Speech Milestones

This listing is a great guide for understanding where a child should be with language skills. Of course, if you feel that your child may have a delay, speak with their pediatrician and request and evaluation. http://www.childdevelopmentinfo.com/development/language_development.shtml

I also want to add that these books (pictured below) are ones we used personally, and while they are specifically written for children with Down syndrome, the exercises are great for any child with a delay.

Fun Craft With a Hidden Agenda. :)

Check out this link. http://www.amazon.com/Perler-Fun-Fusion-Activity-Kit/dp/B0026HZZK0 We picked up some small FunFusion sets (1 card, 225 beads) for $1.00 a piece at Michael's. There are so many skills that a child can work on by doing this fun craft. Fine motor, following directions, color recognition, sorting, patterns, and counting. The craft is rated ages 5 and up, but I think a 3 year old could manage with close supervision. Even if the design is not created, the skills are still being utilized.

While we are on the school subject....Tutors.

If you child has an area of concern, and you are finding it difficult to help, contact the education department of a near by university. Often, there will be juniors and seniors who would love to have the hands on experience of working with a child, and it benefits you because the rates are cheaper. This is an excellent place look for assistance for a typically developing child as well. If possible, ask to speak with the chair of the Special Ed Department, often they will have certain students in mind for just this type of task.

To 504 or IEP, that is the question...

With the school year coming to a close, now is the time to make sure that you have the perfect plan in effect for your child's upcoming school year. Request a placement meeting to discuss the plans for next year. You can do these over the phone if needed. Below you will find a link to a pretty comprehensive explanation of the differences between and IEP and a 504 plan. The main difference is that a 504 plan DOES NOT require the child be in Special Education. This would be good for a child who is on grade level, but may face the struggles of ADD/ADHD, or have medical concerns like diabetes or asthma. A 504 plan helps to ensure that all steps are taking properly so that the child can have every opportunity to succeed. An IEP would be needed for Speech/OT/PT, when the child has noticeable developmental delays, or placement in a inclusive classroom. http://specialchildren.about.com/od/504s/a/504accom.htm

What this is all about....

So, 8 years in to having a child with Down syndrome, I've learned that if there was a place that had lots of information for children with special needs in one place, things would be so much easier. The goal of this blog is to compile information pertaining to all forms of special needs, to include research, tips, toy and educational supply suggestions, therapeutic information, and much more. I hope,in the near future, to use this as a tool to also create a shopping experience for those looking for items to assist their loved one with special needs. A shopping experience that requires little time and effort, knowing that you can find what you need in one place. Welcome to The Special Needs Depot.