Books For Parents of Autistic Children

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, I wanted to start posting about books that will help parents and adults caretakers of autism spectrum children. This post is the first of many to come. I will be posting resources for sensory processing and the GFCF diet soon. For books made for children on autism check Little Red Reads.

Parent Resources

educational ipad and iphone apps

Lately our kiddos have really latched on to the ipad and as much as they love playing Angry Birds I'd rather have them playing something that is educational and caters to their needs. We downloaded Starfall today and they are eating it up. Someone also suggested BrainPop and proloquo2go to us. Does anyone out there have any other programs they like? I'd love something that helps teach handwriting, social skills, values, or basic academics.

Helpful Items to Bring To Church for Children

As a mother of four children I often have to pack a huge church bag to keep all of my kiddos occupied and in their seats for the one hour block where we take the sacrament. Listed below are some of the items we've used over the years that cater to autism and sensory processing disorder:

Scratch and sniff books

Touch and Feel books- I really like Usborne and Bright Baby board books

Crayola Color Wonder markers and soft paint sticks-mess free and magical

A weighted vest

a disk cushion to sit on

a ziploc bag with homemade goo tightly sealed with duct tape on top

finger puppets

a picture of your family small enough to take to class or a small photo laminated

theraputty with small things hidden inside

wikki sticks

lacing cards- great for fine motor skills

magnets to stick on metal folding chairs

colorforms

sticker scenes- we get ours at Oriental Trading Company

bubbles for nursery

fidgets- the dollar store or OTC is a great place to look

theraband

PVC tubing to chew on- hook to a piece of yarn

Grabber XT for oral motor stimming

Crayola Model Magic- it's not messy, this too could go in a Ziploc bag to squish

Seek and find bean bag- we made our own with poly pellets and small items

Social Stories

Gluten free diary free snacks- pretzels and gum are great for chewing input

small candies to reward quiet behavior- we use tic tacs

printed coloring sheets- free online

an oil/water or sand counter

a toothbrush

a sensory brush- we do the Wilbarger technique and joint compressions in church

seek and find books

taggy blankets and sensory baby toys

koosh or gertie balls

Check Southpaw Enterprises , Abilitations or Etsy for lots more product ideas

What do you bring? I'd love to hear your ideas!

Helping Autism at Church

Author Danyelle Ferguson and I had a great time today on the set of Good Things Utah, the hosts were great! What a wonderful opportunity. Unfortunately, we only had about 7 minutes to cover a WHOLE lot of material. So she and I will be sharing what we couldn't get to today on our websites soon. For now, here is the official transcript from our appearance today with tips on helping children with autism at church. This material is taken from ABC 4 News Utah website and can be viewed in its entirety here.

"Kids with autism have a trained support system at school and in the community with organizations like "Special Olympics. But what do they have at church?Most church leaders and teachers are volunteers, who aren't trained to help children with special needs. They want to do their best but they don't know how.Author Danyelle Ferguson just wrote a book to help people.. and she came on Good Things Utah to share a few tips.

Heather Gardner is a mother to three kids with special needs, two of her children have autism. She says being prepared and careful planning can really make a difference.

Here are Ferguson's tips:
1. Start with communication- meet somewhere that's comfortable for the family.- only ask about things that are directly related to church- keep information confidential.

2. Sensory issues at church...issues such as the lights or echoes from speakers- sunglasses reduce glare from florescent lights- earmuffs help kids sensitive to noises

Calming techniques include:- sensory brush- fidgets- gum to chew- distractions- frequent breaks (walks in hall)

3. Transitions & Routines- adapt successful school techniques for church.- visual Schedule- narrative stories- "fade out" techniques as kids get older

4. Creating friendships- find out what the person's special interests are, research them, then have conversations about the special interest. - think outside of the box - incorporate special interest into lessons.- be an example of how to be a good friend to the child with special needs so his peers will feel more comfortable doing so too.

Ferguson also says a diagnosis doesn't define the person. Children with autism are very different from each other. My son has a friend in our congregation who also has autism. They are the same age. My son is rambunctious, very into sports, loves to eat, and a huggy kids. The other boy is very calm, has texture issues so is very picky about what he'll eat, and doesn't like to be touched or grabbed. Together, they make a great team. When my son is getting excited, the other boy will reach over and tap his knee and my son will calm down. On the other hand, the other boy tolerates my son giving him big hugs each time they meet up. They're two very different kids, but both have autism.

She suggests to find the strengths in each special needs child. Kids with autism, ADD or ADHD may like to be given jobs that are physically active. She says "my son set up the chairs and table in his Sunday School class each week. He loved that! Other kids may like gathering scriptures from the library, holding pictures, or choosing a class song to sing each week. Find something the child would enjoy being responsible for each week. It helps them feel important and needed at church."

She suggests activities to teach kids and youth about disabilities - but also that even though a friend has a "disability", they also have things in common with each other.
For more information, go to:http://www.danyelleferguson.com/ and: http://www.parentingpartner.blogspot.com/. "

Copyright 2011 Newport Television LLC All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.



I've embedded our full video segment since many of you live out of state or were unable to get to it today. Thanks so much to those who cheered us on and dialed in to watch. I'll be sharing lots of tips we didn't have time to share on channel 4... stay tuned!

Good Things Utah Today at 10 AM

This morning, co-author of (dis)Abilities and the Gospel, Danyelle Ferguson and I will be on Good Things Utah! So, all my Utah friends, tune in today, Wednesday, November 2nd at 10 am on ABC Channel 4. Danyelle and I will be talking about how to help kids with autism and other cognitive disabilities at church.

To learn more about The Book (dis)Abilities and the Gospel and to read my review on Fire and Ice click here. Hope you can watch!

Autism Awareness Giveaway Hop Winner

Congratulations to Laura La Tulipe who won our Autism Awareness Blog Hop. Please email me within 48 hours to claim your prize. And a special hello to all of our new followers!

Autism Awareness Giveaway Hop

April 11th to 14th
Hosted by:
Lindsay @ Just Another Book Addict
Heather @ Fire and Ice
Pixie @ Page Turners
Kathy @ I Am A Reader, Not A Writer

April is Autism Awareness Month. To help spread the word about Autism we are hosting a giveaway hop. Each participating blog has their own giveaway so be sure to visit them all.

For More Information about Autism check these sites:
http://www.autismspeaks.org/index.php
http://www.autism-society.org/
http://autism-resources.com/


We are giving away a sensory ball as well as a copy of the book "A Child's Journey Through Autism" by Leeann Whiffen.

Leeann and her book changed our family's life and our approach to autism. She's a friend, an unfailing support and an amazing autism activist. To join her email list for the Utah Autism Coalition click here.

Summary: "Told with the intensity of a medical thriller, the extraordinary story of how Clay Whiffen and his family conquered autism.

"Leeann Whiffen's fight for her son is a poignant, intimate story of perseverance and love - a reminder to all of us that a mother is the greatest ally a child with autism will ever have. A Child's Journey out of Autism shines a heartfelt light on a future of healing and hope."

Jenny McCarthy, author of Mother Warriors and Louder than Words
The therapy costs $30,000. We'd be mortgaging our lives and our savings on something we're not even sure could help our son. But the clock is ticking: the longer we wait, the harder it will be to pull him out of this shell. How are we going to afford it? How can we not afford it?

When Clay Whiffen was diagnosed on the autism spectrum, his parents didn't know where to turn. They refused to believe that he could not be cured, and began to try every therapy they could afford - and many they couldn't. In this extraordinary story of one family's struggle with autism, Leeann Whiffen gives voice to the fear of losing a child and the fight to reclaim him, exploring what treatments eased her son Clay's symptoms, where the Whiffens found support, and how the family conquered one of the toughest challenges a child can face.

With a foreword by autism specialist Dr. Bryan Jepson, A Child's Journey out of Autism spells out what treatments worked, where the family found help, and how they made it through this crushing crisis. In a time of despair and confusion - when another child is diagnosed with autism every 20 minutes - this is a profound,proven message of hope for anyone whose life is touched by the disorder.


To enter click and fill out this form. Giveaway is open to US residents and ends April 14, 2011. And be sure to stop by our sister site Fire and Ice as well as all the other participants below for more giveaways.

Books For Children On Grief

What's Heaven by Maria Shriver

What Happens When People Die by Timothy Robinson

The Fall Of Freddie the Leaf by Leo Buscaglia

PDD

PDD or Pervasive Developmental Delay. Another way of saying..."Congratulations, you have another child on the autism spectrum." There is a lot of work to be done. Work we've done before. Now we just need to step up the plate and do it again. The only way out of autism is through. And even then, it's a lifetime process of discovery and change.

My Gift

by Rebecca Talley, author of The Upside of Down

You may not agree with her politics, but Sarah Palin and her son, Trig, have raised awareness about Down syndrome, the most common chromosomal abnormality named after Dr. John Langdon Down who first recognized common characteristics and termed it as a condition. Will Sarah Palin’s public life combat some of the common misconceptions about Down syndrome? Will it help people to better empathize with the 350,000 Americans diagnosed with it, and their families? Time will tell.

Each year about 5000 babies are born with an extra 21st chromosome. Shortly after fertilization, an egg begins to divide and change. Normally, each person has 23 pairs of chromosomes resulting in a total of 46. Individuals receive one chromosome per pair from the father and one from the mother. In the case of Trisomy 21, or Down syndrome, a developing egg may have divided incorrectly or something else caused it to receive extra genetic material on the 21st chromosome. The result is 47 chromosomes instead of the normal 46. This extra genetic material affects individuals in various ways and much is still unknown about which genes are actually replicated. The chance of it happening increases with maternal age. However, most births are to women under age 35.

An article, “Prenatal Test Puts Down Syndrome in Hard Focus,” by Amy Harmon in the New York Times, May 9, 2007, cites research that 90 percent of all women who receive a pre-natal diagnosis of Down syndrome choose to terminate the pregnancy. 90 percent. Why? I believe it’s because there are still so many misconceptions about Down syndrome. After the announcement of Sarah Palin’s candidacy in 2008, a commenter on a blog blamed Palin for causing her son’s Down syndrome because she didn’t receive adequate pre-natal care. DS is a genetic condition and has nothing to do with pre-natal care, yet this misconception survives.

People still erroneously believe that children with Down syndrome cannot be educated. I personally know a student with DS who was on the honor roll at our middle school. Another misconception is that people with DS all function similarly and can only do certain things. People like to place them in a “box” and only have certain expectations for them. Again, I know of a woman with DS who works on the Olympic Committee and speaks three languages and Chris Burke starred in the television series Life Goes On. People with DS play instruments, act in plays, sing, swim, and have talents like everyone else.

I’m hoping that Palin’s public life will help shed light on the truth about Down syndrome and discredit some of the long-held beliefs. I know I was completely ignorant when my son was diagnosed shortly after his birth. I expected him to be a blob. Was I ever wrong. He is most certainly not a blob. He constantly keeps me chasing after him and trying to stay a step ahead of him, though I always seem to be two steps behind him. He has his own distinct personality and has definite likes and dislikes. Though he’s generally happy, he can throw a tantrum just like any other four-year-old old when he doesn’t get his way. He’s a tease and loves to torture his older sister. He loves to “play” the piano and as soon as he hears the pianist begin at church, he raises his hand to “lead” the music. He performs for anyone who will watch. His favorite song is Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes and he will do the actions, always making sure he has an audience. He can set the DVR to record his favorite TV shows, get on the internet and find his favorite websites, and unlock cell phones to place calls (most recently to 911).

Does he have challenges? Yes. But, in a sense, don’t we all have challenges? He may have to work harder to learn to read, but I don’t always understand, nor can I recall, what I’ve read in my scriptures and need to constantly reread and supplement my scripture study. He may have challenges expressing his feelings, but after all these years, I express my feelings far too frequently because I still haven’t learned to be patient. He doesn’t say many words, but I sure have to work hard to bridle my tongue especially when I think someone deserves a good tongue-lashing. He might not understand his own needs at times or the needs of someone else, but I rarely think about others’ feelings because I’m not very compassionate. He may never marry nor have children of his own, but I have yet to become the kind of wife and mother I should be. We all have our struggles, his are just more apparent.

I often wonder why God chose me to raise such a son. I feel so unworthy to be his mother. He inspires me to be a better person and to see beyond physical limitations. He teaches me that life is to be savored, not rushed. The little things I’ve taken for granted with my other children are now so much sweeter with him because he’s worked so hard to achieve them. I’ve learned that the journey is as important as the destination.

It’s like Christmas every day with him; he’s a gift I can enjoy repeatedly. Of course, all children are gifts, but the world seems to shun that gift when it’s wrapped a little differently.

Has Sarah Palin changed attitudes? I hope so. The world needs to realize that every life matters, every person deserves a right to live, and every child deserves respect even if he or she has an extra chromosome. After all, under the wrapping, we’re all the same to God.

To learn more about author Rebecca Talley visit her website at http://www.rebeccatalleywrites.blogspot.com/ and be sure to enter to win a copy of her book The Upside of Down at http://fireandicephoto.blogspot.com/.

Speech Therapy

Our little one has been in Early Childhood Programs since August and is making great progress. Currently an early intervention worker comes to visit him twice a month. One for speech therapy and another for social intervention. He loves the visits. As well, we just started a music group last week to try to introduce him to structured settings with other children. This week the speech therapist worked on finger plays with him.We are working on his expressive language and articulation skills, as well trying to limit what is in his environment and slowing down his pace. Here's some of the songs they gave us to work with.

Recently

Our seven year old daughter had some language delays as a pre-schooler and now that my son is two I decided I'd better have him screened. He had his first tubes surgery at 6 months after multiple ear infections and a failed hearing test. Just last May he had another set placed at Primary Children's Hospital since he failed both a tympanogram and hearing booth sound test. As well his adenoids were taken out. This poor little one never has time to recover from surgery before we are back in. So far he's also had two hydrocele hernia surgeries making a total of four procedures in two years. And at the end of this month we go in to get his teeth worked on. They estimate the surgery will be an hour and a half long and cost us around $4000.00 My husband is self-employed and our current health insurance has no dental coverage. So we applied for different health insurance this month and were denied.

We are currently fighting the underwriters but in the mean time, we are paying out of pocket and filling out Medicaid-D paperwork for our youngest two children. Our oldest two qualified and I pray things will fall into place.

Today I took our 27 month old to an Early Intervention screening recommended by our Pediatrician. He was put on a watch list a year ago after struggling in social/ emotional areas. This time he scored at 27 months cognitive, 24 months gross motor skills. 24 months fine motor, 28 months social emotional (yay) 21 months (slight delay) in self help, and here some the part where mom shed a couple tears. His language expressive is at 1 year 10 months a mild delay and Receptive language is a 1 year 8 months which is a moderate delay. We qualify for services. And we are offically the parents of another special needs child.

It's always a double edged word to hear that. Hooray, we are getting the help he needs, hooray, mom trusts her mom gutt and took him in again. But it is so sad to see him miss things on his tests and struggle. One thing that kid has going for him is that he is a joy in my life. He is smart and adorable and I love him with all my heart. Sometimes I wonder why these children were sent to me, because if there is one are I feel inadequate in, it is my parenting. But, hey I will try my best to make sure they make it back home the best little people they can be. I pray Their Father in Heaven will keep prompting me and gently nudging me along the way to trust my instincts and realize they need more help than most.

We will have an IFSP next week and set up services. Here are some of the resources the County screener recommended for our family since she has worked with all of my four children now doing tests:

A Mind At A Time by Mel Levine http://www.allkindsofminds.org/
Driven To Distraction book on ADHD
No Mind Left Behind on regulation
Smart But Scattered book on executive functioning and getting the frontal lobe to function
The Listening Program Does anyone here in Utah know of any providers for this? I'd like to try it with our children since they all struggle in listening comprehension.

Enduring Well

My husband found this really good article today in the March 2010 Ensign magazine. It is written by the mother of an autistic son about the trials and lessons learned. LDS.org - Ensign Article - Enduring Well

Project Lifesaver

Utah Autism Coalition, in coordination with the Salt Lake County Sheriff's Department, Sheriff James Winder and Captain Teri Sommers, is pleased to announce the launch of Project Lifesaver! Project Lifesaver was made possible in large part by a grant from the National Autism Association for law enforcement equipment and training.

The primary mission of Project Lifesaver is to provide timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children who wander due to Alzheimer's, autism, and other related conditions or disorders.

We hope this will be a great resource to our autism community. There have been so many media reports lately and over the years of individuals with autism who have wandered and become lost. Many have been found safe, but others were less fortunate. We hope Project Lifesaver can be a useful tool and bring peace of mind to many of you who worry your child may become lost.

How it works:

Citizens enrolled in Project Lifesaver wear a small LoJack SafetyNet personal transmitter around the wrist or ankle that emits an individualized tracking signal. If an enrolled client goes missing, the caregiver notifies their locally trained agency, and a trained emergency team responds to the wanderer's area. Recovery times for PLI clients average 30 minutes - 95% less time than standard operations.

The LoJack SafetyNet system also includes a database of key information about the client such as a recent photo and insight as to where the person might have wandered if he or she goes missing, and a caregiver support organization that is available by phone and e-mail 24x7 for emergencies.

How to enroll:

There is a $99 initial enrollment fee and a recurring $30 monthly service charge for clients. Families and caregivers can enroll their loved ones by calling 1-877-4-FINDTHEM (877-434-6384). For those families or caregivers who cannot afford the service, they are encouraged to check with their local agency for available options.

For more information, please contact Project Lifesaver at 1-877-580-LIFE (5433) or click here, or LoJack SafetyNet at 1-877-4-FINDTHEM (877-434-6384) or visit here.

A special thanks:
Shanda Ross, the UAC special projects chair, has done an incredible job in overseeing and organizing this project. She made us promise we wouldn't bring attention to her or recognize her in any way. (Whoops, had our fingers crossed). Shanda is an incredible autism advocate, and we appreciate her many efforts in behalf of our community

Sheriff James Winder, Leeann Whiffen, Capt Teri Sommers, Shanda Ross (running somewhere far, far away)

Sincerely,
The Utah Autism Coalition Board

The Utah Autism Coalition is a parent-driven, grass roots advocacy group dedicated to supporting initiatives and other programs that enhance the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

2010 Utah Walk Now For Autism Speaks

All photos copyright Heather Gardner Photography http://heathergardnerphotography.blogspot.com/

Gluten Free Casein Free Pantry

I though this might help some of you to get ideas for ready made, pantry items...

Rice Chips

Puffed Corn

Funky Monkey Freeze Dried Fruit

Puffins Cereal

Rice Cereal

Betty Crocker Gluten Free Yellow Cake Mix

Blue Chip Group Food Storage

Tings

Veggie Pirates Booty

Annie's Organics Fruit Snacks

Gluten Free Pantry Corn Bread

Rice

Veggie Straws from Whole Foods Market

Thai Kitchen bowls

Kettle Baked Potato Chips

Cherrybrook Kitchen mixes

Sunflower Seeds

Red Mill Mixes

DeBoles pasta

White Rice Flour

Rice Chex

365 by Whole Foods Gluten Free Pizza Crust Mix

Agave Nectar

Rice

Beans

Cous Cous

Gluten Free Crumbs

Plain Popcorn

Quinoa Noodles

Chile Relief SPD Book Giveaway

Any of you who follow me on twitter or Facebook know that I am trying to raise money for the people in Chile who were effected by the earthquake. As a result I am posting giveaways on my blogs, with incentive for donating to Chile. 100% of the proceeds donated go directly to families I know there who are in need. This book is today's giveaway!

What would you do if your child suffered with something so severe it affected every aspect of her life?

And what if your cries for help fell on deaf ears at every turn? You'd follow your gut and fight until someone listened. And that's what Chynna Laird did. When she was just three months old, Jaimie's reactions to people and situations seemed odd. She refused any form of touch, she gagged at smells, she was clutzy and threw herself around and spent most of her day screaming with her hands over her ears and eyes.

By the time she turned two, Jaimie was so fearful of her world they spent most days inside. What was wrong with Chynna's miracle girl? Why wouldn't anyone help her figure it out? Jaimie wasn't "just spirited" as her physician suggested nor did she lack discipline at home. When Jaimie was diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) at two-and-a-half, Chynna thought she had "the answer," but that was just the start of a three-year quest for the right treatments to bring the Jaimie she loved so much out for others to see. With the right diagnosis and treatment suited to Jaimie, this family finally felt hope. Not Just Spirited is one mother's journey to finding peace for her daughter, Jaimie. As Chynna says often, "Knowledge breeds understanding. And that's so powerful."

Parents and Therapists Praise Not Just Spirited

"Chynna's memoir is sure to encourage other parents to advocate with the same determination for their own sensational children."
--Carol Kranowitz, author The Out-of-Sync Child

"I only wish I had this book earlier. Even though my daughter and I live with this every day, I learned a lot from this book, and will return to my family with renewed hope and energy!"
--Nancy Pfortmiller

"Chynna's words touched my heart. Her memoir validated the overwhelming feelings I went through myself with my own daughter's struggles with her SPD. Raising and loving a child with severe SPD is draining for both your mind and your physical body. However, with a strong faith in God and the instincts only a mother can have, there is hope. Not Just Spirited will fill your soul with spirit and give you the strength needed to endure your own child's challenging behaviors, leading you on an enlightening journey of acceptance, strength, hope, and healing."
--Diane M. Renna, author Meghan's World: The Story of One Girl's Triumph over SPD

Learn more at www.LilyWolfWords.ca

Another empowering book for parents from Loving Healing Press www.LovingHealing.com
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Product Details
Paperback: 174 pages
Publisher: Loving Healing Press (November 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1615990089
ISBN-13: 978-1615990085

To Enter To win the Book "Not Just Spirited" :

Leave your name and email address below

+3 additional entries for each dollar donated to teh Chile earthquake fund via yellow button on right sidebar

+3 for tweeting or posting this on FB, leave the link

+3 for following this blog

Add up your entires and post your total below

Contest ends March 31st and is open internationally

Check my other blog http://fireandicephoto.blogspot.com for handmade ETSY giveaways!

Yipppeee!

Found this on the shelf by the regular cake mixes!!! :)

Line Em Up

This is what it looks like when my son and his other kindergarten best friend get together to "play" cars.

Support HB 184!

Now is the time to please call and email your state House representative in support of the Medicaid Autism Waiver bill, HB 184! If you need help finding your representative, please click here.

There are many other states that have medicaid autism waivers in place. An autism medicaid waiver bases eligibility for services on diagnosis, not income. As with other types of medicaid waivers, the federal government matches monies contributed by the state.

If passed, HB 184 would require a committee (comprised of autism professionals and parents, and medicaid professionals) to come up with how the waiver would be structured (i.e. early intense behavior therapy, respite, etc.). Their report would be submitted to Health and Human Services appropriations committee in September 2010 for approval and any further budget planning. There is NO fiscal note for HB 184.

Last year, even though Clay's Law didn't ultimately pass, our grass-roots lobbying effort caused heads to turn and a sense of urgency. Our unity and collaborative effort in the Utah autism community will cause positive change as we work together to let our voices be heard. Let's push forward and keep the momentum.

Best,
Leeann Whiffen


NEWS AND EVENTS:

*Autism Speaks Utah Walk meeting Thursday, Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Sanderson Center 5709 S 1550 W in Taylorsville. Bring your friends and family - all those who would like to volunteer and show their support!

*Registration is now open for the Family Links 2010 Statewide Conference. Click here for more information.

2010 Walk Now For Autism

Registration is now OPEN for the 3rd Annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks to be held on Saturday, May 1, 2010 at This Is The Place Heritage Park.

We hope you plan to participate in this year's Walk. Please visit the website at http://walknowforautism.org/utahand register your Walk team TODAY!!

Everyone who registers by January 31st will be entered into a drawing for a free dinner, just by registering your team!

Thanks again & please contact me with any questions.


Amanda Patten
Walk Co-Chair / Family Services
Utah Walk Now for Autism Speaks 5/1/2010
www.autismspeaks.org

Infant Choking CPR

Allergaroo

We discovered these cool little packets this week at Target! Hooray for easy microwavable GFCF meals!!! Here is the website if you are interested.. http://www.allergaroo.com/our_products.cfm

Our Favorite Christmas Present

Twilight Ladybug projects a starry night sky onto bedroom ceilings and walls. Use it every night, to lessen fear of the dark and help your child sleep easier.

Twilight Ladybug offers three different colors of illumination for the stars: Sapphire Blue, Emerald Green and Ruby Red. The shell illuminates as well, for a calming nightlight effect.

The night light shuts off automatically after 45 minutes, so it's easy for you to use. Just "set it and forget it".

Our kiddos have been sleeping in their own room ever since we got this. They LOVE it!

Ultrasound and Blood Draw

We just got back from Primary Children's and I felt compelled to write. I think sometimes this little white square is therapeutic for me. Last week when we went to the ER we were sent with express orders from our pediatrician to get an ultrasound right away for our 19 month old. It never happened and I left mad. When we went for our follow up appointment the next day so was our Doctor. He ordered a test right away, but it was the day before Christmas so we scheduled for today.

Little guy panicked when I sat him on the white sheeted bed. I don;t blame him. But luckily, they had a crib toy that played music and flashed lights which he loved. They took and ultrasound and when I saw on the screen the red parts my heart broke a little. She called the doctor in and he confirmed it. Lots of fluid in his other testicle. Surgery again, this time on the other side for another hydrocele. They referred us on to a radiologist and we headed to our next stop at the hospital which I had been procrastinating.

Outpatient labs for our five year old. He has been on supplements and B-12 injections for about four months so it was time for a blood draw to test for anemia and folic acid deficiency. I warned the staff that the last visit it took three of us to hold him down.

They were so good with him. They showed him the blue noodles "veins" in his arms and the tounercit. They spent a good 20 minutes explaining everything to him step by step all the while tears spilled over and his lip quivered. He knew. He stopped talking altogether. Finally we had to restrain him and they picked him up, put him in my lap straddling me. Three of us held him and some how he managed to get a hand out and slap me across the face. I realized how long it has been since I have been hit by one of my children like that.

I counted my blessings that our older two have improved so much over the years. But I will admit it hurt, just as much as it hurt to see him panic. Sometimes Autism and anxiety is hard. I knew I had to hold it together in front of my kiddos until I got home.

here i sit, this time tears streaming down my face. I am so grateful we have KLOVE Christian radio in our car, it gave me a little bit of peace on the icy ride home. Tomorrow we will call another specialist for Spencer's third surgery this year. Say a little prayer that we can all be strong and that business picks up so we can pay our medical bills.

Lessons Learned at PCMC E.R.

It has been an interesting last few weeks for our family. Our children all caught some funky upper respiratory virus that causes coughing, high fevers, croup like symptoms and two of our children got open sores on their mouths. The pharmacy recommended a topical ointment for the cold sores, but then one night about two weeks ago our 6 year old started screaming. Her mouth sore had spread down both of her legs. Within 24 hours they had transformed form tiny little pink dots into open sores that were spreading fast. She was in a lot of pain and it was after hours. So we went up the ER for the first time in years. Primary Children's is right in the middle of renovating their ER waiting room so it is not kid friendly right now. She couldn't comfortably sit down at all so I was glad we got into a room with a bed quickly.




Our first obstacle was one we have learned with our other children during their same day surgeries...the child ID tag which they attach to a wrist or foot. She kept trying to rip it off. this time we found a really good solution thanks to our nurse. Tagaderm, which is a clear second skin sticker. They took off the band and attached her ID info onto her shoulder directly with the tagaderm. It really is no use making things worse than they need to be with children who have sensory issues.


Our oldest daughter has anxiety so the exam was really frightening for her and she became almost completely non-verbal. I really wish they had child life specialists and nurses to explainn things to her like they do before surgery. The nurses were concerned about what exactly the infection was , so I was glad it came back as Strep from the lab a few days later. She was prescribed keflex and another strong antibiotic to be taken every six hours.


Fast forward a week and the cough is still around. We call after hours physicians for our five year old son who can't breathe very well. The on-call doc identifies the cough as croup because it sounds more like a bark and advises us to wrap him up warmly and take him outside into the cold air every few hours.


Then Thursday of last week our 19 month old got fevers around 102 degrees. We administered alternating Tylenol and ibuprofen as well as toweled him off with a cold wash cloth. Up starts the cough. We push cold liquids through a bottle and start breathing treatments with the nebulizer on our two oldest. They improve with treatment but our baby does not. Yesterday he started alternating between lethargic and non-stop crying so we took him into the pediatrician.

By the time I got to his office our little one was flailing, throwing things and seemed disoriented. Our pediatrician found no sign of ear infection, strep throat or other obvious symptoms. At one point he pushed his chair away and based his head and closed his eyes as if seeking an answer. He excused himself for a second opinion and we were referred up to Primary Children's Emergency Room. Dr. J was concerned about Spencer's hydrocele surgery site or viral meningitis.


The hardest part of our check in was getting our little guy hooked up to an I.V. because he was pale and dehydrated from fighting the fever. He is a fighter and I felt so bad having to hold him down. He pulled off all of his leads and oxygen monitor on his toe. Todd called half of our ward/church directory and all of our family looking for someone to watch our other three children, but we couldn't find anyone home. Once again found myself wishing the ER waiting room was as cool as the other PCMC rooms with toys and distractions to keep us busy.

the good news was that the blood and urine work came back normal and they decided not to do a spinal tap after he started calming down with IV fluids. The bad news...they only treat the immediate risk symptoms at the ER. He got fevers again last night after they sent us home. We have been referred on to a urologist and radiologist. We are all hoping all of this is just an upper respiratory virus that will go away soon.


I am just happy as a mom that he is up and walking again, oriented and that he is semi-happy. I am grateful for a praying pediatrician, PCMC slushes and gatorade. Here's to a speedy recovery for our whole family and no more air warnings in our area.

• Plan on at least 2-4 hours when you go to the E.R.
• Bring some toys or activities for other children
• Only two people are allowed back in the room at a time
• An i pod or phone with a movie is a great small distraction
• Plan on lots of alone waiting time in your room
• Plan on making a co payment upon admission
• Bring your own food or money for a vending machine

Winter Cough

Every winter at least one of our children gets this horrible hacking cough that sounds like a cross between croup and asthma. This week our son was having a really hard time breathing with his cough so we got some ideas from friends, they were really good ones I though I should share...

• Kat you're doing the right things. And of course plenty of rest & fluids.


• Brittany If its croup, bundle them up and let the beathe the cold air outside.


• Heidi Keep a close eye on how fast they breathing. If they are over 45 breaths per minute and retracting in the upper chest go to the doctor!


• Alisa Last year I bought a Vicks warm steam humidifier and I use it with Vicks VapoSteam at night. I wish I had discovered this sooner! Don't use the store brand of VapoSteam--not as good. It is kind of expensive but SOOOO worth a cough-free good night's sleep!


• Allie Vicks vapor rub, cold water, sit outside for a couple minutes when you're like almost dead, prop up your head as much as possible. sleep without your comforter on top of you, try to curl up a little these are just a few of the things that work. sleep on your side, with your head propped up major. i know it sounds weird to have your neck in that position


• Marci Mucinex to bring up all the phlegm from his lungs!


• Aprilyn Vicks makes a chest rub for kids. Do you guys have a nebulizer?


• Kara Oh, I had such awful croup when I was a child -went to the hospital once or twice. Here is what my parents did: 1) put me in a steam bath; 2) if steam didn't work they would bundle me up and take me into the cold for a few minutes; 3) vicks rub and humidifiers. They would repeat this process all night long. There are heat humidifiers that have vicks drops that I may help. Good luck!


• Alacia Put VICK'S on her feet and then put socks on!! It sounds weird but it totally helps them breathe better and not cough!!


• Jeannie Alacia is absolutely right ... we've been using this method for years ... I know it sound weird ... but IT WORKS! :-)


• Mikel I use it. It DOES work.

We took our son into the doctor after two days and were prescribed Dexamehasone and a nebulizer with pulmacort. He is breathing much better, but we have noticed the known side effect of being extra emotional and sad. Here's to breathing better! Thanks for all of the advice!

Best Toy Ever

By far the best money we have ever spent on a toy. Fisher Price Rock Roll and Ride. Our little eighteen month old goes in circles inside all day lone and started a long time ago as soon as his little legs touched the floor. We don't get a lot of use out of your toys around here, but this is a keeper!

GFCF Groceries at Smith's

Here are some of our groceries from Smith's Marketplace. They have a natural, gluten free section with all kinds of choices. Our favorites are hte "Tings" chips that taste just like Cheetos!

Flu Fighters

Okay spectrum and other parents. We are on a probiotic and Child Essence multi-vitamins. We are on a GFCF diet. Now, how to we combat the flu and ear infections? We aren't going to do the H1N1 vaccine, and I have caught a lot of flack from family members about it. What are your thoughts?

Also, my son did not have all of his kindergarten vaccinations (by our choice) and now the school is saying we need a letter from the health department. Do we...if so, how do we go about this? Do I contact the DAN doctor?

Sibling Rivalry

Our first two children are 15 months apart and our next two are 17 months apart. Lately they fight more often than they get along and it breaks my heart. There is a lot of name calling, hitting, crying and competition. Anyone have ideas for building sibling relationships?

Congrats Brittany Recalde!

Utah - Walk Now for Autism Speaks
November Newsletter


Let's gear up for 2010!

The 2010 Walk Now for Autism Speaks website is officially up and running!

Register your team now and start fundraising TODAY!

www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/utah

With the holidays quickly approaching and the 2009 walk season coming to an end, we are reminded that autism never takes a break and neither can we. We must continue to fundraise for critical research, advocacy, family services and awareness. As you participate in your holiday gatherings and send out greeting cards, encourage others to help us reach the ultimate goal of finding out why autism is now affecting 1 in 91 children. Each new 2010 team that can raise $91.00 by Dec. 15th will be entered into a drawing for a gift basket of prizes! Thank you for your dedication to this important cause. With every dollar we are moving forward with your help!

The #1 reason people donate is because they are ASKED!

Click here to see how your fundraising dollars are being used to combat Autism!


December Committee Meeting - JOIN US!

Come join us as we work as a community to raise awareness in our neighborhoods, advocate with our local legislators, hear about others experiences, share current events and continue to plan and fundraise for our 2010 Walk Now for Autism Speaks! Everyone is welcome! This is a great opportunity to meet family members and friends of people living with Autism joining together for a common goal. See you there!

Tuesday, Dec. 8th @ 7-9 p.m.
Sanderson Center
5709 S. 1500 W.
Taylorsville, UT


We still need your help in 2009!


Committee openings: We have a place for everyone!

o Publicity: Do you like informing people of what the “happenings” are in their community? Are you talented at writing press releases and connecting with people about the AS mission? We are looking for someone that can help with spreading the word about Autism Speaks and our local walk. If you are interested please contact us!

o Sponsorship: Helping to secure donations from local area business both monetary and in-kind donations. We are looking for someone that is comfortable speaking with decision-makers and influencing them to partner with Utah Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

o Community Outreach: We are looking for someone that can reach out to our local schools to get them involved in our efforts to make our 2010 walk successful.

o Food & Beverage: Help to bring forward local area restaurants and vendors to provide food and beverage for the day of the event.

o If these committee positions aren’t what you are looking for please contact us to see what other ways you can help make the 2010 walk a success!!!

Sponsorship Spotlight: American United C.U. & Credit Union One

A big "THANKS" to everyone who participated in the American United FCU and Credit Union One Golf Tournament, raising over $8,000.00! Proceed from the tournament went to benefit Autism Speaks and 100% for Kids. A special thank you to Phil Patten who brought this opportunity to Autism Speaks!
The golf course has been scheduled and arrangements have been made to ensure that next year's event is even bigger and better! Contact us if you are interested in participating!

Congratulations to Brittany Recalde!

Brittany Recalde completed 26.2 miles in the NYC marathon to raise funds and awareness for Autism Speaks. Here are a few thoughts about her journey.


"Autism was so devastating to our family just three years ago. While I still find myself in tears that Mira is crippled by this disease, I have become a new person through this journey. I believe that Mira was sent to John and me for a reason. I’m sure that I don’t recognize every reason. But, I do believe that one of them was for me. A few years ago I learned that when someone died, the ancient Greeks used to talk about that persons passion in life. If that person had no passion, then they were not remembered. I remember when I heard that, I thought to myself that I didn’t really have passion for anything. That thought stayed with me for years. I worried that there would be nothing in this world that I would become passionate about. I never expected my passion to come from a disease that I have grown to hate. But it has. I have passion now.

Running a marathon in New York City was an experience that I could never ever put into words. I’ll try, but I will never do it justice. Never in my life have I heard my name yelled out in cheers constantly for hours. I heard “looking good Brittany” “keep going Brittany, you’re doing awesome” “let’s go Brittany”…. I heard it shouted from thousands of people that lined the streets. I heard it from loud speakers, I heard it from crowds on top of buildings and on balconies. I also had people yell to me that Autism Speaks was a great cause. I heard them thank me for fighting for our kids. I heard them say Mira’s name, and remind me to keep running for her (I had her picture and name on my back). I was brought to tears so many times when I saw the huge amount of support that was coming from perfect strangers.

I was inspired by so many that were also racing. I passed a member of our military with his full gear on. He was struggling just to stand after 15 miles. I passed so many grandparents in their 80s that were still running at the half way point. I passed a man that had no legs, only a prosthetic running leg and arm crutches. I passed multiple stroke victims. I was reminded how blessed we truly are. I have to give credit to my heavenly father for giving me the strength, mentally and physically, to be able to train for and finish this marathon. I don’t know where I would be in this life without my faith. I don’t believe that I could be so strong through these trials that I have faced without the Lord on my side.

The last four months have been an amazing experience for me. I have talked about Autism and Autism Speaks to more people than I think I have in the last three years. I was amazed at how little so many knew about autism. It was so interesting to me how many people were more interested in autism once they found out that I was willing to run a marathon to raise money for it. I am amazed at the generous donations that I received from so many. I’m so thankful for everyone who has shown such love for Mira and for our family. I feel so lucky and so blessed."

THANK YOU, Brittany by bringing much needed funds and awareness to so many through your journey!


We want to hear from YOU!

We would like to hear your feedback! If you have great fundraising ideas or would like to share your experience with autism and how it affects you or someone you love, please email utah@autismspeaks.org!

IEP Tomorrow

We have our son's IEP tomorrow to renew his goals for kindergarten and to be quite honest I am a little nervous. I really don't enjoy these and they never get any easier, no matter how many we go to! What are some suggestions you moms have? What are some good goals and activities to incorporate for an Asperger's child? Can we write the GFCF and sensory diet into his IEP?

Sure Sign Of Change

Today marked a huge step for us. We had five different families over to our house for play dates...ones that we did not arrange. Sure it was not perfect or without little tiffs but I could not be happier. I remember a time not so long ago when our children only played amongst themselves. I would arrange play dates and story groups hoping to integrate them and have positive social interactions. Inevitably someone would start hitting, tantrums or go on overload. So, today is a happy day!

Same Day Surgery at PCMC

After our last trip up to Primary Children's Hospital I thought it might be helpful to show other parents what to expect when going for same day surgery. I have documented most of our surgeries with photos over the years.

First you check into the Same Day surgery reception area where they give you a pager. Your children can play at a play area while you wait to check in at the registration. They take all of your personal and financial information as well as accept a co payment. Then you are given a wrist band and sticker with your childs' name on it. After checking with reception you wait to be seen by a pre-op nurse.

Your child's height and weight are measured, blood pressure and temperature taken, pulse, ears and chest checked. Your little one is changed into hospital backless gown and little booties. Then they determine if he or she is well enough to receive the procedure and you meet with anesthesiology.

You are transferred to another waiting area where you can meet with a child life specialist. They give you little doll to practice surgery on with an oxygen mask and syringe. Your child can also smell and choose their flavor of asnesthetic gas. Sometimes if they have separation anxiety the nurses will give your child some versed in the waiting area to relax them.

When it is your turn they wheel your baby back in a wagon and the anestheisologist disappears with your child behind closed doors. This is always the hardest part for me.

After they go into surgery, you go to the same day surgery waiting room. Where you wait (usually an hour in our case) before the doctor comes to talk to you about how things went. They take you into a private room to discuss the surgery and after care step by step.

Then one parent is allowed into the PICU, after surgery room. The child wakes up and may be very upset and crying. After about 20 minutes the other parent is let back into the after care room.

Your child is monitored to see if they can hold down fluids and not get sick. They also want to make sure they are not lethargic and wake up from anesthetic okay. The staff monitors vitals, gives pain medications and go over checking out. They may send you the the pharmacy to pick up a prescription and you sign discharge paper work. When the nurses feel it is okay they wheel your child in wagon or you can carry them out to the circle and you load into your car. I usually ist with my child in the back seat to make sure their head does not tip forward or they don't get car sick. PCMC will call you after a cpouple of days to make sure everything is okay and then you will see your surgeon in a couple of weeks to check the surgery site.

1 in 100

A study published today in the Journal of Pediatrics reports that autism prevalence is now 1 in 100, 1% of children ages 3-17. That's up from 1 in 150 reported in 2007.

You can read more about it in the Deseret News, Salt Lake Tribune, and CNN.

Please consider writing a letter to the editor of the Deseret News and/or Salt Lake Tribune. They need to hear from us and how this affects our families in Utah. Most legislators read the paper everyday. This is a fantastic way to reach them and let them know how important this issue is to our families. If you'd like, sign your name, then underneath write, "Utah Autism Coalition member."

Please also consider sending a copy to your legislators. If you're unsure of who they are, please visit Vote Smart.

Many thanks for all your help, support and passion. Let's stand together to ensure our voice is heard.

Best,

Leeann Whiffen
Brittany Recalde
Steve Michalski
Allan Wrubell

------------------------------------------

IN THE NEWS:

Matt McGhie, our tech chair, oversaw the design of our new logo! HUGE THANKS TO MATT! He's just about finished with our website, and we'll be unveiling that soon as well.

Spotlight on Autism Conference featuring speaker, Scott Bellini, PhD October 9-11 at the U of U Olpin Union Center. Sat. Tracks will include Financial Issues for Children and in Adulthood, Upcoming Legislation, Dealing with Law Enforcement, Research, Classroom Strategies, Spotlight on Therapies and More. For more information, please call Kim Moody at 801-661-9610

Utah FEAT presents "Introduction to Behavior Management" by Jeff Skibitsky, Clinical Director of Autism Behavior Treatment Center October 29, 7-8 p.m. located in the Carmen B. Pingree Center; Kiva Auditorium; 780 S. Guardsman Way; SLC.

Job Opening at Utah Parent Center:
TITLE: Parent Consultant Serving Parents of Children with Disabilities in Canyons School District.
LOCATION: Office in Canyons School District and/or Utah Parent Center Salt Lake Office (See address for UPC below)
JOB STATUS: Permanent, Part-time; 20 hours per week/40 per pay period with additional hours as needed
PAY RATE: $17.49/hour - includes benefit allotment
OPENING DATE: Wednesday, September 30, 2009
CLOSING DATE: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 or When Filled
For more information, please contact Jenny Gibson.

New gluten free grocery store in Layton

The Utah Autism Coalition is a parent-driven, grass roots advocacy group dedicated to supporting initiatives and other programs that enhance the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

GFCF at Costco

This week we went to Costco in an attempt to lower our grocery bill since going on a Gluten free Casein Free diet. The first thing we picked up was a 12 pack of Organic Soy milk. We go through so much milk around here that I am hoping this will last a little longer. Now that two of our children are school aged we are having troubled with them getting things at school that are not part of the diet. So, I am on a quest to find easily packable snack items.

We bought

• Peach and mandarin orange cups


• Craisins


• Veggie Crisps in the big bag (the little snack bags have wheat in them)


• Rice crackers by Rice Works


• Fruit leather by Stretch Island


• Fruit nuggets


• Edamame soy beans


• Organic apple slices


• Organic mini carrot bags


• Vitamin Juice Boxes

What do you pack in your kids lunches? How do you get the message to the teachers to PLEASE not feed them foods they can't have -Arrrg!

Hydrocele Surgery

On Tuesday we will be going into Primary Chidlren's for surgery on our sixteen month old little boy. I really am not ready to do this again, because he jsut had surgery about seven months ago, but I know it has to be done. About four months ago we noticed some swelling in his diaper area and took him to the pediatrician. He has what is called a hydrocele and his testivle has not dropped on one side.

Here is the Wikipedia definition for more information on his condition. A hydrocele denotes a pathological accumulation of serous fluid in a bodily cavity.

A hydrocele testis is the accumulation of fluids around a testicle, and is fairly common. A hydrocele testis is due to fluid secreted from a remnant piece of peritoneum wrapped around the testis, called the tunica vaginalis. It can be the result of cancer, trauma (such as a hernia), or orchitis, and can also occur in infants undergoing peritoneal dialysis. It may be treated surgically. Hydroceles are usually not painful (neither are testicular tumors) and a common way of diagnosing them is by attempting to shine a strong light through the enlarged testicle. A hydrocele will usually pass light, where a tumor will not, but the diagnosis should be made by a physician. It can also be noted as a minor malformation of newborns due to an increased maternal blood lead level during pregnancy.

Pray for us :)

Starting B-12 Injections

Yesterday we started B-12 injections with our son.  For the past few months he has been on supplements as prescribed by Dr. Humphreys of Pediatric Healing Solutions.  His supplements have included zinc, folacal, Child Essence multi-vitamin, a probiotic, and Omega-3 oil.  We are injecting 24 mg/ml every three days.  I am very curious ad excited to see how it goes.  He really hates shots and always have so we let him go to the dollar store and pick a small toy for each shot he gets.  It takes two people to restrain him and luckily we have a friend and nurse down the street to help administer them.  I have been researching today online and found this article most helpful in explaining how B-12 helps treat autism spectrum disorders.

TACA http://www.talkaboutcuringautism.org/medical/methyl-b12-treatments.htm

Compression Clothing Option

My son Caleb found an old wet suit today in his closet and he has been wearing it around all day. Wet suits are a great form of compression and proprioceptive input for sensory needs. I have a feeling now that he has discovered he loves it, we will see him in his shorty suit every day!

Major Break Throughs

Last night my son came in and gave me a kiss and said "Love you mommy." I feel like we have made some major progress since starting a gluten free casein free diet. We switched to GFCF back in March as well as supplements from our DAN doctor. While it hasn't been easy, it has been worth it. Our children re not as hyper, they are better able to focus and there is much less stimming. Yesterday our five year old son had a soccer game and he was able to track the ball and play at the same level as his peers YIPEEE!!!! Blessings!

Health-E Connections Newsletter

Financing a Wheelchair Accessible Van "101
"There are many things to consider when making your first purchase of a wheelchair accessible van. There are also thousands of different vendors out there from Florida to California. Read about some great pointers from a mother who has done all her homework on accessible vehicles and how to get one. Read more on page 1…

Pfizer Begins to Work on Drugs to Treat Autism
Reuters, July 10, 2009.
Pfizer, Inc., the world's largest drug maker, has begin developing treatments for autism. The company has formed a new, 14-member research group called the "Autism Spectrum Disorders" unit. Read more on page 2 …

Communication is Important for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs
This month's issue features some exciting articles about possibilities for communication for kids with disabilities. These devices could be used for children will all kinds of communication needs, even if it says they are for one specific disability. Utah Family Voices is dedicated to helping kids to communicate their needs, but Utah Family Voices does not recommend any one device or company. Family members are encouraged to get educated, ask lots of questions, and feel comfortable with their choices. Read more on page 3 …

DynaVox Device Provides a Voice for Area Boys with Autism
Lincoln Star Journal.
Holly Bailey dreamed of the day her son Kyle would say the words "I love you." So when therapists recommended Kyle use a touch-screen computer to communicate, his mother was heartbroken. In the year since Kyle, 9, starting using the DynaVox communication system, he is saying more than he ever has before, not only through the computer, but with his voice! Read more on page 3 …

iPods May Help Kids with Asperger's Navigate Life
Star Tribune.
A Minneapolis center is experimenting with the devices, and parents are hopeful. The iPod may have started out as a form of entertainment, but professionals believe that this kind of technology is turning into an "unexpected boon" for children and teenagers with special needs. The devices, it turns out, can be crammed with the kind of information they need to get through the day. Read more on page 5 …

Free Copy of Special Education Law and Children Who Stutter
Rocklin Today, Memphis, Tennessee.
At a time of spiraling health care costs, speech therapy is one free benefit many parents can appreciate. If your child stutters, they may be eligible for free speech therapy in school. Under federal law, public and private schools must provide special education services, such as speech therapy, to children. Read more on page 6 …

Making the Difficult Task of Transporting a Child with Special Needs Safer
Indianapolis.
Riley Hospital for Children and Indiana University School of Medicine study finds parents are doing well, but need help in using car seats correctly. The study offers advice on making transport safe for the child and less stressful for both the child and the parent. Read more on page 7 …

Check Out These Links!
Each month, Utah Family Voices provides families with a list of helpful web links that can assist in gathering useful and important information. Examples of this month's links include: Utah Clicks, Legislative Coalition for People with Disabilities, Open for Questions, and more! Read more on page 8 …

Autism ABCs
The Children's Center is pleased announce this family education series for families of children newly diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. This six-week series will offer information about: caring for your family, understanding the autism diagnosis, dealing with behavioral challenges, communication issues, sensory issues, interventions, and resources and services. Classes begin on September 1, so register today! Read more on page 8 …

Current and Upcoming Events
The Utah Parent Center website has a lot of information on events that are happening in the disability community every week! New events are added all the time! Check out the list today! Visit www.utahparentcenter.org.

Search the Internet - Help the UPC and Utah Family Voices!What if the Utah Parent Center (UPC) earned a penny every time you searched the Internet or a percentage of your purchase at certain online vendors? Well, now we can!

GoodSearch.com is a new search engine that donates half its revenue - approximately a penny per search - to the charities its users designate. You use it just as you would any other search engine - and it's powered by Yahoo!, so you get great results! Just visit www.goodsearch.com to start searching and download their toolbar. Be sure to enter the Utah Parent Center as the charity you want to support! Just 500 of us searching four times a day will raise about $7,300 in a year without anyone spending a dime! Be sure to spread the word!

Utah Family Voices, the Utah Parent Center and CityDeals.comSpread the News! Help us raise money while you save!

What is CityDeals.Com? You can get gift cards, gift certificates, and vouchers for restaurants, stores, family recreation, and much more for a fraction of the cost! It's as easy as 1...2...3!!
Shop. Go to CityDeals.com and view over 300 restaurants, entertainment venues, travel destinations, and more. You will save up to 50% off retail prices! For example: You can purchase a $25 gift card to Chili's restaurant for only $22.51! Your transactions are completely secure and they offer a 100% money-back guarantee on every product they sell.
Enter. Before you check out, enter our special promotion code - UTPARENT - into the designated area in your shopping cart. You will receive your order by mail within 3 - 5 working days or you can pick up your order at one of multiple convenient locations.
Save. Save up to 50% on your purchase and our organization will receive 2% of all revenues generated from orders with our special code.

2290 East 4500 South, Suite 170, Salt Lake City, UT 84117 Phone: 801.272.1051 * Fax: 801.272.8907Toll Free: 800.468.1160 * Español: 801.272.1067