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Showing posts from July, 2012

New Approach for ASD Parents

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Monthly practical sessions to better equip parents in raising their children on the Autism spectrum. I'll be the parent facilitator with great guest presentations from community partners. More information here . What other topics would you like to see covered? Click here to comment.

Ross Glen Waterpark Rededication

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It is a privilege to represent the Advisory Committee on Disability Issues at the ceremony on Wednesday. Each link below takes you to a picture of the features of the waterpark and playground. It has been designed to be accessible and fun for children, parents, and caregivers with and without disabilities ( Braille clock , drums , teeter totter , swings ). Surfacing  - is a resilient recycled tire solid surface that is level with the walkway.  The surface is firm, stable, slip-resistant, and provides outstanding shock absorption. Equipment - offers a mix of both accessible and more  demanding features that will appeal to and challenge a variety of children and abilities.  The ramps, accessible stairs and platforms use colour to indicate elevation changes.  The  safari bus allows children using a mobility device to experience the movement and bounce of a safari bus trip with their peers.   Water Playground - Seasonal (May long weekend - September long weekend).  Fully accessible

Autism Parenting While Eating Out

     As a parent with children on the Autism spectrum, I've been both commended and scolded for how my children behave at restaurants.  I'm so thankful my identity is not tied to the varying and variable opinions of others.  Impatience by a waiter over a child who (again) needs more time to decide. Strange looks for allowing an older child to sit under the booth to escape the noise. Compassion for a child who believes is independent enough to find the washroom, but needs and receives redirection away from the doors to the kitchen. Congratulations from a table nearby for the excellent manners of my son who adds "thank you" to almost every verbal exchange with strangers.     Eating out as a family is an adventure with a highly variable cost/benefit  analysis.