Bridges4Kids News Digest: May 14, 2006

National News	*top*
Clean School Bus USA http://www.epa.gov/cleanschoolbus/ School buses are the safest way for children to get to school. However, pollution from diesel vehicles has health implications for everyone, especially children. By working together, we can reduce pollution from public school buses making sure that school buses are also a very clean way for children to get to school. Clean School Bus USA brings together partners from business, education, transportation, and public health organizations. Michigan Students Share Chemical Waste Handling Lessons http://www.miningjournal.net/stories/articles.asp?articleID=3067 Students at North Star Academy in Marquette have been learning about chemical waste, including the best way to store and dispose of it, and they are spreading their lessons to other area school districts. The students make an inventory of all the chemicals in the school, for instance those used in chemistry and science classes, and implement a plan to dispose of the chemicals when no longer needed. America's Children and the Environment: Childhood Illnesses http://www.epa.gov/envirohealth/children/ America’s Children and the Environment brings together, in one place, quantitative information from a variety of sources to show trends in levels of environmental contaminants in air, water, food, and soil; concentrations of contaminants measured in the bodies of mothers and children; and childhood diseases that may be influenced by environmental factors. America's Children and the Environment: Data Trends http://www.epa.gov/envirohealth/children/child_illness/index.htm Data on trends in childhood diseases and disorders provide important information on successes and shortcomings in efforts to protect children’s health. Many important diseases and other health disorders affect children. The causes of many of these conditions are not well established. In some cases environmental contaminants are known to play a role. In other cases clues suggest that environmental factors are important, but definitive proof is lacking. Interim Mercury Test Results Indicate 1 in 5 Women Has Unsafe Levels On February 8, 2006, interim results of the nation's largest mercury hair sampling project were released by the Environmental Quality Institute (EQI) at the University of North Carolina-Asheville. The report found mercury levels exceeding the EPA's recommended limit in one in five women of childbearing age tested. More than 6,600 people from 50 states of all ages participated in the hair tests conducted by Sierra Club and Greenpeace. Mercury contamination is a particular concern for women of childbearing years (16 to 49 years old) and their small children (under the age of six) because mercury exposure in the womb can cause neurological damage and other health problems in children. Read the entire report issued by EQI at http://www.sierraclub.org/mercury/downloads/2006-02_eqifullreport.pdf. Look at the report's participant results broken down by state at http://www.sierraclub.org/mercury/downloads/2006-02_eqistate.pdf. Bridges4Kids Extra: Which Fish are Safe to Eat? Take a mercury I.Q. quiz at http://www.sierraclub.org/quiz/mercury/ to find out. Bridges4Kids Featured Website: FinAidFacts.org http://www.finaidfacts.org Regardless of financial need all college students are eligible for some type of financial assistance. The goal of FinaidFacts.org is to provide a free and accurate financial aid resource for students progressing in their education.
No Child Left Behind (NCLB)	*top*
Making a Difference: No Child Left Behind (NCLB) http://www.ed.gov/nclb/overview/importance/difference/index.html Find out how NCLB is making a difference in your state. For more information on No Child Left Behind, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/ESEA.html
Parenting/Parental Involvement	*top*
Medical Procedure Story Books: Going To Get Blood Drawn and Going To The Doctors http://www.helpautismnow.com/SocialStories.asp Parents can download these e-books at no cost. HANS is currently developing a series of these stories including: Getting an X-Ray, Getting a cast, Getting an Intravenous drip, Visiting the ER Getting stitches, etc. Cheerleading for Parents http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/5-06/Coulter5-5-06.html#top I've had a taste of acclaim a number of times in my life. The first time that stands out was riding on the bus to an "away" basketball game in junior high school. The cheerleaders were doing that "Bill, Bill, he's our man, if he can't do it, David can..." thing where they go through the names of everyone on the team. Childproofing and Preventing Household Accidents http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/childproof.html Is Your Home Safe? Although many people usually think of babies and toddlers when they hear the words "babyproofing" or "childproofing," unintentional injury is the leading cause of death in kids 14 years old and under, with more than a third of these injuries happening at home (also available in Spanish). MI Camp-O-Rama 2006 (PDF) http://www.bridges4kids.org/pdf/camporama06.pdf List of Summer Camps for Individuals with Disabilities & Special Needs CampPage Summer Camps Guide http://www.camppage.com/ Children's summer camps and wilderness programs for boys and girls in the United States and Canada. CA, NC Camp Glucose http://www.bridges4kids.org/SummerCamp.html#cg A residential camp for boys and girls ages 8 to 18, as well as a day camp for children ages 4 to 18. The camp, located at Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA and Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, NC, is for children who are overweight or have type 2 diabetes due to being overweight. For more information on Parenting, Siblings, Adoption and Foster Care, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Parenting.html
Early Childhood	*top*
American Academy of Pediatrics: Newborn Screening Technology: Proceed With Caution (PDF) http://www.earlychildhoodmichigan.org/NBS-Commentary.pdf The American College of Medical Genetics recommends a significant expansion in the number of conditions targeted by newborn screening programs. In this commentary a more cautious approach is explained and advocated for. Report: Proven Benefits of Early Childhood Intervention Recently released research identifies the most effective practices and features of early intervention programs, based on a literature review and analysis. The study focused on diverse programs throughout the country that offered parent education and support, including home visits, center-based visits, or a combination. Information is available in three forms: The 200+ page report is available for purchase at http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/MG341/, a 3-page research brief is available at no charge in PDF at http://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/2005/RAND_RB9144.pdf, along with a 20-page summary, also free in PDF at http://www.rand.org/pubs/monographs/2005/RAND_MG341.sum.pdf Bridges4Kids Product Review: WordWindow (DVD) http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/4-06/WordWindow5-06.html WordWindow is a program designed to encourage infants and toddlers to discover and take part in early speech. Through the use of vivid graphics, sounds, human faces, voices and short video clips, your child will be delighted by this remarkable combination of sights and sounds. For more information on Early Childhood issues, visit www.EarlyChildhoodMichigan.org
Michigan News	*top*
Bridges4Kids Featured Website: MiBLSi http://www.cenmi.org/miblsi/ Michigan's Integrated Behavior and Learning Support Initiative Kellogg Foundation Awards $15 Million to Improve Public Access to Recreation http://www.bridges4kids.org/articles/5-06/Kellogg5-02-06.html#top The W.K. Kellogg Foundation in Battle Creek, Michigan, has awarded grants totaling $15 million to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Michigan Recreation and Park Association (MRPA), and Midwest Community Foundations' Ventures to help improve access to Michigan's recreational opportunities. Euro-Peds North Oakland Medical Centers http://www.europeds.org Children and young adults with cerebral palsy and other neuromuscular disorders receive intense physical therapy at the Euro-Pēds clinic, the world's first and only hospital-based intensive therapy program, in order to achieve maximum improvement in minimal time. Children with all levels of involvement are treated and for thousands of children, it offers treatment options never before explored such as SUIT Therapy and the Universal Exercise Unit (UEU). Many patients learn to do things they never did before in their lives - roll, sit, crawl and even walk. To learn more, visit http://www.europeds.org/epp_epd.htm.
Disability News	*top*
Inside the Autistic Mind http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,1191843,00.html A wealth of new brain research--and poignant testimony from people who have autism--is lifting the veil on this mysterious condition. Surveys: Autism & Crime Victim-Serving Professionals The Autism Society of America (ASA), its Howard County, Maryland Chapter and L.E.A.N. on Us, Inc., are currently developing a training curriculum and materials for crime victim-serving professionals, individuals w/autism spectrum disorders, and families and caregivers. To ensure that the final products meet the needs of these target audiences, we are seeking your input. Please fill out the appropriate survey: Survey for Individuals with Autism and Families & Caregivers http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=581552000509 and Survey for Crime Victim-Serving Professionals http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.asp?u=249952000624 Autism Epidemic Doubted, But Tally May Be Too Low http://fresno.networkofcare.org/kids/news/detail.cfm?articleID=10589 Despite warnings of a national autism epidemic, there’s little data to substantiate such a claim, according to new research compiled a University of Wisconsin-Madison scientist. Indeed, special education figures that are being used to suggest an autism explosion are faulty and confounded, said Paul Shattuck, a researcher at the university’s Waisman Center and author of the study, which appears in a recent issue of the journal Pediatrics. Bridges4Kids Featured Website: VA Disabled Action Committee (DAC 4 Virginia) http://members.aol.com/DAC4VA/main.htm Elderly and Disabled Disability Advocates, Advocating Systems Change Through the Power of Their Votes! Sign up for the DAC 4 Virginia newsletter by sending an email to Keith at DAC4VA@aol.com. The Contribution of Diagnostic Substitution to the Growing Administrative Prevalence of Autism in US Special Education http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/abstract/117/4/1028 Growing administrative prevalence of autism has stirred public controversy and concern. The extent to which increases in the administrative prevalence of autism have been associated with corresponding decreases in the use of other diagnostic categories is unknown. The main objective of this study was to examine the relationship between the rising administrative prevalence of autism in US special education and changes in the use of other classification categories. ASA: Study Denouncing Autism Epidemic Off Mark http://fresno.networkofcare.org/kids/news/detail.cfm?articleID=10628 The Autism Society of America (ASA), in response to a study by Dr. Paul Shattuck appearing in next week’s edition of Pediatrics titled "Diagnostic Substitution and Changing Autism Prevalence," says the study takes the focus away from the real issue: Autism is affecting millions of people and families who need help today. Controversy over Autism Eats at Credibility of CDC http://www.ajc.com/today/content/epaper/editions/today/news_44437aaa906db0c7003f.html The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, rarely the subject of public controversy, is facing an emerging credibility crisis on the emotional issue of whether old-style vaccines containing a mercury preservative caused autism in thousands of children. The agency is being accused of cover-ups and scientific manipulations by vocal advocates of autism awareness. It also is facing questions from some high-profile members of Congress. Who Receives a Diagnosis of Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder in the United States Elementary School Population? http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/content/full/117/4/e601 ADHD diagnosis is likely to be influenced by a child's social and school environment as well as exogenous child characteristics. Concerns that increased pressures for school performance are associated with increased ADHD diagnoses may be justified. Cornell University's Person Centered Planning Education Site http://www.ilr.cornell.edu/ped/tsal/pcp/index.html On this site, you will find an overview of the person-centered planning process, a self-study course covering the basic processes involved, a quiz section to help you focus on areas you may need to cover more thoroughly, a compendium of readings and activities for you to use on your own, and various links and downloadable resources. The U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP) Database http://www.dol.gov/odep/categories/employer/recruit_and_hire/recruitment.htm This database, the Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP), of 1,900 qualified college students and recent graduates with disabilities who seek summer and full-time employment. This CD-ROM database can be used by employers to search from a pool of pre-screened applicants from over 45 states and territories who have skills in disciplines ranging from computer sciences and business to communications, engineering, office administration and more. To request a free copy of the entire WRP database on CD-ROM, send your name, company name and mailing address to wrp@dol.gov; or, by calling 202- 693-7880; or, information about WRP is available by clicking on the link above. For more information on Disabilities, Disorders and Diseases, visit http://www.bridges4kids.org/Disabilities.html
Special Education Issues	*top*
Toolkit on Teaching and Assessing Students with Disabilities http://www.osepideasthatwork.org/toolkit/index.asp This Tool Kit, a collaboration between the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS), the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE), and the Institute for Education Sciences (IES), brings together the most current and accurate information, including research briefs and resources designed to improve instruction, assessment, and accountability for students with disabilities in a format that is easy to access and to understand. The Tool Kit will assist state personnel, schools, and families in their efforts to ensure that all students with disabilities receive a quality education. IEP Tools for Teachers: Supporting Students in General Education http://www.njddc.org/tools-teachers.htm This 5-part series includes important information on People First Language, Creating Meaningful IEPs, Curriculum Modifications & Adaptations, Collaborative Teaming, Positive Behavior Supports, Social Relationships & Social Networks, Transitions, Ideas That Have Worked, and features an Annotated Bibliography of Inclusion Resources. MI Michigan Special Education Due Process Hearing Database http://web1mdcs.state.mi.us/NXT/gateway.dll?f=templates&fn=default.htm&vid=mdoeal:public This collection of opinions covers those issued from 1986 to the present and allows the MDE to more readily comply with the requirement of 34 CFR 300.510(c)(2) to make due process decisions available to the public. The collection is searchable thus allowing inquirers to find cases containing specific words or phrases or to find decisions by the date the decision was issued. IDEA: Behavior, LRE and Parental Involvement The Project Forum, which facilitates improved services to children and youth with disabilities by gathering and sharing information that supports changes to policy and practice at the national, state and local levels, released the State and Local Implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) study in three sections: Increasing the Use of Positive Approaches for Addressing Behavioral Issues of Students with IEPs (PDF) http://www.projectforum.org/docs/SLIIDEAPositiveApproachesforAddressingBehavioralIssues.pdf Placing and Serving Children with Disabilities in the Least Restrictive Environment (PDF) http://www.projectforum.org/docs/SLIIDEAPlacingandServingChildrenwithDisabilitiesintheLRE.pdf Increasing Involvement of Parents of Children with Disabilities (PDF) http://www.projectforum.org/docs/SLIIDEAIncreasingInvolvementofParentsofChildrenwithDisabilties.pdf 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 Caring Communities "World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo" WHEN: May 19-21, 2006 WHERE: Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, MD DESCRIPTION: New to the Expo this year, we are adding an extra day to enjoy the exhibits, featuring SUNDAY as IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES AUTISM DAY! Pathfinders for Autism, the sponsoring organization will work with Caring Communities to plan this incredible day which will highlight an autism pavilion of support resources, targeted autism-related augmentative communication/assistive technology exhibitors, autism-related workshops and more! All Within the existing World of Possibilities Disabilities Expo. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information or to register, contact Caring Communities at 1-866-227-4644 or visit http://www.caringcommunities.org/. 8^th National Self-Advocacy Conference "We Had a Dream, Now We Have the Power" WHEN: May 25-28, 2006 WHERE: Atlanta, Georgia FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, visit http://sabe2006.org/. Spring Autism Conference "Friendship, Bullying & Children and Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders" with Carol Gray WHEN: Saturday, June 3, 2006 from 8:30 to 4:00 p.m. WHERE: Bethel College, 1001 West McKinley, Mishawaka, IN DESCRIPTION: It is well documented that individuals on the social periphery of classrooms, playgrounds, and workplaces are challenged in their ability to establish relationships with others, and run a higher risk of being targeted by bullying attempts. Download the brochure at http://www.bridges4kids.org/pdf/Graybrochure.pdf COST: The cost of the workshop is $40 which includes refreshments, lunch and materials. This workshop has been approved for 0.6 CEU's. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call (574) 289-4831 for more information or visit http://www.regionalautismcenter.org. 18^th Annual Postsecondary Disability Training Institute WHEN: June 6-9 & 10, 2006 WHERE: Wyndham Hotel & Conference Center, Burlington, Vermont DESCRIPTION: The objective of this Training Institute is to assist concerned professionals to meet the unique needs of college students with disabilities. COST: Cost is $365 per person if registered by May 1, 2006. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, visit http://vm.uconn.edu/~wwwcped/06pti.htm or email Carrol Waite at carrol.waite@uconn.edu. The 4th Annual Milestones Organization Autism Conference "Promoting an Independent Learner" WHEN: June 19, 2006 from 8:45 a.m. - 4:45 p.m. (8 a.m. registration) WHERE: Executive Caterers, 6111 Landerhaven Drive, Mayfield Heights, Ohio 44124 DESCRIPTION: The keynote speaker will be Bill Heward, a professor at Ohio State University and internationally recognized for his work in special education and Applied Behavior Analysis. In the state of Ohio more than 45,000 children have this disability. Milestones Organization’s mission is to improve the level of educational and therapeutic programming available for children with autism. Our conferences bring together professionals and parents with experts in the autism field of ABA — applied behavior analysis. FOR MORE INFORMATION: For more information, visit http://www.milestones.org/news_conferences.htm or call (216) 371-4765.
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 Dance of Partnership with Janice Fialka, MSW WHEN: Tuesday, May 16, 2006 from 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. WHERE: MAISD, 630 Harvey Street, Muskegon DESCRIPTION: The title of Janice’s keynote address and training, “Dance of Partnership: Why do my feet hurt?,” is indicative of her commitment to bring humor, creativity, and compassion to her work. This is a must see for those who have, and work with children and teens with disabilities. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Please RSVP by Thursday, May 11, to Melissa Myers at (231) 767-7246 or mmmyers@muskegonisd.org. Town Hall Meeting: Asperger's Syndrome and College Life WHEN: Wednesday, May 17, 2006 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. WHERE: Oakland Center, Banquet Room B, Oakland University, Rochester, MI DESCRIPTION: Oakland University is working to accommodate individuals with Asperger's in a college setting. We would like to invite you to a town hall meeting to discuss ways to help individuals with AS succeed in college. If you are a parent, professional or individual with AS please come and share your thoughts, concerns and ideas. Representatives from Human Development and Child Studies, Counseling, Disability Services and Student Affairs will be on hand for this discussion. There is no cost to attend this seminar. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Call 248-370-2424 to reserve your space. Judson Center Autism Connections Events WHEN/DETAILS: Sibshops (May 20th from 2-4:30): 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. National Asthma and Lead Poisoning Conference WHEN: Monday, May 22, 2006 WHERE: St. Mary's of Michigan, Health Education Center, 800 S. Washington Ave., Saginaw, MI 48601 DESCRIPTION: This multidisciplinary gathering will bring together leading experts in the country to discuss and promote methods to protect our children from environmental conditions that are responsible for multiple diseases and injuries, specifically childhood asthma and lead poisoning. FOR MORE INFORMATION: Visit http://fni.org/leadandasthma.asp for more information. Fragile World on the Spectrum: Stress, Anxiety, and Meltdowns WHEN: Two Part Series: May 23 and 30, 2006 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. WHERE: Autism Support Center, 1270 Doris Road, Auburn Hills, Michigan, 48321 DESCRIPTION: Two part presentation on stress and stressors for individuals on the spectrum. Learn how their specific sensory, cognitive, social, and emotional deficits result in ongoing stress for individuals on the spectrum. Learn to identify the daily stressors for your child, how they react to the stressors, and possible ways to help compensate and support the child to lessen the distress they feel. Understand your child's meltdowns and learn ways to help your child navigate their stressful world. COST: Cost is $40.00 per person - $50.00 per Couple FOR MORE INFORMATION: To register or for more information call 248-276-8132. Accessing Healthcare Coverage for Mental Health Services for Your Child and Is your Teen Ready for Adult Life? WHEN/WHERE: Locations and Dates for 2006 trainings: Lansing May 31, Mt Pleasant July 18, Pontiac August 9, and Bad Axe August 16. DESCRIPTION: The Association for Children’s Mental Health will be providing 4 free regional trainings as a part of the Real Choices Family to Family Health & Education Center Project on both Accessing Healthcare Coverage for Mental Health Services for Your Child and Is your Teen Ready for Adult Life? FOR MORE INFORMATION: To Register for training in your area, or for further information, contact Terri Henrizi on the ACMH Parent Line at 888-226-4543. Download the brochure (PDF) at http://www.bridges4kids.org/2006F2FHIECTrainingPamplet.pdf Family-to-Family Health Information Center's Health Resource Support Parent Training WHEN/WHERE: Dates and Locations for 2006 Trainings: June 3, 2006 in Indian River; June 10, 2006 in Southfield; and June 29, 2006 in Marquette. DESCRIPTION: This training provides resources and information on health care and public health insurance to persons who serve as “support parents” to fellow parents of children with special needs. FOR MORE INFORMATION: To Register for training in your area, or for further information, contact Lisa Cook-Gordon at 1-800-359-3722. Download the brochure (PDF) at http://www.bridges4kids.org/2006F2FHIECTrainingPamplet.pdf
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