M12 Lollipops

Testimonials for "revitaPop" MB12 Lollipops By Kim Stagliano You've got to check out the revitaPop, methylcobalamin (MB12) in a tasty lollipop.  I tried my first revitaPop at Autism One last month (HERE.) Holy cow! Within seconds I felt a distinct "ping" in my brain and I became more alert, bubbly and energetic. Trust me, if I hadn't felt anything I'd have smiled and walked away from the booth to go find coffee. Click HERE to view a quick video of testimonials from Autism One.  You'll see familiar faces, including Kimberly Linderman, yours truly and our Contributing Editor Abdulkadir Khalif. The revitaPop tastes great (I tried Pomegranate) is gluten and casein free and uses no artificial colors or flavors. I was really happy to learn from Dave Dobkin (that's he in the photo), that the folks at revitaPop employ people with developmental disabilities to sort, pack and ship the product.  And they support Generation Rescue and the new Rescue Family grant program. revitaPop was created by Stan Kurtz who also invented the MB12 Nasal Spray and is President of Generation Rescue . There is a patent pending on revitaPOP's novel administration of MB12.  Their first shipment sold out in days.  Their next shipment arrives this week.   Go to www.revitaPop.com to learn more.

RE: Autism Community Mourns Passing of Dr. Ted Carr

Autism Community Mourns Passing of Dr. Ted Carr Pioneer Psychologist Transformed Understanding and Treatment of Autism Behaviors   Bethesda, MD (June 22, 2009) -- The autism community lost a great leader this weekend, Dr. Edward Carr, who was killed by a drunk driver the afternoon of June 20. Dr. Carr, the Leading Professor in the Department of Psychology at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, was a top advisor to the Autism Society. We are deeply saddened by the loss of our friend and colleague and his wife, Ilene Wasserman, who was also killed in the crash, and we send our thoughts and prayers to their family.   Dr. Carr was recognized internationally for his research on new treatments for autism and related disabilities. He co-developed Functional Behavioral Assessment and Positive Behavior Support, a strategy for dealing with learning and behavior issues endorsed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Dr. Carr wrote numerous articles on autism treatment and authored the best-selling book, Communication-Based Intervention for Problem Behavior (Paul H. Brookes, 1994). He has received numerous awards, including the Applied Research Award in Behavior Analysis (American Psychological Association, 2001) and the Distinguished Research Award for Career Achievement (ARC, 1999).   Dr. Carr was a strong supporter, valued contributor and beloved colleague at the Autism Society. As a member of the Autism Society's Panel of Professional Advisors, he was a frequent contributor to the Autism Advocate, most recently co-editing an issue on ABA therapy (http://www.autism-society.org/site/PageServer?pagename=autismadvocate_aba), which was one of his many areas of expertise. With Drs. Martha Herbert and Brenda Smith-Myles, Dr. Carr developed the Autism Society's Treatment Guided Research Initiative and was the main inspiration for the "Quality of Life" objectives the Society uses to develop and evaluate its programs. A frequent presenter at the Autism Society National Conference, Dr. Carr was scheduled to moderate this year's keynote panel on "The Future of Autism" on July 23. The panel will continue to be held in his honor.   "Ted was passionately committed to improving the quality of life for people with autism and their families," said Lee Grossman, President and CEO of the Autism Society. "Those of us who were privileged to work closely with him will miss his insights, his humor, his deep compassion and advocacy for people affected by autism. We will miss him greatly but we will ensure his legacy lives on."   "Dr. Ted Carr was a pioneer in the field of positive behavior supports and autism spectrum disorders. His focus on enhancing quality of life and understanding of the systemic issues surrounding behaviors forced practitioners to think more broadly when designing interventions," said Dr. Cathy Pratt, Chair of the Autism Society Board of Directors. "He was a gentle man and quiet innovator with a quick wit and amusing perspective. His work will truly live on and serve as an inspiration for generations to come."   Dr. Carr was Past President of the Association for Positive Behavior Support and a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.   In Dr. Carr's honor, the Autism Society has set up a Tribute page for colleagues, friends and admirers to post their thoughts and messages on Dr. Carr at www.autism-society.org/ted_carr_memorial. The page will be shared with his family and colleagues.     Carin Yavorcik Media Specialist The Autism Society 301.657.0881 x 115 cyavorcik@autism-society.org www.autism-society.org   NOTICE: This message is confidential, intended for the named recipient(s) and may contain information that is (i) proprietary to the sender, and/or, (ii) privileged, confidential and/or otherwise exempt from disclosure under applicable Maryland and federal law, including, but not limited to, privacy standards imposed pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act ("HIPAA").  Receipt by anyone other than the named recipient(s) is not a waiver of any applicable privilege.  If you have received this email in error, please delete it immediately.  Thank you in advance for your compliance with this notice.

Recipe: Crispy Rice Treats Rated - Not yet rated Rate this Recommend Rate this | Add your comment Add to Shopping List Add to Shopping List Select a shopping list Create a new list Name for new list: Cancel Items to add: 4 cups brown rice crisps cereal 2/3 cup raisins 1/2 cup smooth almond butter 5 tablespoons raw agave nectar 1 tablespoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Cancel Makes 12 Almond butter, brown rice crisps, raisins and agave nectar give this classic treat a healthier update. Ingredients 4 cups brown rice crisps cereal 2/3 cup raisins 1/2 cup smooth almond butter 5 tablespoons raw agave nectar 1 tablespoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon Method Place cereal and raisins in a large mixing bowl. Heat almond butter and agave nectar over medium-low heat until the mixture is warm and thinned like syrup. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and cinnamon. Pour over cereal and raisins and stir until completely coated. Spray a 7-by-11-inch baking dish with natural cooking spray. Transfer the cereal mixture to the baking pan. Pat it down with wet fingers to even out the top. Chill for an hour before cutting into squares. Keep chilled between servings. Nutrition Per serving (1 square/about 1oz/39g-wt.): 160 calories (60 from fat), 7g total fat, 0.5g saturated fat, 0mg cholesterol, 90mg sodium, 25g total carbohydrate (1g dietary fiber, 13g sugar), 3g protein www.autismlarimer.org aslc@autismlarimer.org 970-377-9640 If you do not wish to receive future e-mails or newsletters, please reply to this message with 'Remove' in the subject line.

Dangers of iPhone

The cell phone companies surely will not broadcast this – especially in a down economy – but your cell phone can do some serious bodily damage resulting from radiation. And these dangers are skyrocketing at an alarming rate… though you may not be hearing about it because of the economics involved. Brain cancer recently surpassed leukemia as the number one cancer killer in children. I'm sure you'll agree that's an alarming development. Dr. Charlie Teo, preeminent Australian neurosurgeon, believes a significant contributing factor in the exponential increase in pediatric brain tumors is excessive exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) and electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from mobile phones and other electrical and electronic equipment and appliances. However, there are phones that create moderate risk and those that create serious risk. Is Your iPhone the Worst Offender of All? As innovative and popular as it is, the iPhone may well be one of the worst offenders, for a number of reasons. Even when you're not using your iPhone but have it on, it still operates as a base station, transmitting radiation to you. Further, iPhones tend to get a great deal of use due to their amazing plethora of applications, which increases your risk. Data waves from your iPhone substantially affect your biology, altering intercellular communication. Thing is… you want your cells to talk to each other in a 'normal' way, not to take on abnormal communication habits. Now I'm pretty sure you won't be willing to give up your cell phone in today's world. But there are some things you can do to minimize your risk. Before I tell you about that, let me tell you a bit about how we got where we are… Sometimes you just need to take matters into your own hands. For the last ten years, I've been convinced that cell phone radiation is a real concern for all of us. That's why I first introduced the RF3 Headset to help you minimize your radiation exposure. However, as time went on, I realized that some improvements could make the RF3 Headset even better -- and more convenient to use. And that's exactly what I asked my team to do. A few issues that I challenged my team to improve on were: Poorly designed earpiece -- mine occasionally came loose and I had to glue it back in place. Annoying constantly tangled cord -- this wasted loads of time, as I would have to unknot it nearly every time I wanted to use it. Awkward earhook design – earhook configuration was frustrating and difficult to adjust Well, my team came through in flying colors and upgraded the Blue Tube Headset – an improved RF3 with enhanced Aircom™ 2 technology. But before I get into more details on this new and improved headset, here's what's behind my decision to use one in the first place... Cell Phone Radiation -- A Growing Concern The first cell phones were introduced in 1984. By 2004, we reached one billion cell phones. It only took EIGHTEEN months to reach the second billion. But wait it gets far worse: it only took NINE months to reach the third billion. And to get to four billion cell phones? Only SIX months! Cell phone use is pervasive. That makes your personal use even far more of a concern. Why? Your total radiation exposure is rapidly increasing -- even if you don't use a cell phone. And when you add your personal exposure, it only compounds the problem. The emission of EMR (electromagnetic radiation) from cell phones continues to become a growing concern. However, you'll not hear the large wireless corporations or the federal government publicly talking about cell phone EMR emission issues. Why? Big-time profits linked to large powerful corporations. Sound familiar? Why You Won't Catch Me Using My Cell Without an EMR-Reducing Cell Phone Headset Before I became educated on this issue, I used my cell phone regularly and thought that my off-the-shelf headset minimized EMR emissions. However, I eventually discovered that: Cell phones emit a radiation plume. Most cell phone headsets have a wire that can act like an antenna, and simply make matters worse. A great deal of scientific data has been suppressed by the cell phone industry and the government to protect their multi-billion dollar profits. Now I simply refuse to talk on any cell phone unless I am using a speaker phone or headset designed to reduce radiation. In fact, as you already know, my team and I improved the Blue Tube Headset that comes with my full recommendation. Getting rid of your cell phone is probably not an option these days. Today's cell phones are much more than phones. They can also be your camera, video recorder, hand-held computer, and your lifeline to staying in touch with your work and family. So, how do you continue to use this convenient device and reduce cell phone radiation? 5 Ways to Help You Minimize Cell Phone Radiation Emissions Here are some sound solutions that can help minimize the EMR your phone emits: Use your cell phone on speakerphone. While this is a great solution and I strongly recommend it, it's simply not practical much of the time. Especially if you are in a public place where rules of discretion and proper etiquette prevail. Another problem is that not all cell phones have speakerphones -- and even those that do may have poor sound quality. I do recommend that if you are choosing a new cell phone, make sure it comes with a speakerphone option. Always keep your phone as far away from your body as possible. There's a dramatic drop-off in radiation exposure for every inch you keep your phone away from your body. Get yourself a Blue Tube Headset with an airtube. In my opinion, this new RF3 design with Aircom 2 technology is the best headset on the market. Others may actually increase the amount of radiation emitted. Limit your cell phone use to the bare minimum. Your cell phone is constantly searching for signals and emitting EMR while you're using it. Turn off your cell phone when not needed OR keep it a few feet away from your body. Even when not in use, as long as your phone is turned on, it continually emits EMR as it connects to its base station. Get the New and Improved Cell Phone Accessory You Need to Help Reduce EMR The telecommunications industry is constantly deluged with new devices being marketed and sold that claim to reduce the amount of radiation during cellular phone use. When it comes to cell phone headsets, don't be fooled by false claims. For the last ten years, I've been convinced that cell phone radiation is a real concern for all of us. That's why I first introduced the RF3 Headset to help you minimize your radiation exposure. Just like the RF3 Headset I previously recommended, the new and improved Blue Tube Headset was developed specifically to help minimize EMR. Again, it's the only cell phone accessory I personally use and can recommend for you and your family. It's simple -- the further away your phone and all electronic components are from your head, the better. The new Blue Tube Headset with advanced Aircom 2 technology was developed with simple physics in mind to keep radiation to a minimum. The main advantage of using an airtube headset, like the Blue Tube, comes from incorporating an acoustic exchange principle (similar to a doctor's stethoscope) to eliminate using a wire all the way to a headset earpiece that can emit microwaves. By replacing the typical wire found in nearly all cell phone headsets with this airtube, the Blue Tube Headset helps you reduce radiation emissions. Plus, the Blue Tube Headset features advanced acoustic technology, delivering safe, superior communication, and hassle-free use by combining the following state-of-the-art features: Enhanced speaker for louder, clearer sound Specially designed internal wiring system that reduces feedback and distortion More ergonomic positioning -- the sound chamber hangs freely in the air between your cheek and collar bone, reducing contact with your body However, as time went on, I realized that some improvements could make the RF3 Headset even better -- and more convenient to use. And that's exactly what I asked my team to do. A few issues that I challenged my team to improve on were: Poorly designed earpiece -- mine occasionally came loose and I had to glue it back in place. Annoying constantly tangled cord -- this wasted loads of time, as I would have to unknot it nearly every time I wanted to use it. Awkward earhook design – earhook configuration was frustrating and difficult to adjust Well, my team came through in flying colors and upgraded the Blue Tube Headset – an improved RF3 with enhanced Aircom™ 2 technology. So, you can see why I feel my team came through and delivered an even better headset. The Blue Tube Headset will now become the new standard by which all new headsets will be measured. This sleek and sophisticated headset will have your friends asking where they can get one. 5 Solid Reasons Why I Recommend the Blue Tube Headset As cellular phone use increases throughout the world, so do concerns about overall cell phone radiation emissions. I highly recommend the Blue Tube Headset specifically with this in mind. It is durable and won't quickly wear out on you. Plus, it's so comfortable you will actually enjoy wearing it. But most of all, I recommend the Blue Tube Headset because it: Helps minimize your EMR emissions – features the RF3 Aircom 2 patented technology. Delivers you state of the art, crystal clear sound - you receive high-clarity sound using advanced acoustic technology through an air-filled wireless tube and advanced sound chamber. Comes with a smooth working retractor – simply pull the retractor from both ends for quick and easy operation Delivers you trouble-free day-after-day operation - through its versatile retractable cord and easy storage capability. For those of you who like the convenience and freedom of movement that comes with using a hands-free kit, the Blue Tube Headset offers you one of the most convenient and safest alternatives on the marketplace today. Both the airtube and earpiece contain no metal conductors -- reducing the radiation otherwise present in typical hands-free units. This headset is backed by the highest level of quality from the manufacturer. Bluetooth Wireless Headsets Are NOT the Answer Notice I said Blue TOOTH (our headsets are Blue TUBE). Bluetooth wireless headsets are even worse than regular ones. Why? Because the wire is replaced with a transmitter and receiver operating with low power at frequency levels between 900 MHz to 2.4 GHz. The maximum frequencies for wireless products compliant with Bluetooth specifications are 2.497 GHz. The frequency power of wireless headsets rivals that of microwave ovens, which also operate at 2.4 GHz. And, while in a few cases emission may be lessened by the use of a cell phone headset or earpiece, it may not reduce radiation enough. This means that even a product that offers up to 70 percent reduction in EMR is not nearly as effective as it seems. I doubt you'll find as much radiation reduction in other headsets on the market. The Blue Tube Headset advantage is clearly illustrated below. Conventional Headsets use wire to deliver sound to the earpiece and may also emit electromagnetic radiation. The Blue Tube advanced Aircom2 technology delivers the clearest sound achievable through an air-filled wireless tube that reduces the emission of radiation. Don't Be Sorry Tomorrow -- Order Your Blue Tube Headset Today! The stylish Blue Tube Headset is available in 2.5mm plug version, with an earbud ear piece design (pictured right), that will fit many cell phones. Regarding Adapters: This headset uses a 2.5mm jack. If your phone does not have a 2.5mm jack, you will need an adapter. To determine what size jack your phone has, consult the product manual, the product manufacturer or the retail store where you purchased it. A small percentage of phones will require an adapter for use with the headset. Luckily, we have adaptors available to fit your phone. Don't put off providing you and your family with the best cell phone headset on the market that helps minimize EMR emissions. Do yourself a favor and help your family take advantage of this incredible product today. Even though we greatly improved on the design of its predecessor, the Blue Tube Headset is priced less. Your loved ones DESPERATELY need this vital EMR reduction. So, if you want your whole family (or friends) to minimize EMR from their cell phones, take advantage of our "3-Pack" of Blue Tube Headsets at a steeply discounted investment of only $61.97! BlueTube Headset 3-Pack w/ Adapters (Adapters are chosen during checkout) List Price: $134.70 Your Price: $76.88 You Save: $57.82 (43%) BlueTube Headset 3-Pack List Price: $104.85 Your Price: $61.97 You Save: $42.88 (41%) BlueTube Headset Single Headset w/ Adapter List Price: $44.90 Your Price: $29.94 You Save: $14.96 BlueTube Headset Single Headset List Price: $34.95 Your Price: $24.97 You Save: $9.98 Individual Adapters Regarding Adapters: The Blue Tube headset uses a 2.5mm jack. If your phone does not have a 2.5mm jack, you will need an adapter. To determine what size jack your phone has, consult the product manual, the product manufacturer or the retail store where you purchased it. iPhone (also works w/ most Blackberries) Motorola V3 Sony Ericsson K759 Sony Ericsson T28 $9.95 $4.97 $9.95 $4.97 $9.95 $4.97 $9.95 $4.97 www.autismlarimer.org aslc@autismlarimer.org 970-377-9640 If you do not wish to receive future e-mails or newsletters, please reply to this message with 'Remove' in the subject line.

What Fathers Think: Quotations from Ordinary Fathers by Robert Naseef, Ph.D.  Often times men seem to have a more muted language, so it is no surprise when others wonder what a man really thinks. I asked a number of men who have children with special needs about their reflections on fatherhood. Here's what they told me: "Now that I am a father, I have a different relationship with work. It's not my whole life anymore." "Having a daughter with Down syndrome has changed my notion of what comprises a bad day. I appreciate life in such a different and more profound way." " I have learned to see past what my son (who has autism) isn't and focus on who he is. It takes time to find it in your heart."  "My children's smiles are my smiles—the one who has CP and the one who doesn't. They light up my life." " My father was a hard worker and he taught me to be. He required it. Now I have a child with special needs, and I work hard to be the best father I can for him." "I grew up without my father because my parents divorced when I was very young. I was always determined to be there for my children. Now that I have two boys with special needs, they need me more than ever." "My father had a horrible temper. I was determined to do better. My daughter's disability taught me such humility as I learned to accept what I could not change." " I am a fixer, and I can't fix this. There is not a wrench to pull out of my toolbox." "When I get home at night and my kids run to greet me and laugh – that is the best part of my day." As you can see, there is much wisdom in the observations and reflections of these fathers. They are fairly typical of many fathers I have met both with and without children with special needs. Fathers are vital. When a child is diagnosed with special needs, it can be a grief like no other. It is an event that changes and transforms us. It will drive us places we never wanted to go. Men and women alike look to their fathers for comfort and strength and acceptance. As hard as it has been, I must say that my son, autism and all, is a good son and loving him has taught me to be a better father.       .

What Siblings Would Like Parents and Service Providers to Know In the United States, there are over six million people who have special health, developmental, and mental health concerns. Most of these people have typically-developin g brothers and sisters. Brothers and sisters are too important to ignore, if for only these reasons: These brothers and sisters will be in the lives of family members with special needs longer than anyone. Brothers and sisters will be there after parents are gone and special education services are a distant memory. If they are provided with support and information, they can help their sibs live dignified lives from childhood to their senior years. Throughout their lives, brothers and sisters share many of the concerns that parents of children with special needs experience, including isolation, a need for information, guilt, concerns about the future, and caregiving demands. Brothers and sisters also face issues that are uniquely theirs including resentment, peer issues, embarrassment, and pressure to achieve. Despite the important and life-long roles they will play in the lives of their siblings who have special needs, even the most family-friendly agencies often overlook brothers and sisters. Brothers and sisters, often left in the literal and figurative waiting rooms of service delivery systems, deserve better. True "family-centered" care and services will arrive when siblings are actively included in agencies' functional definition of "family." The Sibling Support Project facilitated a discussion on SibNet, its listserv for adult siblings of people with disabilities, regarding the considerations that siblings want from parents, other family members, and service providers. Below is a discussion of themes discussed by SibNet members and recommendations from the Sibling Support Project: The Right to One's Own Life. Throughout their lives, brothers and sisters may play many different roles in the lives of their siblings who have special needs. Regardless of the contributions they may make, the basic right of siblings to their own lives must always be remembered. Parents and service providers should not make assumptions about responsibilities typically-developin g siblings may assume without a frank and open discussion. "Nothing about us without us"— a phrase popular with self-advocates who have disabilities — applies to siblings as well. Self-determination, after all, is for everyone — including brothers and sisters. Acknowledging Siblings' Concerns. Like parents, brothers and sisters will experience a wide array of often ambivalent emotions regarding the impact of their siblings' special needs. These feelings should be both expected and acknowledged by parents and other family members and service providers. Because most siblings will have the longest-lasting relationship with the family member who has a disability, these concerns will change over time. Parents and providers would be wise to learn more about siblings' life-long and ever-changing concerns. Expectations for Typically-Developin g Siblings. Families need to set high expectations for all their children. However, some typically-developin g brothers and sisters react to their siblings' disability by setting unrealistically high expectations for themselves — and some feel they must somehow compensate for their siblings' special needs. Parents can help their typically-developin g children by conveying clear expectations and unconditional support. Expect Typical Behavior From Typically-Developin g Siblings. Although difficult for parents to watch, teasing, name-calling, arguing and other forms of conflict are common among most brothers and sisters -– even when one has special needs. While parents may be appalled at siblings' harshness toward one another, much of this conflict can be a beneficial part of normal social development. A child with Down syndrome who grows up with siblings with whom he sometimes fights will likely be better prepared to face life in the community as an adult than a child with Down syndrome who grows up as an only child. Regardless of how adaptive or developmentally appropriate it might be, typical sibling conflict is more likely to result in feelings of guilt when one sibling has special health or developmental needs. When conflict arises, the message sent to many brothers and sisters is, "Leave your sibling alone. You are bigger, you are stronger, you should know better. It is your job to compromise." Typically-developin g siblings deserve a life where they, like other children, sometimes misbehave, get angry, and fight with their siblings. Expectations for the Family Member with Special Needs. When families have high expectations for their children who have special needs, everyone will benefit. As adults, typically-developin g brothers and sisters will likely play important roles in the lives of their siblings who have disabilities. Parents can help siblings now by helping their children who have special needs acquire skills that will allow them to be as independent as possible as adults. To the extent possible, parents should have the same expectations for the child with special needs regarding chores and personal responsibility as they do for their typically-developin g children. Not only will similar expectations foster independence, it will also minimize the resentment expressed by siblings when there are two sets of rules — one for them, and another for their sibs who have special needs. The Right to a Safe Environment. Some siblings live with brothers and sisters who have challenging behaviors. Other siblings assume responsibilities for themselves and their siblings that go beyond their age level and place all parties in vulnerable situations. Siblings deserve to have their own personal safety given as much importance as the family member who has special needs. Opportunities to Meet Peers. For most parents, the thought of "going it alone," raising a child with special needs without the benefit of knowing another parent in a similar situation would be unthinkable. Yet, this routinely happens to brothers and sisters. Sibshops, listservs such as SibNet and SibKids, and similar efforts offer siblings the common-sense support and validation that parents get from Parent-to-Parent programs and similar programs. Brothers and sisters — like parents — like to know that they are not alone with their unique joys and concerns. Opportunities to Obtain Information. Throughout their lives, brothers and sisters have an ever-changing need for information about their sibling's disability, and its treatment and implications. Parents and service providers have an obligation to proactively provide siblings with helpful information. Any agency that represents a specific disability or illness and prepares materials for parents and other adults should prepare materials for siblings and young readers as well. Sibs' Concerns about the Future. Early in life, many brothers and sisters worry about what obligations they will have toward their sibling in the days to come. Ways parents can reassure their typically-developin g children are to make plans for the future of their children with special needs, involve and listen to their typically-developin g children as they make these plans, consider backup plans, and know that siblings' attitude toward the extent of their involvement as adults may change over time. When brothers and sisters are "brought into the loop" and given the message early that they have their parents' blessing to pursue their dreams, their future involvement with their sibling will be a choice instead of an obligation. For their own good and for the good of their siblings who have disabilities, brothers and sisters should be afforded the right to their own lives. This includes having a say in whether and how they will be involved in the lives of their siblings who have disabilities as adults, and the level, type, and duration of involvement. Including Both Sons and Daughters. Just as daughters are usually the family members who care for aging parents, adult sisters are usually the family members who look after the family member with special needs when parents no longer can. Serious exploration of sharing responsibilities among siblings — including brothers — should be considered. Communication. While good communication between parents and children is always important, it is especially important in families where there is a child who has special needs. An evening course in active listening can help improve communication among all family members, and books, such as How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk and Siblings Without Rivalry (both by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlich) provide helpful tips on communicating with children. One-on-One time with Parents. Children need to know from their parents' deeds and words that their parents care about them as individuals. When parents carve time out of a busy schedule to grab a bite at a local burger joint or window shop at the mall with their typically-developin g children, it conveys a message that parents "are there" for them as well and provides an excellent opportunity to talk about a wide range of topics. Celebrate Every Child's Achievements and Milestones. Over the years, we've met siblings whose parents did not attend their high school graduation — even when their children were valedictorians — because the parents were unable to leave their child with special needs. We've also met siblings whose wedding plans were dictated by the needs of their sibling who had a disability. One child's special needs should not overshadow another's achievements and milestones. Families who seek respite resources, strive for flexibility, and seek creative solutions can help assure that the accomplishments of all family members are celebrated. Parents' Perspective is More Important than the Actual Disability. Parents would be wise to remember that the parents' interpretation of their child's disability will be a greater influence on the adaptation of their typically developing sibling than the actual disability itself. When parents seek support, information, and respite for themselves, they model resilience and healthy attitudes and behaviors for their typically-developin g children. Include Siblings in the Definition of "Family." Many educational, health care, and social service agencies profess a desire to offer family-centered services but continue to overlook the family members who will have the longest-lasting relationship with the person who has the special needs — the sisters and brothers. When brothers and sisters receive the considerations and services they deserve, agencies can claim to offer "family-centered"— instead of "parent-centered"— services. Actively Reach Out to Brothers and Sisters. Parents and agency personnel should consider inviting (but not requiring) brothers and sisters to attend informational, IEP, IFSP, and transition planning meetings, and clinic visits. Siblings frequently have legitimate questions that can be answered by service providers. Brothers and sisters also have informed opinions and perspectives and can make positive contributions to the child's team. Learn More About Life as a Sibling. Anyone interested in families ought to be interested in siblings and their concerns. Parents and providers can learn more about "life as a sib" by facilitating a Sibshop, hosting a sibling panel, or reading books by and about brothers and sisters. Guidelines for conducting a sibling panel are available from the Sibling Support Project and in the Sibshop curriculum. Visit the Sibling Support Project's website for a bibliography of sibling-related books. Create Local Programs Specifically for Brothers and Sisters. If your community has a Parent-to-Parent Program or similar parent support effort, a fair question to ask is: why isn't there a similar effort for the brothers and sisters? Like their parents, brothers and sisters benefit from talking with others who "get it." Sibshops and other programs for preschool, school-age, teen, and adult siblings are growing in number. The Sibling Support Project, which maintains a database of over 200 Sibshops and other sibling programs, provides training and technical assistance on how to create local programs for siblings. Include Brothers and Sisters on Advisory Boards and in Policies Regarding Families. Reserving board seats for siblings will give the board a unique, important perspective and reflect the agency's concern for the well-being of brothers and sisters. Developing policies based on the important roles played by brothers and sisters will help assure that their concerns and contributions are a part of the agency's commitment to families. Fund Services for Brothers and Sisters. No classmate in an inclusive classroom will have a greater impact on the social development of a child with a disability than brothers and sisters will. They will be their siblings' life-long "typically developing role models." As noted earlier, brothers and sisters will likely be in the lives of their siblings longer than anyone — longer than their parents and certainly longer than any service provider. For most brothers and sisters, their future and the future of their siblings with special needs are inexorably entwined. Despite this, there is little funding to support projects that will help brothers and sisters get the information, skills and support they will need throughout their lives. Governmental agencies would be wise to invest in the family members who will take a personal interest in the well-being of people with disabilities and advocate for them when their parents no longer can. As one sister wrote: "We will become caregivers for our siblings when our parents no longer can. Anyone interested in the welfare of people with disabilities ought to be interested in us."

Generation Rescue Announces Rescue Family Grant Program We are proud to announce our Rescue Family Grant program! Generation Rescue is offering a grant program for first time biomedical autism treatments that may not otherwise be covered privately or by other third-party funding sources such as school districts, county programs, insurance, and/or other grant making entities. We are now accepting our first round of 250 applications for our Rescue Family program; applications must be received by July 15, 2009.  Applicants who meet the grant program criteria and complete the grant application will be considered for a Rescue Family grant. Rescue Family grants are based on economic need within the applicants specific geographic area. Generation Rescue's Rescue Family grants are designed to provide support to individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. Each grant recipient will receive two doctor visits with a specially trained physician who treats individualized medical conditions associated with autism.  Grants also include a 90 day supply of vitamins, minerals and supplements, a Generation Rescue-Rescue Mentor and information on dietary interventions. We are currently in the process of negotiating some laboratory testing as well and hope to have some additional announcements in the next few weeks. Applicants must complete and mail the grant application by July 15th in order to be considered for the Rescue Family program.  The application and complete application guidelines are on our website at www.generationrescue.org. Thank you to our New Generation Medical Doctors and our partners at Syndion, Nordic Naturals, Bio Ray, and ReVitaPop for helping us provide early biomedical intervention to families in need.

101 Things To Do This Summer Selected By: Homeschool.com Sponsored by: Ablaze Academy Online Learning Academy It's already May; and many of our readers who have endured difficult winters are eagerly awaiting summer. It's never too early to begin planning for summer vacation. Homeschooling parents often take on an additional role of being Summer Camp Director and camp counselor. With some focused attention and coordinated calendars, your kids can benefit from a great variety of relaxing and productive projects all summer long. Homeschool.com has compiled a comprehensive list of websites that offer a wonderful selection of summertime activities for you and your family. Please make sure to examine the individual websites to identify the projects and resources that will work best for you. Many sites, such as the art museums and astronomy sites, can provide stimulating projects each week for your whole family to embark on together, no matter where you're living. Other activities are ideal for the home; while still others can easily dovetail with your summer travel plans. May 6, 2009   Sign Me Up! for this e-zine   Suggest new topics for your kids, as many sites have a wide array of offerings with multiple levels of challenge — from elementary grades through high school. You'll see that many projects can also be woven into a dynamic summer school program. Summer is an ideal time for students to learn new skill sets that may take "extra" time to master. Because more "free" time is available in the summer than during the typical school year, many homeschooling families choose goals that can progress over a two or three month period. Selecting several short-range summer projects for your kids (such as crafts) and longer-range projects (such as developing a garden, or a sky chart) is a good family activity in itself. Doing this will enhance the special breadth and beauty of summertime, and you'll find that everyone will appreciate this unique season of blossoming! 1 Make a scrapbook of everything you do this summer The Basics of Scrapbooking http://www.scrapbookscrapbook.com/beginners.html 2 Have a picnic Planning a Picnic http://www.the-picnic-site.com/ 3 Learn how to play soccer How to Play Soccer http://www.ehow.com/PrintArticle.html?id=2044097 4 Visit another country Lonely Planet Destination Guides www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/  5 Go to a ballgame Major League Baseball Team Schedules mlb.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/mlb/schedule/index.jsp  6 Get a job (parent permission) Teens 4 Hire www.teens4hire.org/  7 Become a photographer BetterPhoto for Kids and Teens www.betterphoto.com/photography-for-kids.asp  8 Make dinner for your family Do-It-Yourself Dinner Party Project (PDF) www.reynoldskitchens.com  9 Compare a book to a movie Compare and Contrast Essay (PDF)  www.csudh.edu  10 Write a poem 30 Days of Poetry www.msrogers.com/English2/poetry/30_days_of_poetry.htm  11 Learn about fireworks How Stuff Works: Fireworks people.howstuffworks.com/fireworks.htm  12 Bake some cookies Science of Cookies www.bakingandbakingscience.com/cookies.htm  13 Take a boat ride Boat Safe Kids! www.boatsafe.com/kids/index.htm  14 Sketch a picture of your house from the outside Perspective Drawing www.artyfactory.com/perspective_drawing/perspective_1.htm 15 Go to camp Smart Start to Business http://www.youthpreneur.net/camps 16 Visit a farm 4-H Virtual Farms www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/virtualfarm/main.html  17 Take a walk and record the sounds Listening to Nature www.museumca.org/naturalsounds/  18 Embrace Other Cultures Culture Quest http://www.ipl.org/div/kidspace/cquest/ 19 Keep a journal of what you do during the Summer Keepsake Diary http://kids-indoor-activities.suite101.com/article.cfm/keep_a_summer_journal 20 Cut up an old greeting card picture and make a puzzle (parent help) How to make your own jigsaw puzzle tn.essortment.com/howtomakeyour_rgzx.htm  21 Start a band Make Music! Start a Band www.mustcreate.org/kid_home/kids3_1.shtml  22 Learn how to make a movie Digital Movie Making for Kids http://www.adobe.com/education/digkids/intro_video/making_of_movie.html 23 Blow up balloons, put notes inside and hand them out to friends Message in a Balloon www.nmhct.nhs.uk/pharmacy/nmha-activities.html  24 Go backpacking The Beginning Backpacker www.backpacking.net/beginner.html  25 Learn how to oil paint Free Art Lessons http://www.interactiveartschool.com/free-art-lessons.html 26 Create a web site Lissa Explains HTML for Kids www.lissaexplains.com/  27 Go camping Go Camping America Kids Pages www.gocampingamerica.com/kidspages/  28 Learn how to use Microsoft Office Free Tutorials for Microsoft Office http://www.baycongroup.com/tutorials.htm 29 Help an elderly person with house or yard work (parent permission) 20 Great Reasons to Volunteer www.volunteermatch.org/volunteers/resources/tipstricks.jsp  30 Visit the zoo National Zoo Animal Web cams nationalzoo.si.edu/Animals/default.cfm  31 Learn a foreign language Free Online Language Courses www.word2word.com/coursead.html  32 Make an obstacle course in your back yard How To Set Up An Obstacle Course www.ehow.com/how_3113_set-obstacle-course.html  33 Make a treasure hunt The Ultimate Treasure Hunt www.allthatstuff.net/treasurehunt.htm  34 View and learn about Modern Art Destination Modern Art http://www.moma.org/destination/ 35 Learn about the Animals that live on our planet A Library of the World's Animals http://www.learnanimals.com/ 36 Recycle bottles and donate the money to a local charity The Internet Consumer Recycling Guide www.obviously.com/recycle/   37 Explore the Universe A Learning Center for Young Astronomers http://starchild.gsfc.nasa.gov/docs/StarChild/StarChild.html 38 Build a tree house The Tree House Guide www.thetreehouseguide.com/  39 Create a new world World Building teenwriting.about.com/library/weekly/aa071602a.htm  40 Set up a lemonade stand Lemonade Stand Game www.coolmath-games.com/lemonade/  41 Learn how to make ethnic food Ethnic Recipes http://www.bhg.com/recipes/food-slide-shows/ethnic-food/ 42 Attend a concert Buy tickets http://www.ticketmaster.com/section/concerts 43 Have family game nights What Game Should We Play? http://www.hasbro.com/familygamenight/en_US/   44 Learn about science Latest Science News http://www.sciencedaily.com/news/ 45 Make a collage from magazine words and pictures Collage pbskids.org/zoom/activities/do/collage.html  46 Create a terrarium How to Make a Terrarium www.ehow.com/how_9374_make-terrarium.html  47 Learn how to help the environment Environmental Kids Club http://www.epa.gov/kids/index.htm 48 Discover new games to play Nature Games http://www.ultimatecampresource.com/site/camp-activities/nature-games.page-1.html 49 Go to a museum Find a museum in your area http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_museums_in_the_United_States 50 Make a fire plan Home Fire Safety www.usfa.fema.gov/kids/flash.shtm  51 Make up bubble solution and have a contest Casey Carle's "Secret" Bubble Solutions www.bubblemania.com/faq/solution.html  52 Find a pen-pal (parent permission) Pen Pal Directories www.stonesoup.com/main2/penpal.html  53 Plant something Gardens for Beginners www.geocities.com/mastergardener2k/  54 Learn about Plants and our Environment ThinkQuest http://library.thinkquest.org/3715/ 55 Host a yard sale How to Plan a Yard Sale www.ehow.com/how_137461_yard-garage-sale.html  56 Build a sandcastle Sandcastle Tools www.sandcastlecentral.com/toolpages/  57 Donate some of the toys and clothes you no longer use How To Donate Toys www.ehow.com/how_10124_donate-toys-children.html  58 Research your family tree Free Genealogy Information http://genealogy.about.com/cs/free_genealogy/a/free_sites.htm 59 Fly a kite Professor Kite and the Secret of Kites www.gombergkites.com/howgen.html  60 Invent your own board game Design Your Own Board Game la.essortment.com/boardgamedesig_rxcu.htm  61 Make your own comic book  Comic Creator http://www.readwritethink.org/materials/comic/ 62 Create a book cover for your writing projects Book Cover Creator http://www.readwritethink.org/materials/bookcover/ 63 Act in a play So You Want to Put On a Play? www.writewords.org.uk/articles/theatre1.asp  64 Learn to Cook Introductory Cooking Lessons http://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/kids-cooking-lessons-cit-intro.html 65 Make a bird feeder Easy birdfeeders for young children http://www.care2.com/greenliving/make-easy-bird-feeders.html 66 Organize a bike safety clinic Bicycle Safety Command Center www.state.il.us/kids/isp/bikes/  67 Spend time with your grandparents 10 Great Activities www.education-world.com/a_lesson/lesson136.shtml  68 Learn how the Internet works Learn the Net http://www.learnthenet.com/english/section/intbas.html 69 Dig for fossils Dinosaur Dig www.sdnhm.org/kids/fossils/  70 Write a song Notes on Songwriting www.robinfrederick.com/write.html  71 Tie-dye some t-shirts How to Tie-Dye iaia.essortment.com/tiedyedyefa_rmel.htm  72 Make your own banana split Yum! http://parentingteens.about.com/cs/recipesforkids/ht/bananasplit.htm 73 Create a themed dinner Theme Dinner Ideas http://www.kids-cooking-activities.com/theme-dinner-ideas.html 74 Tour the World Google Earth Style http://earth.google.com/tour.html 75 Throw a pajama party Make it a success http://www.ehow.com/how_2047629_plan-pajama-party.html 76 Learn some new outdoor games Games Kids Play www.gameskidsplay.net/  77 Make something from recyclables Crafts from Recycled Products www.makingfriends.com/recycle.htm  78 See a movie with a friend In the theatre or on DVD http://www.movies.com/ 79 Make homemade ice cream Kitchen Theater Science in a Scoop www.carnegiemuseums.org/cmag/bk_issue/1996/julaug/dept4.htm  80 Build a time capsule For the entire family http://www.ehow.com/how_6637_make-family-time.html 81 Get a magazine subscription (parent permission) Magazine Listing www.magsonthenet.com/chilmag.html  82 Organize a scavenger hunt Outdoor Scavenger Hunts www.lovetheoutdoors.com/camping/kids/scavengerhunt.htm 83 Go swimming Video Clips of the Swimming Strokes wellness.lattc.cc.ca.us/real/strokes.html  84 Paint a portrait of your best friend Draw Your Friend www.arts.ufl.edu/art/rt_room/sparkers/friend_portrait/ portrait_friend.html  85 Start a collection How to Start a Collection www.ehow.com/how_10563_start-collection.html  86 Write a fairy tale Fractured Fairy Tales http://www.readwritethink.org/materials/fairytales/ 87 Travel in time Odyssey Online carlos.emory.edu/ODYSSEY/MidElem_Home.html  88 Stargaze and track the moon phases Moon information http://www.moonconnection.com/ 89 Learn how to sew Learn to Sew  http://cyberseams.com/ 90 Visit a National Park National Park Service Guide www.nps.gov/parks.html  91 Rent a video of a ballet Easy to Read Profiles of the Histories of Ballets classicalmusic.about.com/od/historyofballet/  92 Roast marshmallows How to Roast a Marshmallow www.ehow.com/how_1164_roast-marshmallow.html  93 Watch the birds Tips on Getting Started with Bird Watching www.birdwatching.com/tips/kids_birding.html  94 Arrange a bouquet of flowers Learn how to make a beautiful display http://interiordec.about.com/library/weekly/aa021403b2.htm 95 Learn to blog (parents' permission) How-to http://learn2blog.pitas.com/ 96 Re-decorate your room Decorating Gallery http://www.hgtv.com/topics/bedrooms/index.html 97 Learn to play chess Chess is Fun http://www.soyouwanna.com/site/syws/chess/chess.html 98 Adopt a pet (parent permission) http://www.petfinder.com/ 99 Keep your brain going Brain Teasers www.brainconnection.com/teasers/  100 Teach someone to use email How eMail Works www.learnthenet.com/english/html/20how.htm  101 Create your own holiday A Month With No Holidays? Make Up Your Own! www.educationworld.com/a_lesson/lesson018.shtml