Exceptional Kids July - August 2025

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We want all our exceptional kids to have that carefree summer feeling, the joy of grabbing a sun hat, and leaping into adventures big and small. Our combination of respiratory support, nutritional supplies and expertise can inspire an exceptional summer for our patients, so when you hear that paleta cart bell – give us a ring at 866.935.9283.

We provide ventilator-based care in the home for pediatric patients, as well as nutritional supplies and support.

Inclusion-Infused Summer in San Antonio

San Antonio’s summer shines even brighter when every child—regardless of ability—can join the fun. Here’s your sparkly, inclusive guide to July and August activities tailored for children with intellectual and physical special needs, ensuring smiles, growth, and joy-filled memories.

1. Fully Accessible Theme Park: Morgan’s Wonderland

The crown jewel of inclusion is Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first fully accessible theme park. With 25 wheelchair-accessible rides—from a gentle train and carousel to zip-line and fishing dock—it ensures kids with cognitive or physical disabilities can dive into fun without barriers. Its splash park, Morgan’s Inspiration Island, is open daily through mid-August, then on weekends through September. Why it zushes: Free admission for individuals with disabilities, safe waterproof wheelchairs, inclusive design, and sensory-friendly layout.

2. Adaptive Camps & Enrichment Programs

• Special Reach offers summer adventure programs for ages 6–18 with developmental delays. Structured days (9 AM–3 PM) include interactive guest visits, crafts, games, and social-skills-focused experiences

• Camp AUsome by Autism Community Network provides half/full-day and overnight camps (June–August). Tailored for kids on the autism spectrum—ages 5+—it blends routine, sensory supports, and peer inclusion

• Respite Care of San Antonio (RCSA) runs week-long camps for ages 3–13 with qualifying disabilities. Held at the historic Monte Vista location; fees may be covered via subsidy programs

• Morgan’s Camp, part of the same foundation as Morgan’s Wonderland, is an Ultra-Accessible™ overnight camp on spectacular grounds—complete with zip lines, challenge courses, pool, and communal fun for all abilities.

3. Sports & Adaptive Recreation Programs

• Kinetic Kids offers 6-week adaptive classes through July (ages 5–21) in swimming, agility, art, basketball, and fitness designed for children with physical/developmental disabilities. Highlight: Agility Fit Fest on July 19—a one-day event blending licensed therapist–led training and fun

• Special Olympics Young Athletes (ages 2–7) isn’t San Antonio-specific but offers inclusive sports/play activities that support motor development, social skills, and confidence

4. Sensory-Inclusive Play & Performances

• DoSeum offers sensory-friendly experiences in its Sensations Studio, ADA-accessible treehouse, interactive STEM exhibits, and quiet zones—ideal for children needing low-stimulation environments

• Magik Theatre introduces sensory-friendly performances with dimmed lights, smaller audiences, and a calming “quiet room” for autistic children to decompress during shows

• In Leon Valley parks, newly installed communication boards help non-verbal children express needs through symbols and pictures—a sign of growing accessibility momentum

5. Inclusive Swimming & Water Play

• Adapted PE-inspired swimming: Programs in conjunction with spots like Emler Swim School provide accessible pool time where children with physical/developmental disabilities can build aquatic skills with tailored support

• Splash pads & public spraygrounds (like at Phil Hardberger Park) offer zero-depth, sensory-rich water play and often include accessible features—perfect for young ones and families needing mobility-friendly environments.

Quick Tips for Inclusive Summer Fun

TIP

Book ahead! Camps and Morgan’s Wonderland sessions fill fast—July weekends often go first.

Start early to beat TX heat, especially for outdoor programs.

Pack sensory supports like noise-canceling headphones, visual timers, fidget tools.

Coordinate with IEP/OT/PT teams for tailored support during adaptive sports or summer programs.

WHY IT MATTERS

Ensures availability for children who need structured plans.

Cooler temps help children with sensory or temperature sensitivities.

Maintains calm and structure in group settings.

Ensures accommodations are in place ahead of time.

With wheelchair-accessible theme park thrills, tailored camps, adaptive aquatics, inclusive performances, and sensory-supportive environments, San Antonio’s summers are truly for everyone. It’s a zesty, spirited season of belonging—where every child can dive into adventure, connect, and shine under the Texas sun.

Publisher:

Exceptional Kids, LLC

Owner & Managing Editor: Kameron Chicoine

Graphic & Art Design:

Valor Design, Inc.

Website & Logo Design: Red Rattler Creative

Brownie Batter Dip

Prep/Total Time: 10 Min.

Yield: 2-1/2 Cups

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

1/4 cup butter, softened

2 cups confectioners' sugar

1/3 cup baking cocoa

1/4 cup 2% milk

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional: M&M's minis and dark chocolate chips

Graham crackers, pretzels and/or fresh strawberries

Directions

In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Beat in confectioners' sugar, cocoa, milk, brown sugar and vanilla until smooth.

If desired, sprinkle with M&M's minis. Serve with dippers of your choice.

Nutrition Facts

2 tablespoons: 118 calories, 6g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 56mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (14g sugars, 0 fiber), 1g protein.

Our brownie batter dip gives you all the flavor and none of the bake time of true brownies. It's perfect for when you're craving brownies but don't want to turn on the oven.

Loaded Baked Potato Dip

Prep/Total Time: 10 Min.

Yield: 10 Servings (2-1/2 Cups

Ingredients

2 cups sour cream

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

8 center-cut bacon strips, cooked and crumbled

1/3 cup minced fresh chives

2 teaspoons Louisiana-style hot sauce

Hot cooked waffle-cut fries

Directions

In a small bowl, mix the first 5 ingredients until blended; refrigerate until serving. If desired, top with additional chives and bacon; serve with waffle fries.

Nutrition Facts

0.250 cup: 208 calories, 19g fat (10g saturated fat), 62mg cholesterol,

286mg sodium, 2g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 0 fiber), 9g protein.

I never thought of using waffle-cut fries as a scoop for dip until a friend of mine did at a baby shower. They’re ideal for my cheesy bacon and chive dip, which tastes just like a baked potato topper. —Betsy King, Duluth, Minnesota

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com

ABA THERAPY

◆Autism Treatment Center

210-590-2107

15911 Nacogdoches Rd Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org

Mindcolor Autism

833-646-3222

8507 Culebra Rd Suite 101 info@mindcolorautism www.mindcolorautism.com

Shelby May Behavioral Consulting 210-239-7181 shelbynunn@maybehavior.com www.maybehavior.com

ACUTE/SKILLED CARE

LifeSpan Home Health Pg 2

877-434-3153

6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com

ADAPTIVE SPORTS (COMPETITIVE & RECREATIONAL)

◆Kinetic Kids

210-748-5860

11931 Starcrest Dr info@kinetickidstx.org www.kinetickidstx.org

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

◆Pathways Youth & Family Services

210-733-7117

1919 NW Loop 410 Suite 201 www.pathway.org

CHILDREN'S MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE

Clarity Child Guidance Center Pg 6 210-616-0300

8535 Tom Slick info@claritycgc.org www.claritycgc.org

COUNSELING

PROVIDERS

Catholic Charities 210-377-1133

San Fernando Community Center 231 W Commerce

DENTAL CARE

Dentistry for Little Folks

Nelly Gonzales, DDS 210-679-4747

9646 W Loop 1604 N

Dentistry for Little Folks

Jennifer Ochoa, DDS 210-679-4747

9646 W Loop 1604 N

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu

DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES

Wave Healthcare Pg 3

866-935-9283

121 Interpark Blvd #300 www.wavehealthcare.com

EDUCATION ADVOCACY RESOURCES

101 ADVOCACY, LLC

210-722-9974

www.101advocacy.com

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

A.I.M. Educate

210-838-5351

10127 Morocco St #202 privateclinic@aimeducate.com aimeducate.com

Texas School, Community & Public Policy Liaison TBI SOS 4 Kids Project

Center on Brain Injury Research and Training (CBIRT)

University of Oregon cmagrane@uoregon.edu

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Catholic Charities

210-293-1009

202 W. French Place

www.ccaosa.org

GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES

www.unitedwaysatx.org

2-1-1 Texas is a free, anonymous social service hotline available 24 hours a day,

7 days a week, 365 days a year.

City of San Antonio - Utility Assistance

210-207-7830

Hill Country MHDD Centers

358 Landa Street, Suite 300, New Braunfels 888-315-3277

http://www.hillcountry.org

Kerr County MH Center 955 Water Street, Kerrville 888-445-5232 http://www.hillcountry.org

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu

GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Project Warm - Bexar County Dept of Community Assistance

210-335-3666

Salvation Army

210-226-2291

226 Nolan St

San Antonio Food Bank 210-337-3663

5200 Old Hwy 90 West

Society of St. Vincent de Paul 210-225-7837

WIC Program 210-207-4906

MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAMS

CDS in Texas Pg 2 210-798-3779 Toll Free 866-675-7331 www.cdstexas.com

CLASS - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658

DBMD-Deaf/Blind Multiple Disabilities Program 877-438-5658

Disability Services of the Southwest 210-798-0123

6243 IH-10 West Suite 114 www.dsswtx.org

HCS - Home & Community-Based Services Program 210-832-5020

MDCP - Medically Dependent Children's Program 877-438-5658

LifeSpan Home Health Pg 2 877-434-3153

6243 IH-10 W Suite 375 www.lifespantx.com

Texas Home Living Waiver 210-832-5020

NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

American Red Cross 210-224-5151

Cerebral Palsy Foundation ucp.org 210-520-1686

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) 800-572-1717

National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), SA 210-734-3349

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

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu

NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

Scleroderma Foundation www.Sclerodema.org

Spinal Bifida Association Texas Chapter 972-238-8755

Williams Syndrome 800-806-1871 www.Williams-syndrome.org

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY

uAutism Treatment Center

210-590-2107

15911 Nacogdoches Rd, Building 2 www.atcoftexas.org

CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)

Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available

San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 15 210-255-1466

4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com

PEDIATRIC

HOME HEALTH & PRIVATE DUTY NURSING

Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16

512-532-4800

2921 Steck Ave A-120, Austin www.entrustedphc.com

Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16 210-447-1650

4502 Centerview Dr, Suite 233, San Antonio www.entrustedphc.com

Entrusted Pediatric Home Care

254-935-0450 2027 S 61st Street, Suite 121, Temple www.entrustedphc.com

Entrusted Pediatric Home Care

16 469-827-7500

275 W Campbell Rd, Richardson www.entrustedphc.com

Entrusted Pediatric Home Care Pg 16 713-829-7149

24624 Interstate 45 N Suite 241, Spring www.entrustedphc.com

Entrusted Pediatric Home Care

16 915-343-7744

1790 Lee Trevino Dr Ste 202, El Paso www.entrustedphc.com

San Rafael Healthcare Inc

15 210-255-1466

4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com

PHYSICAL THERAPY

CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)

Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months

Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org

Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available

RESOURCE DIRECTORY

For our complete list of resources go online to www.ExceptionalKidsTexas.com uDonateu

PHYSICAL THERAPY

San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 15

210-255-1466

4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com

San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department

210-207-3018

PRESCRIBED PEDIATRIC EXTENDED CAR CENTER (PPECC)

Health Care for Kids

210-951-4840 16019 Nacogdoches Rd Suite 119 www.healthcareforkids.com

SPECIAL NEEDS ADULTS

uMarbridge Foundation 512-282-1144

2310 Bliss Spillar Road, Manchaca TX info@marbridge.org Marbridge.org

SPEECH THERAPY

CHCS-ECI (Early Childhood Intervention)

Specializing in Infants & Toddlers, Birth to 36 Months Easy to refer, no medical referral needed Call 210-261-3300 or visit www.chcs-eci.org

Medicaid, CHIP, Private, all insurances accepted Sliding scale available

San Rafael Healthcare Inc Pg 15 210-255-1466

4203 Gardendale St #C105 www.sanrafaelhealthcare.com

STATE ORGANIZATIONS

Customer Service Line (Ombudsman) 877-787-8999

www.hhsc.state.tx.us

Department of Assistive & Rehabilitative Services NOW Texas Work Force www.twc.state.tx.us

North Field Office 210-561-8600 12000 Network Blvd #210

West Field Office 210-522-8010 5309 Wurzbach, Suite 102

Northeast Field Office 210-590-5740 10303 Nacogdoches

South Field Office 210-927-8300 1011 Ada St

San Rafael: Delivering Hope for San Antonio

For parents of children with complex medical needs, every day can feel like an uphill battle. San Rafael Healthcare, San Antonio’s trusted home health provider, is here to ease that journey. Specializing in high-acuity pediatric care, San Rafael brings expert nursing services and compassionate support directly into the homes of families, where it’s needed most.

One father shared his heartfelt experience: “When we rst started with San Rafael Healthcare, we were overwhelmed by my daughter’s medical challenges. e nurses quickly became part of our family, providing not just care but reassurance and hope. ey’ve made an impossible situation manageable.”

San Rafael understands the unique challenges of high-acuity care. eir specialized team works closely with families to create customized care plans tailored to each child’s needs. From ventilator management to feeding tube care, their skilled nurses deliver life-sustaining treatments with unmatched dedication and expertise.

Have you ever wished for a partner to help carry the weight of your child’s medical needs? at’s exactly what San Rafael provides. eir team doesn’t just o er care – they o er connection, understanding, and a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for their patients and their families.

Every child’s story is di erent, but the mission remains the same: to ensure children with complex medical needs receive the highest standard of care in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. For parents, this means peace of mind knowing their child is in capable hands, surrounded by love and family.

San Rafael Healthcare isn’t just a home health provider – it’s a source of strength for families navigating life’s toughest challenges. With their expert support, parents can focus less on the stress of medical logistics and more on cherishing the moments that matter most.

Let San Rafael Healthcare be your partner in care. Visit their website today to learn how they can help your family on this journey.

Providing Private Duty Nursing Services for infants, children, and adults across Central Texas.

Entrusted Pediatric Home Care is the leading provider of pediatric nursing services in Texas. Our clinical team works with physicians and case managers to ensure children transition safely home from the hospital.

Whether it is 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or a few &hour shifts per week, we have you covered.

Our comprehensive approach to care includes coordinating with your team of medical professionals to implement the best possible outcomes for your child.

"You guys make an amazing team and are changing families' lives for the good! We could not be more thankful for all the e ort you put in to making the transition to Entrusted go so smoothly. Not only that, but y'all hit the ball WAY out of the park finding us excellent nursing sta . Thank you for all of the many hours in the o ce and on call that it takes to make our lives better. We couldn't be happier to call Entrusted our family."

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