Are you the parent of a teen with special needs on the verge of adulthood? Now is the time to begin the process of moving from a child/family-centered model of health care to an adult/patient-centered model of health care. For parents and caregivers, this can be a bittersweet, but also very stressful time. That’s why it’s important that you prepare – and prepare early – for this transition.
Read MoreSummer is here! This is a favorite time of year for many children. The school year is finally over, and the days are longer and warmer. If you are like most parents, you are probably looking for ways to keep your children happy, active, and safe during the break from school. The freedom of summer comes with a set of challenges for many parents though, especially while also dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. While the state of Texas has completely lifted all COVID restrictions, not every other state and country is operating the same. Travel, especially abroad, may be limited this year. So, if you cannot go on a family vacation this year, how do you keep your kids entertained at home for the long summer months?
Read MoreAs parents, we all at times struggle with bedtime. Sometimes this can become a persistent concern. Whether you are struggling to get your child to go to their bed, sleep in their own bed, stay in their own bed, sleep in their own room, or just go to sleep, here are some strategies that can help make this time a better experience for your family:
Read MoreCOVID-19 has affected us all. As San Antonio and the surrounding area’s only locally owned and operated health plan, Community First Health Plans has seen firsthand the pandemic’s impact on the mental health of our Members. This includes even our youngest Members – children and teens – who have had to constantly adjust to new routines, added responsibilities, and new stressors.
Read MoreIt’s a well-known fact- kids get stressed and frightened too. And with so much misinformation about Coronavirus circulating out there, it may be time for you to sit down with your kids to address any fears they have about this virus and what we can all do to prevent its spread.
Read MoreThe admission, review, and dismissal (ARD) process is designed to provide support and information to families and parents of students who are eligible for special education services. It also aims to support and educate families who have children who may be eligible. It is a standardized process that brings uniformity and consistency to the system.
Read MoreThe holiday shopping season is just around the corner. Do your kids have their wish lists ready yet? If you’re searching for the perfect gift, consider these holiday ideas for kids with Down Syndrome and other special needs:
Read MoreWinter is here and many families love to get away during the cold months. If you are hoping to escape there are a variety of winter vacation spots perfect for your exceptional kid.
Read MoreEquestrian therapy is particularly applied to patients with ADD, anxiety, autism, delay in mental development, down syndrome and other genetic syndromes, depression, trauma and brain injuries, behavior and abuse issues and other mental health issues.
Read MoreHome health agencies can provide several services including private duty nursing, speech, occupational, and physical therapy, as well as attendant services. Not all agencies provide all services, and not all children qualify for all services.
Read MoreWhat can a parent teach their child to do to respond to bullying? A colleague of mine asked for tips on how to help her young son who has Autism deal with bullying at school. She asked, “What more can I do?” Given that the question was asked on my Facebook page, I needed to reply with brevity. I thought the same answer might be beneficial here.
Read MoreSensory Processing Disorder is a condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. Formerly referred to as sensory integration dysfunction, it is not currently recognized as a distinct medical diagnosis.
Read MoreHow often has your child said, “I am bored, I have nothing to do.” There is so much new technology available for our children today to educate, communicate and entertain.
Read MoreNavigating bedtime and establishing healthy sleep habits for your children can be tricky. But if your child is not getting enough sleep, there can be negative outcomes.
Read MoreHave you gone to see your child’s doctor with one plan in your head and left with a completely different one–a care plan that was created without an opportunity for you to voice your ideas, concerns or goals?
Read MoreGoing back to school is always a fun and exciting time of year. For our family going back to school was a day we planned out in detail so our daughter, Victoria, would feel as comfortable as possible on the first day back to school. Over the years I received some great tips that helped our family with that first week of school:
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