Category: Extracurricular

Why Reading to Children Is So Important

Posted on by mks_allc

Does your child have a favorite book they like to hear? Do you enjoy sharing your favorite childhood book with your child? That’s a win-win! Reading to children is important for many reasons including cognitive benefits, stronger social, emotional and character development, decreased levels of aggression, and stronger vocabulary. It strengthens your relationship with your kids and—best of all, helps kids develop a lifelong love of reading.

At just several months of age, an infant can listen to your voice, look at pictures and point to objects on pages. Children learn to love the sound of language before they even notice words on a page. Reading to children stimulates their imagination and expands their understanding of the world. It helps them develop language and listening skills and prepares them to understand written words.

Supported Cognitive Development

Reading to a child has been proven to improve cognitive skills and aid in cognitive development. Cognitive development is the emergence of the ability to understand and think, the construction of thought processes, including remembering, problem solving and decision-making, from childhood through adulthood. How a person perceives his world through areas such as information processing, reasoning, language development, attention span and memory are parts of cognitive development. Reading also stimulates brain cell activity. The more an adult reads to a child, the larger their vocabularies grow, and the more they understand about the world around them.

Better Language Skills

Reading exposes children to new speech patterns and vocabularies. They learn to absorb information on how to form a sentence and use words effectively, helping them develop better communication skills. Reading stimulates the part of the brain that allows children to understand the meaning of language and helps build key language, literacy, and social skills. This is especially important when you consider that, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than one in three children start kindergarten without the skills they need to learn to read. Research has shown that kindergarten children who were read to at least three times a week had a significantly greater phonemic awareness than did children who were read to less often.

Prepare for Academic Success

By helping children to grow their vocabulary skills with exposure to new words and listening skills, they are better positioned for academic success. Studies show that students exposed to reading before preschool are more likely to do better when their reach their period of formal education. By jumpstarting a child’s reading success, they experience stronger growth in the following areas:

–phonemic awareness: being able to hear, identify and play with individual sounds

–phonics: being able to connect letters of written language with sounds of spoken language

–vocabulary: words needed to communicate effectively

–reading comprehension: being able to understand what has been read

–fluency (oral reading): ability to read text accurately and quickly

Reading Helps Children with Special Needs

For children with special needs, looking at faces and body language in a story helps them learn about nonverbal cures of communication. More than just being able to read or write, literacy is a key component of learning, development, communication, and a richer life. It’s not only about being understood, but also about being able to comprehend your world. Developmental delays can affect a child’s motors skills, social-emotional development, daily skills, and cognitive abilities. Reading can augment other learning styles—visual, auditory, tactile, and more. A child can look at an apple, bite it, do an apple puzzle, and read about apples. Looking at picture books can enhance a child’s ability to recognize pictures and what is happening in them, to generalize into his environment.

Literacy helps a child learn about herself and her feelings. When a child is stressed or had an afternoon meltdown but can’t tell you how he’s feeling, reading can often be a comfort. For example, a fun rhyming book about emotions, ending with “how do you feel today?” can offer a child a way to share feelings they might not be able to express otherwise, by allowing them to point to a picture in the book relating to their emotions.

Special Bonding with Your Child

One of the most important things you can do to positively influence a child’s development is spend time with them. Reading to your child provides a wonderful opportunity to have a regular, shared event where you look forward to spending time together. Reading provides invaluable nurturing and reassurance to a child, even as a baby. Young babies love to hear familiar voices and reading is a perfect way to foster this connection. A strong parent/caregiver-child relationship can develop from a child knowing you’ll read together at a predictable, scheduled time that fits into daily routines. Reading aloud together gives you and your child something to talk about, which can also be used to discuss real-life experiences.

Increase Concentration and Improved Creativity

According to earlymoments.com, along with reading comprehension comes a stronger, self-discipline, longer attention spans and better memory retention. Additionally, reading can open doors to new worlds for your child as they use their imaginations to explore people, places, and events beyond their own experiences, shared with them through reading aloud.

Resources

Take a look at this comprehensive list of 100 Books Every Child Should Hear Before Kindergarten. https://files.constantcontact.com/de0ceffa301/83882bd3-3d51-4f8c-a258-132be9314128.pdf

PBS Kids Read! https://www.pbs.org/parents/read

Life is hectic and parents/caregivers are busy. Taking the time to read with your child on a regular basis sends an important message that reading is worthwhile. Go to the bookstore together and let your child select a new book. Go to the library and borrow several books by different authors. Get excited! Help your child grow into an adult who reads easily and frequently whether for business, knowledge or pleasure.

References

www.pacer.org/ec/early-literacy/literacy-opens-the-world.asp

readingrockets.org

www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/why-reading-aloud-to-kids-helps-them-thrive

www.all4kids.org/news/blog/the-importance-of-reading-to-your-children/

Tips for Traveling With a Special Needs Child

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One of the fun parts of life includes vacations and travel. Staycations, exotic trips, theme parks, beach relaxation—they all serve the same purpose: a break from our daily routines. Planning a trip can be exhausting and maintaining a schedule while away can be extra challenging. For families that include a child with special needs there are additional concerns and extra planning that must be taken into consideration.

Planning your trip

Explore transportation options based on the distance you need to travel. Are you close enough to travel by car? If your child needs specialized seating, what travel mode works best with their seating system? If air or train travel leaves you too far from emergency medical treatment, consider a closer destination that can be reached by car.

In choosing a destination, consider your child’s special needs and capabilities. Will a cruise work best for your needs and family interests? Royal Caribbean received the first “Autism Friendly” certification several years ago. Maybe city travel interests your child and can provide varied activities for all family members. National Parks provide visitors with wheelchair-accessible trails, auto tours and observation areas. And, of course, theme parks—Disney in particular—go above and beyond accommodating special needs families.

Plan your trip and choose destinations and rest stops that can accommodate your child’s needs. Even if you are traveling by car, make sure your final destination has any accessibility that is needed. It’s important—and okay—to let people know what your child needs and to expect accommodations to be made for your child.

Flying

For trips by plane, preparing your child for flying will make the transitions a bit easier. You can read about airplanes and airports, and watch videos about flying. Visiting an airport might help prepare your child for the atmosphere, and you can spend some time watching planes take off and land. Some cities create mock flights that provide children with autism a flight experience (without leaving the ground!). You can pack your bags, go to the airport, pass security, board, “fly” and deplane in preparing for an upcoming flight.

Before flying, be sure to check-in at home. You’ll avoid waiting in line at the airport and can print boarding passes at home. Remember to bring small bills with you for taxis and tips. Less fumbling and less stress! The TSA has a new helpline for travelers with special needs. Call 855-787-2227 to learn more about screening policies, procedures and security checkpoint information.

When booking flights, select seats at the front of the plane, and closer to rest rooms. Upon arrival, request wheelchair assistance and security lines, if necessary. For special needs passengers, hand searches and private screenings may be requested.

Carry-on bags are key

Plan your carry-on packing strategically. Medications should always be packed in carry-on luggage in the event of lost or delayed checked baggage. While the traditional 3-1-1 rule (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/frequently-asked-questions/what-3-1-1-liquids-rule) applies, liquid medication is one items which may be allowed in higher quantities. Check with your carrier for more information. Remember to also carry a change of clothes for your child. For children who may become stressed or anxious in new situations, bring familiar and special items from home in your carry-on bag, such as a small blanket, toys, games or music that distract or relax your child. Noise-cancelling headphones can block out noises in planes, cars and other attractions.

Special items

Be sure to review items you’ll need for bath time, bedtime and meals. Call your hotel(s) to see how they can help. Bring special items that your child(ren) require or are used to, such as a special toy, blanket or sippy cup. Be sure to make a checklist of important items and double check it before leaving each stop of your trip.

Get your doctor involved

Speak with your child’s pediatrician and ask for recommendations and tips. If you are flying, ask if there are natural supplements or medications that might help your child relax to make the flight or drive easier. Prepare a folder with information you might need in an emergency, such as:

-a list of medications your child is taking along with a copy of each prescription

-doctor’s letter with description of your child’s condition/special needs (especially for ‘invisible’ conditions such as Autism or Tourette Syndrome)

-phone numbers, email addresses of child’s doctors and specialists (this is in addition to info stored in your phone)

-recommendations for doctors and specialists in the area you are visiting

-copies of health insurance cards and phone numbers (check your health insurance before leaving; many companies require prior approval for out of town emergency room or doctor visits)

Prepare your child

To help prepare your child before your trip, discuss your itinerary and explain what your child will encounter each day. Read books and look at photos of your destination so your child can see what to expect. As important as it is to plan your days and prepare your child, keeping to your overall routine will help ease tension for a special needs child. Naps and mealtimes, when kept on schedule go a long way in maintaining balance.

With some diligent preparation and research, you’ll be able to find the right vacation for your family. And while not every trip goes as planned, the vacation time spent together as a family can be more valuable than any itinerary or tourist attraction checked off your list.

Wishing you safe travels!

 

Note: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not an attempt to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult your child’s pediatrician with any specific medical questions. MKSA is also available to answer questions about child development. Contact us at 516-731-5588 or www.mksallc.com.

 Sources:
Familyvacationcritic.com
Friendshipcircle.com
Myfamilytravels.com

It’s Our Outdoor Play and Safety Issue!

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School is over and summer vacation is upon us. Time for…indoor screen time? That doesn’t sound right. But for many children, sitting in front of screens will be their primary summer activity. Children should be active for at least an hour every day, but on average, children spend four to seven minutes daily in unstructured outdoor play, compared to seven or more hours in front of a screen. Like everything, there is a time and place when some screen time is not a bad thing.

But—it’s summer! Sunshine! Fresh air! Playgrounds! Beaches! There are many reasons children need to play outside including physical, social and emotional factors. It’s fun, it’s healthy and it’s important.

Below are some benefits children experience from playing outside:

Practice Emerging Skills
Outdoors is the best place for young children to practice and master developing physical skills. While outdoors, children can practice motor skills such as running, jumping and leaping. For children with special needs, outdoor play can improve flexibility, muscle strength and coordination. Children can perform manipulative skills such as pushing a swing, pulling a wagon and carrying moveable objects. Being outside also helps children to improve body awareness, balance and motor skills.

Health Benefits
Sun exposure helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which plays a critical role in body processes including bone development. Immune systems get a boost as well from time spent in sunshine. Playing outdoors helps children get exercise and burn calories, which may help counter risk factors for obesity, hypertension and arteriosclerosis (which can show as early as age 5). Outdoor light also stimulates the pineal gland, the part of the brain that regulates the ‘biological clock’ which is critical for the immune system.

Cognitive and Social/Emotional Development
Unstructured outdoor play is the best way children learn to take turns and share. As they invent and play games, they improve communication, cooperation and organizational skills. The best way for children to learn how to plan, troubleshoot and multitask is though playing with other children. When they make up their own games, figure things out and amuse themselves, these important life skills are learned and practiced. When outdoor play is used as a teaching skill, children with communication challenges, problems with social skills, and sensory issues can reap many benefits.

Physical Benefits
For children with special needs, outdoor play provides a boost in self-confidence. As they overcome obstacles and improve physical skills, their self-esteem increases as well. When they experience personal satisfaction and accomplishment, that increase in confidence carries over into other areas of their lives. Physical play also helps reduce stress, which contributes to depression and anxiety.

Social Benefits
Children need to learn how to work together. Children with special needs often have problems with social skills, but outdoor play provides some additional social benefits. Behavior may improve and make it easier for these children to build friendships. They learn how to share, how to deal with conflict and how to work in groups, all while having fun in an outdoor, low-stress environment.

Appreciation for Nature/Sensory Skills Development
Aesthetic Awareness refers to a heightened sensitivity to beauty in the world around us. Outdoors is full of beautiful sights, sounds, smells and textures, all to be experienced through all senses. Seeing animals and birds, hearing wind moving through leaves, smelling fragrant flowers and earth, touching grass and trees, and even tasting a raindrop all provide opportunities for children to appreciate the world around them. Playing on screens uses only two senses—hearing and sight—which can negatively affect children’s perceptual abilities.

While free play is important and beneficial, planning or creating specific activities has much value too. Here are some fun ideas for outdoor time:

 -Nature walk: ask children to tell you what they are seeing, smelling and hearing; touch a rock or a leaf

-Obstacle course: set one up in your yard using old tires, cardboard boxes and more

-“Listening” walk: walk with your children and point out as many sounds as you can; bring along a tape recorder (or record on your phone) so they can identify sounds at a later time

-Parachute or sheet time: bring a parachute or old sheet outside and play games with it (shaking it, circling with it, bouncing foam balls on it)

-Music: bring music outside and dance with your kids in a natural environment

-“Water painting”: have children paint the side of building or wood fence with a brush and a bucket of water; get exercise while teaching about wet and dry, light and dark and evaporation

-Bubbles: chasing bubbles gives kids another chance to run

-Outdoor sensory table: create a toy car wash

-Swings: many local parks have adaptive swings for children with special needs

-Chalk: for children who love to color, outdoor chalk is a fun way to color; large chalk is good for children who have difficulty grasping

-Biking: even if your child cannot ride a bike, a tandem bike or bike with car seat or trailer is a great way to experience the outdoors

-Sandbox: like a large sensory bin, in this you can make castles, mud pies and more

-Picnic: have your child help prepare and pack the food; spread a blanket in the backyard and have fun

-Quiet time: even reading a book or napping can be enjoyed outside

-Playgrounds: these are a great place for kids to work on balance, motor planning, confidence and social skills

-Water (rain) therapy: for a wonderful sensory integration experience, let your children play outside in the rain—in clothes or swimsuits, with or without an umbrella; give them buckets to collect water and brooms to slosh it up with

 

With lots of outdoor play ahead, it’s also important to be safe. We’ve incorporated our list of safety tips, which includes information on topics such as sunscreen, dry drowning and more. With a summer full of beach and pool visits as well as time spent on the playground in the heat, we’ve put together a list of summer safety tips to be sure you enjoy the season safely. These tips apply to both children and adults; no one can have a good time if they’re sunburned or injured.

1.Lather on the sunscreen
Sunscreen should be applied right after children are up and dressed. Since sunscreen takes at least 15 minutes to get absorbed and start protecting you, if you wait until your children (and you!) are already in the sun, you’re behind the eight ball. Remember to re-apply after swimming and throughout the day, even if it’s cloudy out. UV rays can penetrate through fog and haze. If your child is going to camp, be sure to pack extra sunscreen (spray sunscreen is easier for little hands to use) and show your child how to use it. And be sure to use enough. Most of us don’t; a good rule of thumb is we need about a shot-glass full to protect our whole body. Less is definitely not more here.

2.Drink that water!
The importance of drinking fluids (preferably water) cannot be overstated. During warm weather, and especially when we sweat, our bodies lose fluid rapidly. Children often can’t tell if they need water, and by the time they are thirsty they are likely already a bit dehydrated. Teach them the importance of drinking fluids and be sure they take adequate breaks during outdoor activities.

3.Watch for heat illness
When our body is exposed to more heat than it can handle, several heat related illnesses may occur. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are two such illnesses, and both can be very dangerous especially in infants and young children. For heat-related illness, the best defense is prevention:

-Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car—ever

-Dress infants and children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing

-Schedule outdoor activities carefully, for morning and evening hours (avoiding heat of day)

-Stay cool with cool showers or baths

-Seek medical attention immediately if someone you know has symptoms of heat illness

When we lose excessive amounts of salt and water and the result can be heat exhaustion. Symptoms include severe thirst, fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes, diarrhea. Other symptoms include profuse sweating, clammy/pale skin, dizziness, rapid pulse and slightly elevated temperature. Anyone experiencing heat exhaustion should be moved to a shaded or air-conditioned area, given water or other cool (non-alcoholic) beverages, and apply wet towels or take a cool shower.

Heat exhaustion can turn into heatstroke if not treated. When our body is having difficulty sweating and our temperature rises quickly, you may experience heatstroke. This happens when our body cannot get rid of excess heat. Having very hot skin and being confused are two symptoms. Getting rid of excess body heat is critical. Call for emergency help immediately. The person should be moved into the shade into a half-sitting position. Spray the victim with water and fan them vigorously; if humidity is higher than 75%, apply ice to their neck, armpits or groin.

4.Be safe in the water
According to Injury Facts 2017 (nsc.org), an average of nine people die from drowning in the U.S. every day. Drowning is a concern for young children, and teens and young adults too. Some basic water safety precautions for young children include:
-Never leave your child alone near water; if you must leave, take your child with you

-Find age-appropriate swim lessons for your child (remember that lessons do not make a child “drown-proof”)

-Always keep your eyes on your child; never rely on a lifeguard to watch your child

-Don’t let children play near pool drains and suction fittings; hair, fingers/toes, and swimsuits can get caught and become part of the suction

-Remember that even rivers and lakes have undertows

-Always keep a first aid kit handy

-Get trained in CPR

-If a child is missing, check the water first

5.Know about dry drowning/secondary drowning
Many parents think once their children are finished swimming and away from water they can relax. Not necessarily so. There is a term that should be in every parent’s vocabulary. The following are excerpts from an article from ChildrensMD.org, by Dr. Kathleen Berchelmann explaining the term “dry drowning” and what you need to know:

“There is some debate about the definition of the term “dry drowning.” Usually this term refers to situations where some water got in a child’s lungs and the child has a severe inflammatory reaction to the water hours after the incident. This phenomenon is also called “secondary drowning” or “near drowning.” There is another phenomenon, also sometimes called “dry drowning” in which suffocation occurs but no water ever entered the lungs. In these rare situations the larynx (voice box) spasms and stays shut, causing involuntary suffocation. Sometimes this spasm is triggered by water droplets hitting the larynx, or a sudden high-speed submersion under water such as off a high-dive or a high-speed water slide. This latter form of dry drowning generally doesn’t occur when kids are simply swimming or playing in the pool.”

Symptoms and warning signs of “dry drowning”:

Coughing: Any person who has persistent coughing after playing in the water is at risk for water in their lungs. Don’t go to bed worrying; take your child in for a medical evaluation.

Water rescue: Any person who was submerged in water and came up struggling, especially if he/she had to be retrieved from the water, needs medical evaluation.

Amnesia: Any person who was unconscious underwater or has limited memory of an incident that occurred in water needs immediate medical care.

Behavior change: If your child feels sick, acts too sleepy, or has a change in mental behavior after a day at the pool, take it seriously. The worst thing that can be done with a child who may have inhaled water is to put them to bed. They need immediate medical care.

Vomiting: Vomiting after a day of swimming can be due to waterborne infectious disease but can also be a sign of severe illness due to dry drowning. This is a sign stress from the body due inflammation. While dry drowning is extremely rare, it is important to know the signs and get immediate medical attention if someone is not behaving normally after swimming.

6.Keep mosquitos and ticks away
Outside time is fun time—that is until the bugs start biting, or your find a tick on your child. Some easy precautions can keep you and your children safe this summer. Use a good bug repellant with one of these ingredients: DEET, Picaridin, IR 3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Many pediatricians advise using products that contain less than 30% of these ingredients on children. Ticks can live in backyards, as well as deep in the woods; be mindful of where you set up patios and playground equipment. Keep these areas a distance away from shrubs and bushes and consider professional tick control applied by a pest control expert. After a day outside, make it a practice to check for ticks on children, adults and pets. If you find one, use a fine-tipped tweezer to remove it. Call your doctor with any questions.

7.Have fun but be safe
Playground-related mishaps are common causes of injuries and visits to the emergency room. To keep children safe while playing outside, take adequate precautions and always have adult supervision when young children are playing outside.

Ensure that surfaces under playground equipment are safe and well-maintained. Watch young children around stairs and playground equipment. Gates on stairs can prevent a young child from falling down the stairs. Be sure children wear protective equipment for the sport of their choice and watch for signs of a concussion (including can’t recall events before or after a hit/fall; appearing confused; moves awkwardly; demonstrates behavior changes; headache/head pressure; nausea/vomiting; dizziness; sensitive to noise or light; feeling sluggish; feeling ‘off’). Symptoms usually appear shortly after an injury but can also take hours or days to show up. Consult your child’s doctor if you suspect or have been advised that your child has a concussion.

 

We are all looking forward to a summer full of beautiful weather with lots of fun time spent outdoors. With a little planning and precaution, you and your children will be safe and have a wonderful time! Remember, if you have an emergency or any serious concerns, contact your child’s doctor immediately.

Note: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not an attempt to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult your child’s pediatrician with any specific medical questions. MKSA is also available to answer questions about child development. Contact us at 516-731-5588 or www.mksallc.com.

Sources:
http://www.earlychildhoodnews.com/earlychildhood/article_view.aspx?ArticleID=275
https://news.sanfordhealth.org/childrens/play-outside/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/6-reasons-children-need-to-play-outside-2018052213880
https://www.cerebralpalsy.org/blog/outdoor-activities-for-children-with-special-needs

From School to Summer Break for Students with Special Needs

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Summer vacation is just around the corner, and it means different things to different families. For families of children with special needs, moving from school to summer break is one large, long transition that doesn’t always go very easily. Most children do better with routine and structure, but children with autism spectrum disorders, anxiety and ADHD are especially dependent on the predictability that school provides. Remove that “safe zone” and they are more prone to tantrums, oppositional behavior and anxiety.

For parents that are home, it can be difficult to find and stick to routines during this more relaxing time of year. With later bedtimes, random napping, and spontaneous plans, sometimes just creating some structure each day can be challenging. To be sure, there are some unexpected benefits from unstructured time as well, but finding a balance is not always easy.

Below are some ways to help kids with special needs transition to a summer schedule:

Routine – In an effort to keep a child more comfortable, where possible try to maintain the school year’s daily schedule, including meal times and bedtime. The predictability of even certain components of each day will keep your child more relaxed.

Play – While home can become a safe place, especially for children with sensory processing disorders or social difficulties, it is important that they don’t spend hours inside in front of screens. Physical activity is good for everyone, particularly for children with lots of energy to burn! Find an activity that your child enjoys such as swimming, playing tag or riding a bicycle. Exercise, including jumping and swinging boosts endorphin levels and summer vacation is a good excuse to be outdoors playing. Swings are a great form of exercise for children with special needs. Look at a hammock swing, standard belt swing or a special needs swing. Supervised time on a trampoline is also a good activity.

Sensory Space – A sensory space can help with transitions, or to allow a child to relax at certain times of the day. If you need to, schedule sensory time each day (several times if necessary). This space can include controlled lighting and sound, with comfortable beanbag chairs or crash pads. Look to include items for compression, play, movement or heavy work. Weighted items such as balls can be incorporated here as well.

Lists/Schedules – Writing children’s daily tasks and activities on a posted list can help greatly, especially for children who have difficulty with transitions. Make sure they are included in making and monitoring the list. Tasks on the list can include chores, activities, summer reading work and anything else that will happen during the day (i.e. 8AM: wake up, use bathroom, brush teeth; 9AM: breakfast; 10AM: summer reading). A list will especially help children with Sensory Processing Disorder, ADD, ADHD, Executive Functioning Disorder and those on the autism spectrum.

Planned Activities – Plan ahead whenever possible, so your child can know ahead of time that you have plans for ‘Wednesday at 11:00 AM.’ Try to also have a set daily routine, such as going to the park every afternoon.

Travel and Routines – Vacations that involve staying in hotels can be additionally challenging. When possible, explore renting a vacation apartment where mimicking home routines is easier. Consider bringing familiar snacks and picking up milk, juice and snacks once you arrive. Having some familiar routine components, even while on vacation, may be helpful.

Summer Camp – For information on finding a camp that will accommodate your child’s special needs, see our previous blog post “Things to Consider When Choosing a Summer Camp for a Child with Special Needs.”

With some research and planning, you’ll be able to set up a summer plan that will work for your child, and his/her special needs and interests. Remember that it’s equally important for parents/caregivers to take some time for themselves. If possible, book a babysitter and spend some time with friends. If that isn’t feasible, close friends with or without kids can offer support. And if a family member is available to give you a break, do so. Your well-being is important and allows you to give your best to your child. Wishing you a happy summer!

 

Note: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not an attempt to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult your child’s pediatrician with any specific medical questions. MKSA is also available to answer questions about child development. Contact us at 516-731-5588 or www.mksallc.com.

Sources:
https://blog.schoolspecialty.com/transition-school-year-summer-break-child-special-needs/
https://educationpost.org/summer-is-tough-for-parenting-a-child-with-disabilities-but-its-also-an-opportunity/
https://childmind.org/article/strategies-for-a-successful-summer-break/

Things to Look for When Choosing a Preschool

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Choosing your child’s first school can be both exciting and overwhelming. If your child has special needs, it’s especially important to thoroughly explore different options. As space is sometimes limited, it’s best to start researching early and apply to several programs.

There are several things to look for as you begin to visit preschools. According to Harvard’s Graduate School of Education, look for the following:

Adults are talking to children in nurturing and encouraging ways. They address them by name, get down to their eye-level, listen and try to understand. A perfect example of this was a parent dropping off a recently potty-trained 3-year-old who wanted to wear his underwear backwards. The teacher understood that the little boy wanted to have the truck on the underwear in the front—where he could see it. And it wasn’t an issue.

Teachers focus on helping—not punishing—children who are behaving inappropriately. Good teachers help preschoolers develop social and emotional skills and self-regulation, with consistent routines, and strategies such as timers for turn-taking, and games for times a child needs to be physical.

Classrooms are joyful and fun. Teachers need to continually provide new activities and challenges in an environment focused on play.

Children are active. Artwork should cover walls, children should get lots of outdoor time, and they should not expected to sit for more than 20 minutes at a time.

Staff seem happy and are supported. It’s ok to ask about teacher turnover, and availability of regular professional development and planning time for teachers. Do they seem happy and excited—or bored? Teachers can make or break a child’s experience, so go with your instincts. If you feel good about the teachers, your child likely will as well.

Once you have arranged to visit a school, asking questions can further help you assess the program and decide. Call in advance to arrange a tour and try to schedule a follow-up visit with your child to see how he/she reacts to the school. Below are some suggested questions to ask and points to consider, from pbs.org’s pbsparents:

Ask yourself “What kind of school environment am I looking for?” Do you picture your child in a busy, active place with lots of other children, or are you looking for a small, nurturing environment with just a few kids? What specific needs does your child have: toilet training, napping, socializing?

Consider if this school is a good fit for your child—and you. How will he do socially in this environment? How does the school fit with your child’s disability, unique needs, strengths and personality?

Spend time observing. During tours, watch silently in the classroom and observe the interactions.

What is the educational philosophy? Some philosophies are play-based, some introduce reading and math earlier than others, and many schools incorporate multiple philosophies.

How large are the classes and what is the teacher-child ratio? The important thing to consider is how your child’s needs and your own will be met by this equation.

What is the look and feel of the school? Does it feel warm and inviting? Is it clean and organized, or messy and chaotic? Do they have a gym or play yard? How often do they use it? Is there a separate room for Speech, OT, PT and Psychologist services?

Is the atmosphere exciting? Do students seem happy? Do the teachers seem like they enjoy teaching here?

What kinds of activities are children doing? Are the projects controlled or open-ended, enabling children to do many different things with the same materials?

What is the focus on reading? Ask if it focuses on teaching early literacy skills and at what age. Does this approach seem right for you and your child?

Are children working all together or individually? Is everyone doing the same project or activity at the same time? Are individual interests being accommodated?

Organization. Are the classrooms organized? For children with Sensory Processing Disorder, are there visual and auditory organizers such as wall charts, schedules and timers to help minimize over- or under-stimulation?

How much do the children play? Both boys and girls need room to run around and time to do it, with plenty of opportunity for imaginative play.

How do parents get involved in the school? Is there an active parent’s organization? Can parents volunteer in the classroom?

How is information communicated to parents? Is there a newsletter? Can you e-mail the teachers?

How does the school address social-emotional issues? How does the staff help children resolve conflicts? How are issues like hitting, throwing, and biting addressed?

Food and mealtime. Where do students eat? In a classroom or lunchroom? How does the school handle special dietary requirements and how are food allergies handled?

What are the discipline policies? Are children punished for inappropriate behaviors? Ask for details about their discipline policies.

Is this school accredited? Public schools need to meet state and district requirements. Private schools get additional accreditation from organizations like the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)and the National Association of Independent Schools. Accreditation standards vary, and some schools may meet standards without being accredited by outside organizations.

Specialists and therapies. What therapists visit the school and how often? Does the school have regular access to Speech Therapists, OTs, PTs and Psychologists? Does the school offer adaptive physical education? If your child has difficulties with speech and language, ask what method the school will use for communication. Do they have access to assistive technology? Are any extracurricular activities open to special needs students?

Paraprofessionals. If your child is going to need a para, ask what training is given to him/her. Will your child get the same para each day? Will the para be with your child at recess and lunch?

Request a copy of the class schedule. How is the day structured? Is it the right fit for your child’s intellectual, emotional and physical needs?

What are the medical policies? Is there a nurse on site full time? How are medications handled? How does the school handle injuries or illnesses? Can kids come to school with a cold but not a fever?

Is the space safe? Is it up to code? What evacuation plans are in place?

Can you get references from other parents whose children go to the school? If you haven’t been personally recommended, ask for some numbers of other parents who might answer more specific questions.

While there are many factors to consider when selecting a preschool, with some diligent exploration you’ll be able to find the right setting for your child—a nurturing yet stimulating environment that will positively shape his/her orientation toward learning for many years ahead. If you have any questions about your child’s development, reach out to us! You can call 516-731-5588 or contact us by email.

Note: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not an attempt to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult your child’s pediatrician with any specific medical questions. MKSA is also available to answer questions about child development. Contact us at 516-731-5588 or www.mksallc.com.

 Sources:
https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/17/11/how-pick-preschool
pbs.org’s pbsparents
Child Mind Institute, childmind.org

Things to Consider When Choosing a Summer Camp for a Child with Special Needs

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It might be cold and dreary outside, but there’s no better time to explore summer camp for your children. It’s important to find the right setting for your child, whether it is a day camp or sleepaway camp. To find a summer camp for children with special needs, there are additional factors to consider based on your child’s skills, interests and abilities. Special Needs is a comprehensive category that includes issues such as physical-care needs and orthopedic appliances to speech delays, learning disabilities and behavioral issues. For all children that fall within the special needs category, summer camp is more complicated than just sending in a deposit.

You’ll want to start thinking early about the kinds of activities your child would benefit from, and this involves assessing your child’s needs, your options and details about each camp you are considering. Consider your child’s age, interests and personality. You’ll also want to think about how summer activities can help support your child’s year-round learning. Questions to ask yourself include:
–What would your child enjoy? Does your child have a passion such as animals or music? If so, you could look for summer programs that encourage his passion, such as a music camp or zoo program.
–What skills is your child working on? A child who needs help learning to read could benefit from a program that provides specialized reading tutoring. If he’s been focusing on socialization skills, a noncompetitive camp setting with lots of interaction with other children could be a good opportunity to continue learning social skills. Consider the goals he has been working toward during the school year and how he could progress over the summer.
–If your child has difficulty in new or unfamiliar situations, talk with other parents in your child’s class or neighborhood to see if your children could attend a program together.
Options to consider include summer programs in your community. You can learn about these from your child’s school staff. Teachers can likely recommend programs and activities that have been accommodating and successful for children with special needs. Ask other parents as well. Some local options might be:
–Local park and recreation programs. Usually half-day or all-day programs, these often cost less than other programs but may have residency requirements.
–Day camps. Religious organizations, schools and Ys offer day damps. They may have limited hours but might offer extended-day coverage.
–Activity programs and workshops. Organizations like libraries, museums and nature societies offer short-term workshops in a variety of areas.
–Overnight camps. These may offer stays by the week, month or all summer. Many are oriented toward specific activities such as sports, nature or the arts.

Once you have found several programs that might work, some in-depth questions to ask include:
–What is the program philosophy? Look for camps with clearly stated goals, that will be a good match for your child’s personality and will increase her sense of confidence and self-esteem.
–How much training and experience do staff members have? Are staff members able to make needed accommodations? Can they effectively manage your child’s behavior in a way that makes you comfortable?
–What is the ratio of staff members to kids? A camp with an adult-to-child ratio of 1:2 is very different than 1:10.
–What kind of medical facilities or professionals are on site? Find out if a nurse is available and how medications are dispensed. Be sure the camp staff is trained to respond to medical emergencies such as seizures.
–Are the facilities accessible?
–How will you communicate with staff members and with your child? For day programs, ask if you will have opportunities to speak with counselors at drop-off and pick-up time. Will staff members be available by phone or email? If your child will attend an overnight camp, find out how often you will be able to speak with him.
–What are the sleeping, bathing and eating arrangements? For overnight camp, you’ll want to be sure your child will be comfortable and get the help she needs to be able to fully participate in the program.
–Check references and learn what other families think of the program.

According to summer365.com, a free camp advisory service, below are five main points to remember when searching for a camp for special needs children:
There is a camp out there for your child. There are specialty camps designed for nearly every disability or need, some running for a full summer or a shorter session, and some taking over another camp’s facility for a period of a few weeks at summer’s end. Mainstream camps sometimes work with specific needs as well. Susan Kasnett, Co-Founder of summer365.com says “One summer, I saw a girl in a wheelchair having a wonderful time at a traditional summer camp. Depending on your child’s needs and the camp’s capabilities, things that might not seem like an obvious fit could work.”
Ask for advice in deciding if your child is ready. Parents should speak with a child’s teachers, psychologists and anyone on their team when deciding if a child is ready for camp, especially a sleepaway experience. A good barometer is if parents feel that a child has outgrown whatever they’ve been doing in past summers, it could be time to explore new experiences. Keep in mind that it’s okay to encourage a child to move out of their comfort zone and encourage a new experience. Some children who rely deeply on routine might never openly volunteer for a change but could ultimately thrive and learn in a new environment. However, you don’t want to send a child who’s going to be anxious or miserable to the point of being unable to participate.
Interview the camp. While camps that focus on a particular disability or need tend to interview families, you need to interview the camp as well. Important questions to ask include: What is the camper-to-counselor ratio? How is staff selected and trained? Is there any therapy programming offered? Have past campers been eligible for extended school-year funding or insurance reimbursement? How does the camp handle homesickness or other needs particular to your child? Visiting a camp while it is in session is the best way to get a feel for the camp’s culture, philosophy and accommodations.
Be honest with the camp about your child. Do not play down your child’s needs; you want to make sure everyone is on the same page. If your child has behavior issues, let the camp know. If your child is physically independent at the beginning of the day, but by evening needs far more help, make the camp aware of these things.
Be honest with your child about camp. Take to him/her about homesickness and share your personal experiences with it. Let him/her know that is it natural but will pass. Being at camp can be wonderful, but going away from home can be hard, and there’s no reason to gloss over that issue with any child.

Parents must also remember that it is discriminatory for a provider to tell you that your child cannot be admitted to a program because of her disability. If your child needs one-on-one assistance at a camp but the camp cannot provide this, your insurance company or state department that oversees the welfare of children with disabilities may be able to pay for an extra teacher, aide or counselor.

As an additional resource, we’re including links to some sites that may help in the search for a summer camp:
Federation for Children with Special Needs Camp Guide:  FCSN Camp Guide 2019
Long Island camps for children with special needs: https://www.nymetroparents.com/article/summer-camps-that-offer-special-needs-programs-and-services-for-campers-on-long-island
Hofstra University REACH Program for campers with autism spectrum disorders and other special needs: https://www.hofstra.edu/academics/ce/summer-camp/specialty_reach.html
NYC camps for children with special needs: https://mommypoppins.com/newyorkcitykids/nyc-summer-camps-autistism-special-needs-aspergers-adhd-sensory

With some solid research as well as conversations with your child’s teachers and other parents, you’ll be able to find the perfect summer camp environment for your child. Before you know it, you’ll be deep in preparation for that fun time—sunscreen, bathing suits and more!

If you have any questions about your child’s development, reach out to us! You can call 516-731-5588 or reach us by email.

 

Note: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not an attempt to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult your child’s pediatrician with any specific medical questions. MKSA is also available to answer questions about child development. Contact us at 516-731-5588 or visit our website for more information..

Sources:
American Camp Association acacamps.org
Kidscamps.com
Parenting.blogs.nytimes.com  
Summer365.com

 

 

Safety and Injury Prevention for Children

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As parents and caregivers, we always want to protect our children and ensure their safety. This means making sure indoor and outdoor environments are safe, and that we teach them how to protect themselves as well. This post, while not an inclusive list, covers several aspects of safety including household, outdoor, poison, fire and internet safety. If you have specific questions about your child’s safety, we recommend you first speak with your child’s pediatrician.

The first line of defense to keep your child safe begins in your home. Have you gotten down on the floor to take a look around, from a baby or child’s perspective? You’ll be surprised at what you see! Take a look at outlets, wires, tall bookcases, plants and more. If they are accessible, you’ll need to make adjustments so your baby cannot reach, pull or chew on any of these potential dangers.

Let’s go over some common danger areas in the home:

Windows: Window guards should be installed on all windows in your home. Be sure an adult can open them in case of fire. If a window is open more than four inches, a child can fall out. Screens offer protection from bugs, not from falling.

Blinds/Shades: There is a strangulation risk from corded blinds and shades! Ideally, install only cordless window treatments. Be sure to keep cribs, furniture and climbable surfaces away from any windows. Shorten pull cords to the shortest usable length. Tighten continuous-loop cords tight, and anchor with a tension device. Check manufacturer’s directions for more information.

Kitchen: Be sure to turn handles from pots and pans toward the back so they cannot be pulled off. Be sure to teach children that the stove and oven are not to be touched because they get very hot. Install a stove guard and knob covers. Knives must be kept out of reach of children. If you have a garbage disposal, warn children of its dangers.

Cabinets and drawers: Use safety latches so young children cannot open these. Even so, be sure to keep dangerous products (cleaning chemicals, medications) out of reach of children—safety latches are not guaranteed failsafes.

Electric appliances/wires: Cover any unused electrical outlets with safety covers. Be sure cords are out of reach; children can pull on cords, making objects fall, or children can trip over cords. Lamps pose an overlooked safety hazard as they can be pulled down. Try using Velcro or Command tape to secure lamps to tables. Watch for floor lamps that tip easily.

TVs: While many of us mount flat screen TVs on the wall, many are on top of stands or in wall units. Climbing or standing children can grab hold of the TV and pull it down, with the risk of it falling on them. Be sure your TV is secured to any stand or unit if it’s not mounted on a wall.

Bookcases: These look like large ladders to children, so be sure to install anchors for bookcases. These secure the unit to the wall behind it, preventing children from climbing or grabbing on and having the unit fall on them.

Plants: Be sure to purchase only nontoxic houseplants and keep out of reach of young ones.

Fireplace: For safety tips, visit https://parent.guide/how-to-baby-proof-your-fireplace/. Consider adding a padded bumper around the hearth, especially if it’s a raised ledge.

Batteries: Many toys and household items contain small round batteries, which pose a choking hazard to children. They can also leak chemicals and cause burns. Keep devices that use these small batteries out of reach of children, or place a piece of duct tape over the controller so children cannot access the battery. Store loose batteries locked away as well. If you suspect your child ingested a battery, contact the National Battery Ingestion Hotline at 202-625-3333.

Small items: Be extra careful about any small items throughout the house—pen caps, jewelry, magnets, soda bottle caps—and keep them out of reach of young children.

Heating: Cover or block access to radiators and heat vents. Do not use portable electric heaters near children.

Laundry room: Never let children handle single-use detergent packets; keep them in the original container unless actively placing one in the washing machine, seal the container after use, and store the container in a locked cabinet. Use child safety locks on front-loading washers and dryers to prevent your children from opening them or crawling in, especially during use.

Fire safety: Make sure there is a working smoke and CO alarm outside every bedroom, on every floor, and in the garage. Test the alarms and changes the batteries each time we change the clocks. Keep flashlight and fire extinguishers in your home and know how to operate them. Teach children never to play with candles, lighters or matches. Do not overload any outlet with too many plugs; never run cords under rugs or carpet. For more fire safety tips: https://www.nfpa.org/Public-Education/By-topic/Safety-in-the-home/Escape-planning/Basic-fire-escape-planning

Poisons: Open windows for ventilation when using cleaning products. Never use barbeques or other outdoor equipment indoors for cooking or heat! These can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Lock up medicines, cleaning solutions, cosmetics and soaps out of reach of children. Teach children never to eat, drink or open products if they don’t know what they are. Know the poison control hotline phone number: 800-222-1222.

Outdoor safety is important too! Keep these tips in mind as the weather changes and more time is spent outdoors:

Streets: Teach young children to hold an adult’s hand and look both ways—twice—before crossing a street. Tell them never to run into the street to chase a ball or toy. Train your children to watch for cars backing out of driveways. Teach your child to use hand signals when on a bike.

Safety gear: Children should always wear a helmet and elbow pads when riding bicycles. For rollerblading and skateboarding, they should wear helmets, knee and elbow pads and wrist guards. Street safety rules apply here as well.

Sun safety: Babies younger than six months should be kept out of direct sunlight, as their skin is too sensitive for sunscreen. Babies older than six months must have sunscreen applied 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every 2 hours, or after sweating or swimming.

Water: Never leave infants and young children alone near any water. They can drown in less than 2 inches of water—bathtub, bucket of liquid, toilet. Teach children 4 and older to swim, and supervise them at all times. If you have a pool or hot tub, be sure there is a locked fence at least 4 feet high enclosing it. Pool and beach toys are not appropriate flotation devices. For more details about water safety, see our previous post: https://mksallc.com/theres-still-plenty-summer-left-safe/

Important car safety information:

Use seats that meet or exceed Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. For more information visit: https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/car-seats-and-booster-seats. Always use safety seats, even for short rides. Before installing a car safety seat, read the seat instruction manual and your car owner’s manual. You can get installation help with a car seat inspection and register your seat for recall notices: https://www.nhtsa.gov/equipment/car-seats-and-booster-seats#installation-help-inspection. If your child’s seat has been in an accident, replace it with a new one. For special needs children, contact your child’s pediatrician for help with finding an appropriate seat.

 

In addition to these tips, be sure to take classes in infant/child CPR and first aid, keep a first aid kit handy, and have important phone numbers nearby for caregivers (poison control, pediatrician, fire department). For a comprehensive safety checklist, https://www.safekids.org/safetytips/field_venues/home?gclid=EAIaIQobChMI9JOfgp2P2gIVQVuGCh37PQbUEAAYASAAEgLIR_D_BwE. It’s easy to have fun, but more important to be safe! If you have any questions, contact your child’s pediatrician. We are also available if you have any questions about your child’s development or behavior. We can be reached at 516-731-5588.

Some information shared courtesy of Children’s Home Society of California, www.chs-ca.org.

 

There’s still plenty of summer left—be safe!

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Back-to-school time may be looming, but it’s still warm out with lots of beach and pool visits to be had, as well as time spent on the playground in the heat. We’ve put together a list of summer safety tips to be sure you enjoy the dog days of summer safely. These tips apply to both children and adults; no one can have a good time if they’re sunburned or injured.

1. Lather on the sunscreen
Sunscreen should be applied right after children are up and dressed. Since sunscreen takes at least 15 minutes to get absorbed and start protecting you, if you wait until your children (and you!) are already in the sun, you’re behind the eight ball. Remember to re-apply after swimming and throughout the day, even if it’s cloudy out. UV rays can penetrate through fog and haze. If your child is going to camp, be sure to pack extra sunscreen (spray sunscreen is easier for little hands to use) and show your child how to use it. And be sure to use enough. Most of us don’t; a good rule of thumb is we need about a shot-glass full to protect our whole body. Less is definitely not more here.

2. Drink that water!
The importance of drinking fluids (preferably water) cannot be overstated. During warm weather, and especially when we sweat, our bodies lose fluid rapidly. Children often can’t tell if they need water, and by the time they are thirsty they are likely already a bit dehydrated. Teach them the importance of drinking fluids, and be sure they take adequate breaks during outdoor activities.

3. Watch for heat illness
When our body is exposed to more heat than it can handle, several heat related illnesses may occur. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are two such illnesses, and both can be very dangerous especially in infants and young children. For heat-related illness, the best defense is prevention:
-Never leave infants, children or pets in a parked car—ever

-Dress infant and children in loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing

-Schedule outdoor activities carefully, for morning and evening hours (avoiding heat of day)

-Stay cool with cool showers or baths

-Seek medical attention immediately if someone you know has symptoms of heat illness

When we lose excessive amounts of salt and water and the result can be heat exhaustion. Symptoms include severe thirst, fatigue, headaches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes, diarrhea. Other symptoms include profuse sweating, clammy/pale skin, dizziness, rapid pulse and slightly elevated temperature. Anyone experiencing heat exhaustion should be moved to a shaded or air-conditioned area, given water or other cool (non-alcoholic) beverages, and apply wet towels or take a cool shower.

Heat exhaustion can turn into heatstroke if not treated. When our body is having difficulty sweating and our temperature rises quickly, you may experience heatstroke. This happens when our body cannot get rid of excess heat. Having very hot skin and being confused are two symptoms. Getting rid of excess body heat is critical. Call for emergency help immediately. The person should be moved into the shade into a half-sitting position. Spray the victim with water and fan them vigorously; if humidity is higher than 75%, apply ice to their neck, armpits or groin.

4. Be safe in the water
According to Injury Facts 2017 (nsc.org), an average of nine people die from drowning in the U.S. every day. Drowning is a concern for young children, and teens and young adults too. Some basic water safety precautions for young children include:
-Never leave your child alone near water; if you must leave, take your child with you

-Find age-appropriate swim lessons for your child (remember that lessons do not make a child “drown-proof”)

-Always keep your eyes on your child; never rely on a lifeguard to watch your child

-Don’t let children play near pool drains and suction fittings; hair, fingers/toes, and swimsuits can get caught and become part of the suction

-Remember that even rivers and lakes have undertows

-Always keep a first aid kit handy

-Get trained in CPR

-If a child is missing, check the water first

5. Know about dry drowning/secondary drowning
Many parents think once their children are finished swimming and away from water they can relax. Not necessarily so. There is a term that should be in every parent’s vocabulary. The following are excerpts from an article from ChildrensMD.org, by Dr. Kathleen Berchelmann explaining the term “dry drowning” and what you need to know:

“There is some debate about the definition of the term “dry drowning.” Usually this term refers to situations where some water got in a child’s lungs and the child has a severe inflammatory reaction to the water hours after the incident. This phenomenon is also called “secondary drowning” or “near drowning.” There is another phenomenon, also sometimes called “dry drowning” in which suffocation occurs but no water ever entered the lungs. In these rare situations the larynx (voice box) spasms and stays shut, causing involuntary suffocation. Sometimes this spasm is triggered by water droplets hitting the larynx, or a sudden high speed submersion under water such as off a high-dive or a high speed water slide. This latter form of dry drowning generally doesn’t occur when kids are simply swimming or playing in the pool.”

Symptoms and warning signs of “dry drowning”:

Coughing: Any person who has persistent coughing after playing in the water is at risk for water in their lungs. Don’t go to bed worrying; take your child in for a medical evaluation.

Water rescue: Any person who was submerged in water and came up struggling, especially if he/she had to be retrieved from the water, needs medical evaluation.

Amnesia: Any person who was unconscious underwater or has limited memory of an incident that occurred in water needs immediate medical care.

Behavior change: If your child feels sick, acts too sleepy, or has a change in mental behavior after a day at the pool, take it seriously. The worst thing that can be done with a child who may have inhaled water is to put them to bed. They need immediate medical care.

Vomiting: Vomiting after a day of swimming can be due to waterborne infectious disease, but can also be a sign of severe illness due to dry drowning. This is a sign stress from the body due inflammation.
While dry drowning is extremely rare, it is important to know the signs and get immediate medical attention if someone is not behaving normally after swimming.

6. Keep mosquitos and ticks away
Outside time is fun time—that is until the bugs start biting, or your find a tick on your child. Some easy precautions can keep you and your children safe this summer. Use a good bug repellant with one of these ingredients: DEET, Picaridin, IR 3535 or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Many pediatricians advise using products that contain less than 30% of these ingredients on children. Ticks can live in backyards, as well as deep in the woods; be mindful of where you set up patios and playground equipment. Keep these areas a distance away from shrubs and bushes, and consider professional tick control applied by a pest control expert. After a day outside, make it a practice to check for ticks on children, adults and pets. If you find one, use a fine-tipped tweezer to remove it. Call your doctor with any questions.

7. Have fun but be safe
Playground-related mishaps are common causes of injuries and visits to the emergency room. To keep children safe while playing outside, take adequate precautions and always have adult supervision when young children are playing outside.

Ensure that surfaces under playground equipment are safe and well-maintained. Watch young children around stairs and playground equipment. Gates on stairs can prevent a young child from falling down the stairs. Be sure children wear protective equipment for the sport of their choice, and watch for signs of a concussion (including can’t recall events before or after a hit/fall; appearing confused; moves awkwardly; demonstrates behavior changes; headache/head pressure; nausea/vomiting; dizziness; sensitive to noise or light; feeling sluggish; feeling ‘off’). Symptoms usually appear shortly after an injury, but can also take hours or days to show up. Consult your child’s doctor if you suspect or have been advised that your child has a concussion.

 

With lots of sun and fun left before back to school time, be sure to stay safe so that you and your children can enjoy the rest of summer vacation. Remember, if you have an emergency or any serious concerns, contact your child’s doctor immediately.

Sources: National Safety Council (nsc.org), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (cdc.gov), Parents magazine (parents.com)

Note: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. It is not an attempt to diagnose or treat any medical condition. If you have an emergency situation, or have a question about a medical condition, consult your primary care physician immediately.

Pokémon Go or Pokémon No?

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In case you’ve been out of our solar system for the past few weeks, you’ve by now heard of Pokémon Go. You know, “Gotta Catch ‘Em All.” Right? But just in case you were visiting Pluto, let’s get you up to speed. Pokémon Go is a free, location-based app for Apple and Android devices. Users get up and out (yes–outside! while gaming!) and through augmented reality, try to catch Pokémon cartoon characters on their smartphone screens. Augmented reality is a live view of the world that is enhanced by computer-generated input such as images, sound, video or GPS information. Meaning, you use the app on the phone to play a game that essentially superimposes Pokémon characters on the screen as if they were actually appearing in real life. The goal of the game is to catch as many characters as possible and advance through the game. Three days after its release, the app had more users than Twitter. The app set new download records and sent stock prices soaring for game creators Nintendo, Google-spinoff Niantic, and Pokemon Company. The app got users playing the game to leave their house, be outside, and interact with other users. With the good, comes the bad and most certainly some ugly.

The Good

Kids (and adults as well) are getting outside! You’ve got to walk and travel to collect Pokémon. There are PokeStops, which are predesignated places (often community landmarks) where certain items are collected which help you in your quest to catch more characters. And you must keep moving and traveling to find characters, and reach PokeStops. So it’s good. People are walking. We’re talking miles and miles. And people are outdoors. We’re talking grass and sky and sun. And one of the seemingly unforeseen effects of this game is its positive impact on individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). For those with ASD, social interactions are often awkward and limited. However, for players with ASD, having a shared interest is making social interactions easier. Stories can be found about children with ASD suddenly seeking changes in their routines. Some children who rarely leave their usual environment are asking to go, for example, to the park in the evening. Others, for whom eye contact and interaction are very limited are high-fiving other players. So yes, some good.

The Bad

The first seemingly obvious bad is the ability of users to so fully immerse themselves in the game that despite onscreen warnings to be alert to your environment, they forget to look up from their screens. Stories abound of players crossing streets, riding bikes, skateboarding, and yes—even driving—while playing the game. Is it really necessary to say don’t do those things while looking down at a screen? Players are also trespassing on private property and venturing into known risky areas all to catch a rare Pokémon. Common sense must not be abandoned! You can be smart and cautious and still have fun.

The Ugly

The ugly is bad on steroids. Stories have surfaced of players finding a dead body while searching for a Pokémon. There are also claims of players walking off cliffs. Other stories state players were “lured” (yes there are lures that can be purchased to encourage players to visit a particular area to find Pokémon) only to find trouble. Business owners can purchase these ‘Lure Modules’ and encourage customers to visit while catching Pokémon, but of course ugly can always rear its head. So be smart!

In all, there is hope that good will conquer the bad and ugly. And this is just the tip of the augmented reality gaming iceberg. Getting exercise, being outdoors, interacting with others and having fun are encouraging in this day of excess screen usage. Still looking at a screen, for sure—but, baby steps, right? And watch where you walk.