Bridges4Kids News Digest: April 12, 2006

National News	*top*
School Revolution May Be on Horizon Joe Follick, The Ledger, April 3, 2006 http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060402/NEWS/604020402/1039 Sixth-graders in America are getting "stars and happy faces" for their work while students in other countries work on advanced math and science. Helping a Bullied Child Jay Mathews, Washington Post, February 14, 2006 http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/02/14/AR2006021400793.html I have attended special education due process hearings and watched the school system attorneys hired to save taxpayer dollars politely eviscerate the parents seeking more services or a payment for private school. Often the parents are more or less defenseless against a competent lawyer, since they often cannot afford to hire their own attorney. A whole sector of the bar, lucrative to many of the private specialists, is devoted to what seems to me, at least in part, the science of intimidating, humiliating and defeating parents in these cases. Dance Lessons Helping Kids with Social Skills, Self-Esteem Sharon A. Heilbrunn, San Diego Union-Tribune, April 5, 2006 http://www.signonsandiego.com/news/education/20060404-9999-1m4ballroom.html With the smooth sounds of Michael Bublé filling the auditorium, Justin Sullivan, 12, linked arms with Hannah Hickman, 10, who gave him a small smile. U.S. Recalls More Lead-based Toy Jewelry Dee DePass, Star Tribune, March 25, 2006 http://www.startribune.com/535/story/329759.html After the recall of Reebok lead bracelets that fatally poisoned a 4-year-old Minneapolis boy, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is recalling two other toy-jewelry products that also contain high levels of lead. More are expected. Deficit Reduction Act of 2005: Implications for Medicaid (PDF) The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, February 2006 http://www.hcbs.org/files/84/4189/DRA.pdf This issue brief summarizes the Medicaid provisions of the budget reconciliation law signed in February 2006 and discusses the implications of the proposed changes. The changes would net reductions of $4.8 billion over the next five years and $26.1 billion over the next ten years from current Medicaid spending. Read about the many policy changes in the DRA, which both reduces federal and state Medicaid spending and also changes health care access and coverage for low-income beneficiaries. Bridges4Kids Featured Website: Schools K-12 http://www.schoolsk-12.com/ Offering comprehensive reports on public, private and charter schools— elementary, middle and high schools. We make it easy to conduct a thorough investigation, critical in choosing a top school. Get your child’s academic career off to the right start with Schools K-12.
No Child Left Behind (NCLB)	*top*
Schools Cut Back Subjects to Push Reading & Math Sam Dillon, The New York Times, March 26, 2006 http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/26/education/26child.html Thousands of schools across the nation are responding to the reading and math testing requirements in No Child Left Behind by reducing class time spent on other subjects. Schools are increasing -- in some cases tripling -- the class time that low-proficiency students spend on reading and math, mainly because the federal law requires annual exams only in those subjects and punishes schools that fall short of rising benchmarks. Many schools that once offered rich curriculums now systematically trimming courses like social studies, science and art. A nationwide survey indicates that the practice, known as narrowing the curriculum, has become standard procedure in many communities. [Free login required to view this article.] For more information on No Child Left Behind, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/ESEA.html
Parenting/Parental Involvement	*top*
Bridges4Kids Review: Breakthrough Parenting for Children with Special Needs: Raising the Bar of Expectations Jackie D. Igafo-Te'o, Bridges4Kids, April 10, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/4-06/BreakthroughParenting4-06.html Breakthrough Parenting for Children with Special Needs challenges families and professionals to help children with special needs to reach their full potential by using a proven motivational, how-to approach. Home Alone: Leaving Your Teen with LD and/or AD/HD Unsupervised Raises Special Concerns SchwabLearning.org, April 11, 2006 http://www.schwablearning.org/articles.asp?r=1098 The first night we decided to go to a movie and leave our teenage son home alone neither my husband nor I enjoyed the show. We took turns checking our cell phones and glancing at our watches. In fact, I can’t even remember what movie it was. How Parents Can Help Children Who Are Anxious SchwabLearning.org, April 11, 2006 http://www.schwablearning.org/articles.asp?r=849 Children who cope with the daily frustrations and embarrassments of a learning disability (LD) may become excessively worried or anxious. A “vicious cycle” can develop, as the anxiety begins to make already difficult challenges with school and friendships even worse. What can parents do to prevent anxiety overload in their kids with LD? When anxiety begins to interfere with a child’s enjoyment of life, what can parents do to help? Taking Care of You Dan Coulter, April 7, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/4-06/Coulter4-7-06.html A while back, I wrote an article urging parents to deal with stress by taking breaks and finding other ways to relax. Given that I've been burning the candle at both ends with a blowtorch recently, I thought it would be a good time to revisit the subject. How Art of Conversation Between Parents and Children Has Died Richard Garner, UK's The Independent Online Edition, April 3, 2006 http://education.independent.co.uk/news/article355421.ece All-day television, the demise of the family meal and even the forward-facing design of pushchairs are conspiring to kill the art of conversation between parents and children. The results have "alarming implications" for pupil behavior in the first few years of primary school. For more information on Parenting, Siblings, Adoption and Foster Care, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Parenting.html
Early Childhood	*top*
MI Job Opportunity: Early On Community Liaison for Oakland Family Services Job Description: Develop and conduct outreach efforts to groups, organizations and institutions serving children 0-3 years to increase developmental screenings. Connect with community contacts to increase partnerships and communications. Credentials required: Bachelor's degree, Masters preferred - in Early Childhood Education or Child development. Contact Karen Anthony at kanthony@ofsfamily.org or submit your resume online at http://www.ofsfamily.org/jobform.asp. For more information on Early Childhood issues, visit www.EarlyChildhoodMichigan.org
Michigan News	*top*
Michigan Lead Commission Report (PDF) http://michigan.gov/documents/Lead_Poisoning_Commission_Report_March_2006_154199_7.pdf The Report to the Legislature from the Michigan Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control Commission has been released and is now available online. Foreign Language, Algebra II Included in Compromise Over HS Requirements MIRS, March 29, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/3-06/News3-30-06.html#2 All graduating high school seniors, starting with the class of 2011, must have at least 16 credits to graduate, including four each in math and English, three each in science and social studies and one each in physical education and the arts, according to the conference report signed by the House Speaker and the Senate Majority Leader. Curriculum Bills Now on Way to Granholm Gongwer News Service, March 30, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/3-06/News3-30-06.html#3 Legislation making Michigan's high school curriculum some of the most rigorous in the nation is now on its way to Governor Jennifer Granholm. The House and Senate on Thursday finished action on SB 1124 and HB 5606 that will require students to complete multiple credits in English, mathematics, science, social studies and foreign languages to receive a diploma. Anti-bullying Pushed MIRS, March 28, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/3-06/News3-30-06.html#4 A coalition of groups led by the Triangle Foundation of Michigan put the full court press on senators today to move legislation to prevent bullying in state schools.
Disability News	*top*
Learning to Live With Autism Part I: Discovery & Diagnosis (PDF) Jackie D. Igafo-Te'o, Bridges4Kids, March 28, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/LearningToLiveWithAutismPart1.pdf In this article, the first installment in a series of six articles related to Autism, we will discover the basics of Autism. What is Autism? What are the signs? How is Autism diagnosed? Could we have prevented this? These are just a few of the burning questions that we will discuss. Resources are provided at the end of each section so that you can find more in-depth information on each topic. Daycare & Respite for Children with Disabilities: Tips for Parents and Providers Jackie D. Igafo-Te'o, Bridges4Kids, April 9, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/4-06/IgafoTeo4-9-06.html Our experiences with childcare have been both positive and negative. In Michael’s current childcare setting, employees use structure, a steady temperament and patience, blended with a series of choices to positively engage Michael during his visit – whether it is for an hour or for ten hours. UW Researcher Doubts Autism Epidemic Susanne Rust, The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, April 2, 2006 http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=412874 Despite warnings of a national explosion in cases of autism, there's little data to substantiate such a claim, according to new research compiled by a University of Wisconsin-Madison scientist. Special education figures that are being used to suggest an autism explosion not only discount the fact that the diagnosis for autism has changed over the years - making yearly comparisons faulty and inaccurate - but they also underestimate the number of children who actually have it. Teens with Learning Disabilities: Finding a Summer Job SchwabLearning.org, March 2006 http://www.schwablearning.org/articles.asp?r=791 When 14-year-old Alex came home from school and announced he was going to get a job, we were both pleased and worried. It was gratifying to hear that he wanted to take that big step toward independence, and even earn some money to help pay for his own pricey video games and basketball shoes. But how would he navigate the application and interview process, given his very weak math and reading skills? Bridges4Kids Featured Website: Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Resources Website http://www.abaresources.com/ This site offers free and affordable materials specific to a home or school based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program. Please feel free to navigate this site and download free resource materials. Check out the message board for a place where you can get used materials, learn about upcoming conferences/courses, and find therapists. Bridges4Kids Review: Being in Control: Natural Solutions for ADHD, Dyslexia, and Test Anxiety (Book/CD-Rom) Jackie D. Igafo-Te'o, Bridges4Kids, March 27, 2006 http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/3-06/JasonAlster3-27-06.html#top Being In Control is a method of helping those with ADHD, LD, dyslexia and test anxiety - naturally. The concept combines Integrative biofeedback research, all natural nutrition, seated yoga and relaxation/focusing techniques especially developed for the student. NJ Self-injury Support Group & Resource Website This group meets on the 1st & 3rd Friday of every month in Morris County, New Jersey. More information, articles, press releases, and info about the group, it can all be found at www.endallthepain.com/BSSI.html. For more information on Disabilities, Disorders and Diseases, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Disabilities.html
Special Education Issues	*top*
Behavior Planning and Functional Assessments Positive Environments, Network of Trainers http://www.bridges4kids.org/PBS/articles/PENT3-06.htm This article features information on Functional Assessments of Behavior and includes many resources. Bright, but Falls Asleep in Class Jay Mathews, Washington Post, March 28, 2006 http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/03/28/AR2006032800353.html Parents of children with learning disabilities all have complicated stories to tell, but Paula Lazor may have set some kind of record for twists and turns, victories and defeats. Her most frustrating moment came two years ago when she found the perfect program for her son John, a special education student, only to be told by her school district that he could not enroll because he was a special education student. For more information on Special Education, IEPs and Section 504, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Rules.html
Ask the Attorney/Advocate	*top*
Bridges4Kids Exclusive: Ask the Attorney with John Brower Visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/AA.html for dozens of John's previously posted Q&As.
Upcoming National Events	*top*
These are NEW calendar listings that have been added this week, along with events taking place this week. To view a complete calendar of National events, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Conferences.html Wide Open Doors Conference WHEN: April 22-23, 2006 from 9 am - 4 pm WHERE: Moseley, VA 23120 (Chesterfield County) DESCRIPTION: One out of every 5 Americans has a disability. However, you would be surprised how many places in our own community are not equipped to welcome everyone. The Through the Roof Ministry of Woolridge Road Church is trying to make a difference for families in our community who are experiencing disabilities. COST: Cost is $50 per parent or person with a disability or $70 for others FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information or to register, contact Tammy C. Burns, Through the Roof Ministry at tburns@woolridgeroad.org or visit http://www.woolridgeroad.org/Default.aspx?tabid=70. New Forms of School Bullying and Violence: Cyberbullying, Happy Slapping, Dating Violence and Other New Trends WHEN: April 24 - May 19, 2006 WHERE: Online DESCRIPTION: The conference aims at bringing together experts and practitioners dealing with and affected by such new forms of school bullying and violence in order to make them exchange experience and learn from one another. The online conference’s discussions will be open for four weeks and will be limited to a maximum of 40 participants. Participation is free of charge. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For further information and registration please contact jaegerth@zepf.uni-landau.de. Annual Conference of the International Dyslexia Association WHEN: April 30 - May 1, 2006 WHERE: West Palm Beach Marriott, West Palm Beach, Florida DESCRIPTION: The International Dyslexia Association Florida Branch is hosting its 2006 Annual Conference called Spring into Literacy: Reading, Research, Dyslexia FOR MORE INFORMATION: For additional information on dyslexia visit http://www.interdys.org. To register for the seminar, visit http://www.idafla.org.
Upcoming Michigan Events	*top*
These are NEW calendar listings that have been added this week, along with events taking place this week. To view a complete calendar of Michigan events, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Conferences.html Family-to-Family Health Information Center's Health & Education Family Training WHEN/WHERE: Dates and Locations for 2006 Trainings: April 19, 2006 in Detroit, April 26, 2006 in Dorr and June 6, 2006 in Baraga DESCRIPTION: This training provides parents and professionals with basic information needed to plan and advocate for a child’s educational and health needs. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To Register for training in your area, or for further information, contact Lisa Cook-Gordon at 1-800-359-3722 (Health) or Frances Spring at 1-800-221-9105 (Education). Download the brochure (PDF). Judson Center Autism Connections Events WHEN/DETAILS: Sibshops (May 20th from 2-4:30) and Magic Show Fundraiser (April 23rd from 1-3 pm). Let your kids wear their pajamas and bring their sleeping bags and settle in for a fun show. Gluten-free casein-free snacks will be generously provided by bel Cibo! in Clawson. Tickets are available by calling 248-837-2064 and reserving your spots; $25 for the whole family. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information on any of our events, please check out our website at www.judsoncenter.org/services/autismcalendar.html for dates, times, prices and registration forms. Poetry for Prevention! WHEN/WHERE: April 22 and April 29, 2006 (times vary): 4/22 from 3-5:30 p.m. at Hamlin Pub, Shelby Township (call 586 247- 4100 for more details); and 4/29 from 10-12:00 a.m. - at Unique Exp. (call 586 498-8822 for more details). DESCRIPTION: Author, Christine Tricarico will read/sign her children's book, Itty-Bits of Bliss In honor of Child Abuse Prevention! Resource packets, etc. Readings are free--13.00 per signed book (3.00/book will benefit Love Our Children USA!) FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, visit http://christinetricarico.smartwriters.com. "Hear" We Go: Important information for service providers working with young children who are deaf/hard of hearing WHEN/WHERE: Conference Dates and Locations include: Jackson (April 13), Detroit (April 27), Zeeland (May 4), and Grand Rapids (May 11). DESCRIPTION: This workshop is provided at no charge and includes SB CEU's. The purpose of this training is to inform Early On providers about hearing impairment, the impact of hearing loss on development, and the need for appropriate intervention and rehabilitation. This interactive learning project will increase the competency of Early On families & providers to improve early identification, referral, and management of children who are deaf/hard of hearing. This project will also increase Early On providers' awareness of resources within Michigan to further facilitate case management of children who are deaf/hard of hearing and their families. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information on the workshop, click here (PDF). To register please go to the EOT&TA website. Training for Parents, Students and Staff: Making Special Education Work for You WHEN/WHERE: Sessions will take place in Detroit, Michigan at various locations. April 29, 2006 (2 sessions) at The ARC Detroit; and on May 10, 2006 at Mt. Zion Head Start. DESCRIPTION: An individualized education program (IEP) is required by federal and state law for every student eligible for special education. The IEP is the cornerstone of the IDEA. The IEP identifies the educational programs and services which are needed to achieve an appropriate education. The training will help parents understand the IEP process and empower parents with knowledge to be effective advocates for their children. To download the flyer with additional information, click here (PDF). FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please contact MPAS at 1-800-414-3956 to R.S.V.P. attendance. Please mention any accessibility accommodations you may need. Talk and Book Signing with Local Author, Parent and Advocate Judy Winter WHEN: April 26, 2006 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. WHERE: Hannah Center, 819 Abbott Road, East Lansing, MI 48823 DESCRIPTION: Judy is committed to raising the bar of expectations for children with special needs. She will share her powerful life stories about her son and others with special needs. You can learn more about her new book Breakthrough Parenting for Children with Special Needs: Raising the Bar of Expectations at http://www.judywinter.com/. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, email burle6543@cablespeed.com. “Achieving Everyone Together” Conference WHEN: April 27, 2006 from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. WHERE: Tapestry Banquet Hall, 24580 Evergreen, Southfield Michigan, 48075 DESCRIPTION: All children deserve to be a part of, not apart from, the general education setting. It is possible…and you can help to make it happen. Join us for this informative and energizing event that will address “A Universal Design Process for Differentiation in the Classroom” and “Creating Change in Schools – It Starts With You.” COST: The cost of $25 per person includes continental breakfast and lunch. Parent Scholarships are available—please call registration desk. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, download the brochure at http://www.everyonetogether.org or call our Registration Desk at UCP/Detroit 800-827-4843. Lindamood-Bell Spring Open House WHEN: April 27, 2006 at 6:30 p.m. WHERE: 148 Pierce St., Birmingham, MI 48009 (Oakland County) DESCRIPTION: Parents, professionals and educators are invited to join us at our complimentary Open House to discover how our programs go beyond traditional tutoring and help your child reach their learning potential. FOR MORE INFORMATION: RSVP at (248) 723-5380 or email Joel Cheney at jcheney@lblp.com. Free "Achieving Everyone Together" Conference WHEN: April 29, 2006 from 8:00am-4:00pm WHERE: Winding Brook Conference Centre, Shepherd, MI DESCRIPTION: Differentiated Instruction by Dr. Alice Udvari-Solner and breakout sessions on Strategies for Working with Students with Autism/Asperger's and Learning Disabilities and ADD, Communication Technologies and Grading for Included Students (includes lunch). FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please RSVP by April 19 by emailing every1gratiot@yahoo.com or calling Sheryle @ (989) 463-8461 or Marcy @ (989) 620-0470. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) & Employment with Gail Hawkins WHEN: May 3, 2006 from 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. WHERE: Oakland Schools, 2111 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford 48328-2736 COST: Cost is $5.00 per person which covers the cost of food and materials. Pre-registration with payment is required and space is limited. DESCRIPTION: Program focus: Internationally acclaimed Gail Hawkins of the Hawkins Institute has put together a list of the top 10 most common challenges her ASD clients face when preparing for the workforce. Along with every challenge, Gail presents practical solutions you can implement immediately that will serve as invaluable tools in the future. Hear from local parents and educators who have put specific strategies to the test in linking persons with Autism to employment. Leave with templates and tools you can use! This informative workshop is sponsored through Oakland Schools Transition Outcomes Project and the Autism Society of America, Oakland County Chapter. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Email emregistration@oakland.k12.mi.us or visit http://www.oakland.k12.mi.us, click on “Register Online,” then locate class.
Bridges4Kids NewsDigest Staff Deborah Canja Chief Executive Officer deb@bridges4kids.org Jackie Igafo-Te'o Director of Information Technology & Information Systems jackie@bridges4kids.org Bella Djordjevski Resource Assistant news@bridges4kids.org