early matters e-newsletter matters e... · 2018. 6. 7. · make brushing fun once teeth become...
TRANSCRIPT
Early Matters E-Newsletter
June 2018
How to Teach Oral Hygiene to Your Child
with Special Needs
From eParent Connect, By Richard Mungo, DDS
Trying to get any child to lay off the candy and brush their teeth can be a challenge. Yet, for parents with a
special needs child, it can be even more problematic as there are other variables that put them at high risk for
dental problems. A child’s physical, mental and intellectual abilities will all factor in their ability to comprehend
and practice good oral hygiene. With some conditions, such as cerebral palsy and seizure disorders, it might
be physically challenging for the child to brush or floss. Then there are special needs children that must
adhere to a diet high in carbohydrates and sugars. Others require medications that cause dry mouth and gum
growth or are missing teeth, which is common among special needs children.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), dental care is the most common unmet need
among children with special needs. Because cavities left untreated could spread to other parts of the body
that may already be compromised by a preexisting condition, it’s important that parents instill good oral
hygiene with their child. Following are some time-tested strategies to help parents with the process.
Start Early
Like any good habit or routine, you want to introduce the importance of good oral
hygiene early. Even before the first tooth, you should consider wiping your child’s
gums with a special toothbrush or washcloth. Later, as your child’s teeth start to
come in, you’ll want to introduce him or her to the actual process of brushing.
Remember to avoid fluoridated toothpaste until the age of 3.
As soon as teeth become visible in the mouth, brush the teeth with a small, soft-
bristle toothbrush. Make brushing in the morning and evening a part of your child’s
daily routine.
If your child has sensory issues, you may want to break down the process.
You can start by touching your child’s cheek with the toothbrush, and then lips,
before moving to actual brushing. You’ll always want to do it at a time when the
child is least cranky and will be most cooperative.
Jena Wells
Early Matter Coordinator
513. 761. 5400 ext. 207
Avoid Sugary Foods & Night Bottles
Limit your special needs child consumption of candy,
soda, and snacks. Often parents will use sweets to
placate a whining child, award a child for good
behavior or to avoid mealtime food battles.
It’s equally important that your bedtime routine
doesn’t involve a bottle. The sugars in milk and juice
have the potential to decay teeth. Such habits can be
setting up your special needs child for lifelong dental
problems.
Make Brushing Fun
Once teeth become visible you’ll want to introduce
your child to brushing twice daily. Start with a soft-
bristle toothbrush. If your child has physical limitations
that make it difficult for him to hold or maneuver small
things, consider attaching something to the handle.
The aim is to make brushing seem less like a chore,
but something fun and enjoyable. Try putting on your
child’s favorite song or creating a game out of the
process.
Find A Good Dentist
It is recommended a child starts visiting a pediatric dentist on their first birthday. This will help to normalize
the process and identify any dental issues that require intervention.
For a child with sensory issues, the sight or feel of dental instruments and the bright office lights can be
frightening. It’s important the dentist has extensive experience treating children with special needs, including
developmental disorders, physical disabilities, and special behavioral and emotional needs. The office should
radiate calm and be equipped with the latest technology that allows the doctor to perform a full range of
dental procedures – from X-rays to crowns – in one place.
Be sure to bring the toys and games to distract your during the wait. Some parents find giving their child
earphones and allowing them to listen to their favorite music during drilling helps limit anxiety.
Stay Positive
Children pick up on their parents’ emotions. They are also quick to mimic what they see at home. A parent’s
own oral hygiene practice and attitude about personal dentist visits will inevitably influence the child’s
thoughts and actions.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Richard Mungo, D.D.S., is chair of pediatric dentistry at CHOC Children’s, a pediatric healthcare
system in Orange County, California. Dr. Mungo’s philosophy of care is to provide the highest quality of oral
health care for the children in an atmosphere that is culturally sensitive and fully attentive to patients’ needs.
21 Series
Sibling Support
Thursday, June 21 | 6:30-8pm
DSAGC Hatton Foundation Community Room
Presented by Lynne Calloway Join us to hear about the sibling experience from a generational perspective. Hear what researchers have to say, a personal perspective, and join a thoughtful conversation that will appeal to parents and siblings supporting someone with an I/DD regardless of age.
Managing Feelings of Isolation While Parenting
a Child with Special Needs
Saturday, July 21| 10-11:30am
DSAGC Hatton Foundation Community Room
Presented by Maryam Kubasek, MA, LPC
Do you have feelings of isolation? Do you feel left out? As a parent of child with special needs the range of emotions can be many. Join is for a group discussion. The format is designed so that participants have opportunities to not only share their experiences as a parent or caregiver of a child with Down syndrome but also learn from and receive support from others who can identify. Our group facilitator will be Maryam Kubasek, MA, LPC, who is a Licensed Professional Counselor in practice at Thrivepointe Counseling, a group practice in Liberty Township, Ohio. We hope you can join us.
In her practice, Maryam works with individuals, couples, families, and groups. She incorporates several theoretical orientations in her practice—frequently with a focus on mindfulness-based theories such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Maryam has facilitated a variety of groups and has spoken to several parents’ gatherings.
Housing
Tuesday, August 21| 6:30-8pm
DSAGC Hatton Foundation Community Room
Presented by Home Think Tank
Veteran members of Home Think Tank will share information that helps families plan for housing, including:
The importance of identifying what you want and don't want by using a trajectory tool
Resources for using technology to help people live safely and well
Home Choice Vouchers: What and How
Resources and Events to Help You Plan
Register
Register
Register
Social Opportunities Early Matters Ice Cream Social (ages 0-5)
Sunday, July 8 | 3-5pm Sharon Woods Harbor Playground
4631 E. Kemper Road Cincinnati, OH 45241
This is the perfect opportunity to meet up with your friends or make new friends! Either way, it will be a fun day. Sharon Woods is a dry playground area connected to a spray park. There is a man-made stream for children to dip their feet in. There are also covered picnic tables, so babies can hang out in the shade.
The whole family is invited, so bring parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts and uncles! Snacks and ice cream will be provided! Please be sure to bring your swimsuit, towels and sunscreen. This is a free event, but please remember that a valid Motor Vehicle Permit is required to enter the parks. Cost for residents of Hamilton County: $10 annual/$3 daily; other visitors: $14 annual/$5 daily.
Register
Empowerment Classes
Therapeutic Horse Riding (ages 3-5)
Assessment: Friday, July 27 | 6:30 - 7:30 PM
Classes: Saturdays, July 28 - August 25 | 9 - 10 AM
A Brighter Day Farm, 3962 Gardner Lane Cincinnati, OH 45245
Registration for this class will close on July 3rd. On this date, we will hold the lottery draw, if needed. On this date, you will receive an email about the status of your child’s registration. If your child’s name was drawn to attend this class, then you will receive the forms that are to be completed and returned to Emma Ganiban by July 24th.
The group of 10 children will be split into half. Half of the children will ride the horses for the first 30 minutes, while the other half of the children are completing Non-Mounted Therapeutic Activities. They will get to experience “jobs” on the farm. No, we don’t mean that they will be working with the manure, but they will have specific duties to complete that will help them reach their goals that you have helped us develop. The second half hour the two groups will switch.
Please look at the dates closely on your calendar. We ask that you are able to attend the assessment night and, at least, four of the classes.
Register
Summer Picnic Summer Picnic (all ages)
Sunday, August 5 | 3-6pm
Lunken Airport Playfield (Spirit of 76 Shelter)
Our Summer Picnic is the perfect place to connect with friends and family and a great way to celebrate the summer! We hope to see you once again at the Lunken Airport Playfield.
There will have a bounce house, games for kids and a playground for all. This event is free for our families;
we just ask that guests please bring a side dish or a dessert to
share. Last Name A - L: Dessert; Last Name M - Z: Side Dish.
Register
iPad Lending Library These are the various apps that the iPads have on them at the DSAGC. If you are interested in trying a
particular app out before you purchase it, then you are more than welcome to rent one of our iPads.
About the Lending Library
The DSAGC iPad Lending Library is a free service, and provides access to three iPads. We strive to provide
the most up-to-date ways to connect with and educate families. Our iPads currently have over 40 different
applications for all ages and levels. Having access to these devices will allow our families to have time for
exploration into technology within their own home and at their own pace.
To rent an iPad please contact Amie Lefebvre at [email protected]
Applications on the iPad
We do not have specific directions for each application. For specific information you can search the
applications on Google or Apple.com
ABA Flash Cards
Angry Birds
Answer: YesNo
Bubble Pop
First Phrase
Fluidity
Foov at the Ballpark
iCan Toilet Training
iDoodle
IN MY DREAMS
iWriteWords
Mi-Stories
Monkey Math School
My First Words
My Play Home
myShopi
Potty Training Time
Proloquo2GO
Reminder
Shape Builder
Sleep Pillow Sounds
Sounddrop
Sounding Board
Speak it!
Speech with Milo
Step By Step Playing with
Friends
Tap to Talk
Time Timer
Toddler Counting
TouchChat
Video Scheduler
Vola Friends
DSAGC Family Resources
Support at Every Age
Community Participation Fund
Hospital Care Packages
Community Groups
The DSAGC is here to assist you and your family members as you prepare for the birth of your new little one.
Our Early Matters Coordinator, Jena Wells, can provide guidance for you and your family, connect you with
another parent who received a diagnosis, make a personal visit and send you materials. Please know that we
care about your family and we are always here for you. Jena can be reached at [email protected].
Join the DSAGC Early Matters Facebook Group. Parents with children age 0 - 5 share stories, tips,
suggestions and information. Click here to join the group.
We have a limited amount of scholarships available for individuals with Down syndrome to participate in
community activities (such as camps, soccer, swim lessons) and therapies. There is also funding available
for parents to attend educational meetings or conferences. We pay half of the request (up to $200 per
year). You must live within our 12 county area to be eligible. Please contact Lisa Steele
at [email protected] for more information.
Is your child (18 years and younger), with Down syndrome, spending three or more days in the hospital? The
Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati would love to support you during this difficult time. Click
here to receive a Hospital Care Package.
The vision of the ‘Community Groups’ is to provide support, connections, information, and be a resource to
families while creating a warm, welcoming, empathetic environment. A Community Group is designed to
create opportunities for families that have children with Down syndrome to network and share common
interests, concerns, challenges, and information.
Each Community Group is considered an extension of the DSAGC, but autonomy and decision making
authority is given to the groups so they can effectively meet their unique purpose and goals for serving
families and individuals in their community. Click here to see a full list of Community Groups.
Birth Year Groups: 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 & 2018
Dear Thomas Center Family,
As a family connected to the Thomas Center and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, we wanted to
pass along to you an opportunity to participate in a research study. This study is being conducted by the
Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. This
study seeks to understand the relationship between behavior and parental stress for children and adolescents
with Down syndrome. The study will include behavioral parent training. The focus of this study is with children
and adolescents ages 3-12, who have Down syndrome and one of their parents. If you are interested in you
and your child participating in this study, please read the information below.
INFORMATION ABOUT THE STUDY
This study will last for 22 weeks and include the following:
You and your child will:
* Come to Cincinnati Children’s for three visits (Screen, Week 10, Week 22) to complete questionnaires and
have him/her evaluated for their cognitive and executive functioning (ability to plan, solve problems, etc.).
You will:
* Come to Cincinnati Children’s to take part in hourly educational sessions for 9 weeks. One additional
optional session will offered.
Parents interested in participation will be given a consent form that thoroughly explains all of the details of the
study. A member of the study staff will review the consent form with you and will be sure that all of your
questions are answered.
To learn more about this research or to sign up for this study, please contact Hilary Rosselot at 513-636-4134
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Anna Esbensen, Ph. D. Rebecca Shaffer, Psy.D
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
The Jane and Richard Thomas Center for Down Syndrome
The Kelly O’Leary Center
Research Study
Community Opportunities The DSAGC does not endorse, recommend or support any particular regime,
therapy, activity, camp or treatment. We welcome articles and information
from parents, professionals and other interested parties.
Session 4: Medicaid Application & Determination Process & Waiver Services Date: Thursday, June 14, 2018
Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm
Location: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Office Building (MOB)
3430 Burnet Avenue 5th Floor Rooms 5.201 & 5.202
Cincinnati OH 45229
Speakers: Davona Jeter, Job and Family Services, Jessica Purkiser, Butler County DD Services, Antonio
Aikens, Hamilton County DD Services, Tony Hidy, Warren County DD Services, Shonya Agin, Clermont
County Job and Family Services
Register Online: https://goo.gl/QhS2g6
Session 5: Financial Planning for Families of Children and Adults who have De-
velopmental Disabilities
Date: Monday, July 30, 2018
Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm
Location: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Office Building (MOB)
3430 Burnet Avenue 5th Floor Rooms 5.201 & 5.202
Cincinnati OH 45229
Speakers: Andrew Brennan, Disability Rights Ohio; Family Members
Register Online: https://goo.gl/wdP54P
Session 6: Guardianship and Alternatives
Date: Thursday, August 16
Time: 6:00pm-8:00pm
Location: Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Office Building (MOB)
3430 Burnet Avenue 5th Floor Rooms 5.201 & 5.202
Cincinnati OH 45229
Speakers: Andrew Brennan, Disability Rights Ohio; Family Members
This interactive workshop includes lecture, practice of strategies, case studies and discussion. It is geared
toward educators, other school-based professionals and family members of children and youth with
challenging behaviors.
Friday, June 22, 2018 | 8:00 AM* - 1:00 PM
Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center Liberty Campus A, Room A2.034 - A2.036
*Registration and Breakfast begin at 8:00 am; Workshop starts promptly at 8:30 am
Boxed Lunch provided
Register here: https://goo.gl/FbJ5eS
Dr. Laura Srivorakiat, PsyD, Supervising Psychologist in the Division of Developmental and
Behavioral Pediatrics (DDBP) at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC) and Behavior
Specialist in our Intensive Outpatient Clinical Program will discuss:
How to get to the Root of Behaviors in Children and Youth with Disabilities
Practical Strategies to Change Behaviors and Promote Success at Home and School
If you need accommodations and/or have questions, contact Rachel, 513-636-0541, [email protected]
Summer Activities Below are some summer opportunities for your child. Be sure to check out their websites for more information.
Anderson Township, Little League, Challenger Division
Ages: 5-18 or 22 if still in school
Provides girls and boys the opportunity to play baseball. Buddies available to partner with players as needed
www.atll.org
Butler County Challenger Baseball
Ages: 5-22
*Serves surrounding counties as well
www.bccchallenger.org
Brain Balance of Cincinnati
Ages: 4-19
Run summer therapy programming
www.brainbalancecenters.com
Cincinnati Dragons Wheelchair Basketball
Ages: 12 and under
Time: 3:30-5pm on Sundays
For more information, contact Jacob Counts: [email protected]
Cincinnati Therapeutic Riding and Horsemanship
Ages: 2-adult
Equine assisted therapies
www.ctrh-onling.org
Pump It Up Sensory Friendly Night
Ages 3-12
Sensory friendly night last Monday of every month at 7pm
www.pumpitupparty.com/oh/west-chester
Melodic Connections
Ages: 6 months-adult
Music therapy, some groupshttp://
melodicconnections.org/ Click here for a longer list of activities!
Adapted Aquatics Learn-to-Swim Program
Our Adapted Aquatics Program is coordinated by Kristen Clatos Riggins, MA, CTRS, CDSS, ATRIC, and Eric Rueger,
WSI. Their core teams of qualified and experienced instructors are committed to creating positive aquatic experiences
for all ages and ability levels. Our individualized Adapted Aquatics Program is designed to include all ability levels by
incorporating the Red Cross Swim Progression and the TR Sequential Swim Progression for individuals with physical,
neurological, developmental, and cognitive impairments. Participants, ages 3 and older, are taught swim skills, water
safety and independence. Children and adults can be successfully included in traditional swim programs if they are intro-
duced to the water with positive experiences, dedicated staff, and structured lessons allowing for maximum attention.
When enrolled in our Adapted Aquatics Program, swimmers learn American Red Cross Aquatics Levels I, II, and III swim
skills—while the ultimate goals include:
Safe, independent play in the water
Participation in traditional, inclusive swim lesson programs
Competitive/Non-Competitive participation in Special Olympics or other swim team in the community
Each swimmer receives individualized, progressive strategies and teaching methods that make learning achievable, sen-
sory integrative, and fun for all. We will keep specific learning types and considerations in mind while structuring lessons,
and provide visual, auditory, and sensory stimulation based on the needs of the individual. Lessons are offered on Tues-
days, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Summer Session
Ages: 3 and Older
Days/Times: Tuesdays: 4:30 – 5:10 pm, 5:15 – 5:55 pm, 6:00 – 6:40 pm (Code: ATSU18)
Thursdays: 4:30 – 5:10 pm, 5:15 – 5:55 pm, 6:00 – 6:40 pm (Code: ATHSU18)
Saturdays: 10:00 – 10:40 am, 10:45 – 11:25 am, 11:30 am – 12:10 pm ,12:15 – 12:55 pm (Code: ASSU18)
Begin/End: June 12 – July 28
Cancellations: Week of Fourth of July
Program Location: Mt. Auburn Pool
Program Fee: $120 + CRC Center Membership
Contact Person: Eric Rueger (513)352-4971
Click here for more information on their website!
June Calendar Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
2
Joggin for Joss
Golf Outing
Buddy Up
Tennis (ages 5 &
up)
3
4 5
Summer
Tutoring
Speech
Therapy
(ages 0 -2)
Butler/
Warren -
Ladies Night
Out
6 7
Summer
Tutoring
Employment
Prep (ages 18
& up)
8
9
10
Westside -
Family Day
at West Side
Brewery
Team Nolan
- Buddy
Walk
Fundraiser
11
12
Summer
Tutoring
13 14
Summer
Tutoring
Pre-Golf
Outing Dinner
15 16
AAFN - Family
Meet up
Buddy Up Tennis
(ages 5 & up)
Team Alexander
the Great - Poker
Tournament
17 18
Dave
Lapham and
ken
Anderson
Charitable
Golf Outing
19
Summer
Tutoring
20 21
Summer
Tutoring
21 Series -
Sibling
Support
22 23
Buddy Walk
Fundraiser:
Allie's Army and
Liam's Legion
Cornhole
Tournament
24
BY 2015 &
BY 2016 -
Family Meet
Up
25
Express
Yourself
(ages 18 &
up)
26
Summer
Tutoring
27 28
Summer
Tutoring
29
Independent
Living Retreat
(ages 18 &
up)
30
Independent
Living Retreat
(ages 18 & up)
Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
1
Independent
Living Retreat
(ages 18 & up)
2
Express
Yourself (ages
18 & up)
3 4 5 6
7
8
Westside -
Family MeetUp
at Clippard
Park
Early Matters Ice Cream Social (ages 0 - 5)
9
Express
Yourself (ages
18 & up)
10 11 12 13 14
15 16
Express
Yourself (ages
18 & up)
17 18 19 20
DADS -
Abilities at
Bat REDS
21
21 Series –
Managing
Feelings of
Isolation While
Parenting A
Child With
Special Needs
Team Nolan -
Buddy Walk
Fundraiser
22 23
iCan Bike
Camp
24
iCan Bike Camp
25
iCan Bike
Camp
26
iCan Bike
Camp
27
iCan Bike
Camp
28
Therapeutic
Horse Riding
(ages 3 - 5)
AAFN - Meet
up
29 30 31
July Calendar