the best our doctor could do for us? I knew at that moment that at some point in my life time that I would do something to change this outcome. At the point of diagnosis or recognition of a delay, families should be given something tangible, something besides a cheap piece of paper filled with worst case scenarios and grim statistics, something useful, something practical, and maybe a little inspirational…that something is what you are holding in your hands right now…Connections Issue #6. ded by: Photos provi rtraits o P ia Bella M ad on Pg. 35 See their

2 Connections • 2011

INDEX

www.ConnectionsKids.com

INDEX

p hi s r te mbe on i n bs Me ati ! io s. e t W e m a W EE for rm dat NO ur R P O n F In info up U t t i o ur E ven N is ck E o G V e Y R i SI p 1. . Cl ter e F cial e 2 En eiv spe St ep c . e 3 R nd St ep 4. s a t S ep n o St up o c www.Connectionskids.com

Our Mission is the Success of Your Mission

e exist to recognize all children with special needs and to celebrate their uniqueness. Our mission is to assist their dedicated parents to find, discover, and explore the world of resources that exist to better their child’s quality of life.

We help parents and families….. FIND Quality Resource Providers DISCOVER Hope EXPLORE the Possibilities www.ConnectionsKids.com

INDEX

Connections • 2011

INDEX

Project Update Connections Needs You! Become an area distributor of Connections in your area Help us recruit your favorite resource through personal referral

™

www.ConnectionsKid

s.com

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Share your stories of success and challenges in your journey

FIND Quality resource providers DISCOVER Hope EXPLORE the possibilit ies

Volunteer to work the Connections Booth at events in your city Become our friend on Facebook and tell us what you think COMPELLE

D TO CON NECT

RESOURCE

S W I T H FA MILIES

If you are not sure where to start you can flip to the directory portion of Connections and call all of the non-highlighted listings and ask them if they would like to become a resource partner with Connections today!

CONNECTIONS

PROJECT

HONORED WITH NATIONAL

AWARD

FROM EP MAGAZINE! Connections Kids executive director recently received Exceptional Parent magazine’s 2009 EP Maxwell J. Schleifer Distinguished Service Award. The award is given to organizations working on behalf of those with disabilities, that are involved in scientific research leading to early detection and appropriate intervention therapies, and that demonstrate leadership in expanding the awareness that people with disabilities can be productive citizens in our society. Connections Kids was nominated by Nexus Special Care Planning Team. Connections executive director Lamarque R. Polvado, accepted the award on the field of Pizza Hut Park home of FC Dallas soccer team, on Disability Awareness Night. 4 Connections • 2011

INDEX

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

Educational Resources Advocates chools Specialized S Tutoring

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2010 5

Your Partners

n O d i K r You er! Our Cov

Congratulations to

Our Winner!

Catherine Age 5 Diagnosis: Down Syndrome Connections would like to congratulate our third winner of “Your Kid On Our Cover” Contest. We would like to thank the many of you who submitted your super cute kids for this contest. Don’t Forget to enter today!

Enter Now to be Our Next Winner: Contest Rules: Must submit by Oct 17th Email photo’s to info@ConnectionsKids.com At time of submission submit; Name of child, Age, and diagnosis

Winner gets: To be on the Cover of Connections Professional Photo Shoot Free Photo Package a “$300 Value” 6 Connections • Fall/Winter 2010

INDEX

www.ConnectionsKids.com

• Listing on Pg. 74

iDream

of CONFIDENCE, SUCCESS and a true LOVE OF READING for my child. Our one- on- one approach tackles the difficulties associated with learning disabilities, attention disorders, dyslexia, and more! LearningRX brain training can MAKE YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE Call today! Our Cognitive Test Special is ONLY $99 (regular $249) In his first year of Kindergarten, Noah was dianosed in the Autistic spectrum as PDD NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder). Gains were made with diet changes, but by the end of Noah’s second year in Kindergarten, we began to recognize confidence issues and he started to fall behind. He didn’t want to go to first grade, he cried, and got stomach aches about going to school. Noah completed LearningRx this summer. We saw gains almost immediately. In two weeks of starting LearningRx, we noticed while driving down the streets, Noah was reading all the signs. Something he never did before. He was picking up books at home and reading them. He was putting words together for the first time. The program was an enormous success. Much success is attributed to the trainer for adapting to Noah’s individual needs, knowing when to encourage and when to back off when the frustration level was high. Jackie, Keller, Tx

WWW.LEARNINGRX.com/keller 423-A Keller Parkway Keller, Texas 76248 | 817-562-5558 www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

Connections • 2010 7

Educational Resources

Mention Connections to receive $50 OFF

Educational YourResources Partners

Celeste’s Story

very month Connections is flooded with pictures of adorable, fun kids that have E overcome enormous challenges to live extraordinary lives. Some of these children’s

disability’s are a result of a genetic difference, some are the result of a medical condition they developed that results in a life with special needs and challenges, but the one thing that they all have in common is an extraordinary determination to be all they can be, to never lose hope of what the future can be and to be thankful for each and every ability they do possess. The moment we received the photograph and story of Celeste we knew immediately, this was our kid. Monica and Rudy Salgado were already the proud parents of a lovely 14 year old named Viviana, and as it turns out, Viviana was born premature and had some complications that required some assistance in the early days. But nothing could possibly prepare them for the challenges that lay ahead with their sweet baby girl, Celeste. From day one Monica was considered high risk and monitored more closely then the average pregnancy. And although Celeste was Due August 17th 2009, Monica was forced to deliver via C-section on April 29th, at just 24 weeks and one day. At just 15 ounces, Celeste was fragile at best. The doctors even suggested they sign a “Do Not Resuscitate order”, but Monica and Rudy knew in their hearts that little Celeste had a purpose on this earth and they were determined to do everything they could to give her the best possible outcome. Today, Celeste is a vibrant, happy, feisty 2 years old. And although she has had several surgeries, requires round the clock nursing staff to administer medications and feedings, each and everyday she gets healthier and stronger. As a matter of fact, she recently has graduated from Physical and Occupational therapy! When asked about how they manage, the Salgado family can not speak highly enough about their nursing staff from Epic Med Staff. Not only does the round the clock team care for Celeste medically, they all in their own way, act as therapist and teachers. Melody teaches Celeste Sign language, Beverly reads to her and Genoveva keeps a tight reign on all medications to make sure Celeste stays healthy. 88 Connections Connections ••Fall/Winter Fall/Winter2010 2010

Educational INDEX Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com www.ConnectionsKids.com Continued on pg. 10

Individuality and

Differences

are Celebrated!

• Listing on Pg. 64 For children with various Learning Differences, Asperger’s Syndrome and or AD/HD, Great Lakes Academy, an accredited, non-profit, K-12 private school, offers its’ students a positive school experience.

GLA also provides its’ students the opportunity to develop: • An appreciation for their own uniqueness • Self-confidence and self-worth via successful learning experiences, social skills lessons and positive reinforcement. • Coping skills to assist them in becoming effective students. • A sense of accountability and responsibility for their own academic experience. Utilizing small class sizes, multi-sensory teaching methods and a well trained and caring faulty, Great Lakes Academy is an excellent alternative school choice!

GREAT LAKES ACADEMY 6000 Custer Road, Building 7, Plano, Texas 75023 972-517-7498 ext. 103 www.greatlakesacademy.com

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

Connections • 2010 9

Educational Resources

Where

Educational Resources

We help different learners see opportunities instead of obstacles. Kids with dyslexia, adhd and other

obstacles to learning thrive at hill school. since 1973, we’ve inspired these bright, creative students to imagine a future full of promise. the strategies and skills we teach build a ladder to opportunity— and place kids within reach of their dreams. Grades 1–8 Grapevine Campus 817.310.0876 Grades 2–12 Fort Worth Campus 817.923.9482

• Listing on Pg. 65 Accredited by SACS | Nationally Recognized School of Distinction Hill School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

www.hillschool.org

And then of course their is the family, who has been an enormous support system. Probably most notably is Big Sister Viviana. Bringing a new baby into the home is a challenge for any sibling, but one that requires such enormous care makes the situation even that much harder. But Viviana has stepped up to the plate in a big way. She often times can be found assisting the nurses and her parents in the care of Celeste. Like most teenagers, she prefers her privacy, but now that Celeste is mobile, Viviana purposely leaves her bedroom door open so Celeste can come in and play with her. This summer, instead of taking time to just hang out and be well, a teenager, she is donating her time at a local recreation center! There has also been some talk about possibly going into nursing when she is older. Regardless of the path Viviana takes, this October she will take part in the Hispanic tradition of a Quinceanera, which marks the 15th Birthday of a young lady who transitions from childhood to womanhood.

10 Connections • 2011

Educational Resources

Continued on pg. 139

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Addressing Social, Emotional And Learning Differences One Student At A Time • Listing on Pg. 67

972.404.1616

info@vanguardprepschool.com

Facebook Join the Conversation!

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

Connections • 2010 11

Educational Resources

Learning Differences Mood Disorders ADD/ADHD Anxiety Disorders/ODD Autistic Spectrum PreK-12

Educational Resources A Christian School for Students with Learning Differences 1501 Avenue H, Plano, TX 972-509-7822 www.staplano.org Serving Grades K-9 Individualized Instruction Low Student-Teacher Ratio Positive, Nurturing Environment Multi-Sensory Approach to Teaching Social Skills Integrated Into the Curriculum

• Listing on Pg. 66

“When fear was edging out hope, St. Timothy’s wonderful ministry was the answer we needed.”

Says THANKS to our Print Sponsors Baby Signs Kidcore Toys

Minds Matter

Tweets!

• Follow us today @connectionskids • Follow our executive director @lpolvado 12 Connections • 2011

Educational Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Families for Effective Autism Treatment – North Texas (FEAT-NT) is a non-profit organization of parents and concerned professionals dedicated to providing Education, Advocacy, and Support for children with autism and their families. FEAT-NT provides: Parent Mentoring Support Group Meetings Ongoing Educational Workshops Free Lending Library with Over 400 Autism Materials Family Fun Days

www.featnt.org

Call. (817) 849-1122

Helping Kids Build Bridges to Success! We are a Pre-K through 12th grade private school, based on a very specific philosophy of individualized education in which every student is taught one on one by a personal state certified teacher at their own level.

• Listing on Pg. 63

Bridge Builder Academy www.bridgebuilderacademy.com www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

520 Central Parkway East Suite 101 | Plano TX 75074

972-516-8844

F: 972-516-8822

Connections • 2010 13

Educational Resources

• Listing on Pg. 111

Medical Resources

• Listing on Pg. 88

14 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Medical Resources Hospitals

Medical Supplies Specialists

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Medical Resources

• Listings on Pg. 88/77/71

Angels of

are

“Special Care for Your Special Child” Services Offered:

Private Duty Nursing • Skilled Nursing • Therapy (PT, OT, ST, RT) • Medical Equipment & Supplies • Attendant Care • Medication Delivery Service • Case Management

Angels of Care is a Provider for:

CCP • MDCP • CDS • PCS • CHSCN • Superior • Medicaid Private Insurance • Private Pay

Serving all of Texas!

Toll Free 866.856.5923 www.AngelsOfCare.com

Pediatric Home Health 16 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

• Listing on Pg. 81

ROACH ICAL APP D E M IO •B ITION •NUTR PRACTIC •CHIRO

Dr. Amber Brooks C.A.C.C.P.

•NATURAL MED ICINE •CRANIOSACR AL THERAPY •DETOXIFICATI ON •DEFEAT AUTI SM PRACTITIONER NOW!

Ro ad Su it e 116 14 33 0 M id w ay 4 D al la s TX 75 24 Ph on e: 4 6 9 -5

47 -117 3

www.mychildwellness.com

Neurodevelopmental Sensory Enhancement Center Charles Shidlofsky, O.D. Lynn Lowell, O.D. 5934 W. Parker Rd., Suite #500 Plano, TX 75093 972-312-0177 www.dr-s.net

ur Goal is to take your vision beyond 20/20 by evaluating how you process information. This evaluation includes looking at vision perception skills as well as how your vision integrates with your other senses. We utilize the latest, most state-of-the art equipment.

• Vision Therapy for All Ages • Treatment for Learning-Related Vision Problems oftentimes • • •

seen in children with: ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia, Reading and Tracking Problems, etc. Visual Rehabilitation for Special Populations such as: Autism Spectrum Disorders, Developmental Delays, Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, Whiplash, Cerebral Palsy, MS etc. Treatment for Stress-related Visual Problems including: Blurred Vision, Visual Stress from Reading and Computers, Eye Strain Headaches, and/or Vision-induced Motion Sickness. Nutritional support for vision problems

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

• Listing on Pg. 86 & 138 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

Very special care

for very special children

* Pediatric Skilled Nursing Continuous Care/Skilled Visits * Caregiver Education & Training * Speech-Language Pathology * Occupational Therapy * Physical Therapy * IV Therapy 1255 West 15th Street Suite 815 Plano, Texas 75075 Email amalec@ehhi.com

• Listing on Pg. 78

Phone 972.673.0404 Toll free 866.889.3500 Fax 972.673.0420

Celebrating

25YRS

Autism Does Your Child Have Autistic Tendencies? their ears to the sounds of a vacuum, hair dryer aorCover garage door opener? aHave trouble with verbal communication and language? aSpace out and often appear to be “somewhere else?” aCompulsively repeat words or phrases? aLine up toys instead of playing with them? aLike To Spin? aFlap Their Hands Like a Bird? aWalk On Their Toes? • Listing on Pg. 81

T r e at R e s e a r c h E d u c at e E l e vat e 817-405-0292 • 877-606-7601 w w w. kot s a n i s i n s t i t u t e . co m

Disclaimer: Information included here is based upon Dr. Kotsanis’personal clinical experience treating patients for over 27 years, as well as review of published scientific literature and medical studies. Dr. Kotsanis integrates both mainstream and complementary medicine. This practice, known as integrative medicine embraces principles and treatment methods which may or may not be accepted or embraced by conventional medicine providers, individual physicians or other health care institutions.

18 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Pediatric Therapy and Nursing

• Listing on Pg. 77 & 133

Pediatric Therapy Services Physical, occupational and speech therapy services are dedicated to improving the function of children aged birth to 21 years, with medical diagnoses and/or developmental delays. Pediatric Home Care Services Experienced pediatric nursing staff helps keep chronically ill children out of the hospital by providing quality skilled care at home Provides access to a nurse 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Private Duty Skilled Nursing offered. Accept Medicaid, CCP, MD CP, CSHCN, SCHIP/Foster Care Program, Major Insurances and Private Pay

...feels like family 1-877 MY NURSE (1-877-696-8773) 972-412-2361 Rowlett 7600 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 100

www.AtHomeHealth.org www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Connections • 2011

At VIVA Pediatrics, life is precious.

Nurse owned and operated, VIVA Pediatrics is run by owners whose youngest daughter, Lexi, was born premature at 1 pound, 5 ounces. After a 4 month stay at the NICU, the stress of caring for a medically fragile child at home became a reality. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our personal experience has given us the tools necessary to understand the needs of each and every family we serve.â&#x20AC;? -Erica and Efrem Colmenero, Owners/Parents VIVA Pediatrics cares about the family as a whole, providing skilled nurses to meet the unique needs of each child. We have created a company that will treat you like family.

â&#x20AC;˘ Listing on Pg. 79

Medical Resources

• Listing on Pg. 77

Specializing in Pediatric Private Duty Nursing! Pediatric Home Healthcare, LLC will provide high quality, compassionate, skilled care to your medically fragile child. Our family will care for your family as we care for our own. Contact: 972.630.4810 www.pediatrichomehealthcare.com • Listing on Pg. 78 22 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

• Listing on Pg. 88 Medical Resources

Personalized pediatric therapy RE A L PATIENTS. RE A L STORIES. as unique as your child.

A stroke left Ella unable to eat solid foods, use her right arm and sit up. Now with the help of Our Children’s House at Baylor, she is eating, taking steps and doing sit ups. Whether your child has a mild delay or serious ongoing therapy needs resulting from injury, illness, or developmental delay, our pediatric specialists have the expertise you need. Thousands have trusted their children to our care. You can too. • Inpatient Pediatric Hospital • Physical Therapy • Speech-language Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Specialty services* include Feeding Clinic, Orthotics Clinic, NICU Follow up Clinic, Sleep Lab, Sensory Integration Therapy, Developmental Evaluations, Swallow Studies (not all services are available at each location)

For more information call 1.800.4BAYLOR or visit us online at BaylorHealth.com/OCH. ALLEN • DALLAS • FRISCO • GRAPEVINE • LAS COLINAS • PLANO • ROCKWALL • WAXAHACHIE Physicians are members of the medical staff at one of Baylor Health Care System’s subsidiary, community or affiliated medical centers and are neither employees nor agents of those medical centers, Our Children’s House at Baylor or Baylor Health Care System. © 2011 Baylor Health Care System OCH CK CE7.11

Celebrating

25YRS

Allergies ADD/ADHD Autism Learning

Seizures

Digestive and Behavior Problems

Speech Delay

T r e at R e s e a r c h E d u c at e E l e vat e • Listing on Pg. 80

817-405-0292 • 877-606-7601 w w w. kot s a n i s i n s t i t u t e . co m

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

The Perfect Fit...

• Listing on Pg. 78

for Your Child’s Homecare Needs

When the health of your child is compromised, and all of the options seem overwhelming, turn to Maxim Healthcare Services. Your child will get the necessary assistance at home to have a fulfilling and happy childhood. Our caregivers have extensive pediatric experience and deliver personalized care with a compassionate touch. Whether your child needs basic nursing assistance or high-tech therapy, Maxim can fit your needs. We not only preserve quality of life, we preserve childhood.

Why Choose Maxim?

4Skilled Private Duty Nursing 4Highly Qualified RNs & LVNs 4Flexible Payment Options 4Acceptance of Private Pay & Most Major Insurances 4State Medicaid Programs

Dallas (214) 370-3385 Ft. Worth (817) 877-0904 Grapevine (817) 421-9147 McKinney (972) 542-7176 Tyler (903) 581-8881

w w w. m ax i m h o m e c a r e . c o m 24 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Joshua’s

Respiratory Care, Inc.

Caring to Give the Best! Why use Joshua’s Respiratory? • We ARE LOCAL • Owner Operated • We are Billingual • We have RRT’S on staff • We are JCAHO accredited • Our Live staff answers all calls 24/7 • Most Insurance & Medicaid Accepted

Joshua Boswell Our inspiration for this company. Service Area Dallas • Tarrant • Rockwall • Collin Denton • Ellis • Grayson • Johnson

10874 Plano Rd, Ste A Dallas, TX 75238 Phone: 469-916-9354 Fax: 469-916-9358 www.joshuasrci.com dboswell@joshuasrci.com

Products • Ventllators • Stationary Oxygen Systems • Portable Concentrators • Nebulizer • IPV • Cough Assist • Conserving Devices • Enteral Nutrition and Pumps • Overnight Oximetry • Bi-pap/ C-pap • DME

Since 2003

• Listing on Pg. 76 www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

• Listing on Pg. 79

Says THANKS to our Print Sponsors

See Success Healthy Kids Pediatrics Medical Staffing Network Complete Health & Wellness

Tweets!

• Follow us today @connectionskids • Follow our executive director @lpolvado 26 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Bringing Care to Life! Experienced pediatric and neonatal nursing care. Providing the kind of care we would want for our own families…

24/7 Care Se Habla Espanol Personal Consultation Serving DFW Metro Area

• Listing on Pg. 79 • Medicaid Comprehensive Care Program (CCP) • Medically Dependent Children’s Program (MDCP) • Major Private Insurance Plans. • Our Staff is Licensed, Insured and Pre-Screened

Vivicare Health Partners 255 N. Center St. #102 Arlington TX 76011 (817) 265-0900

Facebook Get In The Know! Give Aways Current Events Caregiver Networking

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

3/4 cup brown rice flour 1/2 cup tapioca starch 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 2 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 egg 1 cup Coconut Milk Recipe for Gluten Free Dairy Free 1 tablespoon canola Oil Soy Free pancakes Mix All ingredients. pour 2-3 tablespoons into hot skillet cooking 1-2 minutes on each side. Serve with ghee and maple syrup!

In Home H-BOT is dedicated to providing quality mild hyperbaric treatment in your home.

Fact: With a portable hyperbaric chamber in your home your child will get double or triple the number of treatments you might be able to schedule at your doctor’s office.

Rental Savings: $4,200

60 doctor’s treatments at $100 per treatment in 5 months costs $6,000. 60 home treatments which can be done in 1 month for only $2,195.

• Listing on Pg. 79/132

RESPIRO AA27” tall and 7’ 5” long, 190 cubic feet Includes chamber, inner frame, mattress, bolster pillows to stabilize chamber, compressor and all hoses and attachments.

**Portable H-BOT Chambers Require a Prescription For Rental**

Rent Now!

$1,800/Month Normally $2,195 includes free delivery, setup, & oxygen concentrator 817-400-2762 28 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

Oxyhealth chambers are the originals-used and trusted by more DAN doctor’s worldwide than any other. info@inhomehbot.com www.inhomehbot.com www.ConnectionsKids.com

Nutritional l Resources

Nutritional Resources

Health Food Stores Cookware

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Organic Co-ops

Nutritional Resources

Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Nutritional Resources

• Listing on Pg. 90

Our Patients Are Our Stars Count on our Support and Training

Rely on our Products

Pediatric Formula Adult Nutrition Metabolics Enteral Feeding Supplies Our Formula Vendors:

Abbott, Nestle, Nutricia North America, PBM (Bright Beginnings) Mead Johnson, Llorens Pharmaceuticals, Nature’s One, Applied Nutrition

Enteral Pumps:

Abbott, Kangaroo, Zevex

Feeding Buttons & Supplies Ballard, Mic-key, Bard, Viasys Corpak, AMT, Kendall

We Accept:

Medicaid, Medicare, WIC, all private insurance and private pay

Nutritional Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

h a n g e Vi

W ! O N bu y to

.d o

• Listing on Pg. 89

• Listing on Pg. 89 www.ConnectionsKids.com

Nutritional Resources

Connections • 2011

lic k

c u -tr a c k

.d o

lic k

bu y

W !

F-

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Nutritional l Resources

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Nutritional Resources

At Sprouts, you’ll always find • Listing on Pg. 90 a wealth of healthy foods for less. With more than 2,000 gluten-free products all around the store, Sprouts is the place to be for gluten-free. Pantry staples. Dairy goods. Even some

cookies and breads. We even offer a gluten-free section in our store to make gluten-free shopping easy. No gluten. No high supermarket prices. No brainer.

Visit our 9 Dallas area locations! Plano • Flower Mound • Dallas • Southlake • Frisco Richardson • Murphy • Coppell • Cedar Hill Visit Sprouts.com for more information.

Sprouts is a proud supporter of autism speaks. autismspeaks.org

Celebrating

25YRS

Nutrition

ADD/ADHD Autism Learning

Seizures

• Listing on Pg. 91

Digestive and Behavior Problems

Speech Delay

T r e at R e s e a r c h E d u c at e E l e vat e 817-405-0292 • 877-606-7601 w w w. kot s a n i s i n s t i t u t e . co m Disclaimer: Information included here is based upon Dr. Kotsanis’personal clinical experience treating patients for over 27 years, as well as review of published scientific literature and medical studies. Dr. Kotsanis integrates both mainstream and complementary medicine. This practice, known as integrative medicine embraces principles and treatment methods which may or may not be accepted or embraced by conventional medicine providers, individual physicians or other health care institutions.

32 Connections • 2011

Nutritional Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Nutritional l Resources

at your

service

• Listing on Pg. 89

Highly trained experts, called “Foodies,” don green-striped aprons and assist customers with solutions on topics such as key recipe ingredients or children with special diet needs. Foodies are trained to know every product in the store and to be on hand just to help.

214-234-7000 Dallas

817-989-4700 fort worth

469-241-8300 plano

817-310-5600 southlake

5750 E. LovErs LanE

4651 wEst frEEway

320 coit road

1425 fm 1709

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Nutritional Resources

Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

Parental/Family Resources Respite Care ent m e c a l P Nanny

elin s n u o C y Famil

Sponsored By: The Kirkwood Agency

Where having the RIGHT Insurance is No ACCIDENT!

â&#x20AC;˘ Listing on Pg. 119

Edward Kirkwood Insurance and Financial Services Agent (817) 898-0370-Business (214) 724-6353-Cell 34 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Parental/Family Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Parental/Family Resources

• Listing on Pg. 98

Parental/Family Resources

Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

Special planning for Special people

The fuTure iS WorTh planning for Stephen J LivenS CpA, Attorney “over 25 years experience”

www.LivensLaw.com

Contact us for a copy of the above brochure or schedule of upcoming seminars at Slivens@livenslaw.com • Listing on Pg. 93

4213 Wiley Post Addison, TX 75001 Phone: (972) 432-8844

2516 Harwood Road Bedford, TX 76021 Phone: (817) 545-3425

Our Mission: “To provide persons with disabilities the necessary support to increase independence, dignity, personal growth, and inclusion in the community.” independence

dignity

inclusion personal growth

Berry Family Services Over 40 years combined experience.

Berry Family Services 4702 Rowlett Road Rowlett, TX 75088 P: 972-412-4707 F: 972-202-0314 E-mail: info@berryfamilyservices.com www.BerryFamilyServices.com

36 Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

• Listing on Pg. 71/119

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Fixed-fee Guardianships, Wills, and Special Needs Trusts Attorney 214.227.6400 3102 Maple Ave., Ste. 625 Dallas, Texas 75201

• Listing on Pg. 93

www.duranfirm.com • Listing on Pg. 92

you ever In all of your life have right thing? been sorry you did the

Nick Carroccio Special Care Planner

Don’t put off creating a life care plan any longer. Take the time now and give yourself the comfort of being prepared for the financial future of yourself and your loved ones.

10000 North Central Expy Suite 1200 Dallas, TX 75231 P: (972) 348-6368 nick@nexusadvisorsllc.com nexusadvisorsllc.com Insurance products are issued by MassMutual, Springfield, MA 01111, and its subsidiaries, C.M. Life Insurance Co. and MML Bay State Life Insurance Co., Enfield, CT 06082. CRN201209-137719 www.ConnectionsKids.com

Parental/Family Resources

Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

The Duran Firm, PLLC Micheal A. Duran

Parental/Family Resources

The Power of Self-Compassion The path to caring for yourself. by Kristin Neff, Ph.D.

Self-compassion for caregivers If you’re a caregiver, you need self-compassion!

hink of all the generous, kind people you know who constantly give compassion and care to others, yet continually beat themselves up. Most of us are quite practiced at being supportive and giving to others, especially those of us who find ourselves in caregiver roles. Whether we have a special needs child, a parent with Alzheimer’s, an ill partner, or are in a caregiving profession such as being a nurse, therapist, or teacher, we know to give support, comfort and compassion to the people who need us. But how many of us offer that same level of compassion and care to ourselves? or some reason our culture tells us that this is the way we should be - women especially. But when caregivers continually give out to others without being kind, caring and supportive toward themselves, they’ll eventually burn out. We need to have self-compassion in order to recharge our batteries and have the emotional energy needed to serve others. If we continually criticize ourselves, especially for the feeling that we’re never doing enough, we’ll become stressed and depressed, and eventually lash out in moments of frustration toward the people we care for. or the past decade or so I’ve been conducting research on self-compassion, and have found that self-compassion is strongly related to mental health (see www.self-compassion.org for more information). Self-compassion is also associated with healthy behaviors. It has been shown to help people quit smoking, stay on their diets, exercise, and seek medical care when needed. Moreover, self-compassion has been shown to protect caregivers from burnout and compassion fatigue, and to increase satisfaction with one’s caregiving role.

F F

38 Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Me with my son Rowan, who is autistic

Self-compassion is crucial for caregivers not only because it helps us forgive ourselves for our inevitable mistakes but also because it allows us to acknowledge and comfort ourselves for the difficulties of our caregiving role. As a mother of a child with autism, I can tell you what a lifesaver self-compassion was for me (you can learn about my journey with autism in the book and film The Horse Boy -www.horseboymovie.com).

Because of the intense sensory issues experienced by autistic children, they are often prone to violent tantrums. When my son screamed and screamed because his nervous system was being overloaded and I couldn’t figure out the cause, I would soothe myself with kindness. When my son lost it in the grocery school and strangers gave me nasty looks because they thought I wasn’t disciplining my child properly, I’d give myself the compassion I wasn’t receiving from others. In short, self-compassion helped me cope, and that put me in the balanced emotional mind state needed to deal skillfully with whatever new challenges confronted me. If you’re a caregiver, try giving yourself compassion the next time you make a mistake or feel challenged beyond your ability to cope. Not only will it help to get through difficult situations, it will lead to greaterhappiness and peace of mind. My website www.self-compassion.org has exercises and guided meditations, links to research articles, and a way to test your self-compassion levels. You can also learn more about self-compassion by reading my recently released book, “Self-Compassion: Stop Beating Yourself Up and Leave Insecurity Behind.”

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Parental/Family Resources

Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

But what is self-compassion exactly? Drawing on the writings of various Buddhist scholars, I have defined self-compassion as having 3 main components, self-kindness, common humanity, and mindfulness. Self-kindness refers to the tendency to be caring and understanding with oneself rather than being harshly critical or judgmental. Common humanity involves recognizing that all humans are imperfect, fail and make mistakes. Mindfulness involves being aware of one’s painful feelings in a clear and balanced manner so that one neither ignores nor obsesses about disliked aspects of oneself or one’s life. Self-compassion can be extended towards the self when suffering occurs through no fault of one’s own - when the external circumstances of life are simply too painful or difficult to bear, or else when our suffering stems from one’s own mistakes, failures or personal inadequacies.

Parental/Family Resources

A Place to Worship.... Sounds like an easy task doesn’t it? Although if you have a child with special needs it can feel like an impossibility. At the Connections Project we talk to so many caregivers who relay stories of frustration, stress, and even rejection within the community of faith. After all if there was one place a family should be able find unconditional love and acceptance it should be within a community of faith...right? I know that my family had only been to place of worship twice since our daughter was diagnosed almost seven years ago. Now for the GOOD NEWS we are starting to see communities of faith who recognize the unique needs and challenges within the special care community. We have had more and more phone calls from communities of faith asking how they can help meet families needs and provide a safe, loving environment, as well as a place of worship. Then just before we published I took a phone call that made my year. On the phone was Mary Klentzman the new director of Prestonwood Baptist’s special needs ministry to tell me that they wanted to support free information for caregivers by becoming a resource partner with Connections. Now that is refreshing....may you all find a place of worship with the same passion and commitment!

Prestonwood Baptist Church: A Heart for Special Needs “The Special Needs Ministry is one that has always been near and dear to my heart. We not only want to make sure that these children and adults are not forgotten, but also we want them to know how much they are loved.” – Pastor Jack Graham

Our Special Needs Ministry offers: • Activities for all ages on Wednesday and Saturday evenings and during both Worship Services on Sunday morning • Brightly-colored, multi-sensory room for children featuring occupational therapy swings, activityladen tactile wall and comforting foam pit • Parent training and respite • “STARS” Sports League for all ages • Listing on Pg. 94 (baseball, basketball and soccer)

... A Church to Call Home! Dr. Jack Graham, Pastor

6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano, TX 75093 • 972-820-5000 • prestonwood.org 40 Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Recreational Resources

Recreational Resources Art Classes

sses a l C g n i k o o C Support Groups

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Recreational Resources

Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Recreational Resources

• Listing on Pg. 120

The Miracle League of Frisco is a sports league for special-needs children, ages 5-18, from throughout North Texas. We offer baseball, soccer, bowling and other opportunities to children with all levels of disabilities.

“Because every child deserves the chance to play.”

Visit our website at www.FriscoMiracleLeague.org or call 214-296-2017/toll-free 877-683-6085

Nobody’s good in everything. Advantages and disadvantages come in many forms. The difference between those who fail and those who succeed is largely perseverance. Never quit. Charles Schwab

42 Connections • 2011

Recreational Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Recreational Resources

“A Parent-Child Learning Experience” 13617 Neutron Road Farmers Branch, Tx 75244 Ph: 972-239-8100 Fax: 972-239-8102

www.itsasensoryworld.com • Listing on Pg. 120

Book Store

New Online Store: For Issue #5

Feature Products from Local Moms here in DFW! • Books • RES-Q Wedge • Swing Set Mama’s DVD’s & Video’s

Store! Connections Resource Shop and Support! Have a product that we should sell? Contact us at info@ConnectionsKids.com

• Listing on Pg. 127

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Recreational Resources

Connections • 2011

Recreational Resources

Rick Amber 7 4 - May 3, 199

June 17, 194

Rick Amber - May 3, 1997 June 17, 1944

“

The human spirit prevails over any physical or mental obstacle. After a day with Challenge Air, no height seems unreachable… all it takes is desire and truly, the sky is the limit! - Rick Amber

Challenge Air for Kids and Friends, a not-for-profit organization, offers motivational, inspirational and life-changing experiences to physically challenged children and youth through aviation.

Love Field Airport - North Concourse

7363 Cedar Springs Road • Dallas,TX75235 • Main:214-351-3353 Toll Free: 1-877-FLY-KIDS • Fax: 214-351-6002

www.challengeair.com • Listing on Pg. 120

44 Connections • 2011

Recreational Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Play Therapy Hyperbaric Speech and Language

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Therapeutic Resources

• Listing on Pg. 135

Personalized pediatric therapy RE A L PATIENTS. RE A L STORIES. as unique as your child.

We provide a variety of services based upon the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis for all ages and all disabilities. Our services include: - In-home ABA programming services - LoneStar ABA Academy with 1:1 student/teacher ratio - Home/community consultations for any behavioral concerns • Listing on Pg. 131

LoneStar Solutions Arlington Texas 817-522-5061 kathleenlively@rvbh.com www.LoneStarSolutions.org 46 Connections • 2011

Now Offering ABA Services!

Therapeutic Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Hope Help Answers

• Listing on Pg. 64/96/129

Respite Care Services Center and Home-Based ABA Therapy Programs Occupational, Physical and Speech-Language Therapies

Offering hope and help to children with autism and their families throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area 888-617-7171 • info@ntx.easterseals.com • www.ntx.easterseals.com Creating opportunities that advance the independence of individuals with disabilities and other special needs. www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Connections • 2011

Auditory Integration

Training

ADD/ADHD Autism Learning

Seizures

Digestive and Behavior Problems

Speech Delay

• Listing on Pg. 133

SERVICES INCLUDE: In-home Speech Occupational & Physical Therapy Insurance & Medicaid accepted CONTACT US TODAY

to find out how we can help you! T 972-584-0284 E Contact@DynamicTherapy.net

t La a Th s t

st A Lifetime

Re su l

Therapeutic Resources

• Listing on Pg. 131

NEW PATIENT INTAKE CALL 972-584-0284

ALWAYS SEEKING GREAT THERAPISTS

www.DynamicTherapy.net 48 Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

• Listing on Pg. 136

Building Success in Children Understanding Ability Encouraging Progress Celebrating Achievement

A to Z Pediatric Therapy Provides exceptional services to children with special needs from birth through 20 years of age:

• Speech & Language Therapy • Occupational Therapy

• Physical Therapy Our experienced pediatric therapists strive to improve the life of your child and family by understanding your child’s abilities, encouraging your child’s progress and celebrating your child’s achievements.

Dallas: 972-983-2869 Fort Worth: 817-581-0111 www.A-ZTHERAPY.COM www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

www.A-ZTHERAPY.COM

Therapeutic Resources

• Listing on Pg. 137

A Piece of Your Autism Puzzle Julie Liberman, M.A.,CCC-SLP www.julieslp.com 214.336.9342 Julie.Liberman@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/SpeechTX www.twitter.com/SpeechTXJulie

Sage Care Therapy Services Physical | Occupational | Speeech Therapy

• Listing on Pg. 135

“The Path to Independence”

info@sagecaretherapy.com Referrals: 214-2955374 Phone: 214-295-5374 Fax: 214-245-5227

• Listing on Pg. 131 Integrating neurology and natural medicine to help navigate your child’s special needs.

• Nutrition • Cranial Sacral • Functional Neurology • Vestibular Rehabilitation • Childhood Developmental Disorders 3530 Forest Lane, Suite 104 | Dallas, TX 75234 Phone: 214-350-9777 | Phone: 972-322-2280

50 Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

www.DavidRosenthalDC.com

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

s l l i k S ife For L

rk of Art

This is a Wo

Serving the Autism Community with the highest quality center and home-based ABA therapy programs in Texas!

DALLAS • FORTH WORTH • WICHITA FALLS EAST TEXAS • SAN ANTONIO (469)-374-0700 • 877-750-0ABA (0222) • Listing on Pg. 129

info@behavioral-innovations.com www.behavioral-innovations.com

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

• Listing on Pg. 129

Behavior Frontiers Innovative Training and Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism now affects 1 in 110 children. There is effective treatment.

Behavior Frontiers offers solutions to help children with autism and other special needs reach their potential using our state-of-the-art applied behavior analysis (ABA) treatment programs. We create behavior intervention treatment plans that are individualized to your child’s specific needs. Our accurate use of scientifically proven ABA methods from our highly-trained clinical team enables us to make a positive difference in the lives of children with autism and other special needs.

Now Serving the Dallas/Fort Worth Area CALL US TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP YOU AND YOUR CHILD SUCCEED!

WWW.BEHAV IORFRONTIERS .COM 9 7 2-587-2300 | 122 0 0 FORD ROAD, S UITE 1 8 9 | DALLAS, TX 75234

52 Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

• Listing on Pg. 134 / 137

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

• Listing on Pg. 130

Combining ABA & Speech to meet the needs of AuStim! Let uS heLp your chiLd feeL Like A Super-hero In-Home Programs: We bring quality, family centered therapy to your home. • Behavior Analysts • Speech Therapists • Comprehensive Evaluations • Parent/Staff Training

Where naturalistic teaching leads to extraordinary learning. • Pre-K & School Aged • Inclusion Opportunties • Fall, Spring & Summer • Transition Classrooms • Integrated Curriculum

• Insurance filing • Scholarships Available

Phone: (972) 282-1872 | Fax : (888) 237-2214 teachme@teachmebec.com | www.teachmebec.com

Executive Director: Regina M. Crone, PhD, BCBA-D 54 Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

• Listing on Pg. 128

Applied Behavior Analysis

A honey of an idea. mwah!

Happy

sad

scared

inquisitive

puzzled

disgusted

bored

excited

Applied Behavior Analysis is a scientific approach in which interventions based on learning and motivation are used to significantly improve behaviors in children. Since 2004, The Behavior Exchange has used ABA techniques to help children in the areas of: • compliance

• sibling relationships

• instruction following

• age-appropriate play

• reading

• social, motor and self-help skills

• language

and more

Call our office or log on to our website to learn more. call us: 972.312.8733 email us: info@behaviorexchange.com visit us: www.behaviorexchange.com Located in Plano, TX. Just north of the Tollway and Parker.

• Listing on Pg. 132

Music Therapy Can Make a Difference! Autism, ADD/ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Developmental Delays Adaptive Music Lessons, Rehabilitation, Sensory Integration Group Music Programs and More

Phone: 214-227-1006 Web: www.southwesternmusictherapy.com

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

THERAPY 2000 The North Texas leader in home-based therapy for children

We treat children for… Feeding & Swallowing Disorders

(including the need for Vital Stim Therapy) Cerebral Palsy • Neurological Disorders • Down Syndrome Developmental Delay • Sensory Processing Disorders and many others

A comprehensive hearing screening is administered to all children admitted for speech therapy services. To obtain physical, occupational, or speech therapy services for your child, call THERAPY 2000… 214-467-9787 or 877-626-7003 • www.T2000.com • Listing on Pg. 135

Welcome to our Family 56 Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Says THANKS to our Print Sponsors Autism Solutions of Granbury Hope Center 4 Autism Serving GISD, HPISD, RISD and parts of DISD Our three programs specialize in assisting families with meeting the needs of their children with development challenges.

Early Childhood Intervention Services for children under 3 Provided at home, preschool, or day care Is your child: • Unable to roll, crawl or sit up? Not walking? • Difficult to feed? Excessively fussy? • Not looking at parent when spoken to? Not using words?

• Listing on Pg. 136

Rollercoaster Kids

Services include: For Children ages 3-16 • Speech & Occupational Therapies • Communication disorders • Sensory processing disorders • Social Skills Groups • Summer Day Camp Program • Autism spectrum & related disorders

Family Outreach and Support

Services for families with children of all ages:

• Point of access for regional • Parent Support Groups resources • Training workshops for Parents • “Listening ear” to help filter and Professionals information • Child care available for workshops

the warren center

Phone: (972)-490-9055 320 Custer Road Fax: (972)-490-9058 Richardson, TX 75080 www.thewarrencenter.org www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

Connections • 2011

We are Different...

Let us process for you and we will give 50% of our profits to the Connections Project! Call us today: 817-975-4111

An Early Education Center

s m

t Fi

Pr o

g r

Alternative Academic & Therapeutic Methods www.PumpkinLittles.com

• Listing on Pg. 130 s d ee Contact us today! ’s N d PumpkinLittles@PumpkinLittles.com il h C 5439 Glen Lakes Drive R Dallas, Texas | (214) 346-0477 U www.PumpkinLittles.com

ABA Therapy

Cr ea ti n g

Therapeutic Resources

Sure there are lots other processing companies....

Yoga Therapy

Sensory Gym

Social Skills Classes

Music Therapy

WE SUPPORT CHILDREN OF ALL ABILITIES, AGES 2 TO 10 INCLUDING: ADHD/ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Aspergers Disorder, Cerebral Palsy (CP), Down Syndrome, Developmental Delays (PDD-NOS), Learning Disabilities (LD), Speech Delays/Disorder, And Gifted and Talented Speech Therapy | Nutritionist | Ipad Communication Therapy | Shadows | IEP/ARD Consultation | And Much More

58 Connections • 2011

Therapeutic Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

2011

Directory of Resources ™

• Educational Resources...........................60-74 • Medical Resources...................................75-88 • Nutritional Resources............................89-91 • Parental & Family Resources..............92-119 • Recreational Resources.......................121-127 • Therapeutic Resources.......................128-139 • Bonus Articles........................................140-144

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Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Consulting, Evaluation, & Educational Services ACES (Autism Consulting and Educational Services P.O. Box 720054 Dallas Tx 75372 www.aces4you.com a-ce-s@sbcglobal.net Consulting, assessments, parent and staff training, and program development for young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other. All About Achievement Consulting 110 W. Sandy Lake Dr, Suite 102 PMB195 Coppell Tx 75019 (972) 979-9720 asosa@allaboutachievement.com Allen Counseling Associates 1506 N. Greenville Ave, Suite 250 Allen Tx 75002 (972) 979-9720 www.allencounselingassociates.com nietert2003@hotmail.com Certified School Counselors and Licensed Professional Counselor providing advocacy/education for parents working with school districts whose children have mental health issues. ASK-Advocating Solutions for Kids 1419 Kings Hwy Dallas Tx 75208 (214) 793-6352 www.askadvocate.org Kathy@ASKadvocate.org ASK is a private advocacy service for children who are experiencing difficulty in school or need community resources. Our mission is to find solutions. Cornerstone Assessment and Guidanc Center, LP 1213 Hall Johnson Rd, Suite 200 Colleyville Tx 76034 (817) 428-9810 www.cagelp.com drbeth@cagclp.com Dr. Lusby is a psychologist, licensed in Texas since 1998. She provides assessment and treatment for children and adolescents. Services provided are evidence based and adapted to individual needs. Diagnostic Learning Services 1400 Preston Rd, Suite 400 Plano Tx 75093 (972) 491-5408 www.diagnosticlearningservices.com lauriegaines@diagnosticlerningservices.com Our services focus on the diagnosis of specific learning disabilities (including Dysexia and ADHD) as well as college planning for high school students with disabilities. 60 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Educational Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Tell Them That Connections Sent You!

Educational Diagnostician and Counsultant 600 S. Denton Tap Rd, Suite 122 Coppell Tx 75019 (214) 674-0881 GoToFocus Centers 7405 Lola Dr N. Richland Hlls Tx 76180 (817) 706-2562 www.gotofocuscom rodger.bailey@gotofocus.com Consulting is Developmental Disability and Developmental Delay. we help you find what is blocking your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development and you put the developmental process back on track. Johnson Neuropsychology 1422 W. Main Street Suite 205 Lewisville Tx 75067 info@johsonneuro.com Learning Legacy, Inc 8816 Ashcraft Dr. N. Richland Hlls Tx 76180 (817) 498-6133 www.learninglegacyline.com info@learninglegacyinc.com Professional development for educations, agencies and families on a specialized topics re: special education issues. Little Giant Steps 3364 Lanarc Dr. Plano Tx 75023 (972) 78-1260 www.littlegiantsteps.com cj@littlegiantsteps.com An educational consulting group who eliminates learning issues utilizing the Neurodevelopmental Approach. Little Giant Steps has provided effective non-drug programs since 1992.

Join the Conversation Today! Become Our Fan On Facebook! www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011 61

Educational Resources Directory

Dr. Ifenyi A. Ufondu, PhD - Educ. Psychologist 1914 Santa Anna dr Arlington Tx 76001 (817) 866-044 (310) 5905898 drufondu@gmail.com ARD representation, independent educational/vocational assessments, transition planning. One on One Instruction, counseling.

Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Rich Educational Consulting, LLC (972) 447-8390 www.richeducationalconsulting.com Perform psycho-educational and autism evaluations, behavior screenings and social thinking groups. Special Education Solutions 8816 Ashcraft dr Ft. Worth Tx 76180 (817) 498-6133 mbond@SmithwareNetworks.net Fee based consulting with specialty in Assistive Technology evaluations, training, and ongoing support as well as all Autism Spectrum Disorders. RESNA certified Assistive Technology Practitioner. The Learning Center of North Texas 1701 River Run Road, Suite 710 Ft. Worth Tx 76107 (817) 336-0808 www.thelearningcenterofnt.org The Learning Center is a Regional Resource Center for children and adults with learning differences. Johnson Neuropsychology 1422 W. Main Street Suite 205 Lewisville Tx 75067 info@johsonneuro.com

Home School Resources Minds Matter Phone: 972-567-4150 Email: Contact@mindsmattereducation.com www.mindsmattereducation.com Through Educational Coaching, Creative Enrichment Classes and Individualized Learning Assistance; we cater to learners as individuals and families as a whole. We have teachers certified, trained and experienced in all areas of learning. Our name says it all. Minds matterâ&#x20AC;Ś and that is at the heart of everything we do!

Specialized Schools / Private Schools / Preschools A Child Can Do All Things - Conductive Educational Center 12870 Hillcrest Rd, Suite H-101 Dallas Tx 75230 (972) 788-2856 www. accdat.org Achievement Center of Texas 2950 N. Shiloh Road Garland Tx 75044 (972) 414-7700 Daycare and a learning center for children and adults with disabilities18 months to adult.

Educational Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Tell Them That Connections Sent You!

Bridge Builder Academy 520 E. Central Pkwy E, Suite 101 Plano Tx 75074 Daytime: 972-516-8844 After Hours: 214-405-9843. www.bridgebuilderacademy.com info@bridgebuilderacademy.com (See Our Ad on PG 13) BBA is a new kind of school…a PRIVATE SCHOOL, that specializes in individualized “Full Time” Programs, “Home School Assistance” programs, “Supplemental Education” programs for those who need to catch up or get ahead, and “Homework Assistance” for those working in other schools already and needing a little reinforcement after hours. We are the “third option’ beyond public and private schools for your child’s education, and our primary goal is to blend the authenticity of individualized education with the validity of accredited curriculum and certified instruction. Chases’s Place 14210 Marsh Lane Addison Tx 75001 (972) 243-2676 www.chasesplace.org chasesplace@sbcglobal.net Chase’s Place is a private school serving kids with a variety of special needs including autism, mental retardation and traumatic brain injury. Covenant Presbyterian Weekday School 1700 S. Josey Lane Carollton Tx 75006 (972) 242-2259 Serves 6 months - 4 years. Program is for typical children, but has a very small ration. The director and teachers have accommodated children with special needs and behavioral issues with warmth and enthusiasm. Dallas Day School (214) 828-9900 www,myschoolonline.com dallasservices@earthlink.org A program offered by Dallas Services serving those with developmental disabilities of all ages. fees are based on a sliding scale. Also see Dallas Services. E’s Haven Academy 813 Ryan Rd Dallas Tx 75224 (214) 374-7443 Inclusive day care for 0-6 years. www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

Connections • 2011 63

Educational Resources Directory

Behavior Exchange Family Support Group 6105 Windcom Ct Ste. 400 Plano TX 75093 972-312-8733 (See Our Ad on PG 69)

Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Easter Seals Texas Star Academy 303 W. Nash Street Grapevine, TX 76051 817-424-9797 www.ntx.easterseals.com info@ntx.easterseals.com The Texas Star Academy is a fully inclusive, Walden replicated preschool program open to both children with autism and typically developing children ages 18 months to 5 years. The Texas Star Academy is the only program in Texas to provide an inclusive, licensed toddler and preschool program in which ABA treatment is fully embedded and supervised by a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. (See our Main Ad on Page 47) E’s Haven Academy 813 Ryan Rd Dallas Tx 75224 (214) 374-7443 Inclusive day care for 0-6 years. Family Play School 10453 N. Central Expressway Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 265-8585 Inclusive day care for 0-12 years. Medications, breathing treatments given. Grayson County Rehabilitation Center 1216 Hillcrest Box 453 Sherman Tx 75090 (903) 893-7457 Serves 2 to 5 years. Great Lakes Academy 6000 Custer Rd. Building 7 Plano Tx 75023 (972) 517-7498 ext. 103 www.greatlakesacademy.com grtlakesacademy@aol.com For children with various Learning Differences, Asperger’s Syndrome and or AD/HD, Great Lakes Academy, an accredited, non-profit, K-12 (See Our Ad on PG 09) private school, offers its’ students a positive school experience. GLA also provides its’ students the opportunity to develop: • An appreciation for their own uniqueness • Self-confidence and self-worth via successful learning experiences, social skills lessons and positive reinforcement. • Coping skills to assist them in becoming effective students. • A sense of accountability and responsibility for their own academic experience. Utilizing small class sizes, multi-sensory teaching methods and a well trained and caring faulty, Great Lakes Academy is an excellent alternative school choice!

64 Connections • 2011

Educational Resources

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Educational Resources Directory

Green Oaks School 5508 Chaperito Trail Arlington Tx 76016 (817) 496-5100 www.greenoaksschool.org Head Start of Greater Dallas 3954 Gannon Lane Dallas Tx (972) 283-6400 www.hsgd.org HEAD START of Greater Dallas, Inc (HSGD) is the seventh largest nonprofit program in Dallas. The agency currently serves more than 4,000 children and families at 37 centers located throughout Dallas County. Hill School 4817 Odessa Ave Fort Worth TX 76133 Phone: 817-923-9482 Ext. 110 Email: lhutyra@hillschool.org Web: www.hillschool.org Hill School is a college preparatory, full-service school for bright students who learn differently, with two campuses, Southwest Fort Worth and Grapevine. Our exceptional faculty emphasize intensive small group instruction in core subject areas to ensure that all students have an opportunity to reach their full academic potential. Our students explore interests and affinities through athletics, fine arts (drama, visual arts, music, band), and a wide variety of community inbolvement activities (See our Main Ad on Page 10) Jewish Community Center Preschool 7900 Northhaven Dallas Tx 12 months-5 years (Some Special Needs) Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;abri Learning Center 13408 Kit Lane Dallas Tx 75240 (972) 235-4791 Inclusive daycare and after-school care for 12 mo to 12 years. (Speech) Meadowview School 2419 Franklin Dr Mesquite Tx 75150 (972) 289-1831 www.meadowviewschool.com myschool@tx.twcbc.com Newfound School 2206 Heads Lane, Suite 11 Carrollton Tx 75006 (214) 390-749 www.ConnectionsKids.com

Educational Resources

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Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Notre Dame School of Dallas 2018 Allen Dallas Tx 75204 (214) 720-3911 www.notredameschool.org tfrancis@notredameschool.org St. Timothy Christian Academy 1501 Avenue H Plano TX 75074 972-509-7822 mwhitaker@staplano.org www.staplano.org The mission of St. Timothy Academy is to educate students in grades K-9th needing a non-traditional approach for academic success in a redemptive Christian setting while providing hope and support for their families. We use innovative teaching methods and approaches to educate students with learning differences including ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, processing disorders, spectrum disorders such as PDD-NOS and Asperger’s, mood disorders and sensory integration disorder. (See our Main Ad on Page 12 )

Teach MeLLC (Combining ABA & Speech) Teach Me Academy 2459 East Hebron Parkway, Ste 160 Carrollton, TX 75010 (See Our Ad on PG 54) Phone - (972) 282-1872 Fax - (888) 237-2214 www.teachmebec.com As your “partner”we design highly individualized programing to meet the needs of your child. Whether through our Academy, In-home program or a combination, we are interested in your child’s whole development with the goal to make learning meaning! We take great pride in our services and our commitment is to provide you with the best of ABA and Speech services. At Teach Me LLC, you will work directly with BCBAs and SLPs on an ongoing basis to maximize progress! Texas School of the Deaf 1102 South Congress Ave Austin Tx 78764 (512) 462-5300 www.tsd.state.tx.us The ARC of Dallas (214) 634-9810, ext 106 aallen@arcdallas.org The Flint Academy 2111 Roosevelt Dr Arlington Tx (817) 277-0620 www.Flintacademy.com paulaflint@sbcglobal.net 66 Connections • 2011

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The Jane Justin School at The Child Study Center 1300 W. Lancaster Fort Worth Tx 76102 (817) 390-2831 www. cscfw.org kedwards@cscfw.org The Little Lighthouse - Denton 37 Oak Forrest Circle Denton TX (940) 591-7092 The Rise School of Dallas 5923 Royal Lane Dallas Tx 75230 (214) 373-4666 www.riseschool.org/dallas risedal@swbell.net The Shelton School 15720 Hilldrest Rd Dallas Tx 75248 (972) 774-1772 UCP Dallas/preschool program 8802 Harry Hines Blvd Dallas Tx 75235 (214) 247-4538 shaunaclaggion@ucpdallas.org UTD/Callier Center - Dallas 1966 Inwood Rd Dallas Tx 75235 (214) 905-3000 (214) 905-3030 - appointments www.callier.utdalls.edu For hearing impaired and regular students. UTD/Callier Center - Richardson 811 Synergy Park Blvd Richadson Tx 75080 (972) 883-3630 Appointments TDD: (972) 883-3605 www.callier.utdallas.edu For hearing impaired and regular students Vanguard Preparatory School 4240 Sigma Road Dallas Tx 75244 www.vanguardprepschool.com rosalind@vanguardprepschool.com

(See Our Ad on PG 11)

Since 1993, Vanguard Preparatory School has been serving children with social, emotional and learning differences in the greater Dallas community. We provide a therapeutic program with individualized instruction for each child from pre-kindergarten through the 12th grade. At Vanguard, we believe that all students have unique potential and will achieve when appropriate behavior is practiced daily in a caring and therapeutic environment. For our students, success is measured by growth, attitude and effort.

(See Our Ad on PG 13)

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Educational Resources

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Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Sign Language Instruction Baby Signs® with Sybil www.babysignsprogram.com/withsybil sybil.lane@babysignsprogram.com Find me on Facebook & Twitter 817-718-2876 Baby Signs® with Sybil provides Parent Workshops, Potty Training Workshops, Sign, Say and Play Classes (6m-2yrs), On the Grow Classes (infant/toddler/preschool), ECE/Professional/Nanny Certifications and Enrichment Classes. Baby Signs® is the original sign language program for hearing babies. Helping babies “talk” before they can talk!

Special Education Lawyers & Advocates

Advocacy, Inc 7800 Shoal Creek Blvd, Suite 171-E Austin Tx 78757 (512) 454-4816 (800) 252-9108 www.advocacyinc.org The mission of Advocacy, Inc is to advocate for, protect, and shared the legal, human and service rights of people with disabilities. Advocate - Lone Star Mom 501 Trophy lake Dr, Suite 314-114 Trophy Club Tx 76262 (817) 707-9093 www.lonestarmom.com lonestarmom@mac.com As an Education Advocate, i work with parents to find answers. I believe in advocating for the child to first.

AFNIC (Association for Neorologically Impaired Children) 301 Park Lane Austin Tx 78704-2412 (512) 444-1641 www.afniconline.org AFNIC’s advocates for children with neurological disabilities and provides five main services for these children: parent training, teacher training, peer training, attendance at ARD meetings. Beautiful Minds, Inc P.O. Box 173261 Arlington Tx 76001-3261 (817) 886-0044 www.beautifulmndsinc.com info@beautifulmindsinc.com Special needs Advocacy emphasizing Educating, Empowering and Exposing the invisibility children with Learning Disabilities encounter in throughout the DFW Metroplex.

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Lolalee E. Livingston 2809 Regal Rd, Suite 103 Plano Tx 75075 (972) 758-9123 www.letseducate.org lolalee.livingston@letseducate.org Education/Child Consultant/advocate bringing 28 years experience to providing Advocacy Consultation/Representation in ARD’s. Our goal is to educate parents while assisting them in advocating for their child’s educational needs. Myrna B. Silver, Esq 10501 N. Central Expressway, Suite 301 Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 365-0050 silvralaw@airmail.net Our firm provides legal services to parents of children with special educational needs. Partners Resource Network, Inc 1090 Longfellow Dr, Suite B Beaumont Tx 77706 (800) 866-4726 www.partnerstx.org partnersresouce@sbcglobal.net Our mission at Partners Resources Network, Inc is to empower parents of children with disabilities to be effective advocates for their children and to promote parent/professional partnerships. www.ConnectionsKids.com

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Educational Resources Directory

Educational Rescue Online 3068 Misty Ridge Lane Rockwall Tx 75032 (469) 879-0014 (469) 293-4697 www.educationalrescueonline.com johnny@educationalrescueonline.com LeBeau Consulting and Mediation 5312 Benbridge Dr Fort Worth Tx 76107 (817) 377-8172 (817) 602-5446 lindalabeau@sbcglobal.net Special education mediation, IEP/ARD facilitation and consulting for school record review to prepare for ARD meetings for parents with children with special education needs. Leslie R. Roberts, Esq 8000 Coit Rd, #300-224 Plano Tx 75025 (469) 682-7305 www.leslierroberts.com leslie179@msn.com Parent of special needs child and attorney/mediator provides special education legal services, including representation during mediation, to parents of special needs children.

Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Students 1st 5310 Lafayette Dr Frisco Tx 75035 (469) 363-2247 www.students1st.org stevesteen@students1st.org We are parent advocates. We attend ARD/IEP/504 meetings with the parent and speak on their behalf to the public school.

ISD Support Groups / Special Education PTA’s Arlington Special Education PTSA www.aseptsa.org Frisco SAGE www.friscosage.com friscosage@gmail.com Plano Sage www.pptasage.com sage@planopta.com Collin County Special Education Cooperative 1404 N. McDonald St McKinney Tx 75071 (972) 548-3200 www.ccsec.org bethvincent@ccsec.org Provides all special education services including evaluation, therapies and instruction for Anna, Blue Ridge, Community, Farmersville, Lovejoy, Melissa, Prosper and Wylies ISD’s Education Service Center, Region X (10) 400 E. Spring Valley Rd Richadson Tx 75081 (972) 348-1536 www.ednet10.net veronica.harris@region10.org Nonprofit agency that assists school districts and families by providing workshops, information gathering meetings and other resources. Counties that Region 10 cover are Dallas, Ellis, Kaufman, Rockwall, Hunt, Collin, Fannin and Grayson. Greater Lewisville Special Education PTSA 4608 Oak Springs Dr Flower Mound Tx 75028 (469) 293-6343 www.lisd-septsa.org Serving parents, teachers and others who have an interest in Special Education in the Lewisville ISD area. We offer educational programs, parent mentoring, group meetings a local Service Provider Directory and also an online email list. 70 Connections • 2011

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Berry Family Services 4702 Rowlett Road Rowlett Tx 75088 (972) 412-4707 www.berryfamilyservices.com (See Our Ad on PG 36) jessica@berryfamilyservices.com Berry Family Services is an HCS (Home and Community based service), TXML (Texas Home Living), and GR (General Revenue) Provider that Serves individuals with Mental Retardation. Berry Family Services is owned and operated by the Berry Family whose objective is to provide quality services to the “whole” person with disabilities and their family. Our consumers deserve exceptional service and value when it comes to meeting their personal needs. Berry Family Services will take the time to gain a full appreciation of the unique challenges presented by your personal situations. Most importantly, we possess the knowledge and expertise to provide solutions that meet your needs. We are dedicated to helping our consumers help themselves through services and supports designed to meet their individual needs and choices. Programs Serving: Dallas County, Tarrant County, Rockwall County, Collin County, Denton County, Cooke County, Fannin County, Grayson County, Henderson County, Rains County, Smith County, Van Zandt County, Wood County, Camp County, Delta County, Franklin County, Hopkins County, Kaufman County, Lamar County, Morris County, Titus County, Johnson-Ellis-Navarro

Counties, and Hunt County.

College Living Experience (CLE) 1321 Murfreesboro Pike, Suite 702 Nashville TN 37217 (800) 486-5058 Austin Campus: (512) 850-7445, Shelly Underwood www.experienceCLE.com sunderwood@esa-education.com College Living Experience (CLE) is the premier college program for special needs students, facilitating independent living for students with learning disabilities. Crystal Dyess-Carroll 1221 Goldeneye Dr Aubry Tx 76227 (940) 768-8001 www.cognitivedevelopment.pbworks.com bdyess99@hotmail.com My name is Crystal Dyess-Carroll. Being a resource partner is a great opportunity for me because it will give me the chance to better help our community of people with disabilities It is important to me that the passion of advocating is passed on to families and guardians who provide care for individuals with disabilities.

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Educational Resources Directory

Transitional Services

Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Daybreak, Inc 3901 N. Dallas Ave Lancaster Tx 75134 (972) 22403554 Operates residential programs serving adults with mental retardation and offers vocational, personal/ social and recreational services. Located in the Lancaster, DeSoto, Duncanville area. Educare - North Texas Office 8925 Sterling Dr, Suite 250 Irving Tx 75063 (972) 929-5000 www.rescare.com Private corporation that provides services for people with developmental disabilities. Specializes in community based residential programs, In-Home and Family support services, foster care and supervised semi-independent living arrangements. Goodwill Industries of Dallas, Inc 3020 N. Westmoreland Dallas Tx 75212 (214) 638-2800 www.goodwilldallas.org give@goodwilldallas.org Offers rehabilitation services in a vocational workshop for adults (ages 16 and older) with disabilities. Services include vocational evaluation, counseling, training, sheltered and competitive employment and fulfillment/outsourcing opportunities. Goodwill Industries of North Texas 2010 N. Graves McKinney Tx 75069 (972) 542-3721 Marbridge P.O. Box 2250 Manchaca Tx 78652 (512) 282-1144 www.marbridge.org Offers individualized residential care, education, and training to adults with various cognitive challenges. At lease 18 years of age for training. Summer Camp 16-30 years. Mosaic 2245 Midway Rd, Suite 300 Carrollton Tx 75006 (972) 866-9989 (877) 366-7242 www.mosaicinfo.org A nonprofit, nation-wide organization dedicated to providing supports and advocacy to people with disabilities. Offers supported employment, in home supports, HCS, Texas Home Living Waiver and ICFMR programs, advocacy, day services and Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s services Funded through Medicaid, corporate/ foundtion grants, fundraising and donations. mosaic is affiliated with evangical Lutheran Church of America. 72 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

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nonPareil Insitute P.O Box 260652 Plano Tx 75026 (972) 467-0713 www.npitx.org jlynn@npitx.org We provide training to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder who have completed High School. Plans are to provide housing as well. North Texas Rehabilitation Services, Inc 3902 Cavalier Dr Garland Tx 75042 (972) 272-6526 www.ntrsinc.com better.choice@verizon.net Nonprofit agency providing work adjustment training for adults with physical and mental disabilities through vocational training opportunities, personal-social adjustment classes, on-the-job training, supportive employment and day habilitation services.

Educational / Developmental Toys Kidcore Toys 4001 Arlington Highlands Blvd. Ste. 161 Arlington TX 76018 817-548-0498 charlotte@kidcoretoys.com www.kidcoretoys.com Ensure your child has the most effective and most fun educational kid’s toys! At KidcoreToys.com, we choose only the best children’s toys. Check out educational toys resources to learn more about great kid’s developmental toys!

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Educational Resources Directory

My Possibilites 1301 Cluster Road Plano Tx 75075 (469) 241-9100 www.mypossibilities.org director@mypossibilities.org Non-Profit, Charity for Adults with developmental disabilities. Full Day,full year programs builds independence and pre-vocation skills. Ages 18+. Summer Programs available.

Educational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Tutoring / Brain Training Creative Tutors 4 Kids Plano 5820 Lennox Hill dr Plano Tx 75093 (972) 378-5700 www.creativetutors4kids.com janc@creativetutors-4kids.com Lindamood-Bell 451 Travis Street Suite 302 Dallas Tx 75205 (214) 358-0688 www.lindamoodbell.com Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes is an organization dedicated to enhancing human learning. We were founded by the authors of critically acclaimed programs that teach children and adults to read, spell, comprehend, and express language. Fort Worth Scottish Rite Learning center Henderson and Lancaster Fort Worth Tx 76012 (817) 335-6004 (See Our Ad on PG 14)

Learning RX Keller 423 Keller Parkway Suite A Keller Tx 76248 (817) 562-5558 www.learningrx.com/keller jreiser@learningrx.net (See Our Ad on PG 07) Learning Rx transforms a student’s ability to learn at a core, cognitive level. The fundamental buildingblocks of IQ are the skills for audilitory processing, visual processing, logic and reasoning, attention, memory and word attack. Each of these skills can be individually tested and trained to expand a person’s actual learning capacity. Learning RX Frisco 3550 Parkwood Blvd. Frisco Tx 75034 (972) 432-6544 www.learningrx.com/frisco karen.anderson@learningrx.net Our Brain Training Center in Frisco is here to strengthen your brain so that learning and reading become easier. The way brain training works is amazing - we focus on a person’s underlying cognitive skills, strengthening and correcting weaknesses, so that the capacity to learn is increased. Come by our center, and I will personally show you around. I’d also like to share with you some stories of the way we’ve used LearningRx brain training to help many children and adults overcome their life-long learning struggles. 74 Connections • 2011

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Learning RX Plano 5136 Village Creek Dr, Suite 501 Plano Tx 75093 (972) 267-8900 www.leaningrx.com The Reading Journey 215 Winchester Suite 107 Tyler Tx 75701 (903) 581-4007 www.readingjourneytyler.com readingjourneytyler.com Reading and math tutoring for elementary students, including students with learning disabilities. Study and organizational skills included. Available for parent questions.

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Medical Supplies / Adaptive Equipment Angels of Care North Texas Office (903) 532-5656 www.angelsofcare.com Angels of Care Medical Equipment and Supplies is a pediatric medical supply company that provides a (See Our Ad on PG 16) variety of services to include durable medical equipment, supplies, track lifts, home modifications, counseling, rehab and more. All supplies and equipment are delivered to your door with a personal touch by professionally trained staff. We service over 100 counties in Texas and are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We accept most commercial insurances, Medicaid and private pay clients. Please call us for a free consultation or visit our website at www.angelsofcare.com. C&R Medical 1225 Precinct Line Rd, Suite M Hurst Tx 76053 (817) 590-8166 www.candrmedical.com C & R Medical is committed to donating a percentage of our proceeds to find non-profit organizations which provide free outdoor advantages for the disabled.

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Medical Resources

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Medical Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Medco Medical Supply 4360 Western Supply, Inc. Fort Worth Tx 76137 (866) 956-1435 www.e-medco.com dallas@medco.com Star Medical Specialties 421 W. Magnolia Ave. Fort Worth Tx 76104 (817) 920-0509 4386 Sunbelt Dr. Addison, TX 75001 (972) 380-2065 www.star-medical.net Providing over 120 specialty formulas for infants, children and adults. Exclusively specializing in Enteral Nutrition products and equipment. (See our Main Listing on Page 90)

Respiratory Equipment Joshua’s Respiratory 10874 Plano Rd Ste. A Dallas TX 75238 469-916-9354 dboswell@joshuasrci.com www.joshuarci.com Joshua’s Respiratory Care specializes in pediatric respiratory products and services. Our service area focuses on the DFW metro-plex and its surrounding counties. Our Staff is Bilingual. We are contracted with most insurance/Medicaid plans. Joshua’s is a locally owned company founded by and operated by parents of a special needs child. The Boswells started the company when good care was hard to find for their son Josh. Our mission is to provide the best care possible for each patient, and to make life a little easier for families like ours. Josh’s legacy lives on in the care we provide to patients. (See our Main Ad on Page 25 )

Assitive Technology Region 10 Gayle.McNurlen@region10.org Techno -Tote (800) 375-4520 info@arcofdentoncounty.org The ARC of Denton County offers to lend items to see a child could use a certain item for independence or pleasure. UCP Assistive Technology Center (Formerly C-CAD) 1950 N. Stemmons Freeway, Suite 2019 Dallas Tx 75207 (214) 800-2223 www.c-cadorg info@c-cad.org 76 Connections • 2011

Medical Resources

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Angels of Care North Texas Office (903) 532-5656 (903) 532-1400 West Texas Office: 806-353-2700 www.angelsofcare.com Angels of Care Pediatric Home Health is a Licensed & (See Our Ad on PG 16) Certified Home Health Agency that specializes in giving loving medical care to Special Needs Children. We are in constant search of the latest programs and resources available to approve the quality of life for our patients. As a Medicaid Provider, we are part of the following programs: CCP, CHSCN, MDCP, CBA, PCS, CDS, & CPW. The services we provide for these programs are Private Duty Nursing, Skilled Nursing, Attendant Care, Therapy (PT, OT, ST, and RT), and Case Management. Please call for a free consultation. ANGELS OF CARE IIS A PROVIIDER FOR: • CSHCN • SUPERIIOR • MEDIICAIID • MEDIICARE • INSURANCE • PRIIVATE PAY • CCP • MDCP • CBA • EVERCARE (ICM) • CDS • PCS • IHFSS At Home Healthcare 9846 Hwy 31 East Tyler TX 75705 1-877 MY NURSE www.athomehealthcare.org At Home Healthcare is committed to assisting children and their families to receive necessary care in the familiar setting of the child’s home. Care is tailored for each patient by professionals who have chosen pediatrics as their specialty. Skilled Nursing Services includes a team of healthcare professionals who work with your child to provide nursing care and caregiver education. Private Duty Services allow for more comprehensive care of children with chronic illnesses. Our team assists you in maintaining your medically fragile child at home and will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan. (See Our Ad on PG 19)

Epic MedStaff 1341 W. Mockingbird #216 Dallas Tx 75247 Dallas: (214) 637-1300 | Addison: (214) 623-5900 | Fort Worth: (817) 698-9500 www.epicmedstaff.com (See Our Ad on PG 22) Epic is a family conscious company that understands the struggles and daily challenges of caring for a medically fragile child in the home. Epic specializes in caring for these children by providing a safe environment that nourishes the physical and mental development of each child with special needs. There is no greater joy than hearing your child laugh, or seeing a smile, and knowing that we were a part o that by providing specialized care that your child needs and deserves.

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Medical Resources

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Medical Resources Directory

Private Duty Nursing

Medical Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! First Choice Childrens Homecare 1255 W 15th Street Suite 815 Plano Tx 75075 Ph: (972) 673-0404 (See Our Ad on PG 18) Toll Free: 1-866-889-3500 | Fax: (972) 673-0420 www.ehhi.com “A Better Way to Care” Locations: Dallas, Temple, Midland, Austin, San Antonio, Houston Specializing in neonatal and pediatric homecare services, First Choice Children’s Homecare provides very special care for very special children. Special care begins with special caregivers, and that is exactly what you will find in our team of local medical professionals. With years of experience, First Choice is committed to helping our special children and their families reach their optimum level of health and well being. First Choice Children’s Homecare continually strives to always provide innovative, unmatched care. Maxim Healthcare Services 2501 Parkview Dr. Suite 404 Fort Worth Tx 76102 (817) 877-0904 www.maxhealth.com jojones@maxhealth.com Maxim Healthcare Services has two decades of experience providing long-term, continuous care to chronically ill patients. In keeping with the exemplary standards of the homecare industry, our offices are licensed, as required, and are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC). Our staff is trained to work with the patient’s Physician and family to implement a plan of treatment and ensure continuity of care. Maxim Healthcare Services employees RNs and LVNs specializing in Private Duty Nursing caring for high tech needs such as Ventilators, Tracheotomy, and Gastrostomy. (See Our Ad on PG 24) MSN HomeCare 214-341-3796 www.msnhomecare.com HomeCare@MSNHealth.com Texas • Amarillo • Austin • Dallas • Laredo • Lubbock • San Antonio • Temple • Tyler MSN HomeCare is a licensed nursing agency specializing in the care of medically fragile (vents/trach/gtube) children in DFW and throughout Texas. We provide customized care (4hr. minimum) to support our clients. All major payers accepted including Pediatric Medicaid/HMO’s and MDCP respite hours. For information or to refer someone, call 214-341-3796.

Specializing in Pediatric Private

Pediatric Home Healthcare

Pediatric Hom high quality, c your medically care for your f

7800 N. Stemmons Frwy. Ste. 370 Dallas TX 75247 972-630-4810 info@pediatrichomehealthcare.com www.pediatrichomehealthcare.com

Contac www.pediatrichomehealth

Pediatric Home Healthcare, LLC (PHH) is a new and innovative Pediatric Skilled Private Duty Nursing Agency. PHH will deliver superior customer service while making your child and family our #1 priority. We will go above and beyond for our clients and provide top-notch patient care! Our nurses are available in person 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and our Director of Patient Care Services can be reached by phone 24 hours a day. When selecting a home healthcare provider to care for your child, please choose Pediatric Home Healthcare, LLC! At PHH, kids come first! (See Our Ad on PG 22) 78 Connections • 2011

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! 8200 Brookriver Dr Dallas TX 75247 214-378-5009 www.psahealthcare.com

PSA Healthcare is the leading provider of pediatric home care services for medically fragile children. We also offer in-home options for adults with medically fragile conditions. Our services provide care for individuals that allow them to be at home. PSA Healthcare has over 3100 skilled caregivers, providing professional, high quality, private duty nursing to patients in over 50 locations in 17 states. (See our Main Listing on Page 26) Vivicare Health Partners 255 N. Center St #102 Arlington TX 76011 817-265-0900 www.vivicarehealth.com

Vivicare Health Partners specializes in private duty nursing for medically fragile children and provides highly skilled staff for children who require virtually any specialized need including ventilator, tracheostomy and gastrostomy care. We are here to be an extension of your “care family”and take great pride in partnering with you to find nurses that are a match for both you and your child. We offer an array of services with a focus on continuity of care and your child’s unique needs. At Vivicare we are “bringing care to life!” (See our Main Ad on Page 27) Viva Pediatrics 8150 N Central Expy Ste. 780 Dallas Tx 75206 (972) 861-1000 www.vivapeds.com info@vivapeds.com

5600 Tennyson Parkway, Suite360 Plano, TX 75024 (469) 341-7772

VIVA Pediatrics is a nurse owned homecare provider of Private Duty Nursing for kids with fragile medical conditions. VIVA’s highly skilled nurses adapt to the unique needs of each family and provide compassionate medical care. Our nurses are often described as “part of the family.” VIVA Pediatrics, where kids come home! We specialize in care of patients with the following: BIPAPs, Pulse OX, Apnea Monitors, Infusion Therapy, Seizure Disorders, Tracheostomy Care, Ventilators, Oxygen Therapy, Nebulizers, NG tube, G-Tube, IPV, cough-assist, TPN, CPAPs. VIVA accepts both state and private insurance plans. (See our Main Ad on Page 20-21 )

Hyperbaric Chambers In Home H-Bot Dallas Tx (817) 400-2762 www.inhomehbot.com (See Our Ad on PG 28) Info@inhomehbot.com We are dedicated to providing quality, low cost hyperbaric therapy in your home. Hyperbaric chambers do require a doctors prescription. Please visit our website to learn more www.inhomehbot.com or call us today at 817-400-2762 Allergist

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Medical Resources

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Medical Resources Directory

PSA Healthcare

Medical Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Family Allergy & Asthma Clinic 3051 Churchill Dr, Suite 130 Flower Mound Tx 75022 (972) 539-0086 www.breatheseasy.com Kotasanis Institute 2020 W. State Hwy 114 Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 405-0292 (877) 606-7601 www.KotsanisInstitute.com Info@kotsanisinstitute.com See our description on page 96

(See Our Ad on PG 18)

NeuroSensory Centers of America- Trophy 2800 E. Hwy 114 Suite 300 Trophy Club Tx 76262 (817) 430-3330 www.neurosensorycenters.com

Cardiology Texas Pediatric Cardiology Associates 8210 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 915 Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 363-0000 (214) 3663-5240

Defeat Autism Now! Allergy and Asthma Treatment Center, Dr. Rao 3016 Communications Parkway Suite 100 Plano Tx 75093 (972) 964-7373 www.allergyandasthmatreatmentcenter.com Johnson Medical Associates 997 Hampshire Lane Richardson Tx 75081 (972) 479-0400 www.johnsonmedicalassociates.com

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Nutritional and metabolic treatment for (See Our Ad on PG 18) symptoms and behaviors. For 25 years we have been treating all forms of the spectrum disorders and have done so since 1983, twelve years before i became a founding member of DAN. My first study in 1992 which connected allergies and digestive disorders to autism came about because I was practicing otolaryngology and allergy. Over the years we have been able to help children and families with spectrum disorders achieve the best possible outcome for their particular diagnosis. Call us today, we will send you our free infomation packet. Thoughtful House 3001 Bee Cave Rd Austin Tx 78746 (512) 732-8400 www.thoughfulhouse.org Thoughtful House is fighting to recover children with developmental disorders (autism, PDD, Asperger’s Syndrome, ADD, ADHD, and NLD) through the unique combination of medical care, education and research. Whole Child Wellness, Dr. Amber Brooks 14330 Midway Road Suite 116 Dallas TX 75244 Phone: 469-547-1173 www.mychildwellness.com Dr. Amber Brooks, Certified Pediatric Chiropractor, Craniosacral Therapist and Defeat Autism Now! (DAN) Doctor, bridges alternative and traditional medicine by providing individualized (See Our Ad on PG 17) and comprehensive approaches to pediatric wellness, while utilizing homeopathic detoxification, necessary nutritional supplements, dietary changes & counseling, Craniosacral therapy, chiropractic adjustments, laboratory testing/evaluation to discover the origination of complications in children, treatment for bacterial/fungus overgrowth, and chelation. Dr. Brooks collaborates with other specialists to help facilitate faster healing. Diagnosing the problem not just treating the symptoms is the focus of Whole Child Wellness!

Dentist Children’s Medical Center for Pediatric Dentistry 6300 Harry Hines Boulevard Suite 105 Dallas Tx 75235 (214) 456-8800

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Medical Resources

Connections • 2011

Medical Resources Directory

Kotasanis Institute 2020 W. State Hwy 114 Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 405-0292 (877) 606-7601 www.KotsanisInstitute.com Info@kotsanisinstitute.com

Medical Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Dental Care 4 Kids 2900 Long Prairie Rd. Suite C Flower Mound, Tx 75022 ( 972) 874-2800 www.dentalcareforkidstexas.com Dr. Debra Duffy D.D.S. 2849 Morriss Rd. Flower Mound, Tx 75028 (972) 724-1617 www.debraduffydds.com info@debraduffydds.com Dr. Matthew Coats, Orthodontist 3041 Churchill Drive Ste 100 Flower Mound Tx 75022 (972) 691-8118 www.coatsorthodontics.com Tracey.coats@coatsorthodontics.com Dr. Yvette V. Dye 2548 Lillian Miller Pkwy, Suite 120 Denton Tx 76205 (940) 380-9050 www.dentonpediatricdentist.com Just For Kids Dentistry for Children 601 Main St Suite 220 Keller Tx 76248 (817) 741-8390 www.justforkidsdentistry.com Fun, Comfortable Experiances: Over 30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience caring for patients with special needs

Developmental Pediatricians Charles Mike Rios M.D. 1422 West Main Street Suite 206 Lewisville Tx 75067 (972) 786-6665 www.developmentalpediatricstexas.com thinnerdirac@yahoo.com Dr. Mike has practiced developmental pediatrics since 1990. He serves children with ADHD, anxiety, auditory processing disorders, Autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, depression, language disorders, learning disabilities, mood disorders. Child Study Center 1300 W Lancaster Ave # 100 Fort Worth Tx 76102 (817) 336-8611 www.cscfw.org/about Interdisciplinary Dev. Clinic. 82 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Medical Resources

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Daniel Ramirez, M.D. 6200 West Parker Rd. #400 Plano Tx 75093 (972) 608-0200 Developmental Behavioral & Dyslexia Child Development Center (214) 559-7816 Kathryn Akins M.D. Tyler Tx (903) 877-5270 Lisa Genecove, MD 7777 Forest Lane, B-312 Dallas Tx (972) 566-8466 Low Birth Weight Dev. Center 321-A Calumet Ave. Dallas Tx 75211 (972) 740-7445 Peter Ray, MD 8300 Douglas Ave #731 Dallas Tx 75225 (214) 739-8600 LD/ADHD Evaluations Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children: Neuro-developmental Pediatrics (214) 559-7855 Requires referral from physician due to orthopedic condition, related neurological disorder or learning disability.

(See Our Ad on PG 14)

The Center for Learning & Development 190 Civic Circle, Suite 120 Lewisville Tx 75067 (972) 353-0733 (972) 434-4445 www.cldkids.com

Gastrointestinal Annette Whitney M.D. 7777 forest Lane #B-304 Dallas Tx 75230 (972) 566-8844 John Anderson, M.D. Dept. of Pediatric Gastro Dallas Tx 75235 (972) 456-8000 www.ConnectionsKids.com

Medical Resources

Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Medical Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! John Baker M.D. 4333 N. Josey Lane PLZ 11, #204 Carrollton Tx 75010 (972) 394-5757 Kendall Brown 7777 forest Lane #B-304 Dallas Tx 75230 (972) 566-8844 Michael Russo Children’s Medical Center - Dallas 1935 Motor St. Dallas Tx 75235 (214) 456-4463

Genetics Golder Wilson MD, PhD 3608 Preston Road, Suite 125 Plano Tx 75093 (972) 312-0440

Neurology & Psychology Charles Pryzant, MD Psychiatrist 3928 Forest Ln., Suite 417 Dallas Tx 75230 (972) 661-8739 Children’s Medical Center Psychology Department (214) 456-5900 Cornerstone Assessment & Guidance Center, LP 1215 Hall Johnson Rd., Ste. 100 Colleyville Tx 76034 (817) 428-9810 www.cagclp.com DrBeth@cagclp.com Dallas Pediatric Neurology Associates: Dr. Owen & Dr. Sperry 7777 Forest Ln., Suite A-307 Dallas Tx 75230 (972) 566-8600 Dr. Lisa Pierce 105 Kathryn Dr. Suite 300 Lewisville Tx 75067 (972) 221-7722 Dr. Stephen Allen sallen@cldkids.com Family & individual therapy, Attention Deficit Disorder, anxiety & mood disorders, substance abuse, school difficulties 84 Connections • 2011

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H. Denise Wooten, Psy.D. Psychologist 1422 W. Main St., Suite 206 Lewisville Tx 75067 (972) -436-6158 Adjustment disorders, Anxiety disorders, Depression/dysthymia, Psychological testing, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorders James Terfruchte, MD Psychiatrist 9400 N. Central Expressway. Suite 1675 Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 696-3161 Johnson Neuropsychology 1422 W. Main Street Suite 205 Lewisville Tx 75067 (469) 549-4200 www.johnsonneuro.com info@johsonneuro.com Specializing in the diagnosis of children and adults for developmental, mood, learning, memory, and attention disorders. Our assessment approach is comprehensive and individualized- no “one assessment fits all” approach. Neuropsychology Center 9400 N. Central Expy. Suite 904 Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 373-3607 Michael S. McLane Psy. D. 12830 Hillcrest Road Suite 233 Dallas Tx 75230 (972) 620-1225 www.dfwpedneuropsych.com michaelsmclane@sbcglobal.net Pate Rehab Offers Neuropsychological Assessments- see listing in OT/PT category Texas Child Neurology 1708 Coit Rd., Suite 150 Plano Tx 75075 (972) 769-9000 www.texaschildneurology.com Texas Child Neurology 1643 Lancaster, Suite 304 Grapevine Tx 76051

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Medical Resources

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Medical Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Optometry Dr. George Beauchamp Pediatric Ophthalmologist Grapevine Tx (817) -329-5433 Neurodevelopmental Sensory Enhancement Center 5934 W. Parker Rd., Suite 500 Plano Tx 75093 (972) 312-0177 www.dr-s.net

Our office is a highly specialized vision care practice. The bulk of the practice is devoted to treating those with visual processing problems. Included in this group are children and adults with add/adhd, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder, genetic defects, developmental delays, low vision, lazy eye (amblyopia), strabismus, traumatic and acquired brain injury, stroke (CVA), cancer and vestibular issues. We also do the full range of family eye care including routine examination, disease management, Lasik and refractive surgery consultation, contact lenses and sports vision. Additionally, we have a full service optical to serve your eyeglasses and contact lens needs. (See our Main Ad on Page 17) Dr. Elliot Stendig

Therapeutic Optometrist Vision Rehab Diplomate By American Board of Disability Analysts ( 972 ) 494 -2020

Successfully treating the Vision Brain Conflict and all visual learning processing problems including ADD/ ADHD, dyslexia, aspergers, autism, brain injury, seizures, migraines, headaches, pain in back of neck, amblyopia ( lazy eye ), strabismus (crossed eyes), car sickness and color blindness. OUR GOAL IS TO IMPROVE YOUR ABILITY TO FUNCTION AND HELP YOU REACH YOUR FULL POTENTIAL . CALL TODAY AND ASK US ABOUT OUR AFFORDABLE PAYMENT PLAN. ( 972 ) 494 - 2020

Pediatricians Healthy Kids Pediatrics

4851 Legacy Dr. Ste. 301 Frisco Tx 75034 (972) 294-0808 www.healthykidspediatrics.com

Healthy Kids Pediatrics is an integrative, holistic pediatric practice, utilizing alternative and traditional approaches to medical care. Your Childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health is Our Passion! Board Certified in Pediatrics | Health Care for Infants, Children and AdolescentsHolistic Approach to Health | Special Interest in Autism and Asthma Extensive Counseling and Evaluation for ADHD and Nutrition. Kids First Pediatrics 2280 Highland Village Rd. #130 Highland Village Tx 75077 (972) 317-6000 www.kidsfirstpediatrics.com

Tell Them Connections Sent You! 86 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

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Pulmonologists Copenhaver Pediatric Pulmonary Specialists 8210 Walnut Hill Ln Ste 718 Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 691-6996

Brain Injury Day Rehab Healthsouth Medical Center Brain Injury Day Treatment Program 2124 Research Row Dallas Tx 75235 (214) 904-6100 www.healthsouth.com Day treatment program committed to the rehabilitation of individuals with various neurological disorders, such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, aneurysm, etc.

Children’s Hospitals Children’s Medical Center of Dallas 1935 Motor Street Dallas Tx 75235 (214) 456-7000 www.childrens.com Offers a full spectrum of pediatric health care for children up to 18 years of age in a hospital and clinic setting. Services includes birth defects cente, genetic counseling, neurology center, physical therapy, physical medicine and rehabilitation and speech pathology Cooks Children’s Hospital 801 Seventh Ave. Fort Worth Tx 76104 (682) 885-4000 www.cookchilrens.org For more than 90 years, Cook Children’s has provided high-level care to patients from 35 states and 120 counties. The 285-bed Medical Center is the cornerstone for Cook Children’s Health Care System, and offers high-tech equipment, surgery, rehabilitation facilities and ancillary services all designed to meet the special needs of children. Medical City Children’s Hospital 7777 Forest Lane Dallas Tx 75230 (972) 566-8889 www.mcchildrenshospital.com A specialized children’s hospital with an unwavering focus on patient care, Medical City Children’s Hospital offers world-renowned excellence in comprehensive pediatric services.

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Medical Resources

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Medical Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Our Children’s House Baylor 1-800-4BAYLOR (422-9567) www.BaylorHealth.com Our Children’s House at Baylor is a licensed pediatric hospital that provides comprehensive care in a family-centered environment for children from infancy to age 18 who need treatment for developmental or birth disorders, traumatic injury, chromosomal abnormalities, (See Our Ad on PG 2) or severe illness. Our innovative hospital provides the comfort and support to children and their families during transition from an acute care hospital to home.  We have a ventilator program, rehabilitation program and feeding program.  In addition, we have sleep study program and a pediatric surgery center.   For more information, please call 214.820.9850.

Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children: 2222 Welborn Street Dallas Tx 75219 (214) 559-7477 Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children is one of the nation’s leading pediatric centers for the (See Our Ad on PG 23) treatment of orthopedic conditions, certain related neurological disorders and leaning disorders, such as dyslexia. There is no charge to patient families for treatment at the hospital, and admission is open to Texas children from birth to 18 years of age.

Medication Delivery / Pharmacies Carie Boyd’s Prescription Shop 122 Grapevine Hwy Hurst Tx 76054 (817) 282-9376 www.carieboyd.com We compound medicine to be: Oral, Topical, or Injectible. Preservative-Free / Sugar-Free / Dye-Free Angels of Care North Texas Office: 903-532-Angel West Texas Office: 806-353-2701 www.angelsofcare.com Angels of Care Medication Delivery Service is a free prescription delivery service that will deliver your medications to your home or office with a personal touch by one of our professionally trained staff. (See Our Ad on PG 16)

Medical Resources

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Central Market www.centralmarket.com Central Market Locations: (See Our Ad on PG 33) Plano: 320 Coit Rd. Plano, TX 75075 (469) 241-8300 Dallas: 5750 East Lovers Ln.Dallas, TX 75206 (214) 234-7000 Fort Worth: 4651 West Fwy. Fort Worth, TX 76107 (817) 989-4700 Southlake: 1425 E. Southlake Blvd. Southlake, TX 76092 (817) 310-5600 Central Market, a destination fresh market, is the place for people who are passionate about food. Our goal is to exceed customer expectations with the most creative ideas, the finest imported and domestic products and superior customer service. Our employees, known as Partners, are trained in food safety and cross-trained in departments including produce, seafood, meat, beer/wine, bulk foods, healthy living, specialty grocery, dairy, bakery, deli, cheese, floral and prepared foods. Our Partners in greenstriped aprons are called “Foodies” and they’re trained to know every product in the store and to be on hand just to help. Sunflower Shoppe Sunflower Shoppe Locations: www.sunflowershoppe.com Colleyville: 5100 Hwy. 121 Colleyville (817) 399-9100 Fort Worth: 5817 Curzon Ave Fort Worth (817) 738-9051 Sunflower Shoppe (formerly Healthy Approach Market) is Northeast Tarrant County’s Leading source for wheat, gluten and casein free (See Our Ad on PG 31) foods and other specialized products for kids and adults with Autism, Celiac Disease, Asthma and Allergies. From cake mixes to breakfast bars, we offer delicious, natural options for anyone with diet restrictions. Known for our friendly and knowledgeable staff, we are family owned and operated with a combination 54 year history with our sister store on Fort Worth’s west side. As the area’s premier natural food store, we also offer vitamins, natural foods, all organic produce and many more healthy products for the entire family.

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Nutritional Resources

Connections • 2011

Nutritional Resources Directory

Farmers Markets / Health Food Stores

Sprouts Farmers Market www.sprouts.com

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Food Delivery / Allergy Free Foods / Specialty Foods / Formulas Greater Tots 817-726-7850 www.greatertots.org Greater Tots is ready to redefine the “happy meal”. We’re a one-of-a-kind service, catering to everything that’s special about special-diets, from home delivered meal plans to cooking classes. We are exuberantly committed to the quality of life that can be achieved through a gluten-free, casein-free lifestyle, but it is no easy feat. Greater Tots was created to take all the stress away, making special-diets easy and attainable for anyone and everyone! We are on a GREAT mission: to grow a happy, healthy generation of kids, one special-diet at a time. (See our ad on Page 31) Star Medical Specialties 421 W. Magnolia Ave. Fort Worth, TX 76104 (817) 920-0509 4836 Sunbelt Dr Addison TX 75001 972-380-2065 www.star-medical.net Established in 1995, Star Medical Specialties has grown by focusing exclusively on specialized nutritional products, and equipment. We provide a wide variety of hard-to-find pediatric and adult formulas for tube feeding and oral consumption, as well as modular components for increasing calorie and protein content and therapeutic nutrition. Star Medical Specialties stocks over 150 formulas, ready for pick-up or delivery across the U.S. and internationally. (See our Main Listing on Page 30) Nutritionist

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Nutritional Resources

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Murphy: 207 E. FM 544 Murphy, TX 75094 Frisco: 5190 Preston Rd. Frisco, TX 75034 Dallas: 11722 Marsh Lane #317 Dallas, TX 75229 Cedar Hill: 362 E. FM 1382 Cedar Hill, TX 75104 Plano: 4100 East Legacy Drive #401 Plano, TX 75024 Southlake: 220 Randol Mill Ave. Southlake, TX 76092 Richardson: 1343 West Campbell Rd. Richardson, TX 75080 (See Our Ad on PG 32) Coppell: Sandy Lake Rd and Denton Tap Rd. Coppell, TX 75019 Flower Mound: 2301 Cross Timbers Rd #200 Flower Mound, TX 75028 At Sprouts you’ll find mountains of farm-fresh produce. USDA Choice natural meats. Thousands of natural, organic AND great-tasting mainstream groceries (including more than 1,500 gluten-free options). Even a scoop-your-own wonderland of bulk rices, spices, nuts and sweet treats. What you won’t find at Sprouts are those crazy-high prices from conventional supermarkets and natural foods megastores. It’s all part of our belief that shopping for food should be one of life’s pleasures… and that healthier eating shouldn’t have to cost more. That may be an “unconventional” way to run a business, but then Sprouts is no conventional supermarket. o

Nutritional Resources Directory

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Nutritional Resources Directory

Nutritionist Kotasanis Institute 2020 W. State Hwy 114 Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 405-0292 (877) 606-7601 www.KotsanisInstitute.com Info@kotsanisinstitute.com (See Our Ad on PG 32) Whole Child Wellness, Dr. Amber Brooks 14330 Midway Road Suite 116 Dallas TX 75244 Phone: 469-547-1173 www.mychildwellness.com (See Our Ad on PG 17)

Financial Planning Aaron Dunn of New York Life 12201 Merit Dr. Suite 1000 Dallas Tx 75251 (214) 228-8308 www.newyorklife.com akdunn@ft.newyorklife.com Providing a caring approach, valuable information, strategies, and solutions for the unique financial circumstances that special needs families face. Gammon Financial, PLLC Life Planning Strategies for Special Needs Families 240 East Renfro Street Ste. 200 Burleson TX 76028 817-426-9100 www.gammonfinancialburleson.com We know first hand that Special Needs Families have unique circumstances. Let us help you plan financially to protect your disabled family member from losing their government benefits, maintaining their quality of life, and to communicate your wishes in regards to their future. Life Planning for Families of Special Needs 3939 Beltline Rd #310 Addison Tx 75001 (972) 964-3444 www.txlifeplanning.com david@txlifeplanning.com www.ConnectionsKids.com

Nutritional Resources

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Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Nexus Advisors, LLC 10000 N. Central Expressway, Suite 12000 Dallas Tx 75321 (972) 348-6368 www.nexusadvisorsllc.com ncarroccio@finsvcs.com If you are caring for a person with a disability or other special need, you should consider SpecialCare Life Planning with Nexus Advisors. (See Our Ad on PG 37) Our SpecialCare Planning Team can provide access to information, specialists, and financial solutions that can help improve the quality of life for people with disabilities and special needs. SpecialCare Planning assists caregivers now, and in the future, when you are no longer able to provide care. We can show you ways to help improve your quality of life and that of other family members, now and in the future.

Guardianship & Estate Planning Blankenship, Wiland & Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connor Dallas Tx (214) 691-3400 Estate Planning - Special Needs Trusts

Chris W. Mimms, Mimms & Rochelle, LLP 3102 Maple Avenue Suite 625, LB 8 Dallas Tx 75201 (214) 855-5160 Denton County Guardianship Services, Inc 220 E. McKinney St, Suite 220 Denton Tx 76201 (940) 387-5788 www.dentonguardianship.org Robert C. Ramirz, Esq. Coorpender & Ramirez, PLLC Guardianship Issues (214) 850-8156 www.denton-law.com guardianshiplaw@mac.com Our lawyers provide focused knowledge and compassionate counsel in all facets of legal guardianship. Stephen E. Dubner 3000 S. Stemmons Fwy, Suite 200 Lake Dallas Tx 75065 (940) 239-7568 www.dubnerlaw.com steve@dubnerlaw.com The Law Office of Jeffrey P. Bates 101 South First Street Lufkin Tx 75901 (936) 639-2900 92 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

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Livens Law Firm 2516 Harwood Rd. Bedford TX 76021 817-545-3425 www.stephenlivens.com Stephen J. Livens, CPA & Attorney specializes in Estate, Elder Law and Special Needs Planning. Mr. Livens graduated from Southern Methodist University School of Law and is an active member in several national, state and local professional organizations including the Academy of Special Needs Planners, Special Needs Alliance, and NAELA. Mr. Livens is a co-author of the best sellers; Generations – Planning Your Legacy; Ways and Means – Understanding Retirement Plans; and Love, Control and Money. Mr. Livens was named as one of the top estate planning attorneys in Texas by Fort Worth, Texas magazine. The Firm has offices in Austin, Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. Mr. Livens is available for speaking engagements throughout the state of Texas. (See our ad on Page 36) *** For special education advocates and attorney’s please see Educational Resources

Home Services Queen of Declutter DFW Metro Area Tx (817)349-3799 (817) 999-0481 www.thequeenofdeclutter.com thequeenofdeclutter@yahoo.com

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Parental/Family Resources

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Parental & Family Resources Directory

The Duran Firm 3102 Maple Ave., Suite 625 Dallas Tx 75201 (214) 227-6400 www.duranfirm.com michael@duranfirm.com Guardianship is a legal process designed to allow parents of children with special needs to continue to make decisions for their son or daughter after their son or daughter reaches adulthood. The Duran Firm can help you obtain legal guardianship over your incapacitated son or daughter so that you can ensure that his or her health, finances, and well-being are protected. The firm is often able to assist parents for a low fixed fee. (See Our Ad on PG 37) Please contact The Duran Firm today to see if you qualify.

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Special Needs Ministries / Places of Worship Prestonwood Church 1422 W. Main Suite 205 Lewisville TX 75067 Phone: 469-549-4200 Email: info@johnsonneuro.com At Prestonwood, we are a family of believers who continually seek to share the love of God with people in our community, our nation and our world, while bringing glory to God in all we do. We’d love for you to join us for Worship Services and Bible studies this weekend! We have ministries for every person in your family. Visit prestonwood.org to learn more about our two campuses (Prestonwood: 6801 W. Park Blvd., Plano; Prestonwood North: 1001 W. Prosper Trail, Prosper). There’s a place for you here! (See our Main Ad on Page 40)

Childcare & Nanny Placement Beyond Sitters 5209 Threshing Fort Worth Tx 76179 (817) 944-3153 www.beyondsitters.com jennifer@beyondsitters.com A babysitting database that connects families with college students Child CareGroup 8484 N. Stemmons Freeway #500 Dallas Tx 75247 (888) 8childs or (214) 630-7911 www.childcaregroup.org info@ccgroup.org Child CareGroup is dedicated to promoting, delivering and expanding the best childcare services available outside the home. Child CareGroup helps families find appropriate child care. Sitters Are Us, Inc 1900 S. Main, Suite 103 Grapevine Tx Allen: 214-495-8809 Grapevine: 817-410-2866 Inclusive drop-in day care. Children with special needs accepted on an individual basis. Friday & Saturday until Midnight 6 weeks to 12 years of age. Sitter City Nationwide Website www.sittercity.com

Respite Care Providers “Harvey Kid” Holy Covenant United Methodist Church 1901 Peter’s Colony Rd Carrollton Tx 75007 (972) 492-1371 me@jerrybaxter.com Saturday once a month, 6 - 9 pm 94 Connections • 2011

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AptG: A Place to Go First United Methodist Church of Allen 601 . Greenville Ave Allen Tx 75002 (972) 727-8261 alisong@fumcallen.org Respite for children grades 6 - 12 on the 3rd Saturday of the month from August to May Our Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s House Baylor www.BaylorHealth.com (972) 790-8505, ext 258 www.OurChilrensHouseIrving.org cathross@baylorHealth.edu Age 6 weeks to 12 years of age plus siblings - $5 per child and include a light dinner (See Our Ad on PG 23) Christian Adult 1655 N.Jim Miller Rd Dallas Tx 75217 (214) 391-2178 Provides assisted living, adult daycare and respite services for elderly persons with disabilities. No transportation provided. Private pay. Christian Heights 4708 Wdsworth Dr Dallas Tx 75217 (214) 371-4285 Provides day care services for adults with physical and cognitive disabilities (ages 18 and up). Denton State School - Emergency Respite P.O. Box 368 Denton Tx 76202 (940) 891-0342 Specialized respite services for children, teens or adults who are medically fragile or have behavioral problems. Respite not to exceed 10 days.

Parental/Family Resources

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Parental & Family Resources Directory

Adventure Kids Playcare 690 Parker Square Flower Mound Tx 75028 (972) 899-2060 www.adventurekidsplaycare.com Open evenings and Saturdays. Reservations only necessary Friday and Saturday night: $10 per child per hour and $3 each additional sibling

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Easter Seals North Texas 1424 Hemphill Street Fort Worth, TX 76104 888-617-7171 www.ntx.easterseals.com info@ntx.easterseals.com Offering respite care services for families and caregivers of children and adults with all types of disabilities. Services are available throughout Dallas-Fort Worth and offered in the home to provide the caregiver with a break to take care of personal, family, household or other needs. (See our Main Ad on Page 47)

Fellowship Church Friday Night Respite 2450 Hwy 121 North Grapevine Tx 76051 (972) 471-6828 (214) 636-289 First United Methodist Church of Arlington 313 N. Center St, corner of Center and Division Arlington Tx 76011 (817) 274-2571 www.ArlingtonMethodist.org klancaster@arlingtonmethodist.org First Fridays of the month Friday’ Kids First United Methodist Church 201 s. Locust Denton Tx 76201 (940) 382-5478 Provides Friday evening repite care from 6pm - 10 m for children with special needs and their siblings. Friday NITE Friends, Custer Road United Methodist Church 6601 Custer Rd Plano Tx 75023 (972) 618-3450, ext 247 www.fridaynitefriends.org fridaynitefriends@crumc.org The program’s mission is to provide medically supervised childcare to the parent of these special children. Parents entrust their children to our care on Friday evenings from 6 - 10pm so they may have a ‘respite’ from the almost continuous job of taking care of their child. Irving Bible Church 2435 Kinwest Pkwy Irving Tx 75063 (972) 831-8777 Provides respite services the fourth Saturday of each month from 6pm - 9pm for children of all ages. Kids’ Night Out Resurrection Lutheran Church Resurrection Lutheran Church Plano Tx 75075 (972) 867-0460 Provides respite care on the second Friday of each month from 6:30 - 9:30 pm 96 Connections • 2011

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National Respite Locator Service (800) 677-1116 www.respite locator.org Operate 8:30 am - 5 pm EST, Monday through Friday Service for parents and professionals caring for children with disabilities, terminal illness, or at-risk child of child abuse or neglect NIGHT Owls Highland Park United Methodist Church 3300 Mockingbird Lane Dallas Tx 75205 (214) 523-2284 Provides free respite services on the first and third Friday of each month for children with disabilities and their siblings. Sunshine Saturday 3030 Saturn Rd Garland Tx 75041 (972) 271-2444, ext 283 www.saturnroad.org/html/ministrie/specialneedministry/index.html jreinsch@saturnroad.org Respite services provided on the third Saturday of each month from 5 - 9 pm/ Additional information and application available on the web site.

Family Counseling Johnson Neuropsychology 1422 W. Main Street Suite 205 Lewisville Tx 75067 (469) 549-4200 www.johnsonneuro.com info@johsonneuro.com Individual & Family Counseling

Adaptive Birthday Parties Noah’s Ark Animal Creations DFW Metro Area (972) 286-8808 www.kidstufftexas.com Party With Us! We Come to You! Call us today to book your child’s special day! Our parties are completely adaptive to the abilities of those in attendance. We have over 30 years experience with children who have learning differences and special needs. www.ConnectionsKids.com

Parental/Family Resources

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L.A.M.B.S. Valley View Christian Church 17601 Marsh Lane Dallas Tx 75287 (214) 731-1748, ext 410 (voicemail) Provides respite service on the fourth Friday of each month from 6:30 - 10 pm. Mesquite Adult Day Care 229 Barnes Bridge Mesquite Tx 75150 (972) 266-2131 Day program for adults (18 and up) with disabilities or debilitating conditions. Requires medical diagnosis. Provide transportation in the Dallas area.

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Photography Bella Mia Portraits (214) 407-2359 www.bellamiaportraits.com As a mother of a son with autism, I understand the joys and frustrations of capturing the perfect picture, or just capturing who your child is in general. There is nothing more stressful and frustrating than getting your entire family dressed for family pictures only to walk away empty handed. We get that it’s not easy; our passion is to work hard with patience and understanding so that doesn’t happen. We guarantee all our sessions. If we don’t deliver the results you were looking for, we will re-shoot your portrait session so that you are 100% happy. We love and have such a heart for special needs children. We will capture what makes your family unique and special. Desiree’ Chapman, Professional (See Our Ad on PG 35) photographer & mom to Joshua who has Aspergers Syndrome.

City Programs Dallas Ramp Project, The P.O. Box 832006 Richadson Tx 75083 www.dallasrampsorg info@dallasramps.org Started in 1985, The Dallas Ramp Project builds access ramps for Dallas resident and its surrounding areas. The Dallas Ramp project i 100 percent volunteer staffed and works with the City of Dalla, socialservices organizations and hospitals to identify clients who need a ramp. Access their Web site for more information. Dallas Service 4242 Office Parkway Dallas Tx 75204 (214) 828-9900 www.dallasservices.org dallasservices@earthlink.net Dallas Services offers the Dallas Day School, the Dallas Services Therapies Clinic and the Low Vision Clinic serving those with developmental disabilities of all age. All fees are based on a sliding scale. Dallas, City of Department of Environmental and Health Services 1500 Marilla St, Rm 7A North Dallas Tx 75201 (214) 670-3696 (214) 670-3848 Provides health care for Dallas residents. Clinics, home visits, health assessments, immunizations, and education programs are available. A comprehensive screening program for children, the elderly and those suspected to have, or be at risk for, developmental delays is also available, as well as wellness programs for adult.

Child Find ECI Local Public Awareness Contacts www.dars.state.tx.us/eci/resources/childfind.shtml 98 Connections • 2011

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Department of Aging and Disability Service (DADS) 701 W. 51st St Austin Tx 78751 (512) 438-3011 www.dads.state.tx.us mail@dads.state.tx.us Created during the reorganization of state health and human service agencies. It is now responsible for programs for people with mental retardation and related conditions that were formerly offered by Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation. DADS is also responsible for programs for senior citizen. For specific eligibility requirements and program information, please either call or visit the Web site. Department of Assistive and Rehabilitation Services (DARS) 5501 Abrams #115 Dallas Tx 75214 (214) 378-2600 (800) 687-7019 www.dars.state.tx.us david.jeppson@dars.state.tx.us Services for people who are blind: (800) 252-2246. Services for people who are deaf or hard of hearing: (512) 07-3250 or TTY: (512) 407-3251. Earl childhood intervention services (800) 250-2246. Created during the reorganization of state health and human service agencies. It is now a centralized agency for programs formerly provided by Texas Rehabilitation Commission, Texas Commission for the Blind, Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and the Interagency Council on Early Childhood Intervention. For specific requirements and program information, please either call or visit the Web site. Department of State Health Services 1100 W. 49th st Austin Tx 78756 (512) 458-7111 (888) 963-7111 or TDD: (800) 735-2989 wwwdshs.state.tx.us web.master@dshs.state.tx.us The mental health program formerly provided by the Texas Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation are now offered through this agency. Texas Advocates Supporting Kids with Disabilities (TASK) P.O. Box 162685 Austin Tx 78716 (512) 336-0897 (V or FAX) ASKTASK@aol.com Texas Center for Disability Studies 4030 W. Braker Lane, Building 2, Suite 220, Mail code L4000 Austin Tx 78759 (512) 232-0740 (512) 232-0762 (TTY) tcds.edb.utexas.edu txcds@uttcds.org

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Disability Services

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Texas Commission for the Blind P.O. Box 12866 Austin Tx 78711 (512) 377-0500 www.dars.state.tx.us/dbs/index.html DARS.Inquiries@dars.state.tx.us Texas Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing P.O Box 12904 Austin Tx 78711 (512) 407-3250 (512) 407-3251 (TTY) www.dars.state.tx.us/dhhs/index.shtml Texas Council for DD 6201 E. Oltorf, Suite 600 Austin Tx 78741-7509 (512) 437-5432 (800) 262-0334, (512) 437-5431 (TTY) www.txddc.state.tx.us tcdd@tcdd.state.tx.us Texas Department of Health 1100 w 49th St Austin Tx 78756 (512) 458-7111, ext 3110 www.dshs.state.tx.us/chen/default.shtm Texas Education Agency: Deaf Services 1701 N. Congress Ave Austin Tx 78701 (512) 463-9424 (512) 475-3540 (TTY) www.tea.state.tx.us/deaf/ Texas Education Agency: Division of IDEA Coordination 1701 N. Congress Ave Austin Tx 78701 (512) 463-9362 (512) 475-3540 (TTY), (800) 252-9668 (Parent information line www.tea.state.tx.us/special.ed sped@tea.state.tx.us Texas Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health 7800 Shoal Creek Blvd, Suite 2438 Austin Tx 78757 (512) 407-8844 (512) 944-9972 www.txffcmh.org TXFFCMH is the state-wide family network They help parents learn how to advocate for their child with education, legislative updates, help with the IEP process, and linking them up with local resources. Texas Organization of Parent Attorneys and Advocates www.topaaorg info@topaa.org An independent, non profit, 501(c) (3) tax exempt organization of advocates, attorneys, and parents. 100 Connections • 2011

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Educational Agencies NICHY (National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities) P.O. Box 1492 Washington, DC 20013 (800) 695-0285 www.nichcy.org nichcy@aed.org Serves the nation as a central source of information on disabilities in youth and Toddlers, IDEA, the No Child Left Behind Act and provides research-based iinformation on effective practices for children with disabilities. Programs for Children With Disabilities: Age 3 to 5 1701 N. Congress Ave Austin Tx 78701-1494 (512) 463-9414 Programs for Children with Special Health Care Needs 1100 W. 49th st Austin Tx 78756-3179 (512) 458-7355 State Department of Education Career and Technology Education www.tea.state.tx.us/cte/index.html State Department of Education: Special Education 1701 N. Congress Ave Austin Tx 78701-1494 (512) 463-941 TEA Special Education www.tea.state.tx.us/special.ed Links to: *A Guide to the ARD process *Preschool programs for Children with Disabilities, *Annual federal Data Reports, *Community Parent resource Centers, *Parent Resource Guide, *Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Right & Procedural Safeguards, Community Resource Coordination Groups (CRGGs) www.tea.state.tx.us/interagency/creg.html Wrightslaw - www.wrightslaw.com Information on laws, strategies/tactics, IEP development, etc

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Texas Parent to Parent 3710 cedar St, Box 12 Austin Tx 78705-1449 (866) 896-6001 (512) 458-8600 www.txp2p.org/index.htm Created by parents for parents of children with disabilities, chronic illness and other special health care needs. Offering information and support to families throughout Texas

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! MHMR Authorites Dallas Area Northstar Authority 10056 Marsh Lane, Suite 210 Dallas Tx 75229 (214) 366-9407 wwwdansatx.org DANSA is the Local Behavioral Mental Health Authority for Collin, Dallas, Ellis, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro and Rockwall counties. Denton County Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services 2519 Scripture Denton Tx 76202 (940) 387-5555 (800) 762-0457 www.dentonmhmr.org Crisis Hotline: (800) 762-0157 or TTY: (800) 269-6233. Denton county local authority for mental retardation and mental health services. Johnson Ellis navarro County MHMR Services 116 N. Rogers St Waxahachie Tx 75165-3642 (972) 937-7660 Lakes Regional MHMR Center: Kaufman/Rockwall Counties P.O. Box 747 Terrell Tx 75160 (972) 524-4159 TTY: (800) 735-2989 Mental Health and Mental retardation authority for Kauffman and Rockwall counties. Offers programs in early childhood intervention, counseling, in-home and family supports, HCS and CSHCSIFMR residential services, respite, service coordination STAR services, life skills training and vocational services. Life Path Systems of Collin County: MHMR Collin County P.O. Box 828 McKinney Tx 76070 (972) 727-9133 (972) 562-3647 www.lifepathsystems.org Mental Retardation and Mental Health authority for Collin County. Offers Early Childhood Intervention, HCS, Texas Home Living Waiver and ICFMR programs, in home and family support, respite, supported employment and supported living programs. Metrocare Services (Formerly MHMR Dallas County) 1380 River Bend Drive Dallas Tx 75247 (214)-743-1200 1-877-283-2121 www.metrocareservices.org

Formerly Dallas County MHMR, Metrocare (a nonprofit organization) is the Mental Retardation Authority (MRA) for Dallas County. An official diagnosis from the MRA is required for state-funded services. For diagnosis appointment call Eligibility & Determination (214-333-7000, 1353 N. Westmoreland, 75211). Services: Center for Children with Autism, Behavioral Treatment Center, Early Childhood Intervention, Fostering, Home & Community-Based Services, On-site Pharmacy, Therapeutic Nursery, and various therapies (ABA, occupational, physical, speech/language). Find locations online or call 214-743-1200

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Child Find / ECI Programs The Warren Center 320 Custer Rd Richardson Tx 75080 (972) 490-9055 www.thewarrencenter.org The Warren Center, for children with developmental differences provides assistance to families in helping their children meet developmental challenges in motor skills, communication, behavior, feeding and cognition. ECI of Richardson/North Dallas is a home-based program for infants and toddlers. The program options include speech, occupational and physical therapy, nutrition, developmental instruction, social work, and play skills.

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Early Childhood Intervention (ECI age 0 - 3 screenings) 4900 N. Lamar Blvd Austin Tx 78751 (800) 250-2246 TTY/TDD (512) 424-6770 www.dars.state.tx.us/ecls cheryl.finey@dars.state.tx.us State organization providing programs for children ages birth to three years with disabilities or delays. Home and community services are designed to help children reach their full potential. All services are based on a sliding fee scale. Please call for local offices. ECI programs and services are funded by the state and offered through local agencies.

Non-Profits Achievement Center of Texas (ACT) 2950 N. Shiloh Garland Tx 75044 (972) 414-7700 www.achievementscenteroftexas.com mserie@comcast.net Offers year-round day care and learning center for children and young adult (18month to 30 years old) including individualized programming and recreational activities. Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) programming and transition services are offered as needed. Parents are asked to send a sack lunch. Hours are 7:00 am to 6 pm Monday - Friday. Funded by corporate/foundation grants and donations ADA Hotline 2323 S. Shepherd #1000 Houston Tx 77019 dlrp@ilru.org Hotline for questions regarding the American with Disability Act. Program include the Disability Law Resource Project, Disability and Business Technical Assistance Center.

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! ADAPT of Texas 1640 E. 2nd St, Suite 100 Austin Tx 78702 (512) 442-0252 www.adapt.org adapt@adapt.org Disability rights advovacy group comprised mainly of individuals with disabilities, focuses on promoting services in the community (attendant-care services, accessibility, etc) Advocacy, Inc. North Texas Regional Office 1420 W. Mockingbird, Suite 450 Dallas Tx 75247 (214) 60-0916 (800) 880-2884 www.advocacyinc.org Nonprofit corporation funded by the U.S. Congress to protect and advocate for legal rights of people with disabilities in Texas. Intake counselor are available Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 12:30 pm at (800) 880-2884. Provides legal service to people with developmental disabilities, mental illness, and those receiving or wanting to receive services from the Texas Rehabilitation Commission. (TRC) American Habilitation Service, Inc (Dallas Branch) 1721 W. Plano Pkwy, Suite 209 Plano Tx 75075 (972) 761-9161 www.ahsonline.com lpeterson@ahsonline.com Nonprofit provider of person-centered support to people with developmental disabilities in Texas since 1976. Arc of Denton County P.O. Box 1279 Denton Tx 76202 (972) 436-8471 (800) 375-4520 www.arcofdentoncounty.org info@arcofdentoncounty.org Nonprofit, volunteer-based organization offering Parent-to-Parent, a support group for parents of children with disabilities, social and educational activities for adults with disabilities and the Sib-Shop, a support group for siblings of children with disabilities. ARC of Greater Tarrant County, ARC GTC 1300 Lancaster Ave, Suite 104 Fort Worth Tx 76101 (817) 877-1474 www.arcgtcorg kathleen.cantrell@arctc.org The ARC GTC i a private, nonprofit organization established in December 1949 that assists in promoting the general welfare of people with mental retardation and their families. 104 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

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ARC of the United States, The 1010 Wayne Ave, Suite 50 Silver Spring MD 20910 (301) 565-3842 www.thearc.org info@thearc.org Serves a national headquarters for The Arc and is a national organization on mental retardation. Serve member and non-member and handles public inquires regarding mental retardation. Publication list contains over 100 books, flyers, videos and other resources. Assistant Center of Collin County 900 E. 18th St Plano Tx 75074 (972) 422-1850 (800) 725-4936 www.assistancecenter.org info@assistancecenter.org Provides information about and referrals to social services for residents of Collin County. Also coordinate financial and material assistance to those in need and adminiters emergency relief funds from local utility companies. Services are free. Association for Independent Living (AFIL) 2826 Storey Lane #100 Dallas Tx 75220 (214) 351-0798 Private agency providing extensive training for young adults (ages 18 to 30) with developmental disabilities within a residential setting to develop skills for independent living. Residents must be competitively employed and are expected to pay for their expenses. Autism Treatment Center, Inc Dallas Office 10503 Metric Dr Dallas Tx 75243 (972) 644-2076 www,atciftexas.org abrown@atcoftexas.org Private, nonprofit corporation offering supported employment opportunities, educational programming and community based group homes for individuals who are autistic and deaf/blind or multihandicapped (diagnostics and assessments available). ATC serves all age with residential placements beginning at age three. Fees are based on a scale of individual need. Licensed HCS and ICFMR provider. Funding include state agencies, Medicaid, school district and business contract and TRC. www.ConnectionsKids.com

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ARC of Texas 8001 Centre Park Dr, Suite 100 Austin Tx 78754 (800) 252-9729 (512) 454-6694 www.thearcoftexas.org secretary@thearcoftexas.org The ARC of Texas is affiliated with The Arc of The United States and has 49 chapters in Texas working to provide additional supports and services to families throughout the state.

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Center for Accord, The 415 Brooks Ct Roanoke Tx 76262 (682) 831-0664 (800) 294-0422 www.4accord.com accord@mindspring.com Center for Accord is a nonprofit organization whose mission i to promote collaboration in special education among those working on behalf of children with special needs. Citizens Development Center (CDC) 8800 Ambassador Row Dallas Tx 75247 (214) 637-2911 www.edcdallas.org info@cdcdallas.org Nonprofit agency that offers vocational rehabilitation services including facility based training, job placement, job coaching, supported employment service, daily living skills training and sheltered work opportunities. Individuals must be 16 yeas of age or older. Collin County Committee on Aging - CCART Division 600 N Tennessee St McKinney Tx 75069 (972) 562-4275 www.cccoaweb.org/ccart.asp greeverp@ccartcc.com A nonprofit division of Collin County Committee on Aging, CCART provides transportation to all citizens of Collin County. Fees are based on distance traveled, but may not exceed $5.00. (Plano riders must be 60 years of age or older. This applies to Plano only.) Community Council of Greater Dallas, Inc - Community Helpline 211 2-1-1 Relay Texas: 711 (214) 379-4636 Aging Information Provides 24-hour information and referrals to social services in the Dallas, Collin, Denton, Ellis, Hunt, Kaufman, Navarro and Rockwall counties. Special services include Aging Information and Relay Texas (711). Community Options 4004 Beltline Rd, Suite 155 Addison Tx 75001 (972) 503-3901 www.comop.org moreinfo@comop.org Nonprofit providing services to individuals with disabilities, including foster care and companion services, supported home living, and 24-hour residential options. Licensed HCS and Texas Home Waiver provider. Funded through Medicaid, HUD monies and donations.

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Connect to Care 1380 River Bend Drive Dallas Tx 75247 (214) 743-1273 We make finding local resources easier than ever before. Serves as the Dallas County Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC). Provides information, referral and assistance to caregivers, professionals, older adults and individuals of all ages with disabilities who need assistance navigating the system. Connect to Care is completely VIRTUAL. Individuals seeking assistance can access services by telephone or through the Internet. Self-referrals can be completed online through the website. Phones are answered Monday through Friday from 8am-9pm. www.connecttocaredallas.org Dallas Association for Parent Education (DAPE) 777 S. Central, Building 2, Suite 1-T Richardson Tx 75080 (972) 699-0420 www.dallasparents.org DAPE offers parent education workshops, CPR training and childbirth classes. Some education workshops include parenting special needs children. Access their Web site for more information on times and dates of workshops. Easter Seals North Texas 1424 Hemphill Street Fort Worth, TX 76104 888-617-7171 www.ntx.easterseals.com info@ntx.easterseals.com Offering more than a dozen services for children and adults with all types of disabilities. Service locations in Fort Worth, Grapevine, Carrollton, and Oak Cliff. Evergreen Presbyterian Ministries of Texas, Inc North Central Texas Division 10810 Sanden Rd Dallas Tx 75238 (972) 386-4834 www,epmi.org ajohnson@epmi.org Nonprofit organization serving people with developmental disabilities. Programs Evergreen is affiliated with Presbyterian Church USA

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CONTACT Crisis Line P.O. Box 800742 Dallas Tx 75380 (972) 233-086 www.contactdallas.org and wwwteencontact.org admin@contactdallas.org Adult Help Line: (972) 233-2233, Teen Help Line: (972) 233-TEEN (8336) Free 24 hour immediate, confidential, one-on-one telephone crisis prevention and intervention, information and referral, emergency aid and community education. Limited emergency transportation and shelter are available.

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Joni and Friends 6510 Abrams Rd, Suite 125 Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 739-2523 www.dallasjoinandfriends.org dallas@joniandfriends.org Nonprofit Christian organization dedicated to accelerating Christian ministry in the disability community. Service offered include family ummer retreats, newsletters, workshops, resource center and the Christian Fund for the Disabled. Funded solely through donations. Prosperity Place 6136 Frisco Blvd STE 491F Frisco TX 75034 469-287-5469 www.prosperityplacetx.org Prosperity Place affords children with special needs the opportunity to reach their full, unique potential. This is accomplished by educating parents to be advocates for their child, acting as a resource center for such families and providing financial assistance to children with special needs, specifically for a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s therapy. The ARC of Dallas 12700 Hillcrest, suite 200 Dallas Tx 75230 (214) 634-9810 www.arcdallas.org info@arcdallas.org Formed in 1951 to improve the quality of ife of people developmental disabilities. A private, nonprofit agency affiliated with United Way serving Collin, Rockwall and Dallas counties. The ARC is also funded by corporate, foundation and individual contributions. Volunteers of America Texas, Inc (VOA) 1424 Hemphill St Fort Worth Tx 76104 (817) 529-7300 www.voatx.org swall@voatx.org National Christian human service organization providing services to all people across the US to improve the quality of life. Programs for individuals and families with developmental disabilities include HC and ICF-MR residential programs, supported employment and day habilitation.

Support Groups by Diagnosis: ADD / ADHD ADD ADHD Support Group ADD-ADHD-Parents@yahoogroups.com

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ADD Association: North Dallas, Richardson Chapter 4502 River Oaks Parkway Garland Tx (972) 467-9299 The North Dallas support group meets the first Tuesday of each month from 7:00 - 8:30 pm (except December, January and July) at the Richardson Baptist Church, 160 Buckingham Road in Richardson. ADD/LD Parent Support Group of Collin County 601 Greenville Ave (First United Methodist Church of Allen) Allen Tx 75002 (972) 396-1216 sscaroline@aol.com Our purpose is to support and nurture parents of children who learn differently by empowering parents through information to be proactive in advocating for their children. Community speakers, videos, and sharing information help our parents stay informed. CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) 115 Executive Way, Suite 209 Desoto Tx 75115 (972) 283-7900. southdallaschadd@sbcglobal.net Meetings held the third Monday of each month from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm.

Asthma / Allergies Allergic Child www.allergicchild.com Nicole@allergicchild.com Family support, resources, newsletter Allergy Moms www.allergymoms.com gclowe@allergymom.com Support for caregiver, e-newsletter FAAN Teen www.faanteenorg Support, educations, tips Fan Kids www.fankids.org Games, activities, contests Food Allergy Project www.FoodAllergyProject.org foodallergyInfo@FoodAllergyProject.org www.ConnectionsKids.com

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ADD Association 8200 Walnut Hills Dallas Tx 75253 (972) 458-9226 www.adda-sr.org oflanigan@adda-sr.org The Dallas support group meets the second and fourth Thursday of each month from 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm at Presbyterian Medical Center in the Southeast Conference room.

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Lone Star Celiac Sprue Support Group #51 (214) 274-6094 www.dfwceliac.org president@dfwceliacorg Raising Our Celiac Kids (R.O.C.K.) Dallas Area Chapter 1821 Spinnaker Way Dr Wylie Tx 75098-7855 (972) 489-9915 www.dallasrock.org leader@dallasrock.org Safe4Kids Asthma/Allergies www.safe4kids.com

Autism Allen-Frisco-Plano Autism Spectrum Parent Group 1517 W. McDermott Dr. Allen Tx 75013 www.health.groups.yahoo.com/group/autismsupport The Autism Spectrum Parent Group provides support, resources and presentation for parents of children with Autism and related developmental disabilities. They also provide autism awareness, advocacy and education for their communities. Parents and professionals both are welcome to the meetings Access their Web site for more information. Autism Societies of America Autism Society of America promotes the development of services and resources for individuals with PDD or autism. Call your local chapter for meeting times, locations and additional information. Autism Societies of America P.O. Box 26129 Plano Tx 75026 (214) 925-2722 (voicemail) www.autim-ascc.org ascc@autim-acc.org Autism Societies of America 10503 Metric Dr Dallas Tx 75243 www.autim-ascc.org Autism Societies of America 1300 W. Lancaster Ft. Worth Tx (817) 390-2829 (800) 3AUTISM or (301) 657-0881 www.asgtc.org

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AutismSpot 2300 McDermott Dr, Suite 200-113 Plano Tx 75025 (888) 317-8074, ext 703 www.autismspot.com • jay@autismspot.com AutismSpot provides unbiased information and expert advice to the Autism Community via streaming media, videos, blogs, forums, and news. Behavior Exchange Family Support Group 6105 Windcom Ct Ste. 400 Plano TX 75093 972-312-8733 (See Our Ad on PG 55) Dallas Aspergers Network Information Support Help (DANISH) www.aspergerinfo.org • Merinance4@aol.com DANISH is a support group for families affected by Asperger Syndrome (AS). Meeting are held at AAA Mental Health 13339 N. Central Expwy, Suite 100, Dallas, Tx 75243.

Families for Early Autism Treatment (FEAT) 7286 Glenview Drive Richland Hills Tx 76180 (817) 919-2228 www.featnt.org Provides information and support for families with children with autism, professional education, referrals, and publishes a bi-monthly newletter. (See Our Ad on PG 13)

Generation Recue www.generationrescue.org info@generationrescue.org Generation Rescue is an international movement of scientist, physicians and parent volunteers researching the causes and treatments for autism and mentoring thousands of families in recovering their children from autism. www.ConnectionsKids.com

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Autism Speaks 6380 LBJ Freeway, Suite 285 Dallas Tx 75240 (972) 960-6227 www.autismspeaks.org Autism Speaks is the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! North Texas Autism Education Center (NTAEC) 2300 McDermott, Suite 200-178 Plano Tx 75025 (469) 682-0350 (voicemail only) www.ntaec.org infor@ntaec.org NTAEC is a nonprofit organization founded by parents and professionals. NTAEC hosts parent and professional workshops on applying the science of ABA to teach children with autism and similar development disabilities. Our Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Circle (972) 529-3843 (972) 547-9692 www.occ.deltos.com ann@deltos.com or kadennett@comcast.net A support group of parents, educators and community leaders that provide resources for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder. Meets during the months of August through May. general meetings held a Earl H. Slaughter Elementary, 2706 Wolford Ave, McKinney. Texas Autism Advocacy (281) 686-0103 www.Texas-Autism-Advocacy.org MichelleMGuppy@yahoo.com or Texas-Autism-Advovacy@yahoogroups.com

Bi-Polar Texas Parents of Bi-Polar Children 7622 Creek Trail San Antonio Tx 78254 (469) 417-0017 www.groups.yahoo.com/group/Texas_Parents_of_Bi_Polar_Children/ Texas_Parents_of_Bi_Polar_Children@yahoogroups.com Online parents Bi-Polar support group.

Brain Injury - Cognitive Disability Brain Injury Association of Texas 1339 Lamar Square Suite 103 Austin Tx 78704 (512) 326-1212 (800) 392-0040 www.biatx.org info@biatx.org A nonprofit public service organization providing public awareness, education, support groups, family guidance and resources in an effort to meet the needs of the survivors of brain injury. Family Help Line: (800) 392-0040. Martha Kate Downey Steps to Support for All 505 Anthony Dr Euless Tx 76039 (817) 283-4114 www.mkdowney.com mk.downey@sbcglobal.net Association of individuals working together in a positive and inclusive way to improve services and funding of program which serve those with disabilities in Texas. 112 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! American Foundation for the Blind-Soutwest 260 Treadway Plaza, Exchange Park Dallas Tx 75235 (214) 352-7222 www.afb.org dallas@afb.org Reading & Radio Resouce (formerly North Texas Taping and Radio for the Blind) 2007 Randall Dallas Tx 75201 (214) 871-7668 www.readingresource.org betty@readingresource.org Talking Book Program P.O. Box 12927, 1201 Brazos St Austin Tx 78711-2927 (800) 252-9605 (512) 463-5458 www.TexasTalkingBooks.org tbp.services@tsl.state.tx.us Free library service that provides reading material in large print, braille, and on cassette for loan to individuals with qualifying physical, visual, and learning disabilities. Texas Commission for the Blind P.O. Box 12866 Austin Tx 78711 (512) 377-0500 www.dars.state.tx.us/dbs DARS.Inquiries@dars.state.tx.us Texas parents of Blind Children (TPOBC) P.O. Box 125 Friendswood Tx 77459-0125 (866) 636-3289 www.tpobc.org laura@tpobc.org A membership organization of parents working toward a better future for blind children by promoting blindness skills, fostering self-esteem, and utilizing blind adult role models.

Cancer Candlelighters: Childhood Cancer Foundation www.candlelighters.org

Cerebral Palsy 4 My Child: Help and Hope for Life (800) 4MyChild (800-469-2445 www.cerebralpalsy.org United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) (214) 247-4505 Dallas (817) 692-4430 Fort Worth www.ucpdallas.org www.ConnectionsKids.com

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Blind

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Developmental Delay Our Special Children at Cook’s Children’s Medical Center 801 7th Ave Fort Worth Tx 76104 (682) 885-4322 Offers supports and friendships of children with developmental disabilities in Tarrant County and its surrounding areas through group meetings. Support meetings offer informative speakers, discussions and networking with other parents. Monthly meetings are held at the Child Study Center (1300 W. Lancaster, Ft Worth) from 9:00 a.m - 11:30 a.m on the 2nd Saturday of every month. Sitters are provided form the Child Study Center.

Down Syndrome Down Syndrome Guild 701 N. Central Expressway, Building 5-1 Richardson Tx 75080 (214) 267-1374 www.downsyndromedallas.org dsged@sbcglobal.net A nonprofit volunteer organization comprised of parents of people with Down Syndrome. The Guild offers volunteer support for the Down syndrome clinic at Children’s Medical Center, hospital, home and phone visits with parents of newborns, resources, social gatherings, speakers, conferences and an informative newsletter. Down Syndrome Partnership of Tarrant County (DSPTC) 5508 Chaperito Trail Arlington Tx 76016 (817) 421-1812 www.dsptc.org treace@aol.com Down Syndrome family support group

Dyslexia

Dallas Branch of the International Dyslexia Asociation 140070 Proton, Suite 100 Dallas Tx (972) 233-9107, ext 222 (calls are returned twice a week by volunteer) sally@madcrouch.com The Dallas Branch of the International Dyslexia Association is committed to leadership and advovacy for people with dyslexia by providing support for individuals and group interactions, programs to inform and educate and information for professionals and the general public. Dallas Dyslexia Information Group (DDIG) (214) 351-1985 boblb97@sbcgloval.net International Dyslexia Association www.interdys.org 114 Connections • 2011

Parental/Family Resources

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North East Tarrant County Dyslexia Council

1926 Sheffield Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 481-8978 www.allcanread.net Janethass@verizon.net Specializing in promoting awareness and acceptance of students with dyslexia through community events and parent support group meeting. No cost. Open to parent, educations and professionals who are interested in helping students with dyslexia.

Hearing Impaired/Deaf Deaf Action Center Region 3 3515 Crestview Dr Dallas Tx 72335 (214) 521-0407 V/TTY www.deafactioncentertexas.org communication@deafactioncentertexas.org Deaf-Blind Multi Handicapped Association of Texas 815 High School Dr Seagoville Tx 75159 (972) 287-1904 www.dbmat.org dbmaTorg@aol.com State-wide advocacy organization that serve as an information resource for individuals who are deaf, blind and/or multi-handicapped and their families Referrals and peer counseling provided upon request. The Parent Connection links up parents in different geographical area throughout the state to form support groups. National Association of the Deaf 8630 Fenton St, Suite 820 SilverSpring MD 20910 (3010 587-788 Voice (301) 587-1789 TTY

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Parental & Family Resources Directory

LISD Parents of Dyslexia Students www.lisdpods.org groups.yahoo.com/group/LISD-PODS

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Independent School Districts Arlington Special Education PTSA www.aseptsa.org Collin County Special Education Cooperative 1404 N. McDonald St McKinney Tx 75071 (972) 548-3200 www.ccsec.org bethvincent@ccsec.org Provides all special education services including evaluation, therapies and instruction for Anna, Blue Ridge, Community, Farmersville, Lovejoy, Melissa, Prosper and Wylies ISDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Coppell Special Ed Parents Support Group (469) 358-7347 CoppellSpEdParentsSupportGroup-owner@yahoogroups.com amy.osa@verizon.net Riverside Church of Christ, 150 E Beltline Rd, NE Corner Denton Tap and Beltline, Coppell Tx 75109. 10:00 am - 12 pm. Education Service Center, Region X (10) 400 E. Spring Valley Rd Richadson Tx 75081 (972) 348-1536 www.ednet10.net veronica.harris@region10.org Nonprofit agency that assists school districts and families by providing workshops, information gathering meetings and other resources. Counties that Region 10 cover are Dallas, Ellis, Kaufman, Rockwall, Hunt, Collin, Fannin and Grayson. Frisco SAGE www.friscosage.com friscosage@gmail.com Greater Lewisville (LISD) Special Education PTA www.lisdsepsa.txpta.org Email listserve community at: www.group.yahoo.com/group/lisd-septsa Open to parent, professional and loved ones of children with special need. Gifted and talented listserve: www.groups.yahoo.co/group/lisd-gt. Young adults listserve: www.group.yahoo.com/group/ septsa-young-adult Plano Sage www.pptasage.com sage@planopta.com Texas Education Agency: Deaf Services 1701 N. Congress Ave Austin Tx 78701 (512) 463-9424 (512) 475-3540 (TTY) www.tea.state.tx.us/deaf/ 116 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! NAMI Dallas 6510 Abrams Rd #568 Dallas Tx 75231-7275 (214) 341-7133 www.namidallas.org namidallas3@aol.com Provides support and education to families and friends of people with a serious mental illness. The organization is affiliated with The National Alliance for the Mentall Ill (NAMI) and the Texas Alliance for the Mentall Ill (NAMI Texas). NAMI of Collin County P.O. Box 867264 Plano Tx 75086 (972) 922-5095 www.namicco.org info@namicco.org Provides support and education to families and friends of people with a serious mental illness. The organization is affiliated with The National Alliance for the Mentall Ill (NAMI) and the Texas Alliance for the Mentall Ill (NAMI Texas). NAMI Texas 2800 South IH35, Suite 140 Austin Tx 78704 (800) 633-3760 www.manitexas.org

Muscular Dystrophy International Myotonic Dystrophy Organization, Inc P.O. Box 1121 Sunland Ca 91041-1121 (760) 918-0377 www.myotonicadytrophy.org info@myotonicdysstrophy.org

Spina Bifida Spina Bifida Association of Dallas 705 W. Avenue B, Suite 409 Garland Tx 75040 (972) 238-8755 www.sbdal@aol.com sbdal@aol.com Providing support, information and encouragement to North Texas individuals and families affected by spina bifida.

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Parental & Family Resources Directory

Mental Illness

Parental & Family Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Siblings HALO Program Christ United Methodist Church 3101 Coit Rd Plano Tx 75075 (972) 596-4303 A therapist-supported, sibling support group - meets once a week for 6 week sessions after school on Monday and Tuesday afternoons - $120 for 6 weeks.

Tourette Syndrome North Texas tourette Syndrome Support Group 2315 Daybreak Dr Dallas Tx 75287 (214) 808-6626 www.tourettetexas.org edss60@msn.com Local Support Group provide education services, support services, ARD and IEP Assistance for members, their families, schools, etc and fun for the entire family. Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas Support Group (972) 307-1903 edss60@mn.com or Michelle at michells@cubesolutionscom 214(459-0715) Meetings: Second Saturday of every month from 10:00 am - 12 pm. Location Brookhaven College, just north of LBJ Freeway, Interstate Highway 635 at 3939 Valley View Lane between Midway Road and Marsh Lane in Farmers Branch, Dallas Tx. Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas Support Group (817) 925-7004 joyinfortworth@yahoo.com Location: Baylor All Saints Medical Center at Fort Worth, 1400 Eighth Ave, Fort Worth, Tx

Unknown Syndromes Global Health Network, The 3604 Hendrick Dr Plano Tx 75074 (972) 943-0588 www.GlobalHealthNetwork.org dhhughes@globalhealthnetwork.org The Global Health Network is a world wide web community dedicated to providing disease-specific support groups. The GHN currently offers more than 1000 disease-specific support groups and other groups for people who share a common language or culture.

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Crystal Dyess-Carroll 1221 Goldeneye Dr Aubry Tx 76227 (940) 768-8001 www.cognitivedevelopment.pbworks.com bdyess99@hotmail.com My name is Crystal Dyess-Carroll. Being a resource partner is a great opportunity for me because it will give me the chance to better help our community of people with disabilities Berry Family Services 4702 Rowlett Road Rowlett Tx 75088 (972) 412-4707 www.berryfamilyservices.com jessica@berryfamilyservices.com (See Our Ad on PG 36) Berry Family Services is an HCS (Home and Community based service), TXML (Texas Home Living), and GR (General Revenue) Provider that Serves individuals with Mental Retardation. Berry Family Services is owned and operated by the Berry Family whose objective is to provide quality services to the “whole” person with disabilities and their family. Our consumers deserve exceptional service and value when it comes to meeting their personal needs. Berry Family Services will take the time to gain a full appreciation of the unique challenges presented by your personal situations. Most importantly, we possess the knowledge and expertise to provide solutions that meet your needs. We are dedicated to helping our consumers help themselves through services and supports designed to meet their individual needs and choices Programs Serving: Dallas County, Tarrant County, Rockwall County, Collin County, Denton County, Cooke County, Fannin County, Grayson County, Henderson County, Rains County, Smith County, Van Zandt County, Wood County, Camp County, Delta County, Franklin County, Hopkins County, Kaufman County, Lamar County, Morris County, Titus County, Johnson-Ellis-Navarro Counties, and Hunt County.

Insurance: Auto | Home | Life Farmers Insurance

130 E Hill St Keller, TX 76248 (817) 898-0370-Business (214) 724-6353-Cell ekirkwood@farmersagent.com www.kirkwoodagency.com www.facebook.com/kirkwoodagency

“Where having the RIGHT insurance is no ACCIDENT!” We are family focused, protecting family from disasters that might occur due to a loss from an auto, home or life. We make strive to take a bad situation and help make it have as little impact on a family as possible. (See our Main Listing on Page 34)

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Parental & Family Resources Directory

Transitional Services

Recreational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Adaptive Adventure Sports Challenge Air 7363 Cedar Springs Road Dallas, Texas 75235 (214) 351-3353 www.challengeair.com Challenge Air for Kids and Friends, a not-for-profit organization, offers motivational, inspirational and life-changing experiences to physically challenged children and youth through aviation. (See Our Ad on PG 44) It’s A Sensory World 13617 Neutron Rd Farmers Branch Tx 75244 (972) 239-8100 www.itsasensoryworld.com rekha@itsasesoryworld.com (See Our Ad on PG 43) “It’s a Sensory World!” caters to the recreational and social needs of children with special needs. Our facility is intended to fill the gap between therapy and main stream recreation, where children regardless of their developmental level can participate in fun-filled activities. Our MISSION is to provide a high-quality, affordable, venue for children who present sensory dysfunction and thus better assist them in meeting their sensory needs. To provide an appropriate, parent guided sensory-motor and social-skills program for children of all abilities. Adaptive Sports Foundation Windham Mountain, upstate New York (518) 734-5070 www.adaptivesportsfoundation.org 1:1 winter program for skiing and snow boarding - summer program for horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, golf, tennis, cycling, camping, sled hockey & special hockey Frisco Miracle League (214) 296-2017 (877) 683-6085 www.FriscoMiracleLeague.org The Miracle League of Frisco is a sports league for special-needs children, ages 5-18, from throughout North Texas. We offer spring/ fall baseball and soccer, winter/summer bowling and other sporting opportunities to children with all levels of disabilities. We are a “no practice” league – we just focus on having fun at game time! Registration fees (per six-week season) run about $35 and include uniform and a trophy. However, scholarships are available to all who need them – simply ask! The Miracle League of Frisco: “Because every child deserves the chance to play.” 120 Connections • 2011

Recreational Resources

(See Our Ad on PG 42) www.ConnectionsKids.com

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Cheerleading Special Needs Cheerleading “Texas Cutez” (469) 233-2882 www.here4kids.com dr.patton@tx.rr.com Classes are held at Rosemeade Recreation Center in North Carrollton on Sundays from 2:30 to 3:00 pm. Fee is $50 for a 9-week session, scholarships are available. Dr. Angela Patton For all ages and abilities Teams for typically developing children/siblings also available.

Cooking Classes Cooking Capers 801 S. Greenville, Suite 103 Allen Tx 75002 (972) 822-1659 www.cookingcapers.com tracy@wideright.net Cooking Capers offers cooking parties specifically tailored to special needs children.

Dance Footlights Dance Studio 1165 S. Stemmons Frwy. #154 Lewisville Tx 75067 (972) 436-7455 www.footlightsancestudio.com Frisco Dance Force: Creative Movement Class 3221 Preston Rd, 33 Frisco Tx 74034 (972) 712-6829 The Dance Space 1681 Justin Road Suite 102 Flower Mound Tx 75028 )972) 899-3032 www.thedancespace.org (Not just for special needs but able to accommodate some children in typical classes)

Recreational Resources

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Recreational Resources Directory

University of North Texas Physical Activity Program (940) 565-3403 The program provides physical activity services to reinforce what your child is learning in PE or at home. Children are partnered up with 2+ undergraduate students who are enrolled in Movement for Special Populations. The students will then write lesson plans and teach your children skills/games etc across the course of the semester.

Recreational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! The Dancer’s Workshop 750 S. Mill St. Lewisville Tx 75057 (972) 420-1314 www.dancers-workshop.com New creative movement class for mid-to high-functioning children called “Move With the Flow” Wednesdays from 4:14 to 5:15 3:1 ratio

Fitness Center Angel League Athletics Association of Texas 1404 Pearson Avenue McKinney Tx 75069 (972) 548-7898 www.angelleague.com lthetford@ccccd.edu Committed to providing athletic programs and recreational services that meet the needs of children with mental and physical disabilities nation wide. Cost is $40 per child per season, scholarships available Bachman Recreation Center 2750 Bachman Drive Dallas Tx 75220 (214) 670-6266 esupina@mail.ci.dallas.tx.us Offers recreation programs specifically for individuals (ages 6 and up) with disabilities. Program offers arts and crafts, sports, fitness, aquatics, socialization, music, drama and outdoor activities. Call for specific information regarding programs. Program fees are based on a sliding scale. Part of Dallas Parks and Recreation Department. Coppell YMCA Lewisville YMCA “Buddy Sports” 2021 Cross Timbers Road Flower Mound Tx 75028 (972)539-9622 (972) 393-5121 www.lewisvilleymca.org Contact: Bryce Merrill brycem.lewisville@ymcadallas.org , Parent coordinator: Keny McClurg kwmc41@msn.com Offers soccer, basketball and baseball. Special Needs Programs Available Dore Achievement Centers 4851 Merlot Ave., Suite 530 Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 526-1337 (866) 784-4377 www.doreusa.com Ronda.Isaacs@doreusa.com A clinically proven, drug-free treatment for children and adults focused on the root cause. Specialized, tailored exercises can enable you to maximize your potential. EveryBody Fits 200 Fitness Court Coppell Tx 75019 (972) 471-2345 122 Connections • 2011

Recreational Resources

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Therapeutic Recreation Programs offered by Plano Park and Rec. (972) 941-7327 addyh@plano.gov Therapeutic Recreation Programs offered by Plano Park and Rec. Class on Sunday Afternoons Carrollton, TX 75005 P: 214-731-1108 (972) 941-7272 joans@plano.gov WinKids 3000 Waketon Road Flower Mound Tx 75028 (972) 355-9988 (972) -899-9991 www.winkids.net info@winkids.net

Gymnastics North American Gymnastics Special Needs 1023 E. Seminole Trail Carrollton Tx 75005 (214) 731-1108 Play Options – in partnership with ASI Gymnastics P.O. Box 1777 Wylie Tx 75098 (214) 207-6161 Wendy Williams - wendywilliams@playoptions.com Cari Harvey - cariharvey@playoptions.com www. playoptions.com Locations in Allen, Arlington, Cedar Hill, Lake Highlands, Mesquite, Plano West, Rockwall, and Wylie Sensational Movement

1915 N. Central Expy., Suite 300 Plano, TX 75075 214-562-5170 www.sensationalmovement.com

Sensational Movement is a therapist-owned, sensory-based recreational gymnastics program for children with special needs. We provide individual private lessons and small group classes, depending on your child’s specific strengths and challenges. We also offer parents’ night out (once a month) and birthday parties (on Sundays). Special Needs Gymnastics Denise Anderson (806)438-3227 (214) 813-7047 www.specialneedsgymnastics.com Currently meeting at North American Gymnastics. New location to open in old Hobby Lobby on Main St. in Lewisville www.ConnectionsKids.com

Recreational Resources

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Recreational Resources Directory

Excite Gym “Superkids” 32510 Parker Square (972) 874-9663 Offering classes for children with special needs with an OT, with or without parent participation. Wednesdays and Fridays $75/month

Recreational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Karate / Martial Arts Red Tiger Karate director@redtigerkarate.com $35 for an 8-10 week session Taught at different schools and community centers throughout Denton County and now into Tarrant County. www.redtigerkarate.com

Movies & Special Screenings Movies for families with Autism & other Special Needs Plano Studio Movie Grill Reagan Roth www.studiomoviegrill.com Saturdays at 11 am. Call for scheduling: Brandon Jones, 972-964-3789

Horse Riding Equest Therapeutic Horsemanship P.O. Box 192747 Dallas Tx 75219 (972) 412-1099 (800) 208-2136 www.equest.org equest@equest.org A therapeutic horseback-riding program for children and adults with developmental, physical or emotional disabilities in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex with sessions in fall, spring, and summer. Funded through donations Rocky Top Therapy Center 660 Keller Smithfield Rd. Keller Tx 76249 (817) 379-5717 www.rockytoptherapy.org Taught by NARHA-certified instructors, Trail Blazers is a developmental riding therapy program. The Trail Blazers program utilizes horseback riding for clients with physical, mental, cognitive, social or behavioral problems, and often serves as a continuation of the treatment an individual received previously in hippotherapy.

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• Follow us today @connectionskids • Follow our executive director @lpolvado Roller Skating Roller Skating Lessons for Special Needs 1408 S State Highway 121 (just west of I-35) Lewisville Tx 75067 (972) -221-4666 Shona $5 for a 15 minute lesson, $10 for a 30 minute lesson once a week 124 Connections • 2011

Recreational Resources

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Recreational Resources Directory

Swimming AquaKids Swim School 3409 Cross Timbers Rd Flower Mound Tx 75028 (972) 724-1528 www.aquakids.com flowermound@aquakids.com AquaKids Swim School 4313 Heritage Trace Parkway Keller Tx 76248 (817)745-1000 www.aquakids.com keller@aquakids.com Coppell Aquatic and Recreation Center (972) 304-7032 bnickolaus@ci.coppell.tx.us Coppell Family YMCA 146 Town center Blvd Coppell Tx 75019 (972) 393-5121, ext 220 www.coppellymca.org mblankenship@ymcadallas.org This program provides swim instruction and water exercise for individuals with physical or mental disabilities. It is a one on one instructional program. Contact Mary Blankenship. Paige’s Swim School 2301 N_ Central Expwy_ # 140 Plano Tx 7575 (214) 558-7946 www.paigesswimschool.com paige@paigesswimschool.com

Water Skiing You Can Ski- Adaptive Water Sports (214) 634-9810 ext. 106 blaine@youcanski.org Wayne Holt, Speaker E: wayne@oneleggedwonder.com

Camps / Summer Camps ARC Day Camp Plano and McKinney www.arc.dallas.org aallen@arcdallas.org Runs during summer and spring break

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Recreational Resources

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Recreational Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! ARC of Dallas Summer Adventure Camp www.arc.dallas.org aallen@arcdallas.org ARC of Denton County Sibling Camp www.arcofdentoncouty.org One weekend each May Bachman Therapeutic Rec Center 2750 Bachman Drive Dalllas Tx 75220 (214) 670-6266 Camp Broncho - Asthma 3818 Cedar Springs Rd. Suite 101-343 Dalllas Tx 75219-4169 (469) 766-1509 anne.crowther@childrens.com Camp Friendship (972) 633-8244 googaly@aol.com Week-long day camp for kids with Asperger Syndrome or High-Functioning Autism Camp Peace dbarb@mckinneyisd.net Summer day camp for kids 6 years or older with AS, HFA, PDD, autism Camp Summit 2915 LBJ Freeway, Ste 185 Dalllas Tx 75234 (972) 484-8900 camp@campsummittx.org Camp designed for children, teenagers and adults with disabilities. Separate sessions are scheduled for specific ages and level of functioning. One week and weekend sessions provide typical camp activities. Sliding scale fees are available. Camp Summit is a United Way agency and is accredited by the American Camping Association. Down Home Ranch www.downhomeranch.org/camps Ranch Camp offered Near Austin, Tx Focus on the Future Adventure Special Ed Summer Camp 3405 Custer Road, Suite 100 Plano Tx 75023 Primary and Secondary Grade Levels Friend to Friend Social Camp (214) 684-8940 Home_Therapist@comcast.net 18 126 Connections â&#x20AC;˘ 2011

Recreational Resources

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You!

FUMCR Richardson GEMS Special Needs 503 N. Central Expy. Richadson Tx 75080 (972) 996-0120 www.fumcr.com/ pages/childrenspecialneeds FUNTASTICS Camp (972) 466-9151 For individuals with disabilities ages 8 – 21 years. $50 per week North Texas Conductive Education Camp (469)964-1216 www.ntxce.org orsi@ntxce.org Conductive Education for children with motor disabilities Plano Parks and Recreation Department - Therapeutic Program (972) 941-1216 joan@plano.gov Riverside Church of Christ Texoma Youth Camp bharriscar@prodigy.net SEEK Camp – Coppell 420 S. Heartz Rd Coppell Tx 75019 (972) 462-0471 info@fumccoppell.org SEEK Camp - Dallas “Summer Experience for Exceptional Kampers” www.fumcdal.org Special Summer Friends www.pptasage.com/ SummerFriends.htm (case sensitive) www.ConnectionsKids.com

Recreational Resources

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Recreational Resources Directory

Charis Hills Camp 498 Faulkner Rd. Sunset, TX 76270 www.charishills.org info@charishills.org Charis Hills is a special needs, recreational summer camp which helps children with learning differences build confidence and find success. We serve campers ages 7-21. We welcome campers with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, speech/language and hearing (See Our Ad on PG 43) impairment, emotional/behavioral challenges including high functioning Autism and Asperger’s. Camp is a great place to teach social skills. Campers also receive academic instruction for one activity period each day. Located one hour from Dallas & Fort Worth in the beautiful Cross Timbers or Northern Texas Hill Country! We also have spring and fall Family Camp programs that are both educational and recreational for the whole family.

Therapeutic Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Texas Lions Camp For children with physical disabilities, diabetes and cancer P.O. Box 290247 Kerrville Tx 78029 (830) 896-8500 www.lionscamp.com Texas Neurofibromatosis Foundation 6555 Sierra Dr Irving Tx 75039 (800) 942-8476 www.texasnf.org carolyn@texasnf.org *Parents’ Night Out / Respite Care see Parental Resource

Yoga Special World Yoga Dallas Tx (804) 714-7167 waring1@me.com

Therapy Resources: Applied Behavioral Analysis Autism Solutions of Granbury

1540 Southtown Dr. Suite 113 Granbury Tx 76048 (817) 894-7469 www.autismsolutionsofgranbury.com services@autismsolutionsofgranbury.com

ABA therapy to reach your child! Progress which can be seen and measured: As said by one of our parents, “My child is more vocal, makes better eye contact, is calmer and sociable and hardly ever stares at ceiling fans or lights anymore. His progress has been remarkable.” * Board Certified Behavior Analyst collaboration * Registered Nurse on premises * Comprehensive program: behavioral, social, academic, communication * Embedded Speech in program design * Parent training and workshops * Complimentary initial consultation and assessment * Insurance accepted as applicable * After-school, weekday and weekend programs. Behavior Exchange

6105 Windcom Ct Ste. 400 Plano TX 75093 972-312-8733 tammylynnecline@aol.com

The Behavior Exchange uses Applied Behavior Analysis in a naturalistic environment to teach skills from behavior to language to academics. We offer the following services: One-on-one behavior therapy, B.E.E.S. (Behavior Exchange Early Start), social skills groups, academic training, and Precision Teaching. For families: We provide parent training, sibling sessions, school consultations, and ARD advocacy. ABA and B.E.E.S. — a honey of an idea at The Behavior Exchange! (See our Main Ad on Page 55 )

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Therapeutic Resources

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! 12200 Ford Road Suite 189 Dallas TX 75234 972-587-2300 info@behaviorfrontiers.com www.behaviorfrontiers.com

Behavior Frontiers Innovative Training and Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorders

Behavior Frontiers offers solutions to help children with Autism and other special needs reach their maximum potential using our state of the art Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) training and treatment programs. Our innovative ABA training program is designed to help professionals and parents confidently and effectively use research based ABA methods to help children achieve their goals. Additionally, our in-home ABA treatment programs are delivered by Behavior Frontiers knowledgeable and highly trained clinical staff members using accurate and results-driven ABA methods to improve the quality of life for children and their families. (See our Main Listing on Page 52)

Therapeutic Resources Directory

Behavior Frontiers

Autism now affects 1 in 110 children. There is effective treatment.

Behavioral Innovations, Inc

6301 Campus Circle Drive East Suite 100A Irving Tx 75063 New Fort Worth Location: 1015 McKinley Street Benbrook TX 76126 469.374.0700/877.750.0ABA (0222) www.behavioral-innovation.com info@behavioral-innovations.com

Maximizing your child’s potential through compassionate, evidence-based ABA Behavior Frontiers offers solutions to help children with autism and other spec Therapy. BI offers hope and help for your child! Our parents say it their all, “Her resulting progress has been no less needs reach potential using our state-of-the-art applied behavior analy treatment programs. Wetime createis behavior intervention than astonishing!” If your child suffers with Autism or(ABA) another behavioral disorder, your most valuable treatment plans th are individualized to your child’s specific needs. Our accurate use of scientifica asset. Don’t wait, call today! proven ABA methods from our highly-trained clinical team enables us to mak Serving Dallas and Fort Worth for over 11 years | All programs supervised by lives BCBAs and BCaBAs positive difference in the of children with autism and other special needs. Flexible Center and Home-Based programs | Consultation for schools and organizations for Children and Adults Our Ad onWorth PG 51)Area Now Serving the(See Dallas/Fort Center For Children with Autism at Metro Care C A L L U S T O F I N D O U T H O W W E C A N H E L P Y O U A N D Y O U R C H I L D S U C C E E D ! 1353 N Westmoreland Bldg A W W W. B E H AV I O R F R O N T I E R S . C O M 9 7 2 - 5 8 7 - 2 3 0 0 | 1 2 2 0 0 F O R D R O A D , S U I T E 1 8 9 | D A LLA S , T X 7 5 2 3 4 Dallas TX 75211 214-333-7076 CCAM is reaching out to the Metroplex to offer, quality, affordable ABA services. Our goal is to lead each child to his or her potential through evidence based therapy founded on the principles of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Easter Seals North Texas 1424 Hemphill Street Fort Worth, TX 76104 888-617-7171 www.ntx.easterseals.com info@ntx.easterseals.com Offering a variety of center, community and home-based ABA treatment services throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area for children who have autism. Center-based services are provided at Easter Seals locations in Fort Worth, Grapevine, Carrollton, and Oak Cliff. Community and home-based services are provided for children and their families throughout North Texas. (See our Main Ad on Page 47) www.ConnectionsKids.com

Therapeutic Resources

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Therapeutic Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Hope Center 4 Autism Fort Worth 2751 Green Oaks Rd Fort Worth Tx 76116 (817) 560-1139 www.hopcenter4autism.org susan4autism@aol.com

The Hope Center 4 Autism offers behavioral intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) as well as other behavioral issues. Our services include, Initial treatment Consultation, 1:1 behavioral therapy, Social Skills, Transition therapy, Parent training, Support Groups, Speech, Language, Music and Occupational Therapy Pumpkin Littles

5439 Glen Lakes Dr Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 346-0477 www.PumpkinLittles.com pumpkinlittles@pumpkinlittles.com

Pumpkin Littles is an educational center where children have a chance to have fun and learn valuable skills. Our knowledgeable staff uses a combination of the most renowned educational principles specifically molded to suit each particular child’s needs and the goals set for that child. We develop programs to fit YOUR child’s needs. Services include: ABA Therapy, iPad Communication, Music Therapy, Yoga Therapy, Nutritionist, Sensory Gym, Speech Therapy, Tutoring, (See Our Ad on PG 58) Shadows, IEP/ ARD Consultation, Social Skills Classes and much more. Teach MeLLC (Combining ABA & Speech) Lewisville Location 575 N. Valley Parkway, Ste 220 Lewisville, TX 75067 Teach Me Academy 2459 East Hebron Parkway, Ste 160 Carrollton, TX 75010 Phone - (972) 282-1872 Fax - (888) 237-2214 www.teachmebec.com

(See Our Ad on PG 54)

As your “partner” we design highly individualized programing to meet the needs of your child. Whether through our Academy, In-home program or a combination, we are interested in your child’s whole development with the goal to make learning meaning! We take great pride in our services and our commitment is to provide you with the best of ABA and Speech services. At Teach Me LLC, you will work directly with BCBAs and SLPs on an ongoing basis to maximize progress!

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! 1981 Stadium Oaks Ct. Arlington TX 76011 (817) 522-5061 www.lonestarsolutions.org kathleenlively@rvbh.com

LoneStar Solutions offers a variety of individualized services based upon the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. Our goal is to teach functional skills in the areas of language/communication, behavior, academics, self-help skills and social skills to people diagnosed with autism or other related developmental disabilities. All of our services are provided by our Board Certified Behavior Analyst and include: - LoneStar ABA Academy: An early intervention preschool with 1:1 student/teacher ratios - ABA Home Programming Services - Home/community consultations for any behavioral concerns (i.e., aggression, potty training, bedtime struggles, etc.) (see our ad on page 46)

Auditory Integrative Therapy Kotsanis Insitute 2020 W. State Hwy 114 Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 481-6342 www.kotsanisinsitute.com

(See Our Ad on PG 48)

Cranial-sacral Chiropractic & Natural Medicine Clinic 3530 Forest Lane, Suite 104 Dallas Tx 75234 (972) 332-2280 (214) 350-9777 www.DavidRosenthal.com

Dr. Rosenthal focuses on improving the overall brain and neurological function of your child. Should your child suffer from ADHD, Autism, Asperger’s, birth trauma, movement disorders or other behavioural disorders, Dr. Rosenthal may be able to help. He integrates chiropractic, neurology, nutrition and other natural therapies in your child’s treatment program. He works closely with other professionals including MD’s, OT’s, PT’s, speech pathologists and therapeutic optometrists. Dr. Rosenthal is triple board certified in Functional Neurology, Childhood Developmental Disorders and Vestibular Rehabilitation. Please call us at 214-350-9777 or see us at www.DavidRosenthalDC.com. (See our ad on pg 50) Complete Health and Wellness 860 Hebron Pkwy Suite 1001 Lewisville TX 75057 972-315-9900 www.chandw.com

We specialize in working with children with neurological and developmental disorders such as Autism, ADD/ADHD, Dyslexia and Asperger’s using a combination of Nutrition, Detox, Cranial Sacral, and Functional Neurology. Our goal at Complete Health & Wellness is to get to the root of the problem rather than only manage symptoms.

www.ConnectionsKids.com

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LoneStar Solutions

Therapeutic Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Whole Child Wellness, Dr. Amber Brooks 14330 Midway Road Suite 116 Dallas TX 75244 Phone: 469-547-1173 www.mychildwellness.com

(See Our Ad on PG 17)

Hyperbaric Chamber Rentals In Home H-Bot Dallas Tx (817) 400-2762 www.inhomehbot.com (See Our Ad on PG 28) Info@inhomehbot.com We are dedicated to providing quality, low cost hyperbaric therapy in your home. Hyperbaric chambers do require a doctors prescription. Please visit our website to learn more www.inhomehbot.com or call us today at 817-400-2762

Music Therapy Southwestern Music Therapy DFW Metro Area (214) 227-1006 www.southwesternmusictherapy.com Southwestern Music Therapy, L.L.C. is a private practice, established to provide consultative and collaborative music therapy services for clients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan (See Our Ad on PG 55) area. Our highly trained Board Certified Music Therapists develop and implement goal driven individualized programs that benefit those that are non-musical as well as musical, and are determined upon the therapists’ assessment of the client’s overall cognitive, language and motor abilities. Musical interventions involving neurological therapy techniques, including rhythmic auditory stimulation and instrumental improvisation can be adapted to elicit positive results in overall

Electroacupuncture Kotsanis Insitute 2020 W. State Hwy 114 Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 481-6342 www.kotsanisinsitute.com (See Our Ad on PG 48) 132 Connections • 2011

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Therapeutic Resources Directory

Interactive Metronome Excel Pediatric Therapy 789 Justin Rd Rockwall Tx 75087 (972) 771-5731 www.excelpediatric.com

Physical, Occupational, & Rehab Services A to Z Pediatric Therapy 5612 Davis Blvd. North Richland Hills Tx 76180 (817) 581-0111 www.a-ztherapy.com information@a-ztherapy.com (See Our Ad on PG 49) At Home Healthcare 9846 Hwy 31 East Tyler TX 75705 1-877 MY NURSE www.athomehealthcare.org

(See Our Ad on PG 19)

Cornerstone Pediatric Therapy 1000 Crosby Rd Suite 136 Carrollton TX 75006 972-237-0100 info@cornerstonepediatric.com www.cornerstonepediatric.com

Cornerstone Pediatric Therapy is dedicated to building a strong foundation for your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth and development. Cornerstone provides quality pediatric speech, occupational, and physical therapy in your home/educational setting. Dynamic Therapy

PO Box 251236 Plano TX 75025 972-584-0284 www.dynamictherapy.net contact@dynamictherapy.net

(See Our Ad on PG 48) In-home occupational, physical, and speech therapy for children throughout north Dallas. Medicaid and Insurance accepted. The most up-to-date treatment strategies are integrated with a family-centered approach. You can expect open communication with everyone on the treatment team and most importantly, Results that Last a Lifetime.

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Easter Seals North Texas 4443 N. Josey Lane, Suite 100 Carrollton, TX 75010 972-394-8900 www.ntx.easterseals.com info@ntx.easterseals.com Offering high quality occupational, physical and speech-language therapy services to children with all types of disabilities. Services provided at our Oak Cliff and Carrollton clinic locations. (See Our Ad on PG 47) Excel Pediatric Therapy 789 Justin Rd Rockwall Tx 75087 (972) 771-5731 www.excelpediatric.com Growing in Confidence and self assurance with smiles of happiness is the treatment result at Excel Pediatric Therapy. Traditional and Innovative therapy techniques will allow a child to realize their full potential. Journey Pediatric Rehabilitation 2100 W. Northwest Highway, Suite 202 Grapevine Tx 76051 (817) 416-9797 www.journeylearning.org info@journeylearning.com Occupational Therapy services for children birth - 18. Specializations in sensory integration, NDT, vision therapy, Relationship Development Intervention (RDI), Interactive Meteronome, Play Attention and handwriting. Kids Care Therapy 9330 LBJ Freeway Suite 790 Dallas Tx 75243 (214) 575-2999 www.kidscaretherapy.com

(See Our Ad on PG 53) Kids Care Therapy is a pediatric home health care agency. We are dedicated to providing the best quality therapy to the kids we service in the Dallas/Fort Worth, and surrounding areas. Focusing on Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy and case management we will work with the patients and their doctor to provide the best course of therapy for a child with disabilities or delayed development.

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Sage Care Therapy

6301 Gaston Ave, Ste. 750 Dallas TX 75214 214-295-5374 info@sagecaretherapy.com www.sagecaretherapy.com

We at Sage Care Therapy Services are dedicated to provide a medically sound, child centered and family friendly rehabilitation experience for children. Our company utilizes pediatric professionals to provide an age appropriate evaluation and treatment plan for each child and their family. We are dedicated to coordinating medical and community resources to achieve functional outcomes that are focused with the child & family as the center of the rehabilitation team. Our team includes Occupational, Physical and Speech Language therapists who have chosen to specialize in working with children. Bilingual Therapists are available. (See Our Ad on PG 50) Therapy 2000 2535 Lone Star Dr Dallas Tx 75212 (877) 626-7003 (214) 467-9787 www.T2000.com THERAPY 2000 is a pediatric home care agency providing PHYSICAL, OCCUPATIONAL and SPEECH THERAPY to children from birth to 21 years! Our 160 therapies, who collectively speak 18 languages, provide services to well over 1000 children across (See Our Ad on PG 56) North Texas in homes, schools and childcare centers. For career information or to refer a child for therapy services, please call (214) 467-9787, toll free (877) 626-7003, fax (214) 741-3655 or visit us on the web at www.T2000.com. In-home or in-daycare, ST, OT & PT

Tell Them Connections Sent You! www.ConnectionsKids.com

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Our Children’s House Baylor (800) 4BAYLOR (429-9567 www.BaylorHealth.com OUTPATIENT CARE AT OUT CHILDREN’S HOUSE   Our Children’s House at Baylor offers outpatient services including pediatric specialized physical, occupational and speech-language therapies for children from birth to age 18 with a variety of diagnoses including neurological, orthopedic, and developmental disorders such as motor/speech delays, chromosomal abnormalities, feeding disorders, congenital disorders, disorders resulting from a traumatic injury, and disorders reflecting disturbance of the nervous system.  Our clinics are conveniently located throughout the DFW Metroplex and include facilities in Allen, Dallas, Frisco, Grapevine, Irving, Las Colinas, Plano, Rockwall and Waxahachie.  For more information, please call 1-877-820-9061. (See Our Ad on PG 46)

Therapeutic Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Relationship Development/Social Skills The Warren Center 320 Custer Rd Richardson Tx 75080 (972) 490-9055 www.thewarrencenter.org The Warren center, for children with developmental differences provides assistance to families in helping their children meet developmental challenges in motor skills, communication, behavior, feeding and cognition. Rollercoaster kids serves children (See Our Ad on PG 57) 3 - 16 who have trouble relating and communicating with others and who may have autism or sensory-regulatory disorders. Services at the center include speech and occupational therapy, and social skills groups.

Sensory Integration It’s A Sensory World 13617 Neutron Rd Farmers Branch Tx 75244 (972) 239-8100 (See Our Ad on PG 43) www.itsasensoryworld.com • rekha@itsasesoryworld.com “It’s a Sensory World!” caters to the recreational and social needs of children with special needs. Our facility is intended to fill the gap between therapy and main stream recreation, where children regardless of their developmental level can participate in fun-filled activities. Our MISSION is to provide a high-quality, affordable, venue for children who present sensory dysfunction and thus better assist them in meeting their sensory needs. To provide an appropriate, parent guided sensory-motor and social-skills program for children of all abilities.

Speech and Language A to Z Pediatric Therapy 5612 Davis Blvd. North Richland Hills Tx 76180 (817) 581-0111 www.a-ztherapy.com information@a-ztherapy.com A to Z provides exceptional services to children with special needs. We are therapist owned and operated to provide occupational, physical, (See Our Ad on PG 49) speech and language therapy for children from birth through 20 years of age. Experienced pediatric therapists strive to improve the life of your child and family, challenge your child’s abilities, encourage your child’s progress, and celebrate your child’s achievements. Services are provided in your home at your convenience. Call today to refer your child.

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(See Our Ad on PG 48)

Kids Care Therapy 9330 LBJ Freeway Suite 790 Dallas Tx 75243 (214) 575-2999 www.kidscaretherapy.com

(See Our Ad on PG 53)

Monkey Mouths Pediatric Speech Therapy 481 Harwood Rd Bedford Tx 76054 (817) 282-7251 www.monkeymouths.com Info@monkeymouths.com Experienced SLP’s, provide pediatric speech therapy in a family-centered clinical setting. Expertise in children with Down Syndrome, autism, apraxia and related disorders. Speech TX 2404 Wing Point Lane Plano Tx 75093 (214) 336-9342 www.julieslp.com • julie_slp@yahoo.com Speech TX is a private practice specializing in providing speech and language assessment and intervention. Areas of expertise include Autism and articulation. Located in West Plano and traveling to daycares/ private schools depending on availability. Sessions are tailored to meet students unique needs and are dependent on parental involvement. (See Our Ad on PG 50) Teach MeLLC (Combining ABA & Speech) Lewisville Location 575 N. Valley Parkway, Ste 220 Lewisville, TX 75067 Phone - (972) 282-1872 Fax - (888) 237-2214 www.teachmebec.com

(See Our Ad on PG 54)

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Dynamic Therapy 7704 Mapleridge Plano Tx 75024 (214) 566-2687 www.dynamictherapy.net contact@dynamictherapy.net

Therapeutic Resources Directory

Tell Them That Connections Sent You! Therapy 2000 2535 Lone Star Dr Dallas Tx 75212 (877) 626-7003 (214) 467-9787 www.therapy-2000.com In-home or in day-care ST, OT & PT See our full description on page (See Our Ad on PG 56)

Vision Therapy Neurodevelopmental Sensory Enhancement Center 5934 W. Parker Rd., Suite 500 Plano Tx 75093 (972) 312-0177 www.dr-s.net Our office is a highly specialized vision care practice. The bulk of the practice is devoted to treating those with visual processing problems. Included in this group are children and adults with add/adhd, dyslexia, autism spectrum disorder, genetic defects, developmental delays, low vision, lazy eye (amblyopia), strabismus, traumatic and acquired brain injury, stroke (CVA), cancer and vestibular issues. We also do the full range of family eye care including routine examination, disease management, Lasik and refractive surgery consultation, contact lenses and sports vision. Additionally, we have a full service optical to serve your eyeglasses and contact lens needs. (See our Main Ad on Page 17) Dr. Elliot Stendig

Therapeutic Optometrist Vision Rehab Diplomate By American Board of Disability Analysts ( 972 ) 494 -2020

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Tell Them That Connections Sent You! STRIPES, Systematic Training in Relaxation; Inner Peace for Every Student 908 Sandalwood Ave. Richardson TX 75080 (972) 437-3803 alice@stripesyoga.com www.stripesyoga.com Stripes provides brain/body fitness training to help children K-12th. During weekend workshops or professional development; adult caretakers receive a training kit with manual and learn systematic, 3 step process for helping children gain tools for reducing stress, hyperactivity, and anxiety while increasing attention and focus.

Pumpkin Littles 5439 Glen Lakes Dr Dallas Tx 75231 (214) 346-0477 www.PumpkinLittles.com pumpkinlittles@pumpkinlittles.com (See Our Ad on PG 58)

Viviana, at Connections we understand the enormous sacrifice siblings give when a child with special needs enters a family, we know, out of the whole family, you the sibling have one of the hardest jobs, yet are probably the least appreciated and acknowledged of the whole Bunch, well today, Connections honors you and celebrates you as the loving, kind, generous and selfless individual you are. We know itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not always easy but your acts of love and kindness are a shining example to all young people about what it means to give abundantly. This family has been through some amazingly tough times, but has never given up hope. With love and support they have taken each and every challenge and overcome it with dignity and grace. The hope will always be for Celeste to recover, and for her medical needs to be a thing of the past, and quite honestly, if anyone can do it, we know this little Miracle can. Rudy, Monica, Viviana. and Celeste, and the entire extended family and nursing family that has cared for this precious child, thank you for sharing your story of love, hope and determination, and showing us what it means to NEVER ever give up. www.ConnectionsKids.com

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Yoga Therapy

Bonus Articles

Thanks so much for sharing your inspiration to us all!

Technology & Therapy at Pumpkin Littles At Pumpkin Littles Therapy Center in Dallas, Texas, many of our programs integrate the iPad, with pioneering behavior therapists, special educators, data-driven programming and a proven track record. The iPad is used on-site at Pumpkin little’s in 1:1 Behavior Therapy, iPad Communication Therapy, Social Skills Classes and Music Therapy Classes depending on need. We believe that what makes Pumpkin Littles different from any other place in the world is the alternative approach. A child’s diagnosis, disability, ability or speech makes no difference at Pumpkin Littles; the staff creates programs around the children rather than fitting children into programs and uses the most advanced technology in the field. Our Classes are created to match children together and the staff meets and works together to be sure they all know every client and parent. At Pumpkin Littles technology is a tool that helps parents and children become a part of the family! Submitted by Michelle Beck Pumpkin Littles 140 Connections • 2011

Edited by LRP Bonus Articles

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Bonus Articles

Technology & The Future The future has always been the subject matter of wild predictions and speculation. I am pretty sure that as a kid I was told that by the year 2000 the world would come to an end and if we all made it to 2010 we would be flying around in flying cars. While neither of those predictions came true, the world is certainly a different place than I expected it to be and there have been many surprises along the way. Although I have not seen or had the opportunity to purchase my flying car just yet I do own a smart phone that doubles as a communication device for my daughter with Autism thanks to a handy application from Tap to Talk. I guess things have changed quite a bit. Do you remember when the personal computer was going to bring significant change to the world and it was long thought that it would be the catalyst that would bring access to the World Wide Web to everyone. Today we know that it is not the personal computer that will get the job done, but smart phones that accomplish this task. In 2010, the Apple iPad was rated the #1 children’s toy. Michelle Beck from Pumpkin Littles says, “The Apple iPad, and especially created software applications, now give children of all abilities and needs the chance to learn with a hands on touch approach incorporating the newest technological advances in the field.” She and many other Connections partners are pioneering the introduction of assistive technology into therapeutic, academic, and home environments. So is this a good or bad thing? Sorry to disappoint but this article is not being written to make an astounding prediction, but rather start a discussion and virtual sharing session on our Facebook page www. facebook.com and search for Connections-the-special-needs-kidsdirectory and give us your thoughts, predictions, and questions. Submitted by Lamarque Polvado Executive Director The Connections Project

www.ConnectionsKids.com

Bonus Articles

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Dear Caregivers, Resource Partners & Supporters of the Connections Project, Digital Processing Solutions (DPS) is proud to introduce an innovative fundraising vehicle that will benefit the Connections Project. Connectionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission is to empower caregivers who have children with special needs, here in Texas and across the United States, as they are able fund the expansion of the project. This is where DPS and your business can help make this amazing project possible. How Can You Help? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy. If you or someone you know own a business that processes credit cards or electronic checks you can support this effort by simply switching processing companies. There is ZERO COST to do so. DPS has agreed to MATCH YOUR CURRENT RATES and will be contributing 50% of their processing profit to fund the Connections Project. We have joined with the Connections Project to make this vehicle available to you and your supporters who would like to see caregivers empowered in less than a second to FIND quality resources, DISCOVER hope, and EXPLORE the possibilities. How the Program Works: 1. Make a choice to support the Connections Project 2. Call me Lamarque Polvado DPS Regional Sales Manager 817-975-4111 3. Tell me you want your processing to support the Connections Project 4. Fax 3 months of your current credit card statements to 1-888-667-6658 5. DPS will analyze and explain your current statement & then MATCH YOUR CURRENT RATES. 6. Fill out the electronic application you will receive by email to switch to DPS 7. Sign a contract to process your credit cards or other electronic payments through DPS 8. Upon approval you will be contacted by DPS to convert your current equipment to our platform 9. Smile as every dollar you process, 50% of the profits will go directly to the Connections Project In this day and age with so much uncertainty about our economy and other issues, we are proud of our affiliation with the DPS family and appreciate their willingness to help the cause. To find out more about DPS visit our website at www.eprocessingsolutions.com and feel free to contact me about your business and how to access this program. Sincerely, Lamarque Polvado DPS Regional Manager Cell: 817-975-4111 Fax: 1-888-667-6658 www.eprocessingsolutions.com www.digitaldonationspos.com

Sometimes the best ideas... are the right Ideas Let us process for your business and we will match your rates and give 50% of our profits to the Connections Project! Processing that makes a difference! Call Us Today Lamarque Polvado Regional Sales Director C: 817-975-4111 F: 888-667-6658

Bonus Articles

Autism Trust USA HORSES,

HEALERS, & HOMESTEADS

Aare asking: s the first wave of adults with autism rolls out of our school systems and onto the streets, parents where will my adult child with autism live, learn, work, play, heal, and find friends after the school bus stops coming? Tackling that question are Adult Issues think tank participants at the AutismOne Conference, held at the Westin Hotel May 25-29, 2011 in Lombard, Illinois. Think tank facilitator Dan Burns says part of the answer is the Autism Trust USA (www.theautismtrustusa.org). “We’re building a place for adults with autism to live in community and with purpose,” said Burns. “Beyond that, we’re changing attitudes. What if autism were seen not only as a monumental challenge to parents and their affected children, but also as an epic opportunity to make the world a better place for ourselves and for this growing population of young adults? What if high school graduation were not the end of the road, but the beginning of a new adventure in life and learning? Best selling writer Rupert Isaacson joins Burns at the think tank. Isaacson is father to Rowan, diagnosed PDD in 2004. His book and film, The Horse Boy, describe how equine therapy and floor time helped his son dramatically. He now runs the Horse Boy Foundation (www.horseboyfoundation.org) and teaches Horse Boy Method (www.horseboymethod.com) to help other families find the same benefits. “Autism is as much a set of gifts as a set of challenges,” says Isaacson. “We did biomedical and ABA therapy, but that wasn’t enough for Rowan. The trick is to tap into each individual’s gift to help them become productive, valued, and part of a functional adult community, like the Autism Trust USA. That’s why I’m bringing a horse to the streets outside the Westin Hotel in Lombard.” Other think tank panelists include Catherine Purple Cherry, architect, presenting on “The Ideal Group Home”; Jackie M. Marquette, PhD , presenting on a pilot employment project in Kentucky; Karen McDonough, BS, on “Supportive Housing Outside The Box”; David Larson Holmes on “Daily Challenges”; Ruth E. Snyder, RN, on “Autie Moms”; Stephen M. Shore, EdD , on “Success with Autism on a Budget”; and Anna Hundley, Executive Director of The Autism Treatment Centers of Texas, on “Dreams to Reality for Bobby.” “The need for adult services is enormous and is already upon us,” said Burns. “The solution will come not from government but from parents and advocates, many of us attending AutismOne. We invite the public to join the discussion with this high-powered panel of parents and professionals who are creating model homes, jobs, and communities for a safe and productive future.” Submitted by Dan Burns For More Information go to www.theautismtrustusa.org 144 Connections • 2011

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www.ConnectionsKids.com

At VIVA Pediatrics, life is precious.

We specialize in care of patients with the following : • BIPAPs • Pulse Ox • Apnea Monitors • Infusion Therapy • CPAPs • Ventilator • Tracheostomy Care • Oxygen Therapy • Nebulizer Treatments • NG Tube • G-Tube • IPV • Cough-Assist • TPN • Seizure Disorders

Private Duty NursiNg | skilleD NursiNg visits

Where Kids Come Home! Dallas

8150 N Central Expressway, Suite 780 Dallas, TX 75206 Ph (972) 861-1000 | Fax (972) 861-1111

Plano

5600 Tennyson Parkway, Suite 360 Plano, TX 75024 Ph (469) 341-7772 | Fax (972) 378-2111