Augusta Family Magazine October 2016

OCTOBER 2016

A U G U S TA

WELCOME

Fall ✲ FALL

PRODUCE

From Apples To Yams

EARLY

INTERVENTION It’s important for kids with special needs

ANNUAL SPECIAL

NEEDS DIRECTORY augustafamily.com

Campbell Harison, 9, is the daughter of Allen and Gail Harison of Martinez.

4 • Augusta Family | October 2016

contents www.augustafamily.com

37 Departments 6 9

Features 22 Special Kids

Our annual guide to resources throughout the CSRA and beyond.

35 Sooner ˃ Later

Early Detection = Early Intervention for Kids Developmental Issues

—Monica Dutcher

OCTOBER 2016

ON THE COVER: Campbell Harison, 9, is the daughter of Allen and Gail Harison of Martinez.

Photo by Carter Koenig Photography.

WELCOME

Fall

✲ FALL PRODUCE

From Apples To Yams

EARLY

INTERVENTION It’s important for kids with special needs

ANNUAL SPECIAL

NEEDS DIRECTORY

Campbell Harison, 9, is the daughter of Allen and Gail Harison of Martinez.

augustafamily.com

Is your child ready for their “close up?” If you think you’ve got a “cover kid,” submit their photo and information on our website and they may grace the cover of Augusta Family Magazine.

Also, check out our contests and giveaways!

{ } Go to augustafamily.com —click on the contest page to find the current contests!

Facebook.com/ augustafamilymagazine

Mom to Mom

TV Mom Debuts New Talk Show —Jennie Montgomery

11

News & Notes

14

Eating Well With Kim

Fall Produce From Apples To Yams —Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

17

Doctor Dad

18

Smart Mom’s Guide

—Meredith Flory

Get Ready for Fall

A U G U S TA

Editor’s Page

This Just In...

—J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

Going Back To Work After Being a “Stay-at-Home” —Cammie Jones

20

Raising Readers

37

Inspiration Station

39

Calendar

46

Go Girl!

Karissa Davis Wright —Karin Calloway

Raising Visual Readers —Meridith Flory

Franny Has Friends —Renee Williams

@AUGFamilyMag

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 5

AU G U S TA

Editor’s Notes b y Karin Callo w ay

www.augustafamily.com

PUBLISHER Ashlee Griggs Duren

EDITOR Karin Calloway

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PREPRESS /WEB PRODUCER Michael Rushbrook

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Lisa Dorn

ADVERTISING SALES Doressa Hawes Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann

PHOTOGRAPHY Carter Koenig Photography John Harpring

CONTRIBUTORS Kim Beavers, MS, RD, CDE Monica Dutcher J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Meredith Flory Cammie Jones Mary Ashton Mills Jennie Montgomery Renee Williams Augusta Family Magazine is published 10 times per year and distributed throughout the Augusta and Aiken area. Send press releases, story ideas or comments to the editor at karin.calloway@augustafamily.com or mail to 725 Broad Street, Augusta, Ga., 30901.

For advertising information, telephone (706) 823-3702. For circulation/distribution, call (706) 823-3722.

M

my nephews remind me of those word problems in math: Peppa is to Graham what Thomas was to Gage...

Graham recently turned 4 and is more than slightly Peppaobsessed. His Peppa village rivals only his brother’s Thomas-themed train table when he was 4.

I often joke that I’ve “aged out” of the demographic of the readership of this magazine, which is approximately 25-45. However, having two young nephews has kept me up on family life today.

Gage, 7, and Graham Marcus, 4.

When my children were young, we limited their television time. Now it’s the iPad time that my sister, Leslie, monitors for her boys.

I take great pride in the fact that I know who Peppa Pig is. (I even got a bit excited when I found out that the Peppa touring show is coming to Augusta October 23.) At Graham’s age my kids watched Barney. (Is the big purple dinosaur still on TV?) Now that Gage, 7, is older, I’m not so up on the things he’s interested in. He’s a sports fanatic. No matter what the season, Gage knows who is winning, losing and the stats of each game. His knowledge far surpasses mine but boy, do I love listening to him recite his long list of sports statistics and game schedules.

Graham’s not into sports yet, but he does have one funny obsession: Easter eggs. He declared Easter his favorite holiday and hasn’t stopped filling and hiding Easter eggs since March. Whenever family comes to visit, Graham hides his eggs and then leads the guests on an Easter egg hunt—in September!

Sometimes life gives you wonderful surprises, and one of those is my sister Leslie. She was quite a surprise to my 38-year-old mother and almost-40 father. Pregnancies in your late 30s were considered high-risk at the time. I was a freshman in high school when Leslie was born and have been one of the main beneficiaries of the surprise that is Leslie. Not only do I have an amazing sister and friend, but I’ve got two adorable nephews who keep me hip to on family life today—and all things You Tube Kids and Peppa Pig. Until November,

We look forward to hearing from you; visit our website www.augustafamily.com and on facebook and twitter.

Facebook.com/ augustafamilymagazine @AUGFamilyMag

6 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Karin Calloway karin.calloway@augustafamily.com

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 7

8 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Mom to Mom b y Jen n i e Mo n tg o m er y

TV Mom Debuts New Talk Show

W

ho says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?

After some 20-plus years anchoring the evening news, I am in the early stages of a brand new challenge in my career: hosting my own weekly talk show.

But it’s a lot more than sitting on a couch talking to guests!

My role is also executive producer, which pretty much means I’m responsible for everything associated with what you see on the TV screen and in our various social media platforms.

It’s the best lesson in patience I’ve had in a long time. Learning new technical skills is a challenge for me. I have to do it myself to remember it. Kinda like getting frustrated with one of the four remotes it takes to watch television these days—my husband just takes them away and zips to Menu then Game then Netflix, or whatever—but that leaves me not knowing how to watch my binge shows when he isn’t home!

Anyway, I am getting off-topic. Back to the challenge of my new show…

We’ve talked about doing a women’s show for several years, largely because of this monthly Mom2Mom column, but the timing never was quite right. Now I understand, in the big scheme of things, what that timing was all about: getting to the empty-nester stage in my life.

When my children were growing up and I had all the responsibilities associated with running a household, I never would have been able to make the time to do this. Something would have suffered—either my work or my children.

At this point, I can spend as much time researching and editing as I need to, without feeling guilty. (Sorry, Scott!)

I’m also spending many, many hours reading blogs and publications like Augusta Family Magazine, looking at subjects that matter to women. There are so many important issues that need more that a two-minute story on the nightly newscast.

That’s where you come in! Please email me any story ideas you’d like to see us discuss, or let me know about women who are doing amazing or unusual things in our neighborhoods. jmontgomery@wjbf.com. ’d also encourage you to follow our Facebook page, Jennie Montgomery WJBF. Hope you’ll join me for JENNIE, every Tuesday afternoon at 12:30 on WJBF NewsChannel 6.

Jennie Montgomery anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She and her husband, Scott, have three children.

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 9

news&notes October 2016

App-Tastic!

KIDS’ MEDIA APP BY COMMON SENSE MEDIA

mommy minute

5 TIPS TO KEEP CLOTHES LOOKING GREAT WHILE TRAVELING Travel can be great for your psyche, but extremely tough on your clothes. Whether you’re heading off to a football game at your alma mater or are thinking ahead to the holidays, follow these packing and clothing-care tips from Downy for a vacation that’ll help you unwind rather than unravel.

Tip 1: Roll your clothes.

Rolling instead of folding your clothes not only prevents wrinkles, but it also saves space. Rolling works well for shorts, socks, synthetic T-shirts and tank tops, some pajamas and sweats.

NOT SURE IF THAT MOVIE YOU’RE ABOUT TO STREAM IS KID-APPROPRIATE? What about that new game your child wants for his Wii? Now, there’s an app for that. Common Sense Media has come up with an app that offers a trusted library of age-appropriate ratings and reviews for movies, games, apps, TV shows and books. With the app, you can search a library of 25,000 ratings and reviews in the palm of your hand—and you can personalize recommendations just for your kids.

R

Requires iOS 8.0 or later.

Compatible with iPhone, IPad and iPod touch.

Free!

The app’s detailed reviews provide critical information, including the amount of violence, sex, bad language, positive role models and more. Want a second opinion? See reviews and ratings from other parents and kids, too. Create profiles for your kids to personalize your search and discover fun learning apps, recommended movies and inspiring books to help your child thrive.

“I’m so glad I live in a world where there are Octobers.”

– Anne of Green Gables

Tip 2: Double-bag your liquids.

No matter how tightly you think the top of that shampoo bottle is screwed on, it’s better to be safe than sorry. While packing, separate your liquids from your clothes by putting liquids in double-lined plastic bags.

Tip 3: Pack an uh-oh tee.

Traveling with kids? Carry an extra T-shirt for each of them as you take in the sights.

Why? Because stains happen, and changing is the quickest fix.

Tip 4: When you don’t have an iron, take a hot shower.

You don’t need an iron to stay wrinklefree. Simply hang your clothes up in your bathroom when you take a hot shower, and let the steam get rid of unwanted wrinkles.

Or try a fabric smoother such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus, which works quickly and leaves a light, fresh scent behind.

Tip 5: Use dry-cleaning bags.

Dry-cleaning bags can be useful tools when traveling. Use one to separate delicate fabrics from rougher ones. Or use one to keep your sweaters safe from friction that might cause pilling or fuzz.

As you near the end of your trip, tie a knot at one end of a bag to use it as a dirty clothes hamper. Smart, huh?

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 11

news&notes Are we there yet?

GREENVILLE, SC.

Y

By Mary Ashton Mills eah, THAT Greenville.” Not sure of the meaning behind Greenville’s catchy new ad campaign that has successfully blanketed the Southeast? It’s time to make a trip to find out! The city of Greenville has invested in attractive streetscapes, sidewalks, parks and bridges making this a perfect place to safely explore by foot or bicycle. Main Street can serve as your walking-tour headquarters. Falls Park on the Reedy is a must-see natural wonderland with waterfalls, a curved suspension bridge and pockets of gardens and natural beauty. Restaurants, craft brew pubs and shopping are all very close by so you can satisfy everyone seeking diverse activities.

Honored with a Bicycle Friendly Community award, Greenville has bikes available for rent all over downtown through the city’s bike sharing program, B-Cycle. Grab a bike from the park and ride two miles to the Greenville Zoo, home to animals from around the world. Take advantage of October’s “Boo in the Zoo” promotion featuring special events held regularly. Don’t miss Orangutan training Fridays at 3:30 p.m.

Try your luck at a scavenger hunt for the mice from the popular book Mice on Main. Nine bronze mice statues are hidden along Main Street for the kid in everyone to find. Wrap up the afternoon at the Children’s Museum of the Upstate, the 10th largest children’s museum in the world, located about a mile off of Main Street. To satisfy your sweet tooth at the end of the day, visit Funneldelicious for some fried Kool-Aid balls and by then you’ll probably be saying “yeah, THAT Greenville!”

DISTANCE: 2 hours 26 minutes, 123 miles.

12 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Greenville Main Street BUDGET: With so many parks and natural attractions, this trip can easily satisfy a shoestring budget, but plan to bring spending money for admission to the attractions, the fabulous food, drinks and shops. For unique accommodations, The Aloft Greenville is a pet-friendly loft hotel that allows four legged furry friends to tag along. Rates range from $189-$289 per night. http://www.aloftgreenvilledowntown.com WHAT TO SEE: Falls Park on the Reedy, Greenville Zoo, waterfalls, gardens, mice statues, The Children’s Museum of the Upstate and Funneldelicious.

IF YOU GO: Fall for Greenville is October 14-16, 2016 along Main Street. Festival goers can eat from a selection of over 40 of Greenville’s finest restaurants, watch cooking demonstrations and catch free concerts of all genres. (www.fallforgreenville.net)

SAFE KIDS

FAST FACTS FIREPLACE SAFETY The leaves will be changing soon, and there is sure to be a nip in the air, prompting folks to don coats and jackets outdoors and curl up by a warm fireplace indoors. Happy fall, y’all! Enjoy those cozy fires, but do be careful. Whether you have a woodburning, gas or electric fireplace, you should make sure you are protecting your family from the dangers a fireplace can pose, especially when it comes to young children.

Communicate to children as early as possible the dangers of fires and the heat generated from them. Young children can be hurt quickly if their curiosity gets the best of them. In addition, never leave a fireplace unattended, and keep lighters, matches and fireplace tools out of reach of children. For additional fireplace safety tips, read the full column at augustafamily.com.

Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children’s Hospital of Georgia, works to prevent accidental childhood injury, the leading killer of children ages 1 to 14. Safe Kids Greater Augusta is a member of the Safe Kids Worldwide & USA network. To find out more about local Safe Kids programs, call 706-721-7606, or visit grhealth.org/safekids.

news&notes Costume Time

You’ve bought the costumes for your kids, so why not use them for more than just one night. Celebrate autumn and Halloween at these events: October 22. Halloween Fair. Costume contest, games, food, prizes and more. Register day of the event from 1-2 p.m. or online. Festivities begin at 2 p.m. Wildwood Park, 3780 Dogwood Lane, Appling. chfishforlife.org.

October 27. Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat. Trick or Treating for Children in the Bobby Waters Gymnasium at Patriots Park. Admission is the donation of one can of food per child for the Columbia County Food Pantry. 5:30-8 p.m. 706-312-7192.

October 27. Time To Scare Halloween Carnival. After you brave through the haunted house, try the carnival game room and take a chance to win some candy. Costume contest at 7 p.m. For children 12 and under accompanied by an adult. 5:30-8 p.m. at Diamond Lakes Community Center, 4335 Windsor Spring Rd., Hephzibah. 803-278-1212.

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 13

Eating well with Kim b y Ki m B e a ve rs , M S , R D, LD, C DE

Fall Produce From Apples to Yams

The turning leaves are a sign to turn up consumption of au-

perfectly ripe pear. Pears do not actually ripen on the tree,

tumn foods. From apples to yams, fall fruits and vegetables of-

they are harvested when mature but not fully ripe. Left at

fer a variety of nutrients with many health benefits. Here are a

room temperature, they will slowly reach sweet, juicy ma-

few ideas to get you eating “the alphabet” from apples to yams:

turity as they ripen from the inside out. The best way to tell if a pear is ripe is by applying gentle pressure to the neck or

• Apples make great snacks and can be enjoyed baked as well as in this simple recipe: Core 2 apples, leaving the bottom intact. Fill the apples with sweetener of choice and spices such

stem end of the pear with your thumb. If it yields to pressure, then it’s ripe and ready to eat.

• Winter squash is great baked or cooked in the microwave.

as nutmeg, cinnamon and a small amount of butter. Micro-

To cook in the microwave oven: Cut butternut or acorn

wave for 3 ½ to 4 minutes or until tender.

squash in half, place cut-side down in a baking dish with

• Broccoli/Cabbage make great additions to salads and slaws.

about ¼-inch of water. Cover with plastic wrap and micro-

Try some light slaw dressing and add raisins or other dried

wave on high until knife or fork pierces easily, about 10-15

fruit for a nice twist.

minutes. To season, use a small amount of extra-virgin olive

• Grapes are plentiful now and make a great colorful garnish for soup and salad night, plus they are easy to prepare…simply rinse and eat.

• Kale’s local growing season is upon us and if you have not

oil or butter and varying combinations of the following: brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg or allspice.

• `Yams or sweet potatoes: Well, they are actually two different things and I really want to mention sweet potatoes since

tried framers market kale before, now is the time! Enjoy

they are produced in Georgia. Sweet potatoes can be used

tender kale in salads or try mature kale in a “massaged” salad

in almost any white potato recipe and should be used within

or as kale chips.

1-2 weeks of purchase. The simplest way to cook sweet

• Pears are also great for snacking and adding to salad. Handle

potatoes is in the microwave. Pierce the sweet potato skin 5-6

them with care because the bruise easily. Nothing beats a

times. Place on a microwaveable plate and microwave for 5-8

14 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Eating well with Kim

minutes, rotating halfway through. The sweet potato is done when the thin skin puffs to a crisp finish, the inside will be tender and moist. Mash and season as desired While the microwave can get fall veggies on the table in a flash, my favorite way to cook them is roasting. This sweet potato recipe is sure to please everyone in the family. Enjoy!

Ginger Roasted Sweet Potatoes These have a hearty, yet lightly sweet satisfying flavor.

Vegetables oil cooking spray 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced small 2 tablespoons honey

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil ¼ cup chopped green onion

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil and spraying with vegetable oil cooking spray.

Peel and dice potatoes (smaller dices cook faster), and place in a single layer on the baking sheet. Combine the honey, Dijon, ginger and olive oil in a small bowl and pour over potatoes. Toss potatoes to coat thoroughly.

Spray potatoes lightly with vegetable oil cooking spray and bake for 30 minutes. Turn the potatoes after 20 minutes. Stir the green onions into the sweet potato mixture and bake for 5 minutes more, until potatoes are tender.

Yield: 6 servings (serving size: ½ cup) Nutrient Breakdown: Calories 140, Fat 2.5g (0g saturated fat, 2g monounsaturated fat), Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 85mg, Carbohydrate 29g, Fiber 4g, Protein 2g.

Farmers Markets are not just for spring. Here are three ways to buy local, seasonal fall produce in the CSRA. • The Augusta Market: Open Saturday 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at the 8th street plaza in downtown Augusta.

• The Veggie Truck: Open Tuesdays from 4:30-7 p.m. at 1850 Broad Street (across from the Salvation Army Kroc Center).

• Augusta Locally Grown (augusta.locallygrown.net): Shop Friday from noon until Sunday at 8 p.m. at this on-line market. Pick-up your order on the following Tuesday at one of two locations: -Southern Made, 1808 Broad Street from 5-7 p.m.

-The Augusta Jewish Community Center, 898 Weinberger Way, Evans, from 4-6 p.m.

Kim Beavers is a Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator for University Health Care System. She lives in North Augusta with her husband and two children and she is the co-host of the culinary nutrition segment Eating Well with Kim, which airs at noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday on WRDW. To be notified of new recipes join Kim’s facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/eatingwellwithkim. To search for specific recipes go to www.universityhealth.org/ ewwk. You can also watch the segments at www.wrdw.com/ewwk.

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 15

Dr. Dad

b y J. Ro n E a ke r, M . D.

This Just In We live in an age of information overload. Do a Google search on anything reasonably relevant and you get more than a million hits, many of which have little or nothing to do with your search topic. Nevertheless, information is ubiquitous. What is in short supply is useful information.

As a public service, I have culled the vast recesses of the InterWeb and discovered new studies, useful facts and fodder for water cooler gossip, all touching on women’s health.

BRCA 1 A new study out of the Duke Cancer Institute indicates that women who have the BRCA 1 gene mutation are at increased risk for an aggressive form of uterine cancer. This particular mutation has long been known to increase a woman’s risk for both ovarian and breast cancer, so it’s not completely a surprise that other cancers involving the female reproductive tract are involved.

This is the first study looking at a sizable population to draw this conclusion and adds to the necessity for screening in appropriate individuals.

Currently, BRCA screening is recommended for anyone suffering from any of these cancers along with their first-degree relatives. In this particular case, a positive result would heighten the suspicion and should lead to more vigilant screening.

The practical impact of this study is noted by one of the authors, Dr. Noah Kauff, when he states, “Our findings suggest that it may be important for women with BRCA1 mutations to consider removing their uterus at the time they are considering removing their ovaries and fallopian tubes, unless they are hoping to still have children using assisted reproductive methods or have other medical reasons.â€? In other words, if you’re having it out‌have it all out!

Are Medical Studies Accurate?

Another study published in the British Medical Journal highlights one of the problems associated with medical studies. It made headlines by claiming that an adolescent’s intake of fruit can reduce their later incidence of breast cancer. The authors concluded that high fruit consumption during adolescence (2.9 servings per day) was associated with a roughly 25 percent lower risk of breast cancer diagnosed in middle age.

On the surface this sounds like a wonderful tool for prevention, but all that glitters is not gold. The results were based on the memory of 90,000 nurses in midlife of their diets in childhood. Unfortunately studies based on nutritional recall have been shown to be notoriously inaccurate, and recall that covers more than 20 years ago‌well, you can see the problem.

This is one of a vast number of papers that have been birthed from mining data from the massive Nurses Health Study that followed the

aforementioned 90,000 nurses over 20 years. Some of the information has been extremely valuable, like the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy, but other information, like that of the fruit study is questionable. This is not to say that eating fruits are not beneficial, and they indeed may reduce cancer risk, but a study like this can’t accurately make that claim.

Women, Alcohol and Breast Cancer In contrast to the previous study, a recent work by Danish researchers indicates an association between increased alcohol intake and breast cancer. In this study, women were followed over five years and found that women who increased their alcohol intake by two drinks per day over five years had around a 30 percent increased risk of breast cancer but around a 20 percent decreased risk of coronary heart disease, compared with women with a stable alcohol intake.

There are two interesting takeaways from this study. First, the increase in breast cancer was observed in women who increased their intake, not women who drank or didn’t drink. Previous studies showed an increase in breast cancer in drinkers versus non-drinkers, but this was the first to show simply increasing the number of drinks could increase risk. Secondly, the takeaway was that increasing alcohol reduced the incidence of heart disease. The authors didn’t specify whether there was a connection between wine, beer or liquor, as moderate consumption of red wine has long been correlated to decreased cardiac risk.

Quitting Smoking Finally, a new study from the University of Pennsylvania indicates that quitting smoking may be easier for a woman in the second half of her menstrual cycle. This research concluded that during the pre-menstrual (luteal) phase, when the progesterone-to-estrogen ratio is highest, addictive behaviors are suppressed.

Who would have thought?

Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two daughters in college.

Augusta Family Ň 1|o0;u Ć‘Ć?Ć?Ńľ ĹŽ Ć?Ć•

Smart Mom’s Guide mobile society and the excuse that I wasn’t

from school while you work? What are they going

when you go back to work. You are no longer

around my computer really isn’t true today.

to do after school? How are you going to prepare

the “mom at home” who the kids can call at any

meals on those long days? Who’s going to keep up

time to drop off the lunch they might have left

4. ASSESS YOUR INTERESTS

with the laundry, grocery shop or clean the house?

at home that morning. Guilt may take over, but if

Is this job opportunity something you want to

Cindy says, “You have to search your own heart and

do everyday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or even part-

head in my opinion. I have a nanny who works part

“It’s hard, and nothing is harder than the begin-

time? Does the job interest you or will you be

time when I need to get my son to a practice, a golf

ning. You just have to figure out your best way

ready to hang it up after the first week of work-

lesson etc., during the day, but other than that he

of staying organized and calm in the midst of

ing? Make sure that the career is something you

has always gone to after-school care, and honestly,

sporadic chaos,” advises Cindy.

will be able to grow with and that will challenge

he loves it.” You have to make a lot of arrangements

you. If you are on your way to work and excited

to allow things to work smoothly and at the same

Cindy says what works for her is taking time for

about getting the day started, then this may be

time be able to handle it when plans go awry.

herself each day no matter what. It could be a

you can just stick it out, it will get easier.

the job for you. If you find that you think you

30-minute walk around the office building or do-

may dread going to work in the morning, then

Can you make it work without too much disrup-

you may want to think twice about taking it.

tion to your home life yet still be able to go get the

5. IS THIS DOABLE?

job done at work? These are all questions that you

“Between managing the office, running to soccer

need to look at and answer before making that

practice and taking care of the house, it’s difficult to

final decision to go back to the working world.

achieve a work-life balance,” says Cindy, “but with

Barring no financial reason for going back to work, what I mean by doable is can you handle your

the right planning and persistence, it can be done.”

6. COPING IN THE BEGINNING Cammie Jones is an Augusta freelance writer and

day-to-day responsibilities as well as your work responsibilities. Who is going to pick your children up

ing something that you enjoy for a few minutes.

The first few weeks and months are difficult

mother of three.

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 19

Raising Readers

by Mere d i th Fl o r y

Raising Visual Readers

IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, MY PARENTS HIRED A TUTOR TO

in libraries now regularly have graphic novels and illustrated texts.

HELP ME WITH my struggles in math. He gave me a book called

Sara Austin, a doctoral student at the University of Connecticut, has

Zero to Zillions: The Arrow Book of Number Magic, and while my

studied comics and graphic novels as part of her research and uses

copy is long gone, I remember the fun I had reading math history,

them in the classroom to teach writing and literature to college

word problems and number tricks. As a book lover, it showed me

students. She shared an example of using Jem and the Holograms to

the connections between math and reading and was a turning point

teach students about adaptation from text to film and how it helped

in my attitude towards math classes.

them to understand, “complex ideas and unfamiliar vocabulary.”

When I became an educator, I thought about how it might work in

Students “were literally able to see an example. The same is true

reverse as well—encouraging resistant readers by demonstrating the

for illustrated classics, history texts or even memes. When complex

importance of literacy skills in their areas of interest.

ideas are illustrated, they open up new understanding.”

Sometimes as parents we might worry if our child is interested

Sara’s research and teaching has also impacted her parenting.

in non-traditional literature such as comic books, trivia, magazines

“I read constantly, and so I wasn’t really prepared when my child

or “how-to” guides, rather than traditional fiction and non-fiction,

started saying she didn’t like to read. It turns out that she has a low

but I would argue that by helping our children find quality examples

tolerance for books that do not hold her interest. She will read two or

of these types of texts, we might encourage reading skills that will

three chapters and then just put the book down and go do something

eventually translate to novels and textbooks.

else. Trying to get her to read for 20 minutes a day can be a fight, especially if I push her to read something challenging instead of the

Comics and Graphic Novels

easy reader books she has read over and over,” Sara says. “Illustrated books and comics are the compromise for us.”

Margie Tiner is a Virginia educator who has worked in a variety

Sara says it has also lead to activities they can do together, such

of classroom settings including teaching a STEM class. She shares

as going to a book signing for the Lunch Lady series, dressing as

that the “biggest breakthrough genre” she found for reluctant read-

Batgirl at Hartford Comic Con and subscribing to their favorite

ers was graphic novels. Shopping for bargain books to purchase

comics through a local shop.”

for her classroom, she picked up a set of what she thought were

For children learning to become more independent readers,

abridged classics, that were actually graphic novel retellings. Having

seeing their parents take an interest in their favorite characters can

them in her classroom library allowed her to watch a group of inner

encourage them to keep it up. “Our current favorite activity is buddy

city kids who rarely read begin competing “over who was checking

reading of the Disney Princess comics,” she says. This is an activity

out books like Black Beauty from our classroom library.”

they do together in which they take turns reading one page each.

There has been a surge in the popularity of genres that combine words and pictures for older readers—young adult sections 20 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Many comic books and graphic novels are not created for children, but there are age-appropriate storylines and characters avail-

AGENCIES FOCUSING ON SPECIAL NEEDS POPULATIONS

SPECIAL

kids OUR ANNUAL GUIDE TO SPECIAL NEEDS RESOURCES THROUGHOUT THE CSRA

by Monica Dutcher Children with special needs and their families face particular challenges.

Disorders and defects may be apparent at birth or present as developmental delays at a later stage. Injury and illness may impact functioning. Whatever the source or cause of a disability, the child it affects has the same basic need for love and care as other children. His or her parents want the best for their treasure now and in the future. Attaining the right services for a special needs child can turn challenges into triumphs.

22 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Able Tree Autism Treatment Center 3736 Executive Center Dr., Augusta.

706-426-4200. www.abletreeatc.com.

Services include Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, professional development, educational support/ advocacy, social skills groups, and certified music therapy.

All About Developmental Disabilities 125 Clairemont Ave., Suite 300, Decatur.

404-881-9777. www.aadd.org.

Offers family support services, advocacy and education.

Center for Disability Resources University of South Carolina School of Medicine 8301 Farrow Rd., Columbia, S.C. 803-935-5231. www.uscm.med.sc.edu/cdrhome.

Programs support families and their children with developmental delays, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, autism and other diagnoses through assistive technology programs, education, supported community living programs, supported employment and more.

Easter Seals East Georgia 1500 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta.

706-667-9695. www.easterseals.com/eastgeorgia.

Work programs help disabled teenagers transition from school into the workplace. There are also work-related programs for disabled adults. The Champions for Children program provides financial assistance to families of special needs and medically fragile children who do not meet the eligibility requirements for the TEFRA/Katie Beckett Medicaid program.

Family Connection of South Carolina 1800 St. Julian Place, Suite 104, Columbia, S.C. 803-252-0914. www.familconnectionsc.org.

A statewide non-profit organization that connects families of children with special healthcare needs or disabilities with helpful resources, support and education.

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The Foundation for Therapeutic Options P.O. Box 3421, Augusta.

706-564-6172. www.therapyoptions.org.

Provides families of children with special needs with funding for therapeutic supplies and treatment.

Georgia Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation 2302 Parklake Dr., NE, Suite 210, Atlanta.

404-325-6973.

Georgia@cff.org www.cff.org.

Conducts fundraising to fund research for a cure.

Provides information and resources for parents of children with cystic fibrosis.

The Georgia Chapter of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 3525 Piedmont Rd., N.E., Building 6, Suite 300, Atlanta.

404-420-5990. georgia@jdrf.org. www.georgia.jdrf.org.

This organization has the Family Network, which provides support, encouragement and programming for families of children with diabetes.

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities 2 Peachtree St., N.W., 24th floor, Atlanta.

404-657-2252. www.dbhdd.georgia.gov.

To access mental health, substance abuse and crisis and emergency services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, call 1-800-715-4225.

To locate treatment or support services for individuals with mental illness, substance abuse disorders or developmental disabilities, visit www. mygcal.com.

Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities - Region 2 3405 Mike Padgett Highway, Building 3, Augusta.

706-792-7733; 866-380-4835.

Behavioral Health Regional Services Administrator: Dawn Peel, 706-792-7671, dawn.peel@dbhdd. ga.gov.

Developmental Disabilities Regional Services Administrator: Karla Brown, 706-792-7695, karla. brown@dbhdd.ga.gov. www.dbhdd.georgia.gov/region-2.

Operates a community-based system of care. The community-based system allows clients to receive

care in the least restrictive setting possible while helping them to obtain a life of independence and recovery. Provides planning for and coordination of provider network; offers technical assistance; and serves as the point of contact for consumers who have questions about accessing services.

Georgia Department of Community Health 2 Peachtree St., N.W., Atlanta.

404-656-4507. www.dch.georgia.gov/waivers.

The New Options Waiver (NOW) and the Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP) offer home- and community-based services for people with intellectual disabilities (ID) or developmental disabilities (DD) through the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) Division of Medical Assistance Plans. To read information on Medicaid waivers: www.dch.georgia.gov/sites/dch. georgia.gov/files/imported/vgn/images/portal/ cit_1210/49/43/92560099NOW_COMP_FY12.pdf.

Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Child Support Services and Division of Family and Children Services 2 Peachtree St., Suite 29-250, Atlanta.

404-651-6316.

CustomerService@dhr.state.ga.us. www.dhs.georgia.gov.

The agency provides a variety of services, including administrating the Wednesday’s Child Program which finds adoptive families for special needs children.

HealthSouth Walton Rehabilitation Hospital 1355 Independence Dr., Augusta.

706-724-7746. www.healthsouthwalton.com.

An excellent resource for information and assistance with neurological and orthopedic disorders.

Learning Disabilities Association of Georgia 4105 Briarcliff Rd., N.E., Suite 3, Atlanta.

404-303-7774 or ldaofgeorgia@gmail.com. www.ldag.org.

One of 50 volunteer state organizations which comprise the Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA). For more than 30 years their mission has been to enhance the quality of life for individuals of all ages with learning disabilities and/or Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD). Members are served by a state office and volunteers who provide resources and sponsor events.

National Down Syndrome Society 800-221-4602. info@ndss.org. www.ndss.org.

Provides information and resources for parents and expectant parents of infants and children diagnosed with Down Syndrome.

National Federation of the Blind of Georgia and South Carolina 1901 Montreal Rd., Suite 102, Tucker, Ga. 404-371-1000. www.nfbga.org.

The organization provides public education, information, referral services, literature and publications about blindness, adaptive equipment for the blind, advocacy services and job opportunities for the blind, plus support for blind persons and their families.

Serenity Behavioral Health System 3421 Mike Padgett Hwy., Augusta.

706-432-4800. www.serenitybhs.com.

Provides a range of services for people with mental retardation, developmental disabilities and mental health issues.

SC Association for the Deaf 437 Center St., West Columbia, S.C. 803-794-3175.

803-794-7059 (TTY).

803-403-9255 (video phone). www.scadservices.org.

Promotes equal treatment toward deaf and hardof-hearing citizens in education, employment, legislation, healthcare and other fields pertaining to the deaf and hard-of-hearing citizens of South Carolina. Compiles and updates contact information to help you connect with the many agencies and groups offering assistance and services for the deaf and hard of hearing.

Soto ALG 3736 Executive Center Dr., Augusta.

706-426-4200. www.sotoalg.com.

Soto ALG provides residential and day services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Services include community residential alternative services, community access (group and individual), supported employment services, prevocational services and ABA therapy. Additional services include community living support and specialized

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medical supplies. They accept NOW/COMP Medicaid waivers and private pay.

Spina Bifida Association of Georgia 5072 Bristol Industrial Way, Suite F, Buford, Ga. 770-939-1044 or sbag@spinabifidaga.org. www.spinabifidaga.org.

Provides information and education for parents, plus raises awareness of this birth defect and promotes prevention.

Tri-Development of Aiken County 1016 Vaucluse Rd., Aiken, S.C. 803-642-8800. director@aikentdc.org. www.aikentdc.org.

A United Way-funded agency providing services

for children and adults with autism, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, mental retardation and related disorders.

United Cerebral Palsy Georgia 3300 NE Expressway, Building 9, Atlanta.

770-676-2000. www.ucpga.org.

Headquartered in Atlanta, the organization offers services in the Augusta area. Some of its statewide services include information and referral, employment services and residential services.

United Cerebral Palsy South Carolina 1101 Harbor Dr., West Columbia, S.C. 803-926-8878. info@ucpsc.org.

www.ucpsc.org.

In South Carolina, UCP offers adult day services, family support and residential services.

Reaching Milestones 3706 Executive Center Dr., Suite A, Martinez.

706-863-9699. www.reachingmilestones.com.

Augusta clinic services include Applied Behavior Analysis, language assessments, center and home based behavioral therapy, social skills, treatment of problem behavior, and more.

MEDICAL, THERAPY AND TREATMENT PROGRAMS

BABIES AND TODDLERS Aiken County First Steps 1 Willis Circle, Graniteville, S.C. 803-663-5604 www.aikenfirststeps.org First Steps is a results-oriented, statewide, early childhood education initiative designed to ensure that South Carolina children arrive at first grade healthy and ready to succeed.

A+ Kids 6140 Woodside Executive Court, Aiken.

803-642-0700 or info@apluspta.com. www.apluspta.com/main/apluskids.

Early intervention services for infants and toddlers evidencing delays in growth, development and learning.

Babies Can’t Wait (Statewide interagency service delivery systems) Georgia Department of Public Health 2 Peachtree St., NW, Atlanta.

404-657-2700. www.dph.georgia.gov/Babies-Cant-Wait.

For infants and toddlers with develop-

24 • Augusta Family | October 2016

mental delays or disabilities, from birth to age 3.

Georgia Chapter of March of Dimes 1776 Peachtree St., Suite 2005, Atlanta.

404-350-9800. www.marchofdimes.com/georgia.

The March of Dimes works to prevent premature births, prevent birth defects, improve the health of babies and support families if something does go wrong.

The Genetics Department at Children’s Hospital of Georgia Medical Office Building, 1447 Harper St., 3rd floor, Augusta.

706-721-5437. www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/genetics.

The pediatric genetics specialists evaluate and test for genetic disease in children or birth defects, such as chromosomal disorders (for example, Down Syndrome), neurofibromatosis, cystic fibrosis, or other disorders.

Aiken Therapeutic Riding Center (formerly STAR) www.greatoakatrc.org info@greatoakatrc.org ATRC is an affiliate of PATH International (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship). ATRC is designed to promote certified therapeutic riding for children and adults with physical, cognitive and emotional challenges.

Augusta Developmental Specialists 1303 D’Antignac St., Suite 2100, Augusta.

706-396-0600. www.augustadevelopmentalspecialists.com.

Specializes in helping people with healthcare and developmental needs. The group provides developmental assessment, care coordination between therapists and school staff, a wheelchair clinic and more. Led by Karen Carter, M.Ed., M.D., the group includes a licensed massage therapist and recreational therapist. Offers speech, occupational and physical therapy.

Blue Ribbon Riders 987 Reynolds Farm Rd., Grovetown.

706-854-0644.

Equine-assisted activity and hippotherapy program for ages 3 and up. A Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH International) premier accredited center.

Hippotherapy uses the movement of the horse as a treatment strategy to address impairments,

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functional limitations and disabilities in patients with neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction. Contact Claudia Morin.

Children’s Hospital of Georgia Pediatric Audiology 1447 Harper St., 2nd floor.

706-721-6009. www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-ofgeorgia/pediatric-specialties/peds-otolaryngology/ pediatric-audiology.

Patients receive comprehensive audiology, speech therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy services from a team of skilled professionals in a facility designed and equipped for children.

Children’s Hospital of Georgia Pediatric Diabetes and Endocrinology 1447 Harper St. 706-721-0433. www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-ofgeorgia/pediatric-specialties/peds-diabetes/pediatric-diabetes-and-endocrinology-home.

Delivers care for children with growth problems, over and under-active thyroid, advanced or delayed puberty and juvenile diabetes. The pediatric diabetes team helps children manage diabetes and live active lives.

Children’s Hospital of Georgia Pediatric Psychiatry 706-721-9331. www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-ofgeorgia/pediatric-specialties/psychiatry/pediatricpsychiatry.

Offers outpatient and inpatient treatment for children ages 6-16 years with emotional and behavioral problems.

Children’s Medical Services Georgia Department of Public Health 2 Peachtree St., N.W., 11th floor, Atlanta.

404-657-2850. www.dph.georgia.gov/CMS. A community-based comprehensive system of health care services available for Georgia’s children with chronic medical conditions from birth to 21 years who live in low income households. Children’s Medical Services (CMS) provides care coordination and other needed medical/health services for eligible children and their families. CMS may provide, arrange for and/or pay for comprehensive physical evaluations, diagnostic tests, inpatient/outpatient hospitalization, medications and other medical treatments, therapy, durable medical equipment, hearing aids related to the child’s CMS-eligible condition, and genetic counseling.

CSRA Therapy Services, Inc. 2485 Hwy 88, Hephzibah.

706-592-5565.

Providing occupational and speech-language therapy services for children with special needs in the CSRA. Ducktails Pediatric Therapy & Wellness 568 Blue Ridge Dr., Evans.

706-364-5262. www.ducktailspediatric.com.

Ducktails provides physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and athletic development for children from infancy through 21 years of age. Services address, but are not limited to, neuromuscular development and abnormal tone, developmental delay, balance and posture, sensory integration, ADHD, handwriting and fine motor skills, and speech language and auditory processing.

Augusta University Developmental Pediatrics Medical Office Building, 3rd floor, Augusta.

706-721-3791. www.augusta.edu/mcg/pediatrics/adolescentmed/developmentalpediatrics.php.

Specializes in developmental-behavioral pediatrics, general pediatrics and adolescent medicine. Accepts new patients by physician referral.

Hitchcock Healthcare 690 Medical Park Dr., Aiken.

803-293-4371 (children’s therapy). www.hitchcockhealthcare.org.

A provider for adults and children, offering a full range of quality services including, physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy.

Lighthouse Care Center 3100 Perimeter Pkwy., Augusta.

706-651-0005. www.lighthousecarecenters.com.

Offers a serene residential setting for adolescent patients to recover from psychological issues and/or substance abuse. In addition to clinical care, a number of recreational opportunities and an accredited on-campus school are also available. These services aid patients in recovery by keeping their minds and bodies active and providing an opportunity for social interaction.

They also offer an acute care unit and partial hospitalization.

Neuro-Developmental Treatment Programs, Inc. 817 Crawford Ave., Augusta.

706-736-1255 or ndtprograms@gmail.com.

NDT Programs is a small outpatient PT and OT

clinic that specializes in serving those with developmental disabilities of all ages (birth through adult). Services are individualized to meet the family desires and are offered in a variety of settings including home based infant intervention, clinic based, aquatic or pool based and therapy at a community gymnastic center.

The Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Center at Children’s Hospital of Georgia 706-721-5437. www.augustahealth.org/childrens-hospital-ofgeorgia/pediatric-specialties/pulmonary-cysticfibrosis/pediatric-cystic-fibrosis-center.

Offers in and out-patient care and education by pediatric pulmonologists. It is one of only two facilities in Georgia accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Pediatric Therapy of Aiken 6140 Woodside Executive Court, Aiken.

803-642-0700 or info@apluspta.com. www.apluspta.com.

Skilled professionals provide speech therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy service to children infancy to 17 years.

Sensational Kids! Pediatric Rehabilitation 3628 Old Petersberg Rd., Martinez.

706-364-3470.

Sensational.kids@comcast.net. www.sensationalkids.net.

A full-service therapy practice offering a unique blend of services for children and families with special needs that specializes in evaluation and intervention for infants and children (birth to 13 years) who have various developmental challenges.

Therapeutic Interventions of Georgia 2315-C Central Ave., Augusta.

706-364-6172 or info@tiofga.com. www.tiofga.com.

Offers occupational therapy, feeding therapy, physical therapy and speech-language therapy to pediatric patients. Facilities feature private speech therapy rooms, an outdoor playground, and OT and PT gyms.

THERAPY SOLUTIONS, LLC 2250 Woodside Executive Ct., Aiken.

803-226-0146 or uscslp@bellsouth.net. www.therapysolutionsllc.net.

A private company offering pediatric speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy and early intervention services. An early intervention team provides support and services in the home, daycare or clinic setting. u

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be provided.

Augusta Christian School of Talent Development 313 Baston Rd., Martinez.

706-863-2905, extension 231. www.augustachristian.org.

The school is designed for students with a specific learning disability and/or those with attention deficit disorder. Classes are available in grades 1-12, depending on availability, offering low teacher-student ratios and individualized instruction. The curriculum is designed for students with special learning needs while incorporating a standard curriculum.

Southeast Georgia Learning Resources System 144 Barnes St., Baxley, Ga. 912-705-8898. www.southeastglrs.org.

Statewide network of 17 resource centers offering free services to parents and educators of students with disabilities.

American Sign Language Augusta Health 706-721-6929. www.augustahealth.org/classes-and-events.

American Sign Language courses are available for kids and adults, beginners and more advanced signers.

American Sign Language Trinity Hospital of Augusta 2260 Wrightsboro Rd. 706-481-7604. www.trinityofaugusta.com/trinity-hospital-ofaugusta/eventsandclasses.aspx.

Sign language classes for children, adult beginners and adult intermediates are offered periodically throughout the year. Call for information or check the website.

College Board Services for Students With Disabilities 212-713-8333. www.collegeboard.com/ssd/student/index.html.

The College Board works to provide appropriate accommodations for students with disabilities when taking the SAT, AP tests and PSAT/NMSQT. CSRA EOA, Inc. Head Start 1261 Greene St., Augusta.

706-722-0493. www.csraeoaheadstart.org.

Provides professional, comprehensive, quality services to preschool children, families and staff. Individuals with disabilities receive the full range of developmental services in an inclusive environment. This includes children with physical disabilities, health conditions, vision, hearing, speech or learning impairments. Special services such as screenings, evaluations, speech or physical therapy and transportation also may

26 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Georgia Academy for the Blind 2895 Vineville Ave., Macon, Ga. 478-751-6083. www.gabmacon.org.

Campus and outreach programs are designed to meet the educational needs of students who are blind, visually impaired and have adjacent multiple sensory disabilities.

Georgia PINES (Parent Infant Network for Educational Services) 800-522-8652; 404-298-4882. www.gapines.info.

Information/assistance to families of vision/ hearing impaired, multi-handicapped, sensory impaired children, under age 4. Parent advisors make home visits to teach families how to help their child.

Georgia Virtual School www.gavirtualschool.org.

Georgia Virtual School is a program of the Georgia Department of Education Office of Technology Services. It is SACS accredited and offers middle school and high school level courses across the state. Parents and teachers partner in the online education of the individual child.

GLASS- Georgia Libraries for Accessible Statewide Services glass@georgialibraries.org. www.georgialibraries.org/glass.

1-800-248-6701.

This is a talking book service sponsored by the Augusta-Richmond County Library System.

Books and magazines are available in audio formats, Braille and digital downloads. They loan playback machines for recorded materials with more than 500,000 titles to choose from; more than 70,000 titles accessible for download on digital downloads. Free delivery to your door via U.S. Postal Services.

Immaculate Conception Catholic School 811 Telfair St., Augusta.

706-722-9964.

www.icaugusta.org/special-education.

Special education for children ages 4-14. Full inclusion program, learning lab, and self-contained programs. All special education programs offer small class sizes with low student/teacher ratio.

Diagnostic testing in reading and math modules using specialized consultation and classroom intervention. Speech therapy, OT and PT offered.

Disabilities include but not limited to autism, Down syndrome, mental retardation, learning disabilities, dyslexia, attention deficits, speech and language impairments, cognitive processing deficits, and physical disabilities.

Kumon Math and Reading Center 500 Furys Ferry Rd., Unit 502-5, Martinez.

706-993-2232. www.kumon.com.

The center strives to help each student perform at his/her full potential by using techniques that improve speed and accuracy to master the basics in reading and math. Students meet with a highly trained Kumon instructor during the week and continue with home assignments daily to close any learning gaps that may be hindering them.

Preschool through high school.

Mathnasium 1384 Whiskey Rd., Aiken.

803-226-9090.

205 Robert C. Daniel Jr. Pkwy., Augusta.

706-737-1992. www.mathnasium.com.

Helping elementary, middle and high school students excel in math, whether your child started out far behind or is already ahead. Mathnasium’s unique assessment process determines (with great accuracy) exactly what each child knows and what they need to learn.

M.A.E.S. Education Center 4116 Evans to Locks Rd., Evans.

706-860-8585 or info@maeseducationcenter. com. www.maeseducationcenter.com.

Offers tutoring, high school success classes, home-school classes, college counseling and skills-building in reading comprehension.

Monday-Thursday, 2 p.m.-7 p.m. Saturday hours, as well.

Oxford Learning Center 4272 Washington Rd., Suite 2A, Evans.

706-650-2225. www.oxfordlearning.com.

Students preschool through adult receive help

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with study skills, homework, reading, writing, math, spelling, grammar and more.

SPEECH PATHOLOGY AND AUDIOLOGY

issues, swallowing problems and other speech issues.

Partners in Achievement 454 Furys Ferry Rd., Suite B. 706-650-1877. augusta@partnersinachievement.com. www.pialearningcenters.com.

PIA offers programs for children ages 6 and up with attention problems and/or learning disabilities help children overcome the underlying barriers to academic success.

Augusta Ear Nose Throat 340 N. Belair Rd., Evans. 706-868-5676.

720 Saint Sebastian Way, Augusta. 706868-5676.

74 Physician Dr., Aiken. 803-649-0003. www.augustaent.com/what-is-anaudiologist.html.

A trained audiologist evaluates and treats hearing problems and related disorders.

Communication Station, LLC 601 N. Belair Square, Suite 19, Evans.

706-364-1486 or speechyleigh@yahoo. com. www.communicationstation.biz.

Speech therapy for patients from infancy to 21 years. Specializing in autism spectrum disorders.

South Carolina School for the Deaf and the Blind 355 Cedar Springs Rd., Spartanburg, S.C. 864-585-7711. www.scsdb.org.

An academic institution providing highquality education programs, both day and residential, for students ages 2½ to 21 who are deaf, blind or multi-sensory disabled.

VirtualSC www.virtualsc.org.

The South Carolina virtual school program delivers flexible online options for the diverse educational needs of South Carolina students and their families.

MILITARY FAMILIES Fort Gordon Exceptional Family Member Program 307 Chamberlain Ave., Room 155, Darling Hall, Fort Gordon.

706-791-4872. www.fortgordon.com/programs.

This program, designed to aid active-duty service, provides information and coordination of services as well as respite care for any family member who has a chronic medical problem or special education need, regardless of age, that limits ability to function on a daily basis and/or requires ongoing counseling, training, education, therapy or treatment. Assistance with issues receiving Social Security disability benefits.

Augusta Hearing and Balance 1215 George C. Wilson Dr., Suite 3A, Augusta.

706-364-2378. www.augustahearing.com.

Dr. Rebecca B. Hopkins and Dr. E. Robin Bohannan perform hearing diagnostics for children.

Bright Start 720 Gracern Rd., Suite 450, Columbia, S.C. 803-929-1112 (24 hours a day). brightstart@sc.rr.com. www.brightstartsc.com.

With a location in Aiken, Bright Start is a private provider of speech therapy and autism services to children, teenagers and adults with special needs and developmental delays.

Families of special needs children from infancy to age 6 benefit from the early intervention services offered.

Service coordination assistance aids families in navigating the complex service delivery system.

Children’s Hospital of Georgia Speech Pathology 1447 Harper St., 2nd floor, Augusta.

706-721-5437. www.augustahealth.org/childrenshospital-of-georgia/pediatric-specialties/rehabilitative-services/speechpathology.

Children’s Hospital of Georgia’s speech pathologists provide individualized evaluation and treatments to help children with language problems or delays, hearing loss, stuttering, resonance

Snyder Speech Therapy Services 229 Hillbrook Dr., Augusta.

706-860-9385. marysnyderspeech@hotmail.com.

Provides speech therapy services for clients of all ages, infants through adults via telepractice over the Internet.

Southern Medical Hearing Center 2916 Washington Rd. 706-993-3269. www.southernmedicalhearing.com.

Provide hearing aids, free hearing screenings, financing options and the gift of hearing to needy and qualified patients.

Southern Otologic Clinic 818 St. Sebastian Way, Suite 204, Augusta.

706-724-0668. www.moretzmd.com.

Provides evaluation and treatment of hearing issues. Hearing aid guidance and fitting for children and adults.

University Hospital Speech and Hearing Center 1430 Harper St., Suite C3, Augusta.

706-774-8666 or 706-854-2630.

4321 University Pkwy., Suite 102, Evans. www.universityhealth.org/speech-andhearing.

University Hospital’s Speech and Hearing Center provides evaluation and treatment services for children with speech, language, feeding, swallowing and hearing disorders. The speech pathologists and audiologists strive to improve their patients’ ability to communicate and function as independently as possible. u

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INFORMATION AND REFERRAL Beginnings SC www.scbegin.org. info@scbegin.org.

803-216-1171(office).

803-929-7785 (video phone).

Beginnings is an expanded nonprofit providing professional expertise, education and guidance to anyone in South Carolina with the ability to impact deaf or hard of hearing families. They help parents or caregivers of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing (ages birth-21), parents who are deaf or hard of hearing and professionals who serve these families.

Charity Locator—Combined Federal Campaign of the CSRA www.cfcofthecsra.org/locator.php.

A comprehensive list of local, state and national agencies and organizations that provide a vast array of assistance.

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation www.cff.org.

An online source for information about diagnosis, research, treatment, clinical trials and more.

The DRM Regional Resources Directory www.disabilityresources.org/GEORGIA.html.

Disability Resources, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization established to promote and improve awareness, availability and accessibility of information that can help people with disabilities live, learn, love, work and play independently.

Georgia Council of the Blind www.georgiacounciloftheblind.org.

Works to improve education and rehabilitation and broaden vocational opportunities. Meetings are held at the Columbia County Main Library, Evans Town Center Blvd., on the second Saturday at 1 p.m. For more information, please contact Deborah Lovell at (706) 726-4054 or lovell.d2000@ gmail.com.

Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities 2 Peachtree St., N.W., Suite 26-246, Atlanta.

888-275-4233. www.gcdd.org.

Provides resources that promote independent living.

Georgia Disability Resources; South Carolina Disability Resources www.christopherreeve.org.

An extensive list of organizations serving people with special needs in Georgia and South Carolina.

Georgia Hands and Voices P.O. Box 133128, Atlanta.

678-310-5886. info@gahandsandvoices.org. www.gahandsandvoices.org.

A parent-driven, non-profit organization that supports families of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. They currently have a free guide by your side program that assists newly diagnosed families of deaf of hard of hearing children. The

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website provides resources and information.

Georgia Snap4Kids www.snap4kids.org/id137.html.

Lists providers, organizations and agencies in Georgia that serve children with special needs and their families

that provides a map to securing services for special needs children.

SC Access 803.734.9900. www.scaccess.communityos.org.

A guide to resources and services for people with disabilities and their caregivers.

Gerald Powell Augusta.

706-796-6856.

Gcp930@gmail.com Gerald Powell is semi-retired and offers assistance/ advice on a volunteer basis to children and adults who are trying to establish or are having problems receiving Social Security disability beneďŹ ts.

South Carolina Autism Society 806 12th St., West Columbia.

803-750-6988. scas@autism.org. www.scautism.org.

A statewide agency that educates and promotes awareness.

Parent to Parent of Georgia 3070 Presidential Pkwy., Suite 130, Atlanta.

800-229-2038. www.p2pga.org.

The organization has a comprehensive website

South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs 3440 Hardin Street Ext., Columbia, S.C. 803-898-9600. www.ddsn.sc.gov.

Plans, develops, funds and oversees programs for people with severe, lifelong disabilities in regard to intellect, autism, traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury.

South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council 1205 Pendleton St., Suite 461, Columbia, S.C. 803-734-0465.

803-734-1147 (TTY). www.scddc.sc.gov.

Advocates for people with developmental disabilities and provides leadership in planning, funding and implementing initiatives.

United Way of the CSRA 1765 Broad St., Augusta.

706-724-5544. www.uwcsra.org.

The 211 system provides a link to information and referral on a variety of services in the community.

Other resources for families are available on the website as well. u

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RECREATION AND LEISURE Camp Twin Lakes 404-231-9887. contact@camptwinlakes.org. www.camptwinlakes.org.

Camp Twin Lakes, located in Rutledge, Winder (Camp Will-A-Way), and Warm Springs (Camp Dream), provide camp experiences for children in Georgia facing serious illnesses, disabilities and other life challenges through weeklong summer camps and year-round weekend retreats. Campsites are fully accessible and medically supportive.

www.thefamilyy.org.

For more information, please contact Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org.

Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs.

Adapted Aquatics Special Populations Individual Adapted Aquatics offers one-on-one half-hour classes for all physically and developmentally challenged individuals of all ages. Specially trained staff use swimming and aquatic fitness skills to improve participants’ independence and quality of life. Sessions are by appointment only.

Champions Made from Adversity P.O. Box 980, Evans 706-364-2422. info@cmfa.us. www.cmfa.us.

Provides adaptive sports, recreation and leisure activities such as water skiing, archery, bowling, cycling and golf, to people with physical disabilities at no cost.

Family Y BlazeSports Team For more information, please contact Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator, at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.

BlazeSports is a swim team for all ages of physically challenged swimmers that provides them an opportunity to train for competitions. (This program is part of the BlazeSports Clubs of America training for future Paralympians).

The Family Y, Wilson Branch 3570 Wheeler Road, Augusta, GA. 706-922-9623.

Miracle League Baseball For more information please contact Rina White,

30 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Sports Director, at 706-922-9597 or rwhite@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.

Provides a barrier-free baseball field for children and adults with disabilities to play on. Miracle League Teams play on a special, rubberized surface with flat bases that for allows safe play for those in wheelchairs or other assistive devices, such as crutches or walkers. Registration is open for ages 4 and up. Fall season runs September-October and spring season runs March-May. Teams practice and play are held at the sports complex located at the Uptown Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center. For more information please contact Rina White, Sports Director, at 706-922-9597 or rwhite@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.

Kathryn M. York Adapted Aquatics Center (Katie’s Pool) For more information, please contact Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator, at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org. www. thefamilyy.org.

This pool is dedicated to improving the quality of life of individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities. It is a shallow and deepwater therapy pool with a wheelchair ramp at the shallow end. It also includes adapted changing rooms with a lift system to accommodate disabled individuals and

kids

SPECIAL a state-of-the-art sanitation system.

Total Access Room For more information, please contact Claudia Collins, Adaptive Aquatics Coordinator, at 706-922-9664 or at ccollins@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org.

This facility, located off the fitness floor at the Wilson Family YMCA Branch, provides adaptive equipment for both a non-disabled exerciser and for people with mobility limitations, including those in wheelchairs.

Each exercise piece is easily adjustable to each exerciser’s height and strength level.

Camp Lakeside For more information, please contact Faye Hargrove at fhargrove@thefamilyy.org. www.thefamilyy.org Serves children with disabilities or serious and chronic health conditions in a medically safe environment.

Expanded programs for kids of all backgrounds and abilities so that every child can have access to learn, grow, and thrive through the life-changing, thrilling experiences of camp.

Camp Ivey For more information, please contact Sterling Ivey at snivey70@knology.net. www.thefamilyy.org Camp Ivey is an overnight camp held at Camp Lakeside in Lincolnton, GA. The purpose of this adaptive camp is to empower high functioning children with developmental disabilities by promoting independence in life- skills, relationships, physical activity and leisure, communication, and self-confidence through recreation and the arts.

Georgia-Carolina Council Boy Scouts of America 706-733-5277. www.gacacouncil.org.

Scouting programs are available for special needs children.

Alley Cats: A weekly bowling league for teens and adults in Aiken and North Augusta.

T-RecS: An adaptive basketball and baseball program for ages 6 and up. Games are played on Saturdays in the spring and fall.

ART-Ability Studio: Spend one hour on a visual art project and one hour in music held in North Augusta and Columbia County.

Jazzercise: Enjoy Jazzercise and line dancing once a month at Grace United Methodist Church in North Augusta.

The Crew Chorus: Perform musical selections in the community.

Ballet Tout le Monde: An adaptive ballet program for those 21 years of age and younger.

Dance Studio: Contemporary jazz and tap dancing for ages 6 and up.

Steps of Grace: Ballet for Special Needs 476 Flowing Wells Rd., G-2, Martinez.

912-531-2719 or stepsofgrace@aol.com. www.stepsofgraceballet.com.

Ballet and tap classes are offered for children with special needs, ages 3 and up, at Pulse Dance Center and are taught by Mallory Lanier, a pediatric occupational therapist with more than 10 years of experience teaching ballet. Adult volunteers experienced in working with children with special needs are an integral part of the class. Students receive one-on-one assistance should they need it.

The Foundation for Therapeutic Options 706-364-6172. www.therapyoptions.org.

A local non-profit organization that provides therapy services to children in the CSRA. It is an opportunity for children to be recognized for their abilities instead of their disabilities.

Georgia and South Carolina State Parks www.gastateparks.org. www.southcarolinaparks.com.

Find state parks, historic sites, campgrounds and trails across the state that are accessible to people with disabilities.

Walton Foundation for Independence Adaptive sports, 706-434-0150. www.waltonfoundation.net.

Wheelchair Tennis: For all ages at Newman Tennis Center.

Adaptive Golf Clinics: For ages 15 and older, MarchOctober in Augusta and Aiken.

The RECing Crew 336 Georgia Ave., Suite 206-A, North Augusta.

Pamela Stickler, 803-426-1284 or therecingcrew@ comcast.net. www.therecingcrew.com.

Based in North Augusta, The RECing Crew is a nonprofit organization providing leisure and recreation opportunities for all ages and disabilities. Fees vary but are nominal.

The Cruisers: A social group for teens and adults that meets monthly for dances or field trips.

Walton Foundation Camp To Be Independent 706-826-5809. haley@waltonfoundation.net www.waltonfoundation.net/camptbi Camp TBI is a free, safe overnight summer camp environment for children and young adults, ages 8-21, with traumatic brain injury. Camp TBI staff provide one-on-one care which increases the campers’ level of independence in the areas of personal hygiene, following a schedule, making friends appropriately and just having fun. Campers enjoy horseback riding,

a ropes course, group games, sporting activities, swimming, fishing and arts and crafts along with social activities such as dances, karaoke and talent nights.

Walton Winter Weekend 706-826-5809. www.waltonfoundation.net Open to children ages 6-18 with physical disabilities and their families. Walton Winter Weekend takes place in February at a fully accessible campsite where each family gets their own private cabin. Activities include fishing, ropes course, rock climbing wall, hayride, movie night and much more. This two-night camp is free for each family except for a $25 application fee. Application opens October 1, 2016 on Walton Foundation’s website: www.waltonfoundation.net.

TRANSPORTATION ADA Paratransit Van Service 1535 Fenwick St., Augusta.

706-821-1819. www.augustaga.gov.

Curb-to-curb van service available to qualifying individuals with permanent or temporary disabilities.

Adaptive Driving Solutions 3027 Riverwatch Pkwy., Augusta.

706-765-2036. www.accessiblevans.com. www.augustamobility.com Specializes in wheelchair van rentals and sales. They also modify vehicles to make them accessible and install vehicle lifts.

Georgia Department of Driver Services 2206 East View Pkwy., Conyers, Ga. 404-968-3800.

855-406-5221. www.dds.ga.gov/drivers (Scroll down and click on Disability Parking Permits) www.motor.etax.dor.ga.gov.

Application for a disabled parking permit is on the website.

South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles Disabled Parking Permit www.scdmvonline.com.

Click on the forms and manuals link on the left side of the screen, then scroll down to the link for the disabled placard application. u

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 31

kids

SPECIAL

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY & MEDICAL EQUIPMENT/SUPPLIES Augusta ALS Clinic - Center of Excellence Department of Neurology, EMG Lab 1120 15th St., Augusta.

706-721-4581 or 706-721-2681. info@alsaga.org www.alsa.org.

Offers one-on-one patient consultations, medical equipment and assistive technology. Patients and their caregivers are trained in the proper use of the assistive technology. Other services include support groups, educational programs and respite care.

Augusta Ear, Nose and Throat 720 Saint Sebastian Way, Suite 201, Augusta.

340 North Belair Rd., Evans.

706-868-5676. www.augustaent.com.

Highly trained audiologists evaluate hearing and fit patients with appropriate hearing aids.

Augusta Orthotics and Prosthetics 2068 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta.

706-733-8878.

FAMILY COUNSELING AND PSYCHIATRIC RESOURCES Center for Care & Counseling 4400 Wheeler Rd., Augusta.

706-305-3137. info@csraccc.com. www.csraccc.org.

A faith-sensitive counseling service that helps individuals and families draw on their own strengths and values to begin their healing process. Offers a wide range of counseling services to families, couples, individuals, adolescents and children.

Eastern Georgia Transitional Family Services 3643 Walton Way Ext., Building 4, Augusta.

706-364-1404. www.tfsga.com.

Offers a range of family preservation services. Ap-

32 • Augusta Family | October 2016

www.augustaprosthetics.com.

Customizes orthotic and prosthetic solutions to meet each individual’s needs, from custom-made braces to artificial limbs.

Fragile Kids Foundation 3350 Riverwood Pkwy., Suite 1400, Atlanta.

770-951-6111. www.fragilekids.org.

Fragile Kids Foundation helps medically fragile children and their families with equipment, medical supplies and other support that is not covered by insurance and that they cannot afford.

Hanger Prosthetics and Orthotics 630 13th St., Suite 200, Augusta.

706-724-2481. www.hanger.com.

Creates prosthetic and orthotic devices to suit the needs of each client.

Midlands Prosthetics and Orthotics 1018 Druid Park Ave., Augusta. 706-737-7371.

690 Medical Park Dr., Aiken. 866-641-6007. www.midlandsprosthetics.com.

Produces upper and lower extremity prosthetics and

proved by the state to offer Comprehensive Child and Family Assessments (CCFA), Core services (C&A and adult) and Intensive Family Intervention Services (IFI) through Medicaid. Therapy and counseling services, and parent aid services through Homestead Family Preservation.

Family Counseling Center of the CSRA 3711 Executive Center Dr., Suite 201, Martinez.

706-868-5011. www.fcccsra.org.

Strengthens individuals and families to achieve their own goals and to network with other agencies and institutions to improve family life.

Families Forward 3506 Professional Circle, Suite B, Martinez.

706-210-8855. www.familiesforward.co.

orthotics using state-of-the-art components and orthotics.

South Carolina Assistive Technology Program Midlands Center, 8301 Farrow Rd., Columbia, S.C. 800-915-4522. www.scatp.med.sc.edu.

Works to provide assistive technology to people with disabilities.

Tools for Life 512 Means St., Suite 250, Atlanta, Ga. 404-894-0541. info@gatfl.org. www.gatfl.org.

Georgia’s Assistive Technology Act Program aids people with disabilities in accessing assistive technology.

Walton Options STAR Durable Medical Equipment Reuse Program 948 Walton Way, Augusta.

706-724-6262. www.waltonoptions.org/services.

Collects, cleans and repairs used assistive technology and matches it to recipients with special needs. Additional assistive technology services are also available.

Specializing in children ages 3 to early adulthood.

Dara Delancy, Ph.D., and Amy Holsten, Ph.D. Georgia Family Crisis Solutions 4145 Columbia Rd., Martinez.

706-869-7373. www.gfcs.info.

Provides the most current, correct information concerning therapy in a manner that is nurturing, non-threatening and non-judgmental.

Mind-Body Health Services 3830 Washington Rd., Suite 317, Augusta.

706-364-5228. www.mindbodyhealthservices.com.

The providers at Mind-Body Health Services take into account the whole person in helping him or her find the solution to deal with what is causing discomfort.

Connie Stapleton, Ph.D. u

2016 Physicians’ Directory Available Free for iPhone® and AndroidTM.

Download the Physicians’ Directory app for free and have contact information at your fingertips for Augusta and Aiken area physicians and dentists. Database is searchable by both specialty and by name. Brought to you by Augusta Magazine.

PRESENTED BY

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 33

kids

SPECIAL

SUPPORT GROUPS

TRANSITION SERVICES

Augusta Food Allergy www.augustafoodallergy.org.

A non-profit support group that educates and supports families affected by food allergies and raises awareness in the community. Visit the website for meeting and event information.

Accent on Independence 2606 Commons Blvd., Augusta.

706-550-0527.

Accent Inc. on Facebook Promotes and enhances independence of adults with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

Augusta Autism and Disability AugustaAutismandDisability@gmail. com.

Facebook page: Augusta Autism and Disability Support Group.

Wesley United Methodist Church, 825 North Belair Road, Evans.

This meeting offers education and support for families and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders, including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. Parents, educators, community support representatives, caregivers, medical representatives and anyone affected by autism spectrum disorders are invited to attend.

Meets Tuesdays and Saturdays. Email for schedule.

Augusta Training Shop 1704 Jenkins St., Augusta.

706-738-1358. www.augustatrainingshop.com.

A non-profit work center that employs mentally and physically challenged adults. They learn to repair, strip and refinish furniture, re-cane chairs and polish metals with the goal of performing purposeful work independently.

Blood Cancer/BMT Support Group 1411 Laney Walker Blvd., 1st floor, Community Room.

706-721-1634. www.augustahealth.org/classes-andevents.

This group provides educational and emotional support to patients, families, friends and caregivers. Meets the third Wednesday of the month, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.

Common Bond Parent Support Group Geneice McCoy, 706-729-0012. mccoyg@comcast.net.

For Augusta-area parents of children of all ages and diagnoses with challenging disabilities but remarkable perseverance and resilience. Dates and locations of meetings vary. Call for information.

JDRF Type One Nation www.typeonenation.org.

Provides an online support group and information for parents of children with juvenile diabetes.

34 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Center for Financial Independence and Innovation 794 Marietta St., Suite 93862, Atlanta.

404-385-7029. www.gatfl.org/cfii.

The agency’s goal is to make independence affordable by improving the financial self-sufficiency of Georgians with disabilities.

Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency 1220-D West Wheeler Pkwy., Augusta.

706-650-5600. www.gvra.georgia.gov.

Promotes independence of people with disabilities by aiding with employment, accessibility and living accommodations.

Serenity Behavioral Health System-GA TASC Center 818 White Oak Rd., Thomson.

706-595-4027. www.serenitybhs.com.

Provides supported vocational opportunities for people with disabilities.

South Carolina Commission for the Blind Aiken District Office 855 York St., N.E.

803-641-7658. www.sccb.state.sc.us.

Provides vocational rehabilitation services, independent living services and prevention services to people who are blind or visually impaired.

South Carolina Statewide Independent Living Council 136 Stonemark Lane, Suite 100, Columbia, S.C. 803-217-6244. scsilc@scsilc.com. www.scsilc.com.

Promotes independent living for adults with severe disabilities and their inclusion in mainstream society.

South Carolina Vocational Rehabilitation Department 855 York St. NE, Aiken.

803-641-7630. www.scvrd.net.

Provides an array of services to help people with disabilities find employment.

Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia 770-270-6860. www.silcga.org.

An advocacy organization that provides resources and answers to questions regarding independent living.

Walton Options 948 Walton Way, Augusta.

706-724-6262. www.waltonoptions.org.

Empowers people of all ages and all types of disabilities to reach their highest level of independence. The caring, trained staff work with clients to develop individualized plans and goals. Services include, but are not limited to, peer support groups, assistance with money management, assistance with nutrition and assistance with home modification and accessibility issues.

Information is provided by the organizations listed or from their website and is subject to change.

>

Sooner Later EARLY DETECTION = EARLY INTERVENTION FOR KIDS WITH DEVELOPMENTAL ISSUES

By Meredith Flory

B

efore becoming a mother and military wife, Adriana Rouse was an educator and principal to elementary school students in Mexico. She met her husband, Bryan, now a percussionist for the Army bands, when he was working with a symphony in Monterrey, Mexico, a city in the state of Nuevo Leon. Bryan is originally from North Carolina, but as a military family, the Rouses have been stationed around the country and are currently at Fort Gordon.

When their first son, Daniel, was born, they were overjoyed. However, Adriana noticed around 18 months that he was “not engaged with

own” as he learns strategies to for living with Autism.

Adriana gives examples of milestones therapy has helped her son

appropriate play,” and it was a “red alert” in her mind that she wanted

reach, such as saying good morning, completing getting ready tasks

to speak with his doctor about. She believes it was her background

such as teeth brushing and dressing independently and an ability to

in education that allowed her to observe that he was not meeting

express himself more often to his family. Early intervention allowed

important developmental milestones as a toddler. She noticed a lack of

the Rouses’ to have access to therapies such as speech, Applied Be-

eye contact and verbalizations, but his pediatrician wanted to wait until

havior Analysis (ABA), Occupational Therapy and Sensory Integration.

Daniel was older to go through a diagnosis process.

The Rouses had a gut feeling that waiting would increase the

THE IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DETECTION

problems they were seeing. “You have a right to get a referral for your piece of mind” she reminds other parents, and after seeing

Robyn Kramer is a local Occupational Therapist Registered/

other professionals, Daniel received an early diagnosis of “Perva-

Licensed (OTR/L) and mother of three. She has been employed at

sive Developmental Disorders” (PDD), and later Autism Spectrum

In-Home Pediatric Therapy, Inc. for 15 years and often works with

Disorder (ASD). By continuing to seek medical assistance, the Rouses

families seeking early interventions for their baby or toddler. Putting

were able to help Daniel begin therapy with early interventions.

a team in place to help a child with special needs may seem over-

Now in elementary school, he has a team in place that is “helping

whelming, but seeking medical help early can help alleviate some of

him every moment to learn life skills.” As a toddler, he was non-

the stress of the process. “Since some specialists may have a long

verbal, displaying constant difficult behaviors, such as throwing or

waiting list, it is best to address concerns early so medical, devel-

spinning objects and was not able to interact with other children

opmental or behavioral issues may be identified. Early detection of

or his family. With hard work through different types of therapies,

deficits is helpful so the proper therapy can help your child reach

Adriana explains that he is now “able to reproduce life skills on his

their potential towards milestones,” says Kramer. She also explained

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 35

how early therapies may become part of the diagnosis process and may

she says. “It is not easy to accept when your child has a developmental

look different than what a parent might expect.

delay or disability but there is a community of people that are able to help

In-home therapy has the advantage of occurring in the child’s home environment and “since therapists are able to see the child at home for

your child and family. The sooner delays are addressed the better the outcomes so the child does not continue to fall further behind.”

an extended period of time, problems may be observed that pediatri-

Adriana says that parents may feel overwhelmed and exhausted,

cians may not notice during a brief doctors appointment. The team of

so it’s important to “make personal decisions and consider what feels

professionals along with the family can then communicate to obtain

comfortable to you and your family” as you create a schedule of ap-

other services and testing that may benefit the child’s growth and

pointments, begin therapies and put a team together for your child.

development,” Kramer says. Putting a team and plan in place early helps

Adriana also says that while they have “felt blessed” by the medical

ensure that your family can put the best plan of action to handle any

resources available for military families, that every family can check

developmental or health issues.

with their insurance, local resources, organizations for a specific diagnosis, such as Autism Speaks, and to also look into grants and scholar-

HOW TO COMMUNICATE CONCERNS

ships with more unique types of therapies or activities for children with special needs.

As an educator and parent of a special needs child, Adriana has thought

Kramer points out that physical therapy, occupational therapy and

a lot about how her experiences might help other parents and she shared

speech therapy evaluations are available through the Babies Can’t Wait

that she would encourage parents who are concerned about a health or

Program for newborn infants through toddlers age 3 to identify devel-

developmental issue to not wait until a normal check-up, but to make an

opmental delays and to provide treatment if needed.”

appointment and take a list of your concerns so that you can clearly and positively communicate with your pediatrician, who will be the one to make referrals to specialists.

As a health professional, Kramer echoes this advice and adds more information regarding the process. “Your child’s pediatrician checks your child’s reflexes and muscle tone along with a general physical exam. The doctor relies on the parent to report on milestones such as speech, behavior and

MORE RESOURCES Following are a list of resources available to parents of infants and young toddlers who are experiencing developmental delays or chronic health conditions.

fine motor skills that are not observed in the office,” she says.

It’s helpful to take a list of concerns to discuss with your pediatrician so proper recommendations can be made if needed. “A well check can be stressful if the child is fussy, there is a long wait time and if you take more than one child! It is easy to forget questions that you have and maybe difficult to have them answered later without another appointment,” Kramer says. Some delays are not obvious or observed during a doctor visit so a parent needs to voice concerns and accurately answer questions from the doctor and on questionnaires. When these issues are detected, she explains, your pediatrician can make a referral to the Babies Can’t Wait Program or to a developmental specialist for further evaluation.

Kramer says it’s a great joy to see children whom she previously

Georgia Resources for Early Interventions: Bright From the Start, Georgia Dept. of Early Care and Learning: The Inclusion Services Program assists professionals that work in early childcare in obtaining training to better serve children in their care with disabilities. Information from this agency can assist parents in finding preschool, daycare or other early learning programs that will work with their child’s special needs. decal.ga.gov Babies Can’t Wait: Provides screening and healthcare options for infants and toddlers in Georgia to increase early intervention opportunities for children with developmental delays or chronic healthcare conditions. http://dph.georgia.gov/Babies-Cant-Wait

worked with having reached new milestones and be participating in community events. “It is a success to see these children go to school with their peers and see the confidence in families that their child will thrive and be happy,” she says.

However, every family has their own journey, depending on the issues at hand. “If the child needs help beyond early intervention, the public school system offers services at age 3 for special education and therapies that are needed to help the child function to their full potential in a classroom. Often the kids and families form friendships and create a support system,” Kramer says.

LOCAL RESOURCES

Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids®: Georgia Dept. of Health offers free or low-cost healthcare for eligible non-insured children.

GA Parent Infant Network for Educational Services (GAPINES): Support for children from birth to age 3 with sensory impairments (sight/hearning). gapines.us The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a program called, “Learn the Signs. Act Early” which parents can access online. It includes a list of developmental milestones and free resources for parents of children under the age of 5 including a picture book and other booklets for tracking your child’s milestones. http://www. cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/

All children are unique and there is variety in when children reach milestones and how a disability may affect a child and family is specific to their diagnosis and health. Kramer points out that not only may a pediatrician not notice a concern you have at home when watching your child for longer periods of time, but that conversely they may notice a delay that you had not. If so, “do not delay in getting help. No one is critiquing you as a parent, they want children to be physically and developmentally healthy,”

36 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Meredith Flory is an Augusta-area freelance writer, military spouse and mother of two. She has a masters degree in children’s literature from Kansas State University and has taught high school and college English.

Inspiration Station was born,” Ashley says. “It is a privilege to be her mother, even in the hard times.”

Ashley continues, “Frances condition is not rainbows and butterflies, it stinks and I want John T (Francis’ brother) and others to know the truth. I want people to ask, ‘What is wrong with her hands and feet?’ As parents, we think it is inappropriate to ask but the second we hush children or shut them down, we start that space where now they are afraid and have anxiety about that person.

If we just answer the questions, then they move on like I did. It is about loving people as they are, the heart of the biggest lesson that we teach our children and model for others.”

When Frances was only 6 months old, she underwent her first surgery at Children’s Hospital of Georgia where amidst everyone’s fear and anxiety, another reassuring “God wink” occurred.

Pediatric pharmacist, Kelley Norris, was at work that day and caught a glimpse of Frances, a child that would ultimately change her life, lying in a hospital room and wearing a pretty peach nightgown.

“As we go along in life, we have what Ashley calls, “God winks,” Norris says. “If you do not open your eyes to everyday situations then you will miss the gifts that you have been given.”

Norris did not meet the Brown family that day but would have another chance encounter with Frances one year later.

BUILDING A BOND “Frances was sitting beside me at my son’s soccer practice one day and I decided to pick her up because I saw some ants around her. I thought Frances was different but I was not sure. I remember Ashley looking at me when I picked Frances up and I did not know Ashley then so judging by her look, I thought I had done something wrong.

Ashley paused, looked at me and said, ‘Nobody has really ever picked Frances up before.’”

With that simple act of caring, Ashley and Norris would begin a friendship that would eventually arrange a community of supporters to raise awareness for children with special needs.

“Frances and I just took to each other immediately,” Norris says. “Ashley called me later that night and asked me if I was a nurse. I told her I worked at the Children’s Hospital of Georgia and then I suddenly remembered the day I saw Frances in the hospital in her peach nightgown.

I remembered everything. It was like we were placed there for a reason.”

Norris divides her life into two categories: life before Frances and life after meeting Frances. “I call her my third daughter,” Norris says. “I have been put in situations where not only do I see the blessing 38 • Augusta Family | October 2016

that Frances is but also the blessing that she is to others. I have learned to find joy in every situation and in every challenge, because there is always hope and joy in any situation. Frances makes other people believe in themselves and to persevere.”

In 2010, Norris committed to running the Augusta Half Marathon-10k with a friend, Mary Covington Coleman. While preparing for the race, Norris had the idea to run in honor of Frances so Norris and Coleman formed a team of two and called themselves Friends of Frances.

On Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017, Augusta University will present the Half Marathon, 10k and 5k race sponsored by the Augusta Sports Council. Norris will organize and lead the 6th Annual Team Friends of Frances to raise awareness for children with special needs or rare diseases. All donations and proceeds from shirt sales and the after-party, go to help children like Frances. More information can be found at friendsoffrances.org. Registration is open for the Augusta University Half Marathon 10k and 5k, while registering participants can chose Friends of Frances as their team. More information can be found at augustahalf.org.

Norris says, “We are a grass-roots organization and our main source of fundraising is to raise awareness. We began to expand our vision when we realized that medical availability, therapy and equipment become less readily available as children with special needs get older. Our big vision is to help all the little people that are unseen or do not have the means yet have the greatest needs.”

Ashley adds, “We recently had that ‘aha’ moment when we realized we had more support than ever before with Friends of Frances and there were children that were still getting left out or slipping through the cracks. Last year, the Friends of Frances team raised enough money to ensure that a wheelchair-bound child, who was unable to leave his house, can now get out and go somewhere with a proper lift on his father’s car that powers his chair.”

In support of the race, Friends of Frances sells t-shirts with a logo of a heart with Frances’ sign over the heart that reads, “Hope, it’s in your genes.”

Ashley says, “Hope is never ending. Hope reminds me of a bright blue sky with nothing to encompass it or hold it. It is possibilities. For Frances, it is hope that she does continue to fight in this way and make it through some of these obstacles that she has, but knowing that it is in God’s will.”

Diana Renee Williams is an accomplished freelancer, Huffington Post contributor and mother of two. She is a music lover, travel enthusiast and super soul spirit junkie. Prior to freelancing, she worked as a court appointed special advocate and domestic relations mediator focusing on her passion of service to the community.

PHOTO BY JOE DELTUFO

calendar

PEPPA’S COMING TO TOWN Peppa Pig’s Big Slash, an actionpacked live show featuring your favorite characters as life-size puppets and costume characters, heads to Augusta on October 23. Join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and more in an all-singing, alldancing adventure full of songs, games and muddy puddles.

Sunday, October 23 at 5 p.m.

Bell Auditorium Georgialinatix.com .

We’d love to hear from you. If you have an event you’d like to add to our next issue, send an email to karin.calloway@ augustafamily.com.

OCTOBER

Special Events OCTOBER 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29. The Augusta Market at the River. Local artisans, jazz music, ethnic foods and live plants. Pet-friendly. Begins at 8 a.m. at the Augusta Riverwalk, Eighth Street. theaugustamarket.com.

OCTOBER 1. St. Mary’s School Annual Chocolate Festival. Rides, games, vendors, international foods and tons of chocolate! Free. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at St. Mary’s Help of Christian School, 118 York St. SE, Aiken.

OCTOBER 1. Pink Pumpkin Party.

This community event includes family fun while raising awareness about breast cancer, honoring breast cancer patients and survivors and raising funds to provide free mammograms.

Mini pumpkins will be available for children to decorate. 10 a.m. at the Augusta University J. Harold Harrison M.D. Education Commons Building, 1301 R.A. Dent Blvd. Go to giving. augusta.edu/pinkpumpkin for more information.

Augusta-Richmond County Headquarters Library, 823 Telfair St. 706821-2604.

OCTOBER 2. Star Wars Reads Day Movie Series. Join your fellow Jedi and Wookies for viewing of Episode VI: Return of the Jedi. 2 p.m. at the

OCTOBER 7 & 8. 24th Hispanic Festival of Augusta. The Associacion Cultural Hispanoamericana presents this event with music, food stands from several

OCTOBER 4, 11, 18 & 25. Story Time.

Preschool story time for ages 3-5 at 10 a.m. Young children’s story time for ages 0-3 10:30 and 11 a.m. Groups of six or more must register in advance.

Call 706-772-2432. Diamond Lakes Branch Library, 101 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah.

Augusta Family | October 2016 • 39

calendar countries, arts and crafts, children’s activities and more.

6-11 p.m. on the 7th. Noon-11 p.m. on the 8th. www. elcervantino.org or email acha@elcervantino.org.

OCTOBER 4, 11, 18 & 25. Story Time in the Gardens. Instill a love of reading in your child that will last a lifetime. Hopelands Gardens offers the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon story and fun with friends. Ages 8 and under. 4 p.m. 135 Dupree Place, Aiken. www.cityofaikensc.gov.

OCTOBER 5, 12, 18 & 26. Toddler Time. Kids can interact with others and give parents a chance to socialize. Equipment such as balls, scooters, mats, hula hoops, parachutes and more are available for playtime fun. Children must be accompanied by an adult. 9:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m. at Odell Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Rd., Aiken.

OCTOBER 7, 14, 21 & 28. Mr. Kenny’s Wondrous Stories, Songs & Play. An opportunity for your children to learn, interact with others, speak and play.

Weekly exploration of our world through reading, singing, musical instruments and movement that will help build both literacy and cognitive skills. 12:30 p.m. at the Jessye Normal School of the Arts, 739 Greene St. 706-828-7768.

OCTOBER 7. 23rd Annual Border Bash. The Velcor Pygmies will perform along with the Joe Stevenson Band and Donna Jo. The Border Bash Foundations has raised more than $800,000 for children’s charities in the CSRA. 4 p.m. at Augusta Golf and Gardens, 1 11th St. BorderBash.net.

OCTOBER 8. Fall Festival. An outdoors event in which vendors showcase and sell their creations.

Plus, a yard sale and fun for the kids. The festival begins at 9 a.m. in the Odell Weeks Center, 1700 Whiskey Rd., Aiken. 803-649-3203.

OCTOBER 8. Star War Reads Day 2016. This 4th annual local observance of the international event dedicated to all things literary and Star Wars. Trivia and costume contests, artist alley with Star Warsrelated items for purchase, music, cosplayers and Star Wars Story Time for the little ones. Special guest will be Julie Dolan, the voice of Princess Leia in the Star Wars Rebels Series. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Augusta-Richmond County Headquarters Library., 823 Telfair St. 706-821-2604.

OCTOBER 8. Game Day at Lady A. Columbia County is kicking off football season by hosting Game Day @ Lady A—the ultimate tailgating experience. This is a brand new two-part series live streaming college football games at the Evans Towne Center Park.

Game 1 is Oct. 8 and Game 2 on Nov. 4th will kick off with a country music concert and then Game 2

40 • Augusta Family | October 2016

will be streaming live on Nov. 5. 4 p.m. 7016 Evans Town Center Blvd., Evans.

OCTOBER 8. Family Fall Festival. Enjoy a snake program, pumpkin scavenger hunt, nature hike, apple bobbing, marshmallow roasting and much more.

3:30 p.m. at Mistletoe State Park, 3725 Mistletoe Rd., Appling. www.gastateparks.org/mistletoe.

OCTOBER 13-16. Greek Festival. Music, entertainment and great Greek food can be enjoyed at this annual event. 4-9 p.m. on the Oct. 13, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. on Oct. 14 and 15 and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Oct. 16. Free admission. www.holytrinityaugusta.org.

OCTOBER 15 & 16. Colonial Times: A Day To Remember. Reenactment of a colonial American town with actors in period dress, demonstrations of colonial skills and crafts and special guests including field surgeons, “Ben Franklin” and more. Opens at 10 a.m. Living History Park, 299 W. Spring Grove Ave., North Augusta. colonialtimes.us.

OCTOBER 18. Third Tuesday Tales Story Time.

Stories, rhymes and songs with beloved retired librarian Kathy Crosson. 10:30 a.m. at Imagination Station Children’s Museum, 965 Hickman Rd., Augusta. imagineaugusta.org.

OCTOBER 22. Halloween Fair. Costume contest, games, food, prizes and more. Register day of the event from 1-2 p.m. or online. Festivities begin at 2 p.m. Wildwood Park, 3780 Dogwood Lane, Appling. chfishforlife.org.

OCTOBER 22 & 23. Summerville Tour of Homes and Georgia Grown. This year’s tour dates are October 22 and 23rd. In addition to the Historic House tours, the event planners are partnering with Georgia Grown to showcase products grown and packaged in and around CSRA, as well as throughout the state of Georgia. Reggie Kelly from the Atlanta Falcons will be at the Georgia Grown Village with his salsa and sauces from his new venture Kyvon Foods. Lara Lyn Carter, an awardwinning chef, will be on hand to further showcase our Georgia farmers’ products with cooking demonstrations. www.summervilletourofhomes.com.

OCTOBER 22 & 23. National Native American Pow Wow. Learn about Native American culture and history during this two-day festival. Featuring tribal nations from around the country, nationally known flutist and violinist Avril Bird, an alligator and reptile show with Ian Tyson and on Sunday only, a Birds of Prey demonstration with Dale Arrowwood.

Children 10 and under admitted for free. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Call Phil Galaviz at 404-857-5964 or email phil@roadrunnergrille.com. roadrunnerenterprisesllc.com.

OCTOBER 23. Peppa Pig Live! Peppa Pig’s Big Splash. A musical production featuring a dozen familiar and original songs and a sing along. Georgialinatix.com. 5 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium, 712 Telfair St. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

OCTOBER 27. Trick or Treat So Others Can Eat. Trick or Treating for Children in Bobby Waters Gymnasium at Patriots Park. Admission is the donation of one can of food per child for Columbia County Food Pantry. 5:30-8 p.m. 706-312-7192.

OCTOBER 27. Time To Scare Halloween Carnival.

After you brave through the haunted house, try the carnival game room and take a chance to win some candy. Costume contest at 7 p.m. For children 12 and under accompanied by an adult. This annual carnival and haunted house is sponsored by WRDW News12, the Augusta Recreation and Parks Department and I Heart Media. 5:30-8 p.m. at Diamond Lakes Community Center, 4335 Windsor Spring Rd., Hephzibah. 803-278-1212.

The Arts, Music and More THROUGH NOVEMBER 18. Unseen Patterns: Jowita Wyszomirska. A large-scale, site-specific installation stretching throughout the Westobou Gallery. Free. Westobou Gallery, 1129 Broad St. 706-755-2878.

OCTOBER 1. Supreme MCs Rule Hip-Hop Expression Class and Supply Drive for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta. This free hip-hop arts event is for youth in middle school, high school and college with an interest in hip-hop. Supply list for the Ronald McDonald House wish list can be downloaded when you register at SupremeMCsRule.com/RMHCEVENT. 1 p.m. at Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta, 1442 Harper St. 803-380-2673.

OCTOBER 2. Swanee Quintet. The Quintet celebrates 77 years on this date. Features John P. Kee and includes Lee Williams & The Spiritual O’s, The Canton Spirituals, Doc McKenzie& The Hi-Lites, Bishop Darrel McFadden & DMD, Spencer Taylor & The Highway OC’s, The Gospel Legends, The Legendary Singing Stars, Prodigy, June & The Sionettes, and more. 4:30 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. www. augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

OCTOBER 2. Wendy Whelan/Brian Brooks: Some of a Thousand Words. Featuring music by the New York-based string quartet Brooklyn Rider. 7:30 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre, 749 Broad St. 706-7228341. www.imperialtheatre.com.

OCTOBER 6. Mommy and me: Autumn Is Here!

Take a stroll through the Southern Landscape Gallery

calendar FABULOUS FRIDAY ART PROGRAM Jessye Normal School for the Arts 739 Greene St., Augusta 706-828-7768.

October 6. Art and Science Session.

Sign your homeschoolers up for this program, which is a partnership with the YMCA. Sign up by Oct. 6. Program runs on Fridays from Oct. 7-December 9.

10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Multi-child discounts available.

and learn about the changing seasons. Afterwards, create your own autumn tree. Fee for non-members.

Advance registration required. 10-11 a.m. Morris Museum of Art. 1 Tenth St. www.themorris.com.

706-724-7501.

OCTOBER 6. I Love the 90s. Lineup includes Salt N Pepa, Vanilla Ice, Coolio, Kid N Play, Rob Base, Tone Loc and Color Me Bad. A fun-filled night out that doubles as an arena-sized dance party. 7 p.m. at the James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

OCTOBER 6-NOVEMBER 4. 2016 Augusta Photography Festival Exhibit. On October 6, the Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta welcomes finalists in the Festival with a display of approximately 120 images, which were selected from more the more than 700 photos submitted. The exhibit is open to the public beginning Oct. 7. Free. Arts & Heritage Center of North Augusta, 100 Georgia Ave. 803-441-4380.

OCTOBER 7. An Intimate Concert with Jake Owen. This Academy of Country Music award

winner presents a rare theater concert. Proceeds of the concert, which honors local resident Laurie Parkhurst, benefit the TGen Foundation. 7:30 p.m.

Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341. www.imperialtheatre.com.

OCTOBER 9. Artragetous! Family Sunday: Symphony Petting Zoo. Touch, play and learn about a variety of instruments with musicians from Symphony Orchestra Augusta. Create musically inspired crafts and dance along to impromptu performances. Cosponsored by Friends of Symphony Orchestra Augusta. Free. 1-4 p.m. Morris Museum of Art. 1 Tenth St. www.themorris.com.

706-724-7501.

OCTOBER 13. Pops! Presents Matthew Morrison.

Broadway smash and star of television’s “Glee,” Matthew Morrison comes to Augusta! Live in concert with Symphony Orchestra Augusta, the Emmy, Tony, and Golden Globe nominated song and dance heartthrob performs standards from the great American songbook. 7:30 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. www. augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

OCTOBER 14. The Newsboys Love Riot Tour. Helping define the sound of Christian music for more than two decades, Newsboys is comprised of four musicians.

The Grammy nominees have appeared in the movie “God’s Not Dead” and returned to the big screen to reprise their role in the spring to reprise their role in the sequel, “God’s Not Dead 2.” 7 p.m. at the Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

OCTOBER 14. Mountain Faith. Since 2000, Mountain Faith has played their unique brand of music to audiences an many venues. Their fresh Appalachian take on gospel, bluegrass, folk, R&B and pop music has earned them a nomination for the SPBGMA Bluegrass music Awards. 7:30 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341. www. imperialtheatre.com.

OCTOBER 29. Paragon Ragtime Orchestra Pres-

ents Haunted Hollywood. Don a costume an join the Halloween party at the Imperial Theatre. The ensemble recreates “America’s Original Music,” the syncopated sounds of the silent film era. The silent films to be presented are The Adventurer Charlie Chaplin, The Haunted House with Bruster Keaton and Haunted Spooks with Harold Lloyd. All proceeds go to the preservation of the historic Imperial Theatre.

7:30 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341. www.imperialtheatre.com.

OCTOBER 30. Jessye Norman School Annual Benefit Concert. Performers will be Laquita Mitchell, soprano, and Nicholas Phan, tenor, who co-founded the Collaborate Arts Institute of Chicago. 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Augusta. jessyenormalschool.org.

Sports OCTOBER 1. People of Parkinson’s Walk. This 17th annual fundraising walk funds new and ongoing research grants, a respite program for caregivers, educational materials, events and more. Registration opens at 9 a.m. and the walk will begin at 10 a.m. Festivities continue until noon and will include interactive exercises, entertainment, refreshments, children’s activities and raffle. Donations are appreciated. For more information, to form a team or to make a donation email info@parkinsoncsra.org or call 706-364-1662.

OCTOBER 1. 9th Annual CSRA Buddy Walk.

Benefitting the Upside of Downs, Inc. of Augusta and Upside of Downs of Aiken, a support group for families of Down syndrome. 9 a.m. at the Columbia County Amphitheater, 7022 Faircloth Dr., Evans. Go to aikenupsidedowns.org/2016-csra-buddy-walk. html for information.

AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY ATHLETIC REGISTRATION East Augusta Athletic Office, 622 4th Street, 706724-0505 South Augusta Athletic Office, 1915 Daniels Street, 706-796-5047/5048 West Augusta Athletic Office, 1488 Eisenhower Drive, 706-821-2800/2801.

OCTOER 24-NOVEMBER 4. Youth Winter Athletic Registration. Leagues: Boys and girls bantam basketball for ages 6-8;Pee Wee Basketball for ages 9-10; Midget Basketball for ages 11-12; Junior Basketball for ages 13-14; and Senior Basketball for ages 15-17. Register from noon-6 p.m. at the locations listed above.

Hospital Programs AUGUSTA UNIVERSITY HEALTH

Register online at augustahealth.org.

42 • Augusta Family | October 2016

calendar ONGOING. Support Group for Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy. Call 706-721-8299 or visit their website.

FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The “A-Team”). Education and support for families, caregivers and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Children’s Hospital of Georgia, First Floor, Family Resource Library, Room 1801.

Call Family Services Development at 706-7215160 for more information.

SECOND THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH. NICU Parent Support Group. Noon-1 p.m. in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 5th Floor, Children’s Hospital of Georgia. For more information, call Sylvia McCoy at 706-721-2286.

THIRD TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH. Breastfeeding Class. A free class led by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Helps expectant parents gain knowledge and support to ensure successful breastfeeding. 7-9 p.m., Augusta University Health, 7th Floor South, Room 7524.

DOCTORS HOSPITAL

3651 Wheeler Rd. 706-651-3232 http://doctors-hospital.net OCTOBER 2 & 23. Short and Sweet. A two-day weekend class covering discomforts of pregnancy, the process of labor and delivery, comfort techniques used in labor, medication/epidurals and relaxation and breathing techniques. This class includes valuable information even if mom intends to use an epidural for labor and birth. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on the Saturday, 1-5 p.m. on the Sunday.

TRINITY HOSPITAL OF AUGUSTA

Call Women’s Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration.

OCTOBER 1. Saturday Express Lamaze Childbirth Education. Helps mother and support person understand the final stages of pregnancy as well as labor and the birth of your baby. Covers natural and medicated deliveries, Lamaze coping techniques and more. 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.

OCTOBER 11. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. 6-8:30 p.m.

OCTOBER 17. Baby Care Basics & Breastfeeding. This class combines two important topics. A board-certified lactation consultant teaches the class and covers a range of helpful topics including diapering, bathing, feeding, cord care, nipple care, milk storage, weaning and more. 9 a.m.-noon.

OCTOBER 17. Breastfeeding Support Group.

Help, understanding and guidance in breastfeeding. Noon-1 p.m.

OCTOBER 18. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method. 6-7:15 p.m.

UNIVERSITY HEALTH CARE SYSTEM

Call 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth.org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs.

FIRST MONDAY OF EACH MONTH. Parents Healing Together. For parents, families and friends who have lost infants through miscarriage, death, ectopic pregnancy or stillbirth. 7 p.m. in University Hospital, Dining Room 2.

OCTOBER 3-24 (MONDAYS), OCTOBER 4-25 (TUESDAYS) OR OCTOBER 5-26 (WEDNESDAYS). This multi-week series of childbirth preparation classes is designed to inform and prepare all expectant parents regardless of birth plans. Class topics include various stages of labor, breathing and relaxation and how to care for yourself and your new baby. 7-9 p.m. in the Women’s Center Third Floor Classroom.

Registration required.

A U G U S TA

To advertise, call Lisa Dorn 706-823-3702

OCTOBER 14 & 15 OR 21 & 22. Childbirth Preparation Weekend Class. A complete childbirth preparation class designed for those with time constraints or fluctuating schedules. Class meets from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Saturday. Also included is a follow-up evening at the W.G. Watson, M.D., Women’s Center for a tour, question-and-answer session and review.

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OCTOBER 20. Breastfeeding Class. This class offers in-depth information on how to evaluate breastfeeding and get off to a good start. Registration is suggested. Call 706-774-2825. 7-8 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans.

OCTOBER 27. Introduction to Infant CPR. Do you worry about knowing how to revive your baby should the need arise? This class provides an opportunity to learn and practice infant CPR on mannequins and learn other aspects of infant safety. Space is limited, so early registration is suggested. 7-8:30 p.m.

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44 • Augusta Family | October 2016

Campbell Harison, 9, is the daughter of Allen and Gail Harison of Martinez.

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Augusta Family | October 2016 • 45

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PHOTO BY JOHN HARPRING

by Kar in C allow a y

Karissa Davis Wright KARISSA DAVIS WRIGHT, 39, is the disability/special needs coordinator and academic counselor at Augusta Technical College. She and her husband, Anthony, have a 7-year-old daughter, Kinsley, and a Toy Poodle named Lulu. She says her favorite hobby at the moment is playing pretend with her daughter. “You would not believe the adventures we’ve been on.”

One word to describe yourself: Spontaneous.

What quality do you admire the most? Endurance. You can get through anything.

If you could do any job, what would you choose? I would choose the job I’m doing now. Helping people with disabilities is very rewarding and it nurtures my soul and spirit.

What did you want to be when you grew up? A Disney character.

What’s your favorite food? Country fried fish.

Dream vacation? Anything and everything Disney.

Favorite place to take Kinsley? Walt Disney World’s Animal Kingdom.

If you had a super power, what would it be? The ability to assist all people with special needs/disabilities—it only takes one encouraging word.

Life lesson: Trust yourself and always listen to your Mother—she is rarely wrong.

What would surprise people about you? I like walking in the rain with my face lifted to the sky rejoicing and worshipping God. Best thing about being a mom? Watching my daughter blossom and spread

46 • Augusta Family | October 2016

her wings like a beautiful butterfly with many captivating colors. Being there for her and ensuring her that life is about creating spectacular colors and enjoying every shade.

Hardest part about being a mom? Balancing work, playtime/playdates, husband and Mommy time.

Signature dish: Cheese grits.

What was your first job? Childcare center.

Greatest hope: To see my daughter and my niece, Mallory, happy and becoming whatever their hearts desire.

Song playing in your head: A Whole New World from Disney’s Aladdin soundtrack.

Favorite college football team: Georgia Bulldogs.

Are you a planner, a dreamer or a doer? I’m a dreamer. In the famous words of Walt Disney, “A dream is a wish your heart makes.” All of my wishes have come true (husband and daughter) and I’m living my dreams by spending every moment with them.

What inspires you? The encouraging lectures I receive from my sister, and yes, they are lectures.