Edition #38 july 2013 central western nebraska by Heather Ackman

Edition #24 May 2012 Central & Western Nebraska Edition

Edition #38 July 2013

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families Since June 2010!!-- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

Special Needs Mom's Page 3

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Edition #24 May 2012

June is Father's Day FAMILIES

IMPORTANT TIDBITS FOR Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!! You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough.

Learn how to adapt toys to use W with switch/button/BigMac Weihave no choice. We just life Whew! ell ahere s the July Edition of manage O’Hana Kwhen ids Nthings ews. get really tough.

This workshop is for ANYONE!! You will learn how to easily & costmade effectively turn the the toys days that your We've it through we thought we'd never make it through. child already has, & isn't using because of physical limitations, into toys that are adapted to your We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do! child!! You will learn how to install a jack into a single function toy & convert it into a toy that is operated with a switch. You will learn how to assemble a switch. You will make a detachable cord gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. that runs from the toy to the switch. You will be able to We've do this, AND you us will go home with a have You may think “special moms” it pretty rough. worry future know this “special” working switch toy & switch. Best of all, your child's toy We will look professionally adapted, bybut YOU!! We have noabout choice.the We just manage life when things getlife's reallyworth tough. living! We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold ouritheads up high. We've made itto through the days we thought we'd never make through. You have seen that the switch operated toys are sometimes 8x as much order, than if you could We've even our own selves thatoften we can do! we cry. buy the toy & put the switch in for a few dollars, yourself. Dates/Times will be determined when I with all We feel joyimpressed and pride and thankfulness more than have 4 or more people interested in the class. This class is FREE, however donations of any kind are We've gainedfor patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. appreciated. Contact Aaron today at aaronmiller555@gmail.com more information! For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :)

is Better Special Needs May Speech &Mom's Hearing Month

I encourage you to take time to read through Tidbits sections Maythe 9 isImportant National School Nurse Day AND the State Wide Information Section. Of course wMay hatever metro you are closest to you 13 is Mother's Day want to read the information for that also!! We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! There is SOOOO much information here, you wand ill w ant to and m ake ure ywho ou rheads ead walk it high. thoroughly We are cheerleaders, nurses, therapists don't out the door. J We have bad days hurt sometimes, butswe hold our up Special Needs Mom's A & D Waiver – Aged & Disabled Waiver We handle rude remarks and unkindmore stares, with We feel joy and pride and thankfulness often thandignity we cry.and grace. Is YOUR child on this? Is YOUR childEven eligible be onthey this? thoughto the pain bring cannot be erased. kids,guidelines we aren't just SUPERMOMS, we do so much more :) If your child is on this waiver, do you know that it makesFor yourour income non-existent? No As a lways i f y ou h ave a ny s uggestions o r i deas o n w hat I s hould dNo, o itw ith Orough. KN Pout LEASE let me know You may think us “special moms” have pretty We respite are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk the door. cap on your income. Just have to use the 2 hours minimum each and every month, so you Therapies and treatment routes are alife lot for dignity usthings to digest, We have no choice. We just manage when really tough. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with andget grace. don't lose your A&D Coverage. as Do you know that you can e add your child, to youroprivate I A LWAYS t ake ach a nd e very ne i nto c onsideration. We don't know what the future holds, give ournever kids our best. Even though the pain they bring cannot be but erased. made it through the days we thought we'd make it through. health insurance (non-medicaid), and if you are onWe've the A&D Waiver, you can get those None the of us can be replaced, getall many We've even impressed our selves with thatbreaks. we can do! premiums paid for for BOTH you and your child, through HIPP program? Has own toso bewe thedon't Therapies and treatment routes are kids, a lot for us do to digest, It wears us out, help family!! our we'll whatever it takes! same family policy, but they will cover all the insurance premiums forbut yourto entire We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. I For am lways on inthe hunt because for new information to patience add to beyond Oso KN, sdon't o if get you know of adreamed n event ofor support us a this was $1,200 premiums, we are self-employed, don't have a corporate medical We've love we never giving. None ofgained us can be replaced, we measure, many breaks. We are out selfless, not by choice you see.doOur kids just have many needs. plan, and it was killing us. By talking with another mom,We I found about this program, and we are worry the future but know “special” It wears usabout out, but to help our kids, we'llthis whatever itlife's takes!worth living! or other toinformation that is we bnot eneficial tand o like ours Pto LEASE let m e up know!!! waitinggroup, on our reimbursement arrive!! So cool. For 5 We're years were toldtothat ourfamilies income dictated out change thesometimes, world, but want plantour some seeds. We have bad days hurt but we hold heads high. the medicaid that our son received, for us that meant weWe hadare to either stay in this income box really want our kids accepted. That is our aim. We selfless, not by little choice you see. Our kids just havethan many needs. We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often we cry. of like $45,000 or make an additional $100,000 to cover When the expenses in therapy and medical We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same. services that our sons receives on an annual basis minimum. The guidelines to be on theThat A&D really is our aim. We want our kids accepted. THANK YOU FOR M AKING O KN W HAT IT IS TODAY!!!! For aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we dodo sothe much more :) Waiver, I do not know for sure what they are. If you want to our know, I canwe find out, just email me.kids. I When wekids, look at them, we just see We hope you'll same.

-- April Vernon know that my son qualifies, and if has something to do with being fed solely by g-button, and and beingtherapists who don't walk out the door. We are cheerleaders, nurses, --the April Vernon non-independent. If you want the contact information for HIPP program, just shoot and me anunkind email stares, with dignity and grace. We handle rude remarks on that also, or ask your Service Coordinator specifically Even about it. There the are many out cannot be erased. though painprograms they bring there available to help families like ours out. We just need to get the word out there for families to This edition Check out anyany event access that information. If you know of a program, that would benefit families, email me. Check out event Therapies and treatment are a lot for us to digest, ohanakidsnews@gmail.com We will research it and get the correct information out to all Covers ALLroutes BUT changes, after publication changes, after publication We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. the families.

See pg 3 for

What's Where???

What's Where??? additions & MORE & MORE What’s Where? counties: * additions None of usthese can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. at our blog: at our blog: It wears us out, to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! Parent Group with kids with combined hearing &but vision loss Important Tidbits forpages Families Important Tidbits for Families 2 - 6pages 2 - 6 The Nebraska Technical Assistance Project on Deaf-Blindness has conducted training this year Washington, Dodge, www.ohanakidsnews. State-Wide page 6 State-Wide page 6 www.ohanakidsnews. specific to parents of children who have a combined hearing & vision loss. The training has been in We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. blogspot.com Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 Saunders, Bellevue, Cedar & Columbus pageseeds. 7 partnership with the National Consortium on Deaf-Blindness (NCDV2.0). total of 7 parents have Bluff blogspot.com We're not outAto change the world, but want plant Island some Fremont &to Grand page 8 participated in a series of training activities from May 2011 through October 2011. They are now Fremont & Grand Island page 8 Douglas, Sarpy, Cass, Otoe, We want our kids accepted. That really is our&aim. For more information, Gretna Hastings page 9 working on their leadership goals & have another planned meeting in April 2012, as well as ongoing When weLancaster, look at them,Johnson, we just see kids.Lincoln We hope you'll the same. Gretna & Hastings page 9 10 do or advertising rates pages - 15 For more information, meetings in the future. Theywebsite are called the Nebraska DB Parent Leadership Team, & have provided Check out our at please contact us at: Norfolk pages 15 - 16 Lincoln pages 10 - 15 or of advertising rates lots support to the state deaf-blind project. It is the intent of this team to provide one-on-one Nemaha, Pawnee, Gage,pages North -- April interaction either via phones, otherVernon parents in the state who have a Norfolk 15 -Platte 16 page 16 www.ohanakidsnews.com please contact us at: technoloty or face to-face with 402-227-5304 pages 16 - 24 child birth to age 21 with a combined hearing & vision loss. If you want to be connected to one of PlatteOmaha Jefferson & Saline. ohanakidsnews@gmail.com North page 16 Resources for Families pages x these402-227-5304 parents, please contact an FACEBOOK too!! Teresa Coonts at the number and email listed above. This isOmaha 16 - 24 page 29 exciting group of parents working & learnin together for the purpose of supporting other families in pagesClassifieds ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Resources for Families pages x the future.out any event Check Thanks for Reading OKN!! FACEBOOK too!! Classifieds page 29 changes, after publication additions & MORE Thanks for Reading OKN!! at our blog: Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 State-Wide page 6 www.ohanakidsnews. 402-327-2500 Bellevue, Cedar Bluff &could Columbus page information!!! 7 blogspot.com us Expand our Reach,Pass Passus us along to you know who could use this HelpHelp us Expand our Reach, along tofamilies families you know who use information!!! this 8055 O Street, Suite S110 Lincoln, NE 68510 Fremont & Grand Island page 8 For more information, www.heartlandspeech.com Gretna & Hastings page 9 Lincoln pages 10 - 15 or advertising rates Find us on FACEBOOK too! Norfolk pages 15 - 16 please contact us at: North Platte page 16 402-227-5304 Omaha pages 16 - 24 ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Resources for Families pages x FACEBOOK too!! Classifieds page 29

What's Where???

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

When contacting our advertisers, please tell them you found them HERE!!!

Help Expand ourabout Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! t people know howus you found out these events, activities & advertisers!!

We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. Edition #24 May 2012 We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased.

Classifieds

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. May Better Speech &we'll Hearing Monthit takes! It wears us out,is but to help our kids, do whatever

Buy, Sell, Trade, Give Away or Need

May 9 is National School Nurse Day

We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. want ourVODEC: kids accepted. That really is our aim. Machine, Portable WISH We LIST FOR Bingo Machine & Cards, Karaoke WhenDVD’s we look at them, wePopcorn just see kids. We hope&you'll the same. Stereo, CD’s, for movie nights, Machine, Pinatas Sugar do Free Candy, Craft

May 13 is Mother's Day

Items (including: construction paper, glue, markers, beads, jewelry making kits, scrap -- April Vernon booking supplies), Play Money for educational purposes, color printer, sporting equipment (including: handicapped ramp for bowling, basketballs, shot put balls 6 & 8 lbs, cones, tennis balls, bocce ball set, baseballs, baseball bats, baseball gloves, soccer balls, bowling You may think “special moms” havejerseys, it pretty rough. cheerleading uniforms, bags, bowling balls, us stop watches, clipboards, pom-poms, We for have no choice. justcoolers, manage life when thingsfor getfood really tough. shirts coaches, fishingWe gear), cookbooks, roasters & food serving We've made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. equipment. Contact Pam Monsky at PMonsky@vodec.org We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do! Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 Used AFO’s and braces of any kind – love if your child outgrownof the shoes, afo’s, State-Wide page 6hasdreamed We've gained patience beyond measure, we never giving. braces, etc and they the are Bellevue, sitting just taking upBluff space, email heather Cedar &please Columbus page 7at We worry about future but know this “special” life's worth living! We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads ohanakidsnews@gmail.com they will be & collected and distributed overseas via a local Fremont Grand Island page 8 up high. We feel specialist joy and pride and thankfulness often than we cry. orthopedic who travels and fits children with thispage special that is not Gretna & more Hastings 9 equipment Lincoln pages 10 - 15 available to them. For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) Norfolk pages 15 - 16 We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. FOR SALE: Wheelchair Accessible Van: 1996 Chrysler Town & Country, North Platte page 16 and We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity grace. 128,000 miles. Adapted to fit 2 wheelchairs side by side in the middle row, and also the Omaha pages 16 24 Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. front passenger can have a wheelchair there.for Ramp is off the side door. Asking $10,000. Resources Families pages x andat treatment routes a lot for us to digest, CallTherapies Katie Noland 402-650-0348 if are interested. Classifieds page 29

Special Needs Mom's

Check out any event changes, after publication additions & MORE at our blog: www.ohanakidsnews. blogspot.com For more information, or advertising rates please contact us at: 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

What's Where???

We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. already adapted and are It wears us out, Aaron but totoday help our kids, we'll do whatever it ready to go! Contact at aaronmiller555@gmail.com fortakes! more information! None of us Adapted can be replaced, wehas don't many breaks. FOR SALE: Toys! so Aaron toysget available that he has

We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs.

FOR Motorized Scooter & 9know additional wheelchairs. Located in Auburn. If Help us Expand our Reach, Pass usSALE: along totofamilies you who could use this information!!! We're not out change the world, but want to plant some seeds. financial assistance is needed, please callreally & talk Angela, We want our kids accepted. That is to our aim. because there are resources When to wehelp lookoratalleviate them, we kids. Weat hope you'll do the available thejust cost.see Call Angela 402-274-9362 forsame. more information. Vernon To--aApril Good Home: Riftin Pacer K501 Model Walker, includes saddle, bars, front walking

A Special Sitter was inspired by our ongoing Check out any event changes, after journey of publication parenting our additions & MORE family, which includes 2 kids at our blog: with special needs, & we believe t hat o ur experiences www.ohanakidsnews. can h elp y ou e xperience the blogspot.com fullness of blessings we have as we have raised our Forreceived more information, family. or advertising rates please contact us at:

Services Offered:

402-227-5304 Companionship Services

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Personal Care Services FACEBOOK too!!

Home Helper Services

bars & back helper bars, Call Katie Noland at 402-650-0348 if interested

To a Good Home: Child’s size wheelchair, call Susannah LaCroix at 402-496-1000

What's To a Good Home: Power wheel chair Where??? for a small adult, contact Sandy Houser at shouser@unmc.edu Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 To a Good Home: WheelchairState-Wide for child, call page Amy at 6 402-212-8931 for more information on it Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 Fremont & Grand Island page 8 To a Good Home: We have 149 unopened cans ofpage Isosource 1.5 Cal G-tube feeding Gretna & Hastings 9 formula, these are 375 calorie cans. Expiration date is August 12, 2013. These are all for Lincoln pages 10 - 15 FREE just looking for them to be put to use. You 15 can- call Norfolk pages 16 Jess Parker at 402-601-8280 or jparker21988@gmail.com for North any questions may16 have. My mother passed away in Platteyou page October, this is the formula she Omaha was using.pages 16 - 24 Resources for Families pages x Classifieds Do you have something you want to page get 29 rid of or no longer have use

for? How about something that you need? Contact Richard Troia Email me to place that information right here in O’Hana Kids News! 402-‐697-‐8400 x201 Ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Helprtroia@aspecialsitter.com us Expand our Reach, know who could use this information!!! Pass us along to families you See “Our Story” on Page 8 DISCLOSURE:

ThanksFor forM Reading OKN!! ore Information

O’Hana Kids News is not responsible for any events,. Including cancellations, or changes after print. It is your responsibility to verify the information provided through the contact information provided. You can check the blog at www.ohanakidsnews.blogspot.com or our Facebook page as we try to update those with any information changes that have occurred after publishing.

With ANY equipment specific to your child, PLEASE have your PT/OT involved to ensure that it is a good fit for the child!

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

I m p o rt an t T id b it s f o r F a m i l ie s May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day Page 3 May 13 iswith Mother's Day Learn to Adapt Toys to Use a Switch/Button/BigMac Independent Consultant

Heather Ackman 402-‐227-‐5304 imapamperedchef @yahoo.com

All orders help support O’Hana Kids News!!!

! !

!!!!!NEBRASKA!RESPITE! NETWORK! !

Are$you$a$caregiver$for$a$loved$ one$with$a$disability?$Are$you$ interested$in$working$with$other$ individuals$with$a$disability?$$ The$Nebraska$Respite$Network$<$ Eastern$Service$Area,$covers$all$of$ Check out any event Nebraska$is$seeking$individuals$to$ changes, after publication provide$respite$for$individuals$with$ additions & MORE disabilities$across$the$lifespan.$CNA/$ at our blog: CMA$and$bilingual$skills$desired,$but$ www.ohanakidsnews. not$required.$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ blogspot.com Call$(402)$996<8444$today$and$speak$ For more information, or to$Elizabeth$or$Kay,$or$e<mail$ advertising rates echentland@gmail.com$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ please contact us at: who$can$direct$you$to$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ 402-227-5304 where$you$need$to$go!!

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

This workshop is for anyone! You will learn how to easily &cost effectively turn the toys that your child already has, & isn’t using due to physical limitations, into toys that are adapted to your child! You will learn how to install a jack into a single function toy & convert into a toy that is operated with a switch. You will learn how to assemble a switch. You will make a detachable cord that runs from the toy to the switch, and best of all your child’s toy will look professionally adapted, by YOU! This class is FREE, however donations of any kind are appreciated. Contact Aaron today at aaronmiller555@gmail.com for more information!! 1/2013 You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. WeProgram have no choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. HIPP We've made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. Do you know that you can then add your child, to your private health insurance (non-medicaid), and then We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do! you can get those premiums paid for through the HIPP program? As long as your child is on Medicaid, and if theWe've child is gained on your family health insurance policy, they will we cover the entire premium your family!!! patience beyond measure, love never dreamed of for giving. If your child isn’t about on this, the I would contact DHHS coordinator to find outworth if this living! is an option for your We worry future butyour know this “special” life's child. We I know that if your fed via g-button, j-button more than I think 50%up of high. their daily intake, have bad dayschild andis hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads or have a catheter, thesepride are both automatic qualifiersmore for kids. If you want We feel joy and and thankfulness often than wemore cry.information I would contact your Services Coordinator, if you need help getting answers let me know and we can work through it together! Let’s get we the word outjust about this program!! No, Contact meso atmuch ohanakidsnews@gmail.com For our kids, aren't SUPERMOMS, we do more :) for more information. We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. Even thoughParent the pain they bring cannot be erased. Exceptional Magazine

Special Needs Mom's

This is a magazine for parents of children with developmental disabilities & other special Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, needs. You can get a digital edition of this magazine, just go to www.eparentdigital.com We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. type None in theof EMAIL: 155rw@eparnet.com & useget themany PASSSWORD: us can be replaced, so we don't breaks. specialneeds to access editions digitally. It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! We are selfless, notIV by choice you see. Our kidscovers just have&many needs. Handmade Gowns, Covers, G-button more!!!

not out to change the world, but wantinto plant some seeds. CheckWe're this out!! If you have a child who is routinely the hospital for various things (like We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. mine is J) then you need to check this lady out!! Go to www.tubiewhoobies.com or you When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same. can visit them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tubiewhoobies -- April Vernon

Sure Steps SMO Orthotics Sure Steps makes tennis shoes that are made to fit SMO’s. Contact them at www.suresteps.net for more information.

What's Where???

Advocacy Page for Parent’s of Children with Disabilities Now parents are invited to check out a page on Families Mosaic’s website Important Tidbits for pages 2 - 6 www.mosaicinfo.org/services/research/CollaborativeCorner.html make sure you State-Wide page 6 check out this new resource available to all our & families Bellevue, Cedar Bluff Columbus page 7 Fremont & Grand Island page 8 Gretna & Hastings page 9 Lincoln pages 10 - 15 Norfolk pages 15 - 16 North Platte page 16 Omaha pages 16 - 24 Resources for Families x Classifieds page pages 2 Classifieds page 29

What’s Where???

Important Tidbits for Families pages 3 – 9 Summer Camp Information pages 10 - 15 any events,. Including cancellations, or changes after print. It is your State-Wide pages 16 - 17 responsibility to verify the information provided through the contact information Chadron page 17use this information!!! Help usYou Expand Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could provided. can check our the blog at Columbus & Grand Island page 18 www.ohanakidsnews.blogspot.com or our Facebook page as we try to update those Kearney & Norfolk page 19 with any information changes that have occurred after publishing. Outreach Clinics page 20 Schuyler & York page 21

O’Hana Kids is not responsible Thanks forNews Reading OKN!! for

Join our mailing list, contact us at ohanakidsnews@gmail.com TODAY!!

Resources NOW ON WEBSITE ONLY due to their sheer size!!!

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

I m p o rt an t T id b it s f o r F a m i l ie s May is Better Speech & Hearing Month Parent 2 Parent Mentor’s Wanted!!! May 9 is National School Nurse Day Nationally over 80% of parents of children with disabilities, who were mentored by an

OUTPATIENT PEDIATRIC THERAPIES PT, OT, SPEECH & FEEDING

Specialized Summer Workshops SENSORY ART EXPERIENCE Your child will explore arts and crafts through the senses (for ages 6+). CALL 402.496.1000 For more information or to register today!

Together, we can do anything.

Mother's Day experienced parent, reported May it to be13 theis most helpful source of information o coping with the challenges of raising a child with special needs. Mentored parents report that the support of a fellow parent was so unique & personalized that it could not have come from any other source! As the mother or father of a child with developmental disabilities, you have unique parenting experiences. Through time, training, & trial & error, you have gained valuable skills. Use your knowledge to help another parent on the journey by becoming a mentor. Parent to Parent (P2P) programs link parents of children, adolescents & adults with You maydisabilities think us “special have it pretty rough.veteran parents who developmental together moms” with experienced & informed We have no choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. understand the day-to-day experiences of raising a child with special needs. Parent to We've made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. ParentWe've Omahaeven is offered by Ollie Inc., all a local agency. We are impressed ourWebb own Center, selves with thatnon-profit we can do! seeking parent mentors who are coping well with their child’s situation & view him or her as We've gained patience measure, we never dreamed giving. a valuable & developing person.beyond Consider becominglove a mentor if you’d like to of help parents We worry about the future but know this(of “special” cope with the joys & challenges of having a child any age)life's with worth special living! needs. The time We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. commitment involves contacting another parent (in person, by mail, e-mail or telephone) once We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. every 2 weeks within the first 8 weeks, & as mutually agreed thereafter. You have the knowledge & experience. We provide the training as a framework to share your For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) wisdom. The next will be held nurses, soon & will Guidelines for Helping Families; Creative We training are cheerleaders, andinclude: therapists who don't walk out the door. handle rude remarks and unkind dignitywith and Special grace. Needs; What CopingWe Skills & Resiliency; Survival Tactics forstares, Parentswith of Children Even though painSituations they bring be erased. Helps Families in Highthe Stress & cannot Crisis; Tips for Extended Family & Siblings; Tips for Locating Community Services; Information on Parent to Parent USA; Cultural Competence & Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, FamilyWe Centered Care; & Principles of Family-Professional Collaboration. (4/2012) don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. To talk to of someone about becoming a don't mentor, contact Annie Anderson at None us can be replaced, so we get please many breaks. It wears usext out,23 butor toaanderson@ollieewebbinc.org help our kids, we'll do whatever takes! 402-346-5220, orityou can mail your name, address, phone number & e-mail to: Ollie Webb Center, Inc., 1941 South We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. 42nd Street, Suite 122, Omaha, NE 68105

Tech Tots & Tech Tools Programs

Special Needs Mom's

We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. When we look by at them, Sponsored UCPwe just see kids. We hope you'll do the same.

The Tech Tots Lending Libraries provide developmental toys, adapted toys and devices to children with developmental and physical disabilities, at -- April Vernon no cost to families. UCP of Nebraska offers over 700 adapted toys & technologies for children and teens through 4 locations (listed below). The toys are housed in libraries located in respite or rehab services environments. Primary use of the program is through families that use services at the center, and is also available to the general public. The toys are available to be taken home to reinforce learning. We have heard from families in this program consistently and the value it has brought to them. After one family in particular, has been using Checkthat outhave anyparticipated event the program by taking 3-4 items home for their child with Cerebral Palsy. After a month of using these items, they return the items and changes, after publication “refresh” them with something new and interesting. It has helped increase the exposure and learning for that child by continually offering new additions & MORE tools. at These same adapted toys are cost-prohibitive to many families, as they typically cost more than 5 times the base cost of the toy without our blog: Important Tidbits for isFamilies 2 - 6 Technology adaptation. UCP has partnered with AT4ALL to make the entire inventory visible online. AT4ALL offered by pages the Assistive State-Wide page 6 www.ohanakidsnews. Partnership. A family can view the items, request them for loan, and then simply pick them up at the location. Simply go to Cedar & Columbus 7 Tech Tots Partners blogspot.com www.AT4ALL.com, click on “Children’s Equipment” in the category. Bellevue, All items available forBluff checkout from UCP of page Nebraska Grand one Island 8 Nebraska sites. Under (& a few other agency programs) will come up. You can refine the search byFremont location by&selecting of thepage UCP of Gretna & Hastings page 9 For morescroll information, Programs, down to find the UCP Tech Tools locations. Children’s adapted items available through other agencies can also be found on this Lincoln pages 10 - 15 or advertising rates website! Norfolk Locations for Tech us Totsat: and Tech Tools: (All these are listed in Resources in Back of pages OKN) 15 - 16 please contact

What's Where???

North Platte page 16 Children’s Respite Care Center NW, 2010 N. 88th Street, OMAHA 402-496-1000 ask for Sarah Tselentis 402-227-5304

Omaha pages 16 - 24

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Children’s Respite Care Center SW, 13336 Industrial Rd, Ste 101, OMAHA 402-895-4000 ask for Sarahfor Tselentis Resources Families pages x FACEBOOK too!! Classifieds page 29 Madonna Rehabilitation Hospital, 5401 S. Street, LINCOLN 402-486-8617 ask for Michelle Wiggins

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

Children’s Rehab Center, 3004 W. Faidley Avenue, GRAND ISLAND 308-398-5170 ask for Carole Ostdiek Faith Regional Health Services Rehab Services, 1500 Koenigstein, NORFOLK 402-644-7348 ext. 7396

Help Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! Ask forus Nikki Fischer Hearing Care Helpers www.Accessibility.net purchased the rights to use Hearing Care Helpers as the name of its new division and I wanted to introduce you to its new website. The web site is fully dedicated to AfterShokz right now but have secured distributorships for the leading products to offer powerful amplified telephones, Bluetooth headsets, amplified neckloops, mobile accessories and listening systems for people with hearing loss and those looking for a remarkable listening experience. We are here to help the blind and visually impaired and deaf and hard of hearing communities www.HearingCareHelpers.com

Introducing Nebraska- LowVision.com http://www.nebraska-lowvision.com

Independent Consultant

The Munroe Meyer Speech Department in partnership with Autism Action Partnership has created an iPad and iPod lending library. The purpose behind this library is to provide families affected by ASD the opportunity to try iPads and iPods as communication devices before they go to the expense of purchasing their own. If you have a family member or know a family who may benefit from this Edition #24 program, please have them contact me to set up a screening. During the screen, theMay family2012 will have www.pamperedchef.biz/ the opportunity to try the iPad or iPod as well as several communication applications and accessories. If one of the devices is deemed as a viable option for the child, we will set up a 30 day loan of the heatherackman device and the appropriate application. During the 30 days, the family will be required for 2 follow Now planning up/training sessions. One will be scheduled midway through the trial and the other will be scheduled for the end of the trial period. During the last scheduled session, we will determine if the trial was a Wedding Showers!!! success and will begin the securing (insurance, grants or private pay options). Call today for yourProudly spot!! serving over 8,500+ families --process NOW of Across allfunding of Nebraska!!! This is an incredible opportunity for the community and we are excited to offer this program!! Can be done Online Now!! Contact Jennifer Brock at jbrock@unmc.edu or 402-559-6460 for more information. 12/11

Heather Ackman 402-227-5304

I m p o rt an t T id b it s f o r F a m i l ie s

NCDHH – TheMay Nebraska Commission for the Month Deaf and Hard of Hearing is Better Speech & Hearing

The mission of the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is to provide advocacy, Page 5 May is National School Nurseand Day communication access and9information to enhance awareness services for improving the quality Radioof Show by Adult with Asperger Syndrome life for all who experience hearing loss. The Vision Statement of NCDHH is: Being a proactive state agency, Commission works towards building support,Brian cooperation and understanding “Parents Corner” is athe radio show, co-hosted by Brian King, LCSW. is an adult with regardless of hearing ability fairness and equalityBrian for all Nebraskans. sure to Asperger Syndrome, who also has 3resulting boys oninthe ASD spectrum. will be sharing Make his check out our website at www.ncdhh.ne.gov

May 13 is Mother's Day

parenting strategies and discussing them with a panel of parents. Here is a link with all the * detailsDental you’ll needResearch to tune in & call in if you’d http: tinyurl.com/3gm58h7 Study for like. Children with DisabilitiesCheck it out & pass it along. His address is: PO Box 994, Chicago, IL 60186 if you’d like to write to The Department of Pediatric Dentistry at the Munroe-Meyer Institute is conducting a research study him. evaluating ways in which dentists can help children with disabilities feel more relaxed and calm

Special Needs Mom's

during dental treatment. The researchers are seeking children between the ages of 2 to 10, who You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough.

need dental work done. Children whowith participate receive a $25 gift cardNon-Profit to Wal-mart. Children can Heart Heroes kids CHD, a things Nebraska We have noCapes choice. for We just manage life when get really tough.

be seen at MMI or40,000 at theinfants new dental clinic at Children’s Hospital.Heart The Defects project (CHD). is funded by the Every year, approximately born in the US with Congenital We've made it through theare days we thought we'd never make it through. CHD is National Institutes of birth Health. Please contact Dr. Keith Allen at 402-559-5756 or Kristi DeHaai, the most frequently occurring defect & theselves leading with cause of birth-related We've even impressed our own all that we candeaths. do! More than 50% of atCHD 402-559-4498 to learn more about how to enroll yourIn child in this research. childrenMS with will require at least 1 invasive surgery in their lifetime. the US, twice as many * children die from CHD eachpatience year, thanbeyond all forms measure, of childhoodlove cancers, Needless of to giving. say, the We've gained we combined! never dreamed Caregiver Day for Nebraska Families in Cass County survivors of CHD wear about their scars, like Rural badges honor.this They“special” are our “Heart Heart Heroes, Inc., We worry the future butofknow life'sHeroes”. worth living! O'Hana Kidsbad News is looking to put together a day caregivers can come for aAfter few hours and is a non-profit organization that originated by a few Nebraska moms, who had children withhigh. CHD. We have days and hurt sometimes, but where we hold our heads up have a massage, see a chiropractor, have a great meal, maybe a mani or a pedi, possibly have trying to We coaxfeel theirjoy children cardiology appointments & heart surgeries, they took comfort in the and through pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. someone doing hair. Just a day where us caregivers can get done in just a couple of hours, wondrous powers of “super hero” capes to comfort their children, & Heart Heroes was founded! Now something that makes us happy :). I haven't seen anything in Cass County or south of there, for our Hero kids,capes we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do soofmuch more everywhere. :) hundreds For of Heart have been draped around the little shoulders CHD children caregivers. If any families would be interested in something like this, PLEASE either give me a call or We areacheerleaders, don't walk out the door.to Consider donating Heart Hero Capenurses, to a childand withtherapists CHD by goingwho to www.heartherocapes.com send me an email. I will base even doing this on how many people contact me about it. I know the We handle rude remarks unkind stares, with dignity and grace. donate aneed cape.is There a perpetual waitand list of children who in need capes to conquer fears &what give you there.is Just let me know. I am interested anytheir comments you havetheir regarding Even You though thejoin pain they bring cannot be erased. them courage. can also our Heart Group to see pictures would like in a short day like thisHeroes also. Facebook Is childcare something to lookofatmany too?of the Justcape let me know, recipients & hearAckman their stories. Contact the of Heart Heroes at heartheroes@yahoo.com. Heather 402-227-5304 orCo-Founders ohanakidsnews@yahoo.com and treatment routes lot for forever.” us to digest, “ChildrenTherapies hold our hands for a moment, butare oura hearts ~Anonymous We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. GlutenIt wears Free/Casein Diet Website us out, butFree to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes!

At ProCare3, we treat children with many different diagnoses, including but not limited to: Developmental Delays Torticollis Autism Spectrum Disorder Sensory Integration Speech Delays Cerebral Palsy Hypotonia Sports & Orthopedic Injuries We offer Warm Water Aquatic Therapy!!

Millard Pediatric Clinic 13336 Industrial Road, Ste. 105 Omaha, NE 68137

Just received this information that a parent went through and put their information into a are selfless, not by choice Our kids just have many needs. checked website We of all the diet information they you havesee. for gluten free/casein free. I haven’t We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. it out, but take a look. It is http://www.lincolntent.com/GFCF.html

We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same.

(402)330-3211 Ext. 108 www.procare3.com

Financial Resource for Families – FirstHand Foundation

April Vernon This is a--resource for families with uncovered medical needs for their children. Families can apply for individual financial assistance if they meet the Foundation’s eligibility criteria. Check it out at www.firsthandfoundation.org

We are Open 6 Days a Week, Monday through Friday with extended hours from 7am event - 7pm Check out any

Collaborative Corner What's on Mosaic’sWhere??? website

changes,Need after publication Saturday hours? Ask us about those too!! additions & MORE at our blog: www.ohanakidsnews.

O’Hana Kids’ News is not responsible for blogspot.com any events; including cancellations, or after print. It is your changes to responsibility check with each contact For more information, to verify the information that we have or advertising rates provided to you.

please contact us at: 402-227-5304

Independent Consultant ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Make FACEBOOK too!!

Heather Ackman 402-‐227-‐5304

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

certified in Special Education. The developmental program at Villa Marie works towards preparing students

Tell to‘em, O’Hana Kids’ News pointed you their& way!!! function effectively in social situations, to live independently, to use their skills in productive

imapamperedchef @yahoo.com Help us Expand our Reach, All orders help support O’Hana Kids News!!! Get 10% OFF ALL ORDERS!!!

Check out the Collaborative Corner on Mosaic’s website at www.mosaicinfo.org/services/research/CollaborativeCorner.htm Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 Resources and publications are updated regularly. Please contact Tara Harper at State-Wide page 6 tara.harper@mosaicinfo.org if you have any questions or need additional Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 information! Fremont & Grand Island page 8 Gretna for & Hastings page 9 Children Villa Marie Home and School Exceptional Lincoln pages 10 - 15 Villa Marie When Home andcontacting School for Exceptional Children provides a loving, home-like forthem up to 22 our advertisers, please tell them atmosphere you found HERE!!! children, both day students and boarders. Norfolk Students enjoy comfortable pages 15 - 16dormitories (4 students to a room), excellent recreational facilities, a chapel and spacious grounds. The16 Villa Marie staff provides total 24 North Platte page hour-a-day supervision. Villa Marie followsOmaha the Lincoln Diocesan pages 16 Catholic - 24 School calendar. The school has 3 well-equipped classrooms,know a library, up-to-date a Smart Board in each sure to let people how you computers, found out about these Resources for Families pages x classroom and a variety of audio/visual aids. Villa Marie is approved by the Nebraska Department of Education and all teachers are Classifieds page 29 events, activities & advertisers!!

employment. Specific areas of development include social and emotional development, vocational training, appearance, health and hygiene, and community involvement. Requirements for attendance are: Children with special needs between the ages of 7 & 18 but no students older than 16 will be accepted as new Pass us along families you know who could use thisone-on-one information!!! students, Studentsto must be on an Individual Education Plan (I.E.P. & not require paraprofessionals, Three step process for entrance (1. Parent interview, 2. Student visit during school, 3. Application for entrance including tuition negotiation) For More Information on Villa Marie Home and School Contact Sister Peggy Kucera, Principal at 402-786-3625 or sr. pe ggy- ku ce ra@ vi llam ari e.o rg

This edition is FREE!!! Pass it along!! Join our mailing list, contact us at ohanakidsnews@gmail.com

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

I m p o rt an t T id b it s f o r F a m i l ie s May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day

Page 2

The Nebraska Respite  Network IMPORTANT TIDBITS FOR FAMILIES

you know about twith he Lifespan Respite Subsidy Program? RadioDo Show by Adult Asperger Syndrome



Pediatric speech, language & feeding therapy



Specializing in Autism



Specializing in Deaf/Hard of Hearing & Cochlear Implants



Specializing in Late Talkers & Developmental Delay

402-327-2500 8055 O Street, Suite S110 Lincoln, NE 68510

www.heartlandspeech.com Find us on FACEBOOK too!

Check out any event changes, after publication additions & MORE at our blog: www.ohanakidsnews. blogspot.com For more information, or advertising rates please contact us at: 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

Special Needs Mom's

“Parents Corner” is a fradio show,sco-hosted by Brian King, LCSW. an adult with Asperger This program pays or respite ervices (someone to come into Brian the hisome to care for a Syndrome, who presented here inthe theparea backcaregiver in January. Brian also has 3 boys on pthe ASD person with special needs, to give rimary a temporary break). The rogram spectrum. be sharing parenting discussing with a panel of parents. serves people Brian of all will ages. It is for his people who strategies are NOT rand eceiving the sthem ervices from another think moms” it pretty rough. HereYou is a may link with all us the“special details you'll needhave to tune in and call in if you would like government p rogram. We have no choice. We just life when things get reallyis: tough. http:tinyurl.com/3gm58h7 Checkmanage it out and pass it along. His address P.O. Box 994, West him. we'd never make it through. We've made if it you through wetothought Chicago, IL 60186 wouldthe like days to write We've even impressedWho our own selves with all that we can do! Needs This Program?

Projectwho Lifesaver in Sarpy Caregivers need a temporary break County from providing care to persons of any age, with We'veCounty gained patience beyond measure, loveLifesaver we never dreamed of locate giving. The Sarpy Sheriff’s Office implemented Project in & 2008 to help missing special n eeds. E xamples o f s pecial n eeds athis re developmental physical limitations, We worry about future but know “special” living! persons. Children with the Autism or Down Syndrome, who are atlife's risk toworth wander, can have their safety emotional or behavioral isorders, sometimes, chronic illness. lzheimer’s isease up & rhigh. elated health Weenhanced have bad days dand but A we hold ourdheads greatly through this hurt program. Project Lifesaver emphasizes relationships between specially We feel joy anda t pride thankfulness more oftenis than we concerns, or persons risk oand f aindividuals buse & neglect. Ein ligibility based on cry. income guidelines. trained Sheriff’s personnel and enrolled the program BEFORE the need may arise for a HOWEVER, if you ave ehome xpenses elated to enrollees the disability, these usually be rescue. During an h initial visit,directly Project rLifesaver are fitted withcan a personalized For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) subtracted from the counted ncome. Tare he provided person awith pplying must have a overview caregiver. wristband transmitter and family imembers a comprehensive of the We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. program. Trained in communicating with individuals with special needs, deputies will schedule a The p rogram w ill p rovide u p t o $ 125 p er c lient p er m onth!! We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. monthly visit the to inspect and maintain the and get to know the enrollee better on a equipment Evenhome though pain they bring cannot be erased. more personal basis. The cost to participate in this program is minimal, at $10 a month. How do I become a Rcontact espite P rovider? For more information on Project Lifesaver, Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for usLt. toGriger digest,at 402-593-2288.

How do Iknow get qwhat ualified for the Lifespan Respite Subsidy Program? We don't the future holds, but give our kids our best.

Heart Heroes Capes for children with get CHD, a Non-Profit here in Nebraska What I ncan eed help finding respite provider, so I as a Caregiver, None ofif us be replaced, soawe don't many breaks.

EveryItyear approximately 40,000 infants arekids, born we'll in the do US with Congenital Heart Defects (CHD). CHD is wears us out, but to help our whatever it takes! can have break? the most frequently occurring birth defect and thealeading cause of birth-related deaths. More than 50% of children twith CHD will require at least one invasive surgery inatheir lifetime. And in the US, twice as Contact ebraska Rnot espite Network by see. contacting Rjust espite Network oordinator in many We he areNselfless, by choice you Our kids have many Cneeds. children die from CHD each year than from ALL forms of childhood cancers, combined! Needless to say, the your area (see below) or cwant all 1-‐866-‐RESPITE We're not out to change the world, but to plant some seeds. survivors of CHD wear their scars like badges of honor. They are our “Heart Heroes”. Heart Heroes, Inc., is We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. a non-profit organization that originated by a few Nebraska moms, who had children with CHD. After trying When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same. to coax their children through cardiology appointments and heart surgeries, they took comfort in the Western Service Area hero” capes to comfort their children, and Heart Heroes was founded. Now, wondrous powers of “super -- April Vernon Serving Sheridan, Garden, Deuel, hundreds of Heart Hero capes have been draped around the little shoulders ofrea CHD children everywhere. Southwest Service A Sioux, Cheyenne, Morrill, ox Butte, Dundy, Hitchcock, Red going Willow, to Furnas, Gosper, Dawson, Lincoln, Logan, to donate Consider donating a BHeart Hero CapeServing to a child with CHD by www.heartherocapes.com Dawes, Scottsbluff, Banner & Thomas, G rant, H ooker, A rthur, K eith, P erkins, C hase, Hayes, fears & Frontier a cape. There is a perpetual wait list of children who need their capes to conquer their and give them Kimball pictures of many of the cape recipients courage. You can also join our Heart Heroes Facebook Group to see C oordinator H elena J anousek and hear Coordinator their stories. Contact the co-founders of Heart Heroes at heartheroes@yahoo.com. “Children hold our hands for a moment, but our hearts (308)345-‐ forever.”4223 ~ Anonymous Sherri Blome (308)345-‐4990 (308)432-‐8190 respite@swhealth.ne.gov Exceptional Parent Magazine specialprojects@wchr.net

What's Where???

Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6

Magazine for parents of children with developmental disabilities and other special needs. You can get State-Wide page 6 a digital edition of this magazine, Just go to www.eparentdigital.com type in the EMAIL: Bellevue, Cedar Bluff specialneeds & Columbus page 7 155rw@eparent.com and use the PASSWORD: to access editions digitally. This Fremont & Grand Island page 8 information is also listed in the back of OKN under Website Resources.

Central Service Area page 9 Gretna & Hastings

Serving Harlan, Franklin, Webster, Clay, N uckolls, Phelps, Kearney, Adams, Buffalo, Hall, Hnd Merrick, H oward, Sherman, Lincoln pages - 15 Leaps & Bounds Pediatric Therapy NEW 2amilton, LOCATION Custer, Valley, Greeley, Blaine, Loup, 10 Garfield, Wheeler

Leaps and Bounds Pediatric Therapy, located pages in Lincoln, Norfolk 15 has - 16now added a South-West location in Lincoln, in addition to their North location inPlatte Lincoln. new clinic is located at 7945 S. 15 th St., North page Northern Service AThe rea 16 Suite DW(just eastDodge, o f14th Street, between Pine Lake Road Yankee HillPRoad). Serving ashington, C olfax, Platte, Nance, B oone, A ntelope, H olt, R ock, Band rown, Cherry, Keya aha, Boyd, Knox, Cedar, Omaha pages 16 - 24 Burt, Dixon, Dakota, Thurston, CSpeech uming, Stanton, Madison, Pierce & are Wayne Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy &for Therapy services available at BOTH locations! Resources Families pages x Please call 402-742-7400 to schedule an appointment at either locations. Classifieds Sue Bochart, For page BOTH S29 ervice A reas We look forward to seeing Coordinator you! (308)745-‐0780 ext. 145 sbochart@cennecs.org

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

NEW Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us Eastern alongSto families you know who could thisArea information!!! 2use LOCATIONS ervice Area Southeast S ervice

O’Hana Kids’ News is not responsible for any events; including cancellations, or changes after print. It is your responsibility to check with each contact to verify the information that we have provided to you.

Serving Douglas & Sarpy Coordinator Elizabeth Chentland * Physical (402)996-‐8444 echentland@gmail.com

Serving Thayer, Jefferson, Gage, Otoe, Cass, Pawnee, Richardson, Johnson, Nemaha, Lancaster, Saline, Fillmore, York, Seward, Polk, Butler & Saunders

To best Serve You!!!

Therapy * * Speech

Coordinator Misti McInteer Occupational (402)434-‐3494 eTherapy xt. 103 misti@ywcalincoln.org Therapy *

SOUTH-WEST LOCATION

NORTH LOCATION

Lincoln, NE

This edition is FREE!!! Pass it along!! Join our mailing list, contact us at ohanakidsnews@gmail.com 2550 Superior St. Suite 160 7945 S. 15th St. Suite D

Call 402-742-7400 to schedule an appointment at either location, TODAY!

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

I m p o rt an t T id b it s f o r F a m i l ie s May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May combined 13 is Mother's Day Parent Group â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kids with hearing & vision loss

Page 7

The Nebraska Technical Assistance Project on Deaf-Blindness has conducted training this year specific to parents of children who have a combined hearing & vision loss. The training has been in partnership with the National Consortium on Deaf-Blindness (NCDV2.0). A total of 6 parents have participated in a series of training activities from May 2011 through October 2011. They are now working on their leadership goals. They are called the Nebraska DB Parent Leadership Team, & have provided lots of support to the state Deaf-Blind project. It is the intent of this You may think us â&#x20AC;&#x153;special momsâ&#x20AC;? have it pretty rough. team toWe provide either vialife phones, face-to-face haveone-on-one no choice.interaction We just manage whentechnology things getorreally tough. with other parents We've in the state have a child birthwe to thought age 21, with a combined hearing & vision loss. If madewho it through the days we'd never make it through. We've even impressed own with all please that wecontact can do! Teresa Coonts at you want to be connected toour one of selves the parents, 402-595-1810 or Teresa.coonts@nebraska.gov This is an exciting group of parents gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed giving. working We've & learning together for the purpose of supporting other families in theoffuture.

Special Needs Mom's

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Â Check out any event changes, after publication A Â Special Â Sitter Â was Â Â additions & MORE inspired Â y Â our Â ongoing Â at our b blog:

journey Â of Â parenting Â our Â

www.ohanakidsnews. family, Â which Â includes Â 2 Â kids Â blogspot.com

with Â special Â needs, Â & Â we Â believe Â that Â our Â experiences Â For more information, can Â help Â you Â experience Â the Â or advertising rates fullness Â of Â blessings Â we Â have Â please contact us at: received Â as Â we Â have Â raised Â our Â 402-227-5304 family. Â

Â ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK Services Â too!! Offered: Â

Companionship Â Services Â

ThanksPersonal Â for Reading Care Â SOKN!! ervices Â

Home Â Helper Â Services Â Â

More Â Information Â Help For Â us Expand our Reach, Contact Â Richard Â Troia Â 402-Ââ&#x20AC;?697-Ââ&#x20AC;?8400 Â x201 Â rtroia@aspecialsitter.com Â Â Â See Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our Â Storyâ&#x20AC;? Â on Â Page Â 8 Â

We worry about the future but know this â&#x20AC;&#x153;specialâ&#x20AC;? life's worth living! have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. Bikes We and Trykes of Central Nebraska We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry.

We are a local chapter of AMBUCS, a national service organization composed of a diverse group For women our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, we do so much more :) disabilities. of men and dedicated to creating mobility andNo, independence for people with We are nurses, and children therapists don't out thewho door. Our mission is tocheerleaders, provide AmTrykes for area andwho adults withwalk disabilities, otherwise Webehandle unkind stares, with dignity and grace. would not able torude ride remarks a bike or and tryke. We are dedicated to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Celebrating the Abilities of Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. People with Disabilitiesâ&#x20AC;?. Our chapter representative is a 4 year old boy with Cerebral Palsy, his nameTherapies is Jaden. and Jaden has a twin brother, whousdoes not have any disabilities. When treatment routes areKaden, a lot for to digest, their family went know on bikewhat rides,the Jaden hadholds, to be pushed in our a stroller, which usually caused many We don't future but give kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't getamany breaks. tears. Jaden didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand why Kaden got to ride bike, and he had to be pushed in a wearswas us out, our kids, we'll whatever it takes! stroller.ItJaden fittedbut fortoanhelp AmTryke and he nowdo gets to ride along, so he can be just like his brother. The AmTryke has not only helped Jadenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self-esteem, but it has also increased his We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. muscle tone, muscle strength andbut balance. If plant you know of seeds. someone who would We'recoordination, not out to change the world, want to some benefit We fromwant an AmTryke have them are also requesting help from you our kidsplease accepted. That contact really isus. ourWe aim. When look at them, just see kids. We hope you'll receives do the same. so we can helpwe other children likewe Jaden. When a disabled individual the gift of an AmTryke, the whole family benefits. If you would consider donating toward an AmTryke, please -- April Vernon contact us also. We are located at 3004 West Faidley Avenue, GRAND ISLAND; 308-398-5170 or centralnebraskaambucs@gmail.com You can also check out the website www.ambucs.org

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love That Goes the What's Distanceâ&#x20AC;? Providing for special needs now & Where??? into the future! Planning for the long-term care of a loved one with special needs requires thought and preparation. Important The fact is, when it comes the futurepages needs of Tidbits for to Families 2 -a 6family member with a disability, the possibility that they nay outlive you is something State-Wide page 6that must be considered, especially when the individual is a minor or adult Cedar child. Preparations include estimating future careBellevue, Bluff & Columbus page possible 7 giving costs, as well as making sure all assets managed properly to 8 best benefit your loved one. Fremont & are Grand Island page Special protection when you need itGretna most! Sometimes familiespage neglect & Hastings 9 inheritance issues for special needs family members because they assume siblings or related will simply step in and take Lincoln pages 10 - caregivers 15 over the care giving duties should the need arise. pages Even if 15 families Norfolk - 16 have reached an agreement on care giving responsibilities, it is still important to address thepage management and division of assets and to have North Platte 16 your preferences clearly and legally defined. You also want to be sure you understand all of the legal Omaha pages 16 - 24 guidelines so that your loved one with special needs does not lose benefits from government sources. Resources for Families pages x For instance, many people are not aware of that with Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a single, Classifieds page 29 disabled person cannot own more than $2,000 in assets. One component you might want to consider when setting up your long-term financial plan is the establishment of a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Special Needs Trustâ&#x20AC;? funded with a form of life insurance. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;Special Needs Trustâ&#x20AC;? is established to ensure that the disabled individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s inheritance will supplement, not replace, any government assistance programs they may be eligible for. Aspects of a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Special Needs Trustâ&#x20AC;? include: Appointing someone to take care of your Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! loved oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property and money, Designating a guardian for children less than 18 years of age, Integrating the wishes spelled out in the trust with the remainder of the parentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s estate plan. Get the help you need now for future peace of mind. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;Special Needs Trustâ&#x20AC;? is just one tool that can help you address financial issues making life much easier for your loved one and their future caregivers. With proper planning, your love, and your money, will be set to go the distance. For additional information on â&#x20AC;&#x153;Special Needs Trustsâ&#x20AC;? it is important to consult with an attorney in your state of residence who specializes in special needs estate planning. For more information on preparing for your loved one with special needsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; future, you can contact Cecilia Loose, Prudential at (402)861-3676.

Edition #24 May 2012

I m p o rt a nt T id b it s f o r F a m il i e s Proudly serving over 8,500+ families Page--5 NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

IMPORTANT TIDBITS  FOR FAMILIES

ALLPlay Baseball for Kids with Special Needs

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

ABC Signing Kids League Baseball We are looking for children with disabilities to play in our incredible ALLPLAY Miracle League. Last year we have over 150 kids play baseball andTeaching we are looking MORE!! See Languag our ad to e to Kids of All Abilit ie s in Sout h East Neb raska. Why Begfor inning S ign the left for more information, and check us out at www.ALLPLAY.org can also callInBruce at to the fun you will have discovering a new and enriching language Le arn Sig nYou Langu ag e? addition 402-305-5020.

May 13 is Mother's Day

together, there are many benefits of signing with your child. Enhances C omm u ni cati on S kills i n Bab ies and To ddle rs. Even young children can learn basic ASL vocabulary quickly & easily with Signing Parent 2 Parent Mentor's Wanted – Please Read Academy Classes & experienced products. “Terrible Two’s” aren’t so terrible when your toddler can communicate Nationally over 80% of parents of children with disabilities Time who were mentored by an whatonhe wants. Im proves R eading Ski lls. Studies indicate that children who sign have an increased parent reported it to bet he most helpful source of information coping with the challenges of raising a child with special needs. Mentored parents report interest that the support of a&fellow was so in reading may parent even read early. Benefit s Children wit h Sp ec ial Ne eds. Many children with unique and personalized that it Therapy could not have come from any other source! Physical special needs have difficulty with communication & speech. Sign Language encourages connection, reinforces As the mother or father of a child with developmental disabilities, you have unique parenting Occupational Therapy positive self-image & fostersUse inclusion & acceptance. Sign Language is an effective tool for all types of experiences. Through time, training, and trial and error, you have gained valuable You may skills. think usyour “special moms” have it pretty rough. knowledge to help another parent on the journey by becoming a mentor. Parent to Parent (P2P) learning styles: auditory, & kinesthetic/Tactile. Speech Therapy We have novisual choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. programs link parents of children, adolescents and adults with disabilities with Ang ie Willey, Cert ified Inst ruct or at 40 2-49 9-40 22 or Fordevelopmental more We've informat ion Call made it raising through the days we thought we'd never make it through. experienced and informed veteran parents who understand the day-to-day experiences of a abcsig ning -ki ds@ signi ngti me .co m our You own c an also go with to www. ab csigni ngk ids. We've even selves all that we can do!wee bly.co m child with special needs. Parent to Parent Omaha is offered by Ollie Webb Center, Inc., impressed a local

Special Needs Mom's

2 LOCATIONS

nonprofit agency. We are seeking parent mentors who are coping well with their child’s situation and To Best Serve You!! view him or her as a valuable and developing person. Consider becoming a mentor ifAward you’dpatience likeCall to Friend ofWe've Autism for Nominations gained beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. help parents cope with the joys and challenges of having a child (of any age) with special needs. The Do you know an worry educator who demonstrates to individuals Autism Spectrum We about the future remarkable but knowdedication this “special” life's with worth living! time commitment involves contacting another parent (in person, -mail or telephone) once every two SOUTH-WEST We have bad for days sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. Disorders? Nominate them theand ASD hurt Network Friend of Autism Award . Submissions should include details weeks within the fist 8 weeks and LOCATION as mutually agreed thereafter. You have the knowledge and feelexhibits joy and thankfulness more often than we cry. experience. We provide as a framework wisdom. The next training will befollowing heldandqualities. of how the We nominee thepride 7945 S.training 15 th St., Suite D to share your soon and will include: Guidelines for Helping Families; Creative Coping SkillsHas andthe Resiliency; Survival Commitment: education of families and children and youth with ASD as a primary focus & provides LINCOLN, NE Tactics for Parents of Children with Special Needs; What Helps FamiliesFor in High Stress and our kids,Situations we aren't SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) opportunities that enable students with just ASD to reach their potential. Crisis; Tips for Extended Family Members and Siblings; Tips for locating Community Services; We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don'tallwalk out the Vision: Sees potential in all individuals, readily adapts to change and accepts individuals withdoor. ASD and NEW NORTH LOCATION Information on Parent to Parent USA; Cultural Competence and Family Centered Care; AND We handle rudea remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. Principles of Family-Professional Collaboration. To talk with someone about their strengths andbecoming needs. 4640 Bair Ave though the painsupported they bring cannot be field erased. mentor, please contact Annie Anderson at 346-5220 ext. 23 or Even Innovation: Is aware of empirically practices in the of Autism Spectrum Disorders and shows In Superior Pointe Shopping Center aanderson@olliewebbinc.org or mail your name, address, phone number and e-mail to: a willingness to adapt and use resources creatively. LINCOLN, NE 42nd Street | Suite 122 | Omaha, NE 68105 ? Ollie Webb Center, Inc | 1941 South Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest,

Inspiration: Displays positive interactions with students & parents, and actively influences peers with their

We don'tARE know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. O'Hana KidsCall News is giving away POGO cards!! THEY FREE!!! 402-742-7400 energyMAY & enthusiasm.

None of can expires be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. OKN has To leftover POGO cards from our fundraiser. Lincoln Please expires include i6/30/2012 andus Omaha contact information for the nominee and the person(s) submitting the nomination. Nominations schedule an appointment 8/31/2012. We would love to start selling the newest POGO cards but It firstwears want tous get out, rid of but the to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! can be submitted via email to: Annette Wragge at awragge2@unl.edu or by mail to: Annette Wragge, UNL, At either location, TODAY!! ones we have. Therefore from here on our until they are gone, first come first served they are 253F Barkley Center, Lincoln, 68583-0738 FREE!! Just let me know via email at ohanakidsnews@gmail.com. We have cards NE for We arePOGO selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. all L&B Families Lincoln andThank Omaha You both. to If you have never used a POGO Nomination card, you are missing out.isInMarch just as little Deadline 8. The award will be presented during the Thursday evening dinner at the We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. as 1 use you recoup the $5 you the card, and still year toConference. use the remainder of forcantheir support aspaid weforbegin 2013have ASDa State Theaccepted. conference will be really held on is April 11 aim. & 12 in Kearney at the Youness Webeen want kids That our the card. My family uses a POGO card on a regular basis, but have never ableour to use th Convention Center. 6 year of service inseveral hundred look at use. them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same. everything on our the card, and it usually saves us dollars When a year inwe what we can Northof Lincoln, Now at a NEW Here is a sample what you get: McDonalds's; Burger King, Runza, Many other fast food places, coffee shops, Pizza Hut; Location, Valentino's, Domino's Pizza & many other restaurants; at many area -- April Golf Vernon courses; Big Red Store; Russwood Auto Center (Lincoln); Oil Changes; Russ' Supermarket ($5 off “Our Story” The Beginning & WELCOME to all New Families $50 purchase x 3, Lincoln), Saltdogs, & so many other places to save money with I can't even list of A Special Sitter As parents of four with special needs, we understand your challenges in raising special needs them all! So how can getSouth!! YOUR POGO card???? Just shoot us an email or children, leave us atwo message toYOU L&B (information on front page) and we will let you know that your POGO card is on its our way!! Limit of 1responsibility is to train our children for life. As a parent, you children. As parents, God given per city per email address!! Thank You!!!! Check out any event *

changes, after publication additions & MORE Building Better at our blog:

Futures

www.ohanakidsnews. The Alexis Verzal Children's Rehabilitation Hospital is dedicated to the unique needs of children. blogspot.com Providing advanced technology and compassionate

For more information, care for a variety of rehab needs, inpatient or or advertising rates outpatient. please contact us at: 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

experience highs & lows as your children grow through the seasons of life. We learned early, that these highs & lows are amplified when you are caring for a child with special needs. You want to attend your children’s sporting events, teacher conferences, & musical performances. You want to continue Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 to date your spouse, because a strong marriage creates a strong family. State-Wide page 6 Like us, you probably have asked yourselves, “How do we create & maintain Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus 7 to caring for our this balance when most of our time & energy page is devoted GrandOur Island 8 you answer that question so childFremont with special&needs?” desire ispage to help Gretna & Hastings pageof9blessings available to your family your family can experience the fullness because of Lincoln your child with special pages 10 needs. - 15 A Special Sitter was inspired by our ongoingNorfolk journey of pages parenting 15or -family 16 & we believe our experiences can help you experience the fullness of blessings we have received as we have North Platte page 16 raised our family. – Kimberly Omaha pages and 16 -Richard 24 Troia, Co-Founders of A Special Sitter. Need any help, please call us today at 402-697-8400 x201 Resources for Families pages x or rtroia@aspecialsitter.com

What's Where???

Classifieds page 29

Learn more at www.Madonna.org

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

ple know how you found out Available about these activities & advertisers!! Respite Care forevents, Air Force Families * FREE to them * U.S.Kids’ Air Force (USAF) Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) families stationed throughout the country have children who require unique child care Tell ‘em, O’Hana News pointed you their way!!! Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!!

considerations due to the child’s special needs. Finding & paying for quality child care for children with special needs can also present significant challenges for military families. The U.S. Air Force EFMP program has established a quality respite program for families with children having special needs & who are enrolled in the USAF EFMP. USAF EFMP Respite Care is specifically designed for Air Force families who have children diagnosed with moderate or severe special needs under EFMP. This includes exceptional family member children whose medical conditions require assignment near major medical facilities in the continental United States, or whose needs are complex and require specialized community of care. What is included in the USAF EFMP Respite Care? Respite care hours vary between 8 – 20 hours per month based on the Airman’s status and EFM’s condition (moderate or severe). Your choice of an approved in-child’s home or licensed Family Child Care or Child Care Center. (Approved providers are background screened and have the following pre-service training: CPR, First Aid, Medication Dispensation, & Child Abuse Recognition & Prevention as well as subject matter training in the care of children with special needs. To begin the application process, call Child Care Aware toll-free at 1-800-424-2246 or email michelle.pridell@offutt.af.mil for a Respite Care Step by Step instruction form. Or call the EFMP Office at 402-294-4329 for more info!

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

I m p o rt an t T id b it s f o r F a m i l ie s May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

Page 9

Limb Loss Awareness KitsMay These will to the public during the month of April. April is 13beisavailable Mother's Day Limb Loss Awareness Month. The kit will include a yard sign stating our Just Ask! Awareness theme and other items (to help grab attention of passing traffic) along with simple setup instructions. The idea is to have families request the kits so that we can bring awareness to the entire state. These kits can be requested by contacting the Nebraska Children with Limb Differences (NCULD) Association at awareness@nculd.org They are FREE of cost and will be mailed right to your front door!

Advertise Here!!

Special Needs Mom's

Looking for

WANTED: Children with Limb Differences to write their story for NCULD’s think us is“special have pretty Book!!You Themay NCULD family publishingmoms” a book and we it need some rough. more limb different kiddos to help us

Advertisers in the Central/Western Parts of NE Only $25 a month No Contracts!! Contact Heather at 402-227-5304 ohanakidsnews @gmail.com

WeHow have notimes choice. We been just asked, manage lifehappened when things tough. write it! many have you “What to your get hand,really arm, leg, __________ madeNow it through the chance days we thought we'dWhat never through. (fill in We've the blank)?” is your child’s to tell their story! willmake make it this book so great is even impressed our own selves with that canthis do!very question. From that itWe've will incorporate the many different approaches we’veall taken to we answer Maycee’s “WHAT?! I’m missing my hand? To Micah’s “There were these four ninjas . . .” sense of We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. adventure to Braedyn’s “God just made me this way” wisdom, we’re sure to get a variety of enduring and We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! witty child-friendly answers. We’ll wrap up the book by tying it in with our current awareness campaign, We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. “Just Ask?” with an encouraging word about “just asking” about someone’s difference, no matter what it We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. might be, in a simple and considerate way. Your child’s story can be about anything they can imagine that explains thekids, question, “What happened to your ________ (filldo in so the much blank)?more Please:)keep your For our we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we child’s We storyare under 100 words. You can submit final draft who to kourtney.case@nculd.org along with cheerleaders, nurses, andthe therapists don't walk out the door. a favorite your child. You can an illustration for thedignity story asand wellgrace. if you’d like. We picture handleofrude remarks andsend unkind stares, with Submissions due NOthe LATER THAN APRIL 12!!cannot This can a great family project with parents and Evenare though pain they bring bebeerased. siblings chiming in with ideas too! Have fun, be imaginative, but mostly, just be YOU! All proceeds will benefitTherapies the Nebraska Children with Limb Difference Each child author will be named and and treatment routes are aorganization. lot for us to digest, will receive a copyknow of the what finishedthe product! writing!!! We don't futureHappy holds, but give our kids our best. Edition #24 May 2012 None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes!

We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. When we look at them, justAcross see kids. hope you'll do the same. Proudly serving over 8,500+ families --we NOW allWe of Nebraska!!!

Check out any event changes, after publication additions & MORE at our blog: www.ohanakidsnews. blogspot.com For more information, or advertising rates please contact us at: 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

Special Blend Family Resource Center W E E -- April C (SBFRC) NVernon UR O S May is Better Speech & Hearing Month RE

May 9 is National Nurse DayRichard Troia, A Special School Sitter Co-‐Founder, May 13 is Mother's announces the opening of Day the Special Blend Family What's Where??? Resource Center (SBFRC). The purpose of the SBFRC is to assist Special Blend Families Tidbits with navigating the complexities Important for Families pages 2 - 6 of life created by their unique situation. A SState-Wide pecial Blend F amily page 6 is a family o f special needs Bellevue, Cedar & Columbus & non-‐special needs individuals, & Bluff parents doing their page best 7to maintain their &the Grand Island 8 members. relationship Fremont & balance needs of all page family Gretna & Hastings page 9 You may think us “special moms” have pretty rough. it 10 Lincoln pages - 15 We have no choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. SBFRC provides the thought following services: Norfolk 15 we'd - 16 We've made it through the days wepages never make it through.

Special Needs Mom's

North Platte page 16 1. Estate and Tax Planning, including Special/Supplemental Needs Trust Omaha pages 16 - 24 (SNT) & Lmeasure, ife CFamilies are P lanning. x dreamed of giving. We've gained patience beyond love we never Resources for pages We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do!

We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living!

Classifieds page 29 We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we E hold our heads up high. (IEP) 2. Educational Services including Individualized ducational Placement We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. Assistance, & Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. For more information please contact Richard Troia at Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. rtroia@sbfrc.com based i n O maha Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest,

We handle rude remarks unkind stares, with dignity grace. Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you and know who could use thisand information!!!

We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes!

Check out our website at

www.ohanakidsnews.com

O’Hana Kids News is not responsible for any events,. Including cancellations, or changes after print. It is your responsibility to verify the information provided through the contact information provided. You can check the We are selfless, not by choice see. page Ouras kids just have many needs. blog at www.ohanakidsnews.blogspot.com or ouryou Facebook we try to update those with any information We're out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. changes that havenot occurred after publishing.

We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same. -- April Vernon

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!! Page 10

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month

May 9 SUMMER is National School CAMPS Nurse Day 2013

May 13 is Mother's Day

OUTPATIENT PEDIATRIC THERAPIES PT, OT, SPEECH & FEEDING

Specialized Summer Workshops SENSORY ART EXPERIENCE Your child will explore arts and crafts through the senses (for ages 6+). CALL 402.496.1000 For more information or to register today!

Together, we can do anything.

Special Needs Mom's

2013 Easter Seals Camp Dates

You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. July 11 – 12:just Military Youth Disabilities ONLY, ages 7 – 17, Offutt We have no choice. We manage lifewith when things get really tough. AFB, Base We've made it through the days we thought we'dLake never make it through. We've even impressed our ownJuly selves all that we 14 can 14 –with 19: Teens, ages – do! 22

July 21 – 26: All Ages

For more information on these camps: Mike Tufte 402-930-4053

For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) Easter Seals Nebraska's newand online registration is now We are cheerleaders, nurses, therapists who don't walkopen. out thePlease door. stop by to stares, register. sure check out the We www.campeastersealsne.com handle rude remarks and unkind withMake dignity andyou grace. new linksthe at pain the they top of thecannot homepage, as well as the PHOTOS link. Even though bring be erased.

Remember summer is almost here!!!

Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same.

PROJECT EXPLORE SUMMER CAMP

-- April Vernon Sunday, June 30 to Saturday, July 6 Camp Starts at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, & ends at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday WHERE: Camp Kitaki, LOUISVILLE Check out any event COST: $470 Space is Limited! Register TODAY!!

What's Where???

changes, after publication Project EXPLORE the unique purpose of providing learning disabled or attention deficit youth between ages of 8 & 17, with a positive summer additions &has MORE camp at experience. It is specifically designed for children who have been identified with a learning disability, attention deficit disorder, Autism, our blog: Tidbits Families pages 2 -of 610 children who are Asperger’s, or like disorders, without primary emotional or behavioral pImportant roblems. Campers will for be involved in small groups State-Wide pageof 6self-‐esteem. Camper relationships www.ohanakidsnews. led by 2 staff. Campers experience nature & participate in camp activities that emphasize the enhancement Cedar & Columbus page 7 blogspot.com help develop the realization of the uBellevue, nique capabilities in Bluff each individual. Fremont & Grand Island page 8 Gretna & For more information, FOR MORE INFORMATION: Hastings page 9 Lincoln pages 10 - 15 or advertising rates Call D’Arcy Goodrich at 402-‐334-‐1677 o r proj-‐expl@cox.net Norfolk pages 15 - 16 please contact us at: North Platte page 16 402-227-5304 Omaha pages 16 - 24 ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Resources for Families pages x FACEBOOK too!! Camp Abilities Nebraska Classifieds page 29

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

July 21 – 26, 2013

Camp Abilities Nebraska is a week-long residential sports camp for youth you are blind, visually impaired or deafblind. Youth will explore sports & recreational activities in ayou safeknow environment with instructors have experience Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families who could use thiswho information!!! in adaptive techniques. COST: $300; Scholarships are available & NE residency NOT required! REGISTRATION: Begins NOW & Ends May 1; LIMITED to 20 CAMPERS!!! MORE INFORMATION or TO MAKE A DONATION: Call Kristal Platt, Camp Director at 402-498-6365 or Kristal.platt@boystown.org or visit www.BoysTownHospital.org/HearingServices/EducationalOutreach

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

2013 SUMMER CAMPS

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13Bisuddy Mother's True Farms Day Home of Luv A Lamb

2013 2013 Summer Farm Camps Special Needs Mom's & Clinic Schedule SUMMER may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. & You get really tough. We have no choice. We just manage life when things We've made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. DAY CAMP We've even impressed our own selves with all that we do! WHERE: 13714 South 84th Scan treet, Papillion, NE

Just south of Hwy 370 of giving. We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. COST: All Farm Camps & Clinics Cost $10 Per Person

Ages &so Up For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we 4 do much more :) Registration information available Weat: are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. www.hiskidscamp.org Even though the pain they bring Farm cannotCbe erased. amp Day -‐ Call For Date Call to Book a Farm Tour, We’ll Find a Date for Your Group

Therapies and treatment routes lotwfor to digest, For More Information or Questions: • Tour the farm, ware ash aand alk sus heep, pet the animals, learn about farm life. We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. Josh Rausch at josh@campluther.org None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. Sheep Shearing Camp Cwhatever all to B ook a Shearing Camp, We It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll – do it takes! Start as Early as APRIL

SaturDAY Camp For ages 5 to 13 COST: $35 per camper July 20, 2013 Check out any9:00 event am to 4:00 pm

We are selfless, not• by choice you see. kids just m have Learn about wool, help Our shear a sheep, ake amany n art pneeds. roject out of wool. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. Cowboy Dave Camp –Wednesday July 17 (6 -‐ 8 PM) When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same.

• Learn life lessons with Cowboy Dave, an educational presenter -‐ www.cowboydave.org • Teaching traditional values to the youth of today, and he does it the cowboy way!

-- April Vernon

changes, after publication additions & MORE at our blog:

www.ohanakidsnews. For all programs, each blogspot.com

camper is paired with a trained “Buddy” to be with them For more information, during their ENTIRE camp experience. or advertising ratesis specifically designed “Buddy” training please contact us at: for their camper to meet & challenge 402-227-5304 each camper’s abilities, creating an “I ohanakidsnews@gmail.com can do it!” attitude! FACEBOOK too!! Thanks for Reading OKN!!

Vet Clinic Camp –Wednesday July 24 (2 – 4 PM) What's Where???

• July 24 – Dr. Olsen of Plattsmouth Animal Clinic will present how to pursue a veterinary career, Important forabout Families 2A-frica 6 fulfilling a veterinary & share a dTidbits ocumentary his time pages in South State-Wide page 6 internship. Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 Sheep E nrichment Fremont & Grand Island page W 8 orkshop GretnaThursday & Hastings page July 11 (910 AM – 12 PM) pages - f15 • Even Lincoln the sheep n eed to 10 have un. Help us make toys for the sheep! Norfolk pages 15 - 16 Ice Cream aking page – Friday NorthM Platte 16 July 19 (10 AM -‐ 12 PM) • Learn how to pages make ice Omaha 16cream - 24 from sheep milk and goat milk. Resources for Families pages x Classifieds page 29

PLEASE CONTACT US FOR QUESTIONS, RESERVATIONS & REGISTRATION FORMS:

donna@luvalamb.com (402)578-‐2388 Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! Resources for Families www.luvalamb.com Are now listed ONLY on the website

www.ohanakidsnews.com because of their sheer size J

Registration is Required, with Full payment. We reserve the Right to Cancel & Payment Will Be Refunded

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

2013 SUMMER CAMPS

Camp YouCan

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National Day LincolnSchool Park Nurse and Recreation May 2013 13 is Mother's ADAPTIVEDay RECREATION SUMMER CAMPS For More Information:

Kerry Zingg at 402-441-7877 or kzingg@lincoln.ne.gov Saturday & Sunday Special Needs Mom's Monica Manning at 402-441-7948 or September 7 & 8 dwilliams@lincoln.ne.gov the applicant attended any 9:00 am Saturday to 3:00 pm Sunday You may think us “specialIfmoms” have it hasn’t pretty previously rough. Recreation Center Programs, please bring your We have no choice. Easterday We just manage life when things get really tough. registration into it through. We've made it through the days we competed thought we'd never make Easterday Center Adams, LINCOLN. We've even impressed our ownRecreational selves with all that at we6130 can do! YMCA Camp Kitaki Please call one of the above ladies to arrange a time to do that. Located between Omaha & Lincoln We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! SUMFUN DAY CAMP We have bad days and hurt sometimes, butShelter we hold heads up LINCOLN high. LOCATION: Antelope andour Auld Pavilion, We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than COST: $80 TIME: 9:00 am to 2:30we pmcry. Offered for school-age youth with special needs ages 5 – 21. For our kids, we Activities aren't just SUPERMOMS, we do so much offer opportunities No, for developing skills &more social :) interaction in a are cheerleaders,fun nurses, and therapists don't walk out the door. environment. Campers who are expected to participate in group For children ages 7 – 21 We We handle rude activities, remarks & and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. interact with their peers. We incorporate activities that focus Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. With epilepsy on healthy lifestyles & fitness (active games, sports & swimming) & nature exploration (field trips, crafts, & activities in parks). Therapies and treatment are atolot for us to according digest, to age, after registration Campers routes are assigned site groups our kids our best. This is for kids to have a d ay full of fun We and don't know what the future holds, but give is completed. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. adventure! It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! CREATIVITY CAMPS

Designed for teens & young adults with special needs ages 13 & up. We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. It’s also a time to meet and develop relationships with We're not out to change the world, but to plant some seeds. Art want Extravaganza Camp other children w ho have epilepsy. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim.Center, 6130 Adams, LINCOLN LOCATION: Easterday Recreation When we look at them, we just see kids. We1:15 hope do the same. TIME: – you'll 4:15 pm There is so much to do there: Campers will receive instruction on painting, drawing, ceramics & -- April Vernon pottery. Campers will each have time to present their art work during a Boating, Fishing, Archery, Games, Arts & Crafts, Zip Student Art Show on Friday, July 26 from 3:30 - 4:00 pm at Easterday. Line & Ropes Course!!

Check out any event changes, after publication To register or for further information additions & MORE go to: at our blog:

www.epilepsylife.org

www.ohanakidsnews. or blogspot.com

Contact Camp Directors

For more information, Meg & Kael Busing or advertising rates please contact 402-‐770-‐3936 us at:

402-‐210-‐3121 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

Drama Camp

LOCATION: Auld Pavilion, LINCOLN TIME: 9:30 am – 3:00 pm Campers will modify a children’s play, work on sets, props, & costumes. Campers will have a performance on August 2 from 2:30 – 3:00 pm at Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 Auld Pavilion.

What's Where???

State-Wide page 6 Bellevue, Cedar & have Columbus 7 of 1:5 Our Bluff Camps a staffpage ratio Fremont & Grand page 8 If your child has a 1:1Island ratio at school, you are responsible Gretna & Hastings pagethe 9 camp with your child J . to provide a person to attend Lincoln pages 15 Staff who work at 10 our- camps are hired for their Norfolk pages & 15interest - 16 experience, training in working with youth North Platte page with disabilities. Many are16 college students working on Omaha pages 16 - 24 education & special education degrees. Volunteers Resources for Families pages x We will work with provide additional assistance. page personalClassifieds staff or aides to29 adapt equipment, encourage campers, & provide any other assistance, which may be needed. Once maximum enrollment is reached, applicants will be placed on a waiting list.

Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! O’Hana Kids News is not responsible for any events,. Including cancellations, or changes after print. It is your responsibility to verify the information provided through the contact information provided. You can check the blog at www.ohanakidsnews.blogspot.com or our Facebook page as we try to update those with any information changes that have occurred after publishing.

Resources for Families Are now listed ONLY on the website

www.ohanakidsnews.com because of their sheer size J

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

Page 13

2013 SUMMER CAMPS May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day

Special Needs HETRA Mom's 2013 Summer Schedule

You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. We have no choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. We've made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do!

gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. OMAHA Barn We've Summer Camp ** Just dded** We worry about the future but know this A “special” life's worth living!

th St, O MAHA have bad days4906 and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. WHERE: We OMAHA BARN, S. 180 We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. VALLEY BARN, 29430 Ida Street, VALLEY COST: $For 50 our per kids, day owe r $200 for the entire week No, we do so much more :) aren't just SUPERMOMS, We are cheerleaders, therapists who don't walk out the door. TIME: All Camps are 9:00 nurses, am to 1and 1:00 am We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. CONTACT: Edye at edye@hetra.org or Athough manda the at apain manda@hetra.org r the office at 402-‐359-‐8830 Even they bring cannotobe erased. and treatment are a lot for us to digest, with t oileting, Students must be at least 5 years of Therapies age to attend. If your routes student requires assistance We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. ambulation, or may experience behavioral ssues, a caregiver will need be pbreaks. resent at all times. None of us ican be replaced, so we don't getto many

It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes!

July 22 -‐ 26

We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. Summer amp We're not out to Omaha change the world,Cbut want to plant some seeds. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same.

-- April Vernon Summer Camps Jimando Farms

WHERE: Jimando Farms, County Road 8, Yutan, NE COST: $30 for Driving Lessons & $ 50 for Horse Camps Check out any event changes, after publicationCONTACT: Rachel at Rachel@hetra.org today to reserve your spot! additions & MORE at our blog:

July 13

www.ohanakidsnews. July 16 blogspot.com July 20

August 6 – 8

For more information, September 7 or advertising rates 21 please September contact us at:

October 5

402-227-5304

October 19 ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

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2:00 – 4:00 pm Horse pages Camp 2 - 6 Important Tidbits for Families State-Wide page 6 Camp 9:00 – 11:00 am Horse Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 2:30 – 4:30 pm Driving Lessons Fremont & Grand Island page 8 9:00 – 11:00 am 3 Day Camp Gretna & Hastings page 9 2:00 -‐ 4:00 pm Horse Lincoln pages 10 - 15 Camp 2:30 -‐ 4:30 pm Driving Norfolk pages 15 - 16 Lessons North Platte page 16 Camp 2:00 -‐ 4:00 pm Horse Omaha pages 16 24 HETRA’s Annual Fall Festival

Resources for Families pages x Classifieds page 29

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

ALL THIS INFORMATION CAN BE FOUND ON HETRA’S WEBSITE AT: www.Hetra.org

Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!!

Resources for Families are now listed ONLY on the website

www.ohanakidsnews.com because of their sheer size J

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

2013 SUMMER CAMPS

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

Camp Quality USA

May 13 is Mother's Day

The Barn

Special Needs Mom's 2013

Camp Quality USA, Inc., Summer You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. provides year-‐round We have no choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. support programs We've for made it through the days we thought we'd never make itCamps through. We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do! children with cancer and We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. their families. Programs include our signature We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! week long camp and other year-‐round We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. Camps are for A LL AGES We Efeel programs such as reunions and ski camps. ach joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. & Run 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Daily camp is volunteer run and community funded. For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :)

We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door.

Camp Quality gives families a much needed est, rude remarks and unkind stares, We r handle with July 8dignity – 12 and grace. Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. knowing that the highest quality program has July 15 – 19 been selected for their child – a companion will and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, Therapies July 22 – 26 be assigned to ensure the child’s safety aWe nd don't the know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get July 2many 9 – Abreaks. ugust 2 finest medical supervisors are provided aItt wears each us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! August 5 -‐ 9 camp to administer medications and on-‐site We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. care. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds.

We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim.

Campers at Camp Quality range from 4 yWhen ears owe f look atCamp them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same. size is from 5 to 10 campers. We have found that age through 17 and vary in stages of t-heir April Vernon this number allows for more one on one interaction treatment or remission. They are children who and less waiting by the campers. Campers will smile, laugh, play and have dreams for a bright experience a variety of sensory activities, outdoor Check out any event future. activities, and many typical camp events to enhance

What's Where??? sensory integration opportunities. Summer camp provides a n o pportunity for pages the k2ids Important Tidbits for Families - 6to interact w ith peers, a nd b uild o n t he s kills t hey h ave been learning State-Wide page 6 campers and ensure the m ost enjoyable, safe, www.ohanakidsnews. Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page blogspot.com all year through individual therapy, s7chool, and other relaxing, and restoring experience possible for Fremont & Grand Island page 8 special services. Socialization each child. Each companion, at least 18 years of Gretna & Hastings page 9 w ith peers w ithin a For more information, community s etting i s i mportant for kids with sensory Lincoln pages 10 - 15 age, i s i nterviewed, b ackground c hecked, a nd or advertising rates Norfolk pages 15 16 please contact us at: integrative d isorders a nd T he B arn summer camps trained BEFORE camp!! North Platte page 16 provide that privilege in a safe and nurturing 402-227-5304 Omaha pages 16 - 24 Camp Quality provides all the year-‐round ohanakidsnews@gmail.com environment. Campers evelop Resources for Familiesdpages x a close relationship programs at NO COST to families. The camp is FACEBOOK too!! Classifieds pagea29 with camp counselors nd therapists as well as the run 100% on donations, supplies, other campers. Your child will need to bring a swim Thanks for Reading OKN!! & volunteer hours. suit, a change of clothing, sack lunch & drink. The campers will be interacting in many activities Help us y Expand Reach, Pass O usr along could use this information!!! Would ou like our to V olunteer? know to families you know who throughout the week. more about Camp Quality or even

changes, after publication The Companions are the lifeblood of the camp. additions & MORE at our They are the ablog: round-‐the-‐clock caretaker for the

Caleb Rogers 712-‐310-‐8177 caleb.rogers@campqualityusa.org

For More Information or to Register 402-‐301-‐6829 info@myplaybarn.com

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

2013 SUMMER CAMPS

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day

2013 SUMMER WORKSHOPS

Special Needs Mom's You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough.

We have no choice. We manage life when things get really tough. For More Information orjust Questions: made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. Meaghan Walls atWe've 402-496-1000 or MWalls@crccomaha.org We've even impressed our own selves with all that we can do! We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. COST for Each Camp: We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! CRCC Summer Camp Enrolled $100 We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry.

Non CRCC Summer Camp Enrolled $50

SUMMER ART ADVENTURE Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest,

We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. For Ages 6 & Up None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. It wears us out, but to help our31 kids, we'll do whatever it takes! Wednesdays, July 10 –

TIME: 1:00 to 2:30 pm We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. REGISTRATION DUE the JULY 1 but want to plant some seeds. We're not out to change world, We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. Location:When 13833 Industrial Road, OMAHA we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same. -- April Vernon Your child will explore arts & crafts through the senses by engaging in a multi media art experience lead by two Occupational Therapists. Our instructors are able to adapt the environment and activities to your child’s needs to ensure an enjoyable experience. Check out any event

changes, after publication additions & MORE at our blog: www.ohanakidsnews. blogspot.com For more information, or advertising rates please contact us at:

What's Where???

Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 State-Wide page 6 Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 Fremont & Grand Island page 8 Gretna & Hastings page 9 Camp Theme Weeks A vailable Lincoln pages 10 - 15 For Campers Ages 6 – 2Norfolk 1 with Spages pecial Needs 15 - 16 of ALL Abilities! North Platte page 16 Omaha pages 16 - 24 Resources for Families pages x Classifieds page 29

July 1 – 5 “It’s a Party in the USA” Thanks for Reading OKN!! July 8 – 12 “Adventure on the High Seas” July 15 – 19 “Mad World of Science” July 29 – August 2 “ Superhero Training Camp” – 9along “CRCC’s ot Talent” you know who could use this information!!! Help us Expand our Reach,August Pass 5us toGfamilies 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

CRCC's Summer Sensations is a unique camp experience designed to fit the needs of children with all ranges of abilities. More than just fun-‐filled, CRCC is committed to the continued growth & development of each child. An amazing team of therapists (OT, PT, Speech & Feeding) can work with the children to maintain & improve their skills in whatever area is needed with the added convenience of being on site with the children at the center. Also, CRCC offers a modified program for those children whose sensory or behavioral needs require more adaptation or structure. Returning campers can tell you all about the awesome activities & fieldtrips, they look forward to each year! This is the perfect mix for an Exciting & Fun Filled Summer!!!

For More Information or to register for one week or ALL of them J Lori Maire at 402-‐895-‐4000 or lmaire@crccomaha.org Registration is required in advance of camp!!

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

Page 16

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month State-Wide INFORMATION May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day Telehealth for Pediatric Epilepsy Clinic MORE INFORMATION: 308-865-7742 for information & appointments DECRIPTION: Telehealth offers a chance to participate in an exciting At Snyder Charleson Therapy Services, P.C. and growing part of this nation’s health care. It reduces travel hours and away time from work; and brings individuals together in order to provide healthcare services and educational opportunities that might You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. otherwise be inaccessible. Through technology, individuals are able to We have no choice. We manage when get really tough. see just and talk to one life another fromthings sites across Nebraska. Currently, all We've made it through the days we thought we'd never it through. pediatric neurologists and epileptologists in make Nebraska are located in the Speech, Occupational & Physical We've even impressed ourareas own at selves all that wethe can do! Through telemedicine urban the farwith eastern edge of state. connections, patients can go to their nearest telehealth site and be We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. linked directly with a board certified pediatric neurologist in Omaha. We worry about the future but is know this “special” life'sisworth living! Travel time greatly reduced and access easier for both the patients We have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. www.snydercharleson.com and the healthcare provider. We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry.

Kid

Ability

Special Needs Mom's

Therapy for Kids!

(402) 391-5002

For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) We 21 are- cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. Counselors Needed for Camp Abilities Nebraska July 26 We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, withordignity MORE INFORMATION: Contact Camp Director Kristal Platt at 402-498-6365, Kristal.platt@boystown.org visit and grace. Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. http://www.boystownhospital.org/hearingservices/EducationalOutreach/Pages/Camp-Abilities-Nebraska.aspx. DECRIPTION: Camp Abilities Nebraska is a residential sports camp for youth ages 9 – 19 who are blind, visually impaired or deaf-blind. Applicants Therapies treatment a lotdisciplines for us to with experience in the areas of Adaptive Physical Education and and Special Education, routes or other are relevant aredigest, needed; staff orientation is July We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. 20-21. Positions may fill quickly, so apply as soon as possible, preferably by July 1. A $150 stipend is offered for the week of camp. Camp Abilities None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. Nebraska is co-sponsored by Boys Town National Research Hospital and Outlook Nebraska, Inc. It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! Parents of Children Between the Ages of 5-12 Diagnosed with ASD NEEDED for Online We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. Study at Queen’s University We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. MORE INFORMATION: Laurel DAult at laurel.dault@queensu.ca or (613)533-2894 We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. TO PARTICIPATE: Go to www.tinyurl.com/QueensASDstudy and at enter the password When we look them, we justasdstudy see kids. We hope you'll do the same. DECRIPTION: This study will require you to complete questionnaires about your child’s behaviors and emotional responses. It takes about 30 – 90 minutes to complete depending on depth of your answers. The study is being conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Kelley’s ASD lab at Queen’s University. The -- April Vernon study is completely confidential and non-invasive. Study Participants NEEDED: Recruiting teachers & related service professionals Check any event MOREout INFORMATION: Richard Simpson at 785-864-0507 or richsimp@ku.edu or Stephen Crutchfield at stephencrutchfield@ku.edu DECRIPTION: Teachers and related service professionals needed to participate in a study on intervention methods and teaching strategies used with changes, after publication students with spectrum disorders (ASD). Interested participants should contacts us. We will contact respondents to give details about the additions &autism MORE study make sure they qualify to participate. The questionnaire will ask about use of various interventions designed for use with children with at and ourtoblog: Important for of Families pages 2 - 6specific identifying ASD. It will take about 10 – 15 minutes to complete the questionnaire. Participants Tidbits names, names school districts, or other page 6 information will not be disclosed in any way through this study (we are only interestedState-Wide in group data). Study Participants MUST: Hold state www.ohanakidsnews. approved provisional or full licensure or endorsement in special educationCedar or a related service ar ea such as 7 occupational Bellevue, Bluff & Columbus page blogspot.com therapy; Have a minimum of one year teaching experience with at Fremont least one student with ASD; Have contact with at & Grand Island pagecurrent 8 elementary age student with ASD Gretna & Hastings page 9 For least moreone information,

What's Where???

Lincoln pages 10 - 15 or advertising rates Handbag Needs Questionnaire: Inclusive Design for Wheelchair Users pages 15 - 16 please us at: MORE contact INFORMATION: Contact Sandra Starkey at slsyb9@mail.missouri.edu youNorfolk can call also at (573)882-9585 you can fill the survey out North Platte page 16 online at https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1r7nBRHjAswREf6k0TFLj8fDcHSCBxpM402-227-5304 Omaha pages 16 - 24 RrFE4fwZBQU/viewform?sid=67e7bc8740e77d8e&token=3zkRbj0BAAA.NE5X68wLliCPxpCb_bDT0w.Z9t9G78Y_5kblUTjRogAQQ (note: ohanakidsnews@gmail.com email ohanakidsnews@gmail.com for link) Resources for Families pages x FACEBOOKSandra too!! is a P.h.D. student at the University of Missouri, Columbia. She is DECRIPTION: looking for families participate by filling out a survey about Classifieds pageto29 the type of bag they use with their wheelchairs.

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

Specialized Training Of Military Parents (S.T.O.M.P.): Survey for Military Families regarding disabilities TO PARTICIPATE: Go http://surveymonkey.com/s/stompmedicaid

FOR MILITARY FAMILIES HelpONLY us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!!

DECRIPTION: S.T.O.M.P. is involved in a very important survey. We need your help to disseminate it. What is the survey, and why is it important? Military families face many challenges as part of their desire to assist others and defend our freedoms. It is complicated further when there is a family member with more significant needs. Needs that can’t always be met by the military. One such challenge is accessing Medicaid. Since there are many ways Medicaid can support an individual with disabilities it is one resource military families try hard to access. However, because of wait lists and other complications, these families can face barriers to access. STOMP has been asked to help identify some of the potential barriers as well as some possible solutions to this challenge. The Monkey Survey Link here will provide us with information to help in this process. We recognize it will take Legislative change both at the local and National level and this survey will help mold the language that will be put forth on this issue. We are not in this alone. We have the support of many from the Department of Defense and Military Caucus who are willing to move this forward. However, the voice of Families is essential and you have the ability to assure it is heard. Please disseminate this survey to all military families you know. They can either be active duty or retired. Share the link and ask them to do so as well. Take the survey yourself and know that your voice is part of this great effort. Find us on FACEBOOK at STOMP – Specialized Training of Military Parents

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

Page 17

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month State-Wide JULY Events May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day Â

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Nebraskaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â Annual Â Special Deaf-Ââ&#x20AC;?Blind Â Needs Summer Â IMom's nstitute Â Â

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July Â 25 Â Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us toLanguage, Â digest, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sensory Â Processing: Â Behavior, Â Memory, Â & Â Learning Â We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. Introduction Â t o Â t he Â R EADY Â A PPROACHâ&#x20AC;? Â None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. Â

It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes!

July Â 26 Â Create Â ome Â Tyou ools!â&#x20AC;? Â Â â&#x20AC;&#x153;Updates Â on Â DB Â many Projectâ&#x20AC;? Â We are â&#x20AC;&#x153;Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Â selfless, not bySchoice see.&Our kids just have needs. We're not out to change the world, but Â want to plant some seeds. We want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. For Â More Â Information: Â When we look at them, we just see kids. We hope you'll do the same.

Advertise Here!! Check Looking out any event for changes, after publication additions & MORE Advertisers at our blog: in the www.ohanakidsnews. Central/Western blogspot.com For more information, Parts of NE or advertising rates please contact us at:

Teresa Â Coonts, Â P roject Â Director Â Nebraska Â Deaf-Ââ&#x20AC;?Blind Â Project Â Â -- April Vernon Â at Â 4 02-Ââ&#x20AC;?595-Ââ&#x20AC;?1810 Â or Â Teresa.coonts@nebraska.gov Â Â Norma Â Tinstman, Â Adm. Â Assistant Â at Â 402-Ââ&#x20AC;?595-Ââ&#x20AC;?2177 Â or Â norma.tinstman@nebraska.gov Â Â

What's Where???

Co-Ââ&#x20AC;?Sponsored Â by: Â Important Tidbits for Families 2-6 Nebraska Â Project Â for Â Children Â with Â Dpages eaf-Ââ&#x20AC;?Blindness Â State-Wide page 6Special Â Education Â Nebraska Â Department Â of Â Education, Â Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 Educational Â Service Â Unit Â #3 Â Fremont & Grand Island page 8 University Â Nebraska Â page -Ââ&#x20AC;? Â Lincoln Â Gretna o &f Â Hastings 9 Lincoln pages 10 - 15 Norfolk pages 15 - 16 North Platte page 16 Omaha pages 16 - 24 Resources for Families pages x Classifieds page 29

402-227-5304 Only $25 a month

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com No Contracts!! FACEBOOK too!!

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

Chadron Information

Contact Heather at

Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews @gmail.com

Autism Parent Resource

Joni King is a parent, who was involved in the Autism Support Group PETALS in Chadron. While the support group is no longer meeting, she has many resources available to her that would benefit families with children on the spectrum. Feel free to call her if you have any questions pertaining to your child, with Autism. Her number is 308-430-1597.

Check out our website at www.ohanakidsnews.com TODAY!!

Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

Page 18

Columbus JUNE Events May is Better Speech & Hearing Month May 9 is National School Nurse Day

May 13 is Mother's Day

July (Date Not Available at time of printing, call for more information) People First Meeting LOCATION: The Arc of Platte County, COLUMBUS TIME: 7:00 – 8:30 pm MORE INFORMATION: 402-563-1699 or programdirector@arcofplattecounty.com DECRIPTION: We will be having a talent show! Everyone is encouraged to share something about a hobby or talent that they have!

Special Needs Mom's

You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. June 27 tohave August We no 8choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. “Time to made Talk” A week series ATTENTION PARENTS your childithaving difficulty We've it 6 through the days we thought we'd “Is never make through. interacting with others or our conversing with with friends?” We've even impressed own selves all that we can do! LOCATION: Wiggles & Giggles Therapy for Kids, 2108 13 th STreet, COLUMBUS TIME: 10:30 am to Noon We've gained patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. COST: for about the 6 weeks, We $60 worry the future but know this “special” life's worth living! MORE 402-562-3341 We INFORMATION: have bad days and hurt sometimes, but we hold our heads up high. DECRIPTION: to Talk”and will thankfulness take place at our officeoften withinthan the community. We feel joy“Time and pride more we cry. The group will meet for 90 minute sessions/once per week for 6 weeks (No session on July 4). For ages 10 an up. For kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, solving, we do Feeling so much more and :) expression, We willour focus on: Building connections with other, Problem awareness We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. Conflict resolution, Working and Interacting together. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased.

Grand Island INFORMATION

Tech We Tots Toy Lending Library based Island, are selfless, not by choice you see. Our in kidsGrand just have many needs.

Check out any event Independent Consultant changes, after publication additions & MORE Heather Ackman at our blog:

402-‐227-‐5304

www.ohanakidsnews. imapamperedchef blogspot.com

@yahoo.com

For more information, orAll advertising rates orders help support please contact usNat: O’Hana Kids ews!!! 402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

Thanks O’Hanafor KidsReading News is not OKN!! responsible for any events,. Including cancellations, or changes after print. It is your responsibility to verify the information provided the contact Help us through Expand our Reach, information provided. You can check the blog at www.ohanakidsnews.blogspot.com or our Facebook page as we try to update those with any information changes that have occurred after publishing.

For families in Central Nebraska there the is a world, Tech Tots Toywant Lending available to you at Children’s We're not out to change but toLibrary plant some seeds. Rehab Center in Grand Tech Tots provides developmental toys, adapted toys and devices to children We want ourIsland. kids accepted. That really is our aim. with developmental physical disabilities. is a We FREEhope service!! You do can the check out toys to use in When we and look at them, we justTech seeTots kids. you'll same. your home for 1 month. Tech Tots Toy Lending Library is a program of UCP Nebraska. Play is an essential -- April Vernon component of growing up, and is the most important work explored by children. As children engage in play, they practice and master specific physical, psychological, emotional and creative skills necessary for understanding and interacting with the world around them. As children all have different abilities, so too are their methods of operating devices and accessing information. The use of adapted toys and devices decrease physical barriers and social barriers to play, enabling children at varied functional levels to actively explore and achieve some independence. By equalizing play through these modifications, children learn about the cause-effect relationships and practice creative problem solving. As children recognize their abilities through the work of play, they gain the self-confidence necessary for handing challenges in

What's Where???

Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 State-Wide page 6 Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 Fremont & Grand Island page 8 Gretna & Hastings page 9 all areas of daily living. This is a wonderful opportunity for your Lincoln pages 10 -child! 15 To access the Tech Tots Lending Library call Children’s Rehab Center pages in Grand Norfolk 15Island - 16 at 308-398-5170 and ask for Carole Ostdiek. North Platte page 16 July 14 Omaha pages 16 - 24 nd Autism Support Group (2 Sunday Monthly) Resources for Families pages x LOCATION: Third City Christian Church, GRAND ISLAND Classifieds page 29

Grand Island JULY Events

TIME: 2:30 – 4:30 pm MORE INFORMATION: Contact Brandi at asn_ grandi sland@aut ismne brask a. org DECRIPTION: Come join us for our Autism Support Group!

July 20

Pass usRespite alongSaturday to families you know who could use this information!!! (3 r d Saturday Monthly) LOCATION: Third City Christian Church, GRAND ISLAND TIME: 8:30 am to 11:00 a m MORE INFORMATION: Contact Bridgett at 308-381-8844 with # of children attending DECRIPTION: Respite for families.

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program, please have them contact me to set up a screening. During the screen, the family will have the opportunity to try the iPad or iPod as well as several communication applications and accessories. If one of the devices is deemed as a viable option for the child, we will set up a 30 day loan of the device and the appropriate application. During the 30 days, the family will be required for 2 follow Edition #24will May 2012 up/training sessions. One will be scheduled midway through the trial and the other be scheduled for the end of the trial period. During the last scheduled session, we will determine if the trial was a success and will begin the process of securing funding (insurance, grants or private pay options). This is an incredible opportunity for the community and we are excited to offer this program!! Contact Jennifer Brock at jbrock@unmc.edu or 402-559-6460 for more information. 12/11

NCDHH – families The Nebraska for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Proudly serving over 8,500+ -- NOW Commission Across all of Nebraska!!! Page advocacy, 19 The mission of the Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing is to provide

communication access and information to enhance awareness and services for improving the quality of life for all who experience hearing loss. The Vision Statement of NCDHH is: Being a proactive state agency, the Commission works Speech towards building support,Month cooperation and understanding May is Better & Hearing regardless of hearing ability resulting in fairness and equality for all Nebraskans. Make sure to Mayat9 www.ncdhh.ne.go is National School Nurse Day check out our website v

Kearney Information May 13 is Mother's Day

Dental Families CARE Research Study for Children with Disabilities The of of Pediatric Dentistry at theacross Munroe-Meyer Institute is conducting a research study Located in Department Kearney, is one six family organizations the State serving those that are parenting evaluating ways in which dentistsor can help health children with disabilities feel more relaxed and calm children/youth with emotional, behavioral, mental challenges. We offer peer support; in fact dental treatment. TheCARE researchers are or seeking children between ages of 2 to 10, who every during employee/advocate at Families is parenting, has parented a child with the emotional, need or dental work done. ChildrenFamilies who participate receive a $25 gift cardproviding to Wal-mart. Children can behavioral, mental health challenges. CARE is a non-profit organization, advocacy, be seen at MMI at the new clinicparents, at Children’s Hospital. The fundedinby the resources, support, and or education as wedental work with along with a mission to project Empowerisparents National Health Institutes of Health. contact Dr. Keith Allen at CARE 402-559-5756 Kristi DeHaai, the Behavioral System of Care. Please For more information on Families in Kearneyor308MS at may 402-559-4498 to learn moms” more about how to enrollrough. your child in this research. You think us “special have it pretty 237-1102 or kbennetts@familiescare.org * We have no choice. We just manage life when things get really tough. Caregiver Day for the Rural Families in itCass County We've made it through days Nebraska we thought we'd never make through. O'Hana News is lookingour to put together day where caregivers can come for a few hours and We'veKids even impressed own selvesawith all that we can do! have a massage, see a chiropractor, have a great meal, maybe a mani or a pedi, possibly have someone doing hair. Just abeyond day where us caregivers can never get done in just aof couple of hours, We've gained patience measure, love we dreamed giving. something that makes happy but :). know I haven't seen anythinglife's in Cass County or south of there, for We worry about theusfuture this “special” worth living! caregivers. If any families be interestedbut in something like heads this, PLEASE either give me a call or We have bad days and would hurt sometimes, we hold our up high. send email. I will base doing this more on howoften manythan people We me feelan joy and pride and even thankfulness wecontact cry. me about it. I know the July 9need is there. Just let me know. I am interested in any comments you have regarding what you Transitions Early Childhood would like kids, inthrough a short day like thisSUPERMOMS, also. Is childcare look at too?:) Just let me know, For our we aren't just No,something we do soto much more LOCATION: First402-227-5304 Presbyterian or Church, 4511 6 th Avenue, KEARNEY Heather ohanakidsnews@yahoo.com We areAckman cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. TIME: 6:30 – 8:00 pm We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. MORE INFORMATION: PTI Nebraska at 402-346-0525 Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. DECRIPTION: Helping your child transition

Special Needs Mom's

Millard Pediatric Clinic 13336 Industrial Road, Ste. 105 Omaha, NE 68137 Contact us TODAY for a tour or a FREE Screening! (402)330-3211 Ext. 108 www.procare3.com We are Open 6 Days a Week, Monday through Friday with extended hours from 7am - 7pm Need Saturday hours? Ask us about those too!!

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Kearney JULY Events

Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, July 18We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. Autism of be NE replaced, Kearney Support Network every 3 r d Thursday) None Society of us can so we don't get (Meets many breaks. LOCATION: First Church, 4500 Drive Room – It wears us out,United but toMethodist help our kids, we'll do Linden whatever it (Sojourners takes! Upstairs), KEARNEY TIME: – 8:30 pm not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. We 7:00 are selfless, MORE INFORMATION: Heidi at asnkearney@autismnebraska.org We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. DECRIPTION: Childcare is available, That siblings included. Email is childcare is needed, 3 days before We want our kids accepted. really is our aim. meeting appropriate supervision bekids. available. Thanks!you'll do the same. Whendate we so look at them, we justwill see We hope -- April Vernon

Norfolk Information What's Where???

Tech Tots Toy Lending Library based in Norfolk For families in North Eastern Nebraska there is a Tech Tots Toy Lending Library available to you at Faith Page 2 Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 changes after print. It is your Regional Health Services Rehab Services. Tech Tots provides developmental toys, adapted toys, and responsibility to check with each contact State-Wide pageTech 6 Tots is a FREE service!! You can www.ohanakidsnews. devices to children with developmental and physical disabilities. to verify the information that we have Bellevue, Cedar & Columbus pageyou contacting please tell them foundofthem blogspot.com check out When toys to use in your homeour for 1advertisers, month. Bluff Tech Tots Toy Lending Library is 7a program UCP HERE!!! provided to you. Fremont & Grand Island page 8 Nebraska. Play is an essential component of growing up and is the most important work explored by Radio Show by Adult with Asperger Syndrome & Hastings page 9 children. As children engage in play, Gretna they practice and master specific physical, psychological, emotional For more information, “Parents Corner” is a radio show, co-hosted by Brian King, LCSW. Brian is an adult with Asperger  Pediatric speech, and creative skills necessary for understanding and interacting with the world around them. As children Lincoln pages 10 15 or advertising rates Syndrome, who presented here in the area back in January. Brian also has 3 boys on the ASD Make sureallto people know you found out these & feeding havelet different abilities, so toohow are their methods of operating and accessing information. The pages 15about -devices 16 please language contact us at: spectrum. Brian will be sharingNorfolk his parenting strategies and discussing them with a panel of parents. therapy use ofHere adapted toys and devices decrease physical barriers and social barriers play, enabling North Platte page 16 events, activities & advertisers!! is a link with all the details you'll need to tune in and call in iftoyou would likechildren at varied functional levels to actively explore and achieve some equalizing 402-227-5304 Omaha pages 16 -independence. http:tinyurl.com/3gm58h7 Check it you out and pass it24 along. HisBy address is: play P.O. through Box 994, West  Specializing in Autism Tell ‘em, O’Hana Kids’ News pointed their way!!! these Chicago, modifications, children learnwould about like the to cause-effect relationships and practice creative problem ohanakidsnews@gmail.com IL 60186 if you write to him. Resources for Families pages x solving. As children recognize their abilities through the work of play, they gain the self-confidence FACEBOOK too!! in  Specializing Classifieds page 29 necessary for handing challenges in all of dailyCounty living. This is a wonderful opportunity for your Deaf/Hard of Hearing & Project Lifesaver inareas Sarpy child! The To Sarpy accessCounty the Tech Tots Office Lending Library callProject Faith Lifesaver Regional in Health Services Rehab Cochlear Implants Thanks for Reading OKN!! Sheriff’s implemented 2008 to help locate missing Services at 402-644-7348 askor for Nikki Fischer. who are at risk to wander, can have their safety persons. Children with and Autism Down Syndrome,  Specializing in greatly enhanced through this program. Project Lifesaver emphasizes relationships between specially Late Talkers & trained Sheriff’s personnel and individuals enrolled in the program BEFORE the need may arise for a Developmental Delay Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us rescue. alongDuring to families you visit, know who couldenrollees use this information!!! Lifesaver an initial home Project are fitted with a personalized wristband transmitter and family members are provided with a comprehensive overview of the program. Trained in communicating with individuals with special needs, deputies will schedule a 402-327-2500 monthly home visit to inspect and maintain the equipment and get to know the enrollee better on a 8055 O Street, Suite S110 more personal basis. The cost to participate in this program is minimal, at $10 a month. Lincoln, NE 68510 For more information on Project Lifesaver, contact Lt. Griger at 402-593-2288.

IMPORTANT TIDBITS  FOR FAMILIES

Resources for Families Are now listed ONLY on the website

www.heartlandspeech.com Find us on FACEBOOK too!

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Heart Heroes Capes for children with CHD,size a Non-Profit here in Nebraska because of their sheer J

Every year approximately 40,000 infants are born in the US with Congenital Heart Defects (CHD). CHD is the most frequently occurring birth defect and the leading cause of birth-related deaths. More than 50% of children with CHD will require at least one invasive surgery in their lifetime. And in the US, twice as many along!! Join our CHD mailing list, us at ohanakidsnews@gmail.com children die from each year thancontact from ALL forms of childhood cancers, combined! Needless to say, the survivors of CHD wear their scars like badges of honor. They are our “Heart Heroes”. Heart Heroes, Inc., is a non-profit organization that originated by a few Nebraska moms, who had children with CHD. After trying to coax their children through cardiology appointments and heart surgeries, they took comfort in the wondrous powers of “super hero” capes to comfort their children, and Heart Heroes was founded. Now, hundreds of Heart Hero capes have been draped around the little shoulders of CHD children everywhere. Consider donating a Heart Hero Cape to a child with CHD by going to www.heartherocapes.com to donate

For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't walk out the door. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased. Edition #24 May 2012 Therapies and treatment routes are a lot for us to digest, We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. It wears us out, but to help our kids, we'll do whatever it takes! Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!! Page 20 We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. We want our kidsis accepted. That really our aim. Month May Better Speech & isHearing When we lookMay at them, just seeSchool kids. WeNurse hope you'll 9 is we National Day do the same.

2013 OUTREACH CLINICS

For Children with HealthDay Care Needs May 13Special is Mother's

-- April Vernon Nebraska Department of Health

Special Needs Mom's

Check out any event changes, after publication additions & MORE at our blog:

What's Where??? KEARNEY

You may think us “special moms” have it pretty rough. Contact: Carollife Florang, RN We have no choice. We just manage when things get really tough. rd Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 -it6through. 211 West Street, Kearney, NE never 68845 We've made it through the33 days we thought we'd make (308) 698-1250 We've even impressed our own selves with all that6we can do! State-Wide page

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Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7

AugustWe've 28 & gained 29 patience beyond measure, love we never dreamed of giving. Fremont & Grand Island page 8 We Starr, worryM.D., about the future butHartmann, know this “special” worth living! Staff: Lois UNMC; Julianne M.S., UNMC;life's Gathje We have bad days and hurtGretna sometimes, but we hold our & Hastings page 9 heads up high.

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We feel more often than we cry. November 6 & joy 7 and pride and thankfulness Lincoln pages 10 - 15 Staff: Lois Starr, M.D., UNMC; Sara Fisher, M.S., UNMC; Nancy Foster, Ph.D., UNMC

Norfolk pages 16so much more :) For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, 15 we -do We are cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who don't North Platte page 16 walk out the door. We handle rude remarks and unkind stares, with dignity and grace. Omaha pages 16 - 24 Even though the pain they bring cannot be erased.

402-227-5304

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com FACEBOOK too!!

Resources for Families pages x

Therapies and treatment routes are a lot forpage us to29 digest, Classifieds We don't know what the future holds, but give our kids our best. Contact: Kathy Schweitzer None of us can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. It wears us out, but200 to help our kids, do whatever S. Silber, Northwe'll Platte, NE 69101 it takes!

NORTH PLATTE

Thanks for Reading OKN!!

(308) 535-8238 or Kathy.schweitzer@nebraska.gov

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Independent onsultant Check out any C event changes, after publication Heather Ackman additions & MORE at our blog: 402-‐227-‐5304

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any events,. Including cancellations, or changes after print. It is your responsibility to verify the information provided through the contact Help us Expand our Reach, information provided. You can check the blog at www.ohanakidsnews.blogspot.com or our Facebook page as we try to update those with any information changes that have occurred after publishing.

We are selfless, not by choice you see. Our kids just have many needs. We're not out to change the world, but want to plant some seeds. Pass us to kids families youThat know who could We want our accepted. really is our aim. use this information!!! August 2 along & 3, 2013 When weM.D., look UNMC; at them, we just seeM.S., kids.UNMC; We hope you'll do the same. Staff: Eric Rush, Amber Carter, Nancy Foster, Ph.D., UNMC -- April October 18 & Vernon 19, 2013 Staff: Bruce Buehler, M.D., UNMC; Beth Conover, M.S., UNMC; Nancy Foster, Ph.D., UNMC

December 13 & 14, 2013 Staff: Eric Rush, M.D., UNMC; Amber Carter, M.S., UNMC; Nancy Foster, Ph.D., UNMC

What's Where???

Important Tidbits for Families pages 2 - 6 State-Wide page 6 Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page 7 Fremont & – Grand Island 8 SCOTTSBLUFF MHCP & page Genetics Gretna & Hastings page 9 MHCP Contact: Lana Parmenter Genetics Contact: Sandy Preston, RN Lincoln pages 10 - 15 P.O. Box 540, Gering, NE 69341-0540 3700 Avenue B, Scottsbluff, NE 69361 Norfolk pages 15 - 16 (308) 436-6969 or lana.parmenter@nebraska.gov (308) 630-1126 or North Platte page 16 prestos@rwmc.net Omaha pages 16 - 24 Resources for Families pages x August 9, 2013 MHCP Classifieds page 29 August 10, 2013 Genetics Staff: Bruce Buehler, M.D., UNMC; Dani Bishay, M.S., UNMC; Brett Kuhn, Ph.D., UNMC November 15, 2013 MHCP November 16, to 2013 Genetics Pass us along families you know who could use this information!!! Bruce Buehler, M.D., UNMC; Rachel Smith, M.S., UNMC; Cate Jones-Hazledine, Ph.D., UNMC

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Edition #24 May 2012

Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!! Proudly serving over 8,500+ families -- NOW Across all of Nebraska!!!

Miracle League Baseball

~ Omaha ~

We believe that “Every child deserves a chance to play baseball!”

May is Better Speech & Hearing Month 9 is National School Nurse Day MayMay is Better Speech & Hearing IMPORTANT TIDBITS Month FOR 13 is School Mother's Day May 9 May is National Nurse Day

Page 21 Page 3

FAMILIES

Scottsbluff JULY Events Learn how to adapt toys to use with a switch/button/BigMac May 13 is Mother's Day

This workshop is for ANYONE!! You will learn how to easily & cost effectively turn the toys that your child already has, & isn't using because of physical limitations, into toys that are adapted to your child!! You will learn how to install a jack into a single function toy & convert it into a toy that is July 27 operated with a switch. You will learn how to assemble a switch. You will make a detachable cord 2012 Summer Session Begins that runs from toy to the switch. You will be able this, AND youPLEASE will go home with a FREE RESPITE Day attheRiverside Zoo Discovery - -to- doREGISTER Saturday, May 19th! working switch toy & switch. Best of all, your child's toy will look professionally adapted, by YOU!! Games are held every Saturday atLOCATION: Riverside Zoo, 1600 S Beltine Hwy W, SCOTTSBLUFF You have seen that the switch operated toys are sometimes 8x as much to order, than if you could 9am, 10:30am & Noon TIME: 10:00 amt o toy 1:00 pm“special the &us put the switchmoms” in for a few dollars, yourself. Dates/Times will be determined when I You buy may think have it pretty rough. Games last approx. 1 hour have 4no or choice. more people interested in the class. Thisorclass is FREE, however donations INFORMATION: Sherri Blome 866-737-7483 Stacey Ferguson Brittain of any kind are have We justat manage life when things get really or tough. The season lasts 7 weeks (to JuneMORE We appreciated. Contact Aaron today at thought aaronmiller555@gmail.com more information! YouWe've may think “special moms” have it prettywe'd rough. 30th) madeus it through the days we never makefor it through.

Special Needs Mom's Special Needs Mom's

Trave, or Aidalyn Williams at 308-635-3427

WeWe've have no choice. We just life when things getcan really even impressed ourmanage own selves with all that we do!tough.

All Games are played in the ALLPLAYDESCRIPTION: Join us for a day of Discovery! This is a FREE RESPITE EVENT! Feel free We've made it through the days we thought we'd never make it through. Complex, located in Seymour Smith to leave the children and parents enjoy a fewwith hours “MEnever TIME” RESPITE will provide We've even impressed ourbeyond own selves allofthat candreamed do! Park at 6802 Harrison Street in We've gained patience measure, love we we of giving. Omaha. child-care FREE! Siblings are WELCOME too! Please child with: Sun non-existent? screen, If your child is on this waiver, do know you know that itsupply makes your your income guidelines No We worry about the future but this “special” life's worth living!

A & D Waiver – Aged & Disabled Waiver Is YOUR child on this? Is YOUR child eligible to be on this?

cap onbad your income. Just have to usetowels the love 2 but hours minimum respite eachchild and every month, We've gained patience beyond measure, never dreamed of giving. those children who use them, andwe swim wear ifheads your is going to so you Wefor have days and hurt sometimes, we hold our up high. This complex features barrier free strollers don't loseand your A&D Coverage. Do you know thatoften you can add your child, to your private design & level surfaces. The Miracle We worry about the future but know this “special” life's worth living! We feel joy pride and thankfulness more than we cry. the splash page. Please bring any other supplies your child(ren) may need. Registration health andbut if you on our the A&D Waiver, you can get those Field & playground are covered with We have bad insurance days and (non-medicaid), hurt sometimes, weare hold heads up high. am, we willfor befor taking walk through the through zoo, visiting the animals rubber surfaces to soften any falls. starts at 10:00 premiums paid BOTHayou and your child, the HIPP program? Has to be the We feel joy and pride and thankfulness more often than we cry. For our kids, we aren't just SUPERMOMS, No, we do so much more :) These surfaces are perfect for same will family but they will cover all the insurance premiums for LUNCHES your entire family!! exhibits. There be policy, an animal show,and craft stations, and splash pad. out SACK wheelchairs, walkers, braces & use by We are cheerleaders, therapists who don't walkdon't the door. For us this was $1,200nurses, in premiums, because we are self-employed, have a corporate medical people who are visually impaired. PROVIDED! If your child hasjust special know that when you ForWe ourhandle kids, we aren't SUPERMOMS, No,please we dolet sous much more :) rude remarks and dietary unkindneeds stares, with dignity and grace.

plan, and it was killing us. By talking with another mom, I found out about this program, and we are

WeEven are waiting cheerleaders, nurses, and therapists who walk out told thethat door. register. though pain they bring cannot erased. on the our reimbursement to arrive!! So be cool. Fordon't 5 years we were our income dictated Ages from 4 - 20+. Athletes disabilities include autism, cerebral palsy, spina We handle rude remarks andreceived, unkindfor stares, and grace. the medicaid that our son us that with meantdignity we had to either stay in this little income box bifida, visual impairments, muscular of like $45,000 or they make an additional cover the expenses in therapy and medical Even though the bring cannot Therapies andpain treatment routes are$100,000 a be lot erased. fortous to digest, dystrophy, dwarfism, multiple services that our sonsthe receives on holds, an annual basis minimum. guidelines We don't know what future but give our kidsThe our best. to be on the A&D sclerosis, spinal cord injury, down Waiver, I do not know for sure what they are. If you want to know, I can find out, just email me. I Therapies treatment routes lot for usmany to digest, syndrome, amputations & other None ofand us can be replaced, soare weadon't get breaks. know that my son qualifies, and if has something to do with being fed solely by g-button, and being physical & mental & cognitive WeIt don't know what the holds, give kids our wears us out, but tofuture help our kids,but we'll doour whatever it best. takes! non-independent. If you want the contact information for the HIPP program, just shoot me an email disabilities!

York JULY Events

None ofon usthat can be replaced, so we don't get many breaks. also, or ask your Service Coordinator specifically about it. There are many programs out It wears usselfless, out, butnot help our kids, we'll do itget takes! We are by choice you see. kids justtohave many REGISTER TODAY!!! there available toto help families like ours out.Our Wewhatever just need the wordneeds. out there for families to We're not that out information. to change the world, to plant some benefit seeds. families, email me. access If you knowbut of awant program, that would July 3, 10, 17, 24 For More Information go to: WeWe arewant selfless, not by choice you see. just many needs. our kids accepted. That really iskids our it aim. ohanakidsnews@gmail.com We will Our research andhave get the correct information out to all MFLC Days www.ALLPLAY.org or the families. We're not out to change the butkids. wantWe to plant some do seeds. When we look at them, weworld, just see hope you'll the same. * call Bruce Froendt at 402-305-5020ForWe Military Families want our kids accepted. That really is our aim. Parent Group with kids withWe combined & vision loss LOCATION: 202 at East 5thwe St., YORK When we look them, just see kids. hope you'llhearing do the same. -- April Vernon

Easter

A Special Sitter was Seals inspired out by oany ur ongoing Check event Nebraska journey oafter f parenting our changes, publication Check out any event additions & MORE family, which includes 2 kids 2012 changes, publication our with after sat pecial nblog: eeds, & we Summer additions & MORE Respite Camp Dates believe that our experiences www.ohanakidsnews. at our blog: can help y ou e xperience t 10 - 15 blogspot.comJunehe Young Adults, fullness of blessings we have ages 23-39 www.ohanakidsnews. received as we have raised our blogspot.com For more information, June 17 - 22 family. rates or advertising Adults, age 40+ For more information, please contact us at: Services Offered: or advertising ratesJune 24 - 29 Youth, ages 6 - 13 402-227-5304 Companionship please contact usServices at:

ohanakidsnews@gmail.com Personal Care Services July 10 - 13 Military Youth, 402-227-5304 FACEBOOKages 7 - 16, Offutt AFB Home Helper Stoo!! ervices ohanakidsnews@gmail.com 15 - 20 FACEBOOK too!! July Thanks OKN!! For Mfor ore Reading Information Teens, ages 14 - 22

Nebraska Technical Assistance Project on Deaf-Blindness has conducted training this year TIME: 8am The to 8pm specific to parents of children who have a combined hearing & vision loss. The training has been in -- April Vernon MORE INFORMATION: Contact ReneeConsortium Duffek aton402-219-2446 at partnership with the National Deaf-Blindness (NCDV2.0). A total of 7 parents have participated in a series of training activities from May 2011 through October 2011. They are now renee.L.duffek@ahsg.us working on their leadership goals & have another planned meeting in April 2012, as well as ongoing DECRIPTION: MFLC Consultation services are provided at no charge, with no records meetings in the future. They are called the Nebraska DB Parent Leadership Team, & have provided kept. Eligible military service members theirofsignificant lots individuals of support toinclude the state deaf-blind project. It is the&intent this team toothers provide one-on-one either vialegally phones,related technoloty faceThis to-face other parents in the focused state who have a (children & interaction adults), whether or or not. is awith short-term solution Tidbits hearing for Families pages 2 want - 6 to be connected to one of birth toImportant age 21 with a combined & vision loss. If you consultation,child not psychotherapy. If possible please call ahead to schedule an these parents, please contactState-Wide Teresa Coonts atpage the number and email listed above. This is an 6 appointment. You can schedule on a different date if thefor one work. other families in exciting group of parents working &for learnin together thelisted purpose of supporting Important Tidbits Families pages 2 - doesn’t 67 Bellevue, Cedar Bluff & Columbus page the future. State-Wide 6 page 8 Fremont & Grandpage Island Bellevue, Gretna Cedar Bluff & Columbus & Hastings page 9page 7 Fremont & Grand Island Lincoln pages 10 -page 15 8 Gretna & Hastings page Norfolk pages 15 - 169 Lincoln - 1516 North pages Platte10 page Norfolk pages 1516 - 16 Omaha pages - 24 North Platte page 16 pages x Resources for Families Omaha pages 16 - 24 Classifieds page 29 Resources for Families pages x Classifieds page 29

What's Where??? What's Where???

Contact Richard Troia 402-‐697-‐8400 x201 Help us Expand our Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! rtroia@aspecialsitter.com MORE INFORMATION: 1(800)650-9880, ext. 1128 Help us Expand Reach, Pass us along to families you know who could use this information!!! www.campeastersealsne.com See “Our Story” oour n Page 8

Thanks for ReadingJuly OKN!! 22 - 26 All Ages

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