AAC is the term used to describe any form of communication that a person can use that is not speech. This may include pointing to pictures of what the person wants, using sign language, or using a device that will speak a message when a specific button is pushed.
MetroEHS can boast a 100% success rate in supplying clients with these crucial communication devices giving a voice to our superheroes.
When Should AAC be Considered for a Child?
An AAC device should be considered for any child whose speech output is not adequate to fully communicate their wants and needs.
Things to consider:
-Child’s frustration levels
-Adult frustration levels
-Access to school curriculum
-Participation in classroom activities
-Ability to demonstrate knowledge to teachers
-Access to home and community environment
-Ability to interact appropriately with family and peers
-Independence in developmentally-appropriate daily activities
MetroEHS partners with an AAC company and a medical equipment company. These companies serve as consultants for Metro EHS SLPs as we work toward supplying families with AAC devices. Some AAC tools are covered by insurance, but some are not. MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy will help you understand your options.
The Process:
Step One: Our SLPs identify kiddos who might benefit from using AAC!
Step Two: We begin trialing different devices and different communication systems determining which systems work best for each individual client. There are several devices and programs to choose from.
Step Three: Once the SLP determines which system works best, an AAC evaluation is submitted to the client's pediatrician for review. If the pediatrician approves, we obtain a prescription for the device, much like obtaining a prescription for a splint, or other form of medical equipment.
Step Four: When the prescription is received, the prescription and evaluation report are all submitted to the insurance company. Once approved, the device is ordered!
Step Five: The device is delivered to the family and they family receives assistance with set up and demonstration. The device fully belongs to the child.
After the device is in the hands of our client, MetroEHS SLPs work with the family and the client to integrate the device into their world in speech therapy.
With Locations all over South East Michigan and excellent Speech Therapy services, MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy is here to help. Browse through our Locations Page to find a Local Therapy Center near you!
Play is crucial for children’s physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Through play, children learn important life skills such as problem-solving, creativity, social interaction, and self-regulation. Play allows children to explore their environment, experiment with different ideas, and express themselves in ways that are natural and meaningful to them.
Play can take many forms, including physical play, imaginative play, sensory play, and social play. Children learn best through play that is meaningful and engaging to them, so it is important for parents, caregivers, and educators to provide a variety of play opportunities that are tailored to a child’s individual needs and interests.
What is play?
Play includes fun activities enjoyed independently or with others. Play has no rules, and people make up their own games. Play can be inside or outside. It uses things around us, like balls and sticks. Playing helps us learn how to get along with others and think about new things.
Types of play:
Social Play is when kids play together. For example, playing soccer.
Symbolic Play is when you pretend. You can do this from 18 months to 5 years old.
Practice Play is doing the same thing repeatedly to learn how to do it better. For example, you might practice throwing a ball.
Sensorimotor Play is used by infants. This means that they use their senses and move around. An example of this is shaking a rattle.
Constructive Play is when kids make something. For example, building with legos or painting with their fingers.
Play helps a child…
Build Imagination and Creativity
Foster Cognitive Growth
Improve Literacy
Improve Emotional Well-Being
Encourage Greater Independence
Play is not just a fun activity for children but a vital part of their development. Therefore, it is essential to support and encourage play in children and create a safe and stimulating environment for them to explore and learn.
A Comprehensive Guide for Parents on the Individualized Education Program
Navigating the world of special education can be overwhelming for parents, especially when faced with terms and processes that are unfamiliar but crucial for their child's education. One of the most crucial tools in supporting children with developmental needs is the Individualized Education Plan (IEP). But what exactly is an IEP, and how can it benefit your child? In this post, we’ll break down the IEP process into four essential points to help you understand how it works and how it can support your child’s educational journey. Plus, we’ll highlight how MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy leverages IEPs to providecomprehensive care for families.
1. Understanding the Basics: What Is an IEP?
An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a legally binding document developed for children who qualify for special education services in public schools. The child's IEP outlines specific educational goals, the services the child will receive, and the setting in which those services will be delivered. The IEP is designed to meet the unique needs of each student and is developed by a team that includes parents, teachers, school administrators, and specialists. The IEP is mandated by federal law to ensure that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education tailored to their unique needs.
An IEP is provided for students who are aged 3-26 in the state of Michigan. This is Part B of IDEA which is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, a federal law that provides free public education and special services to children with disabilities. IDEA entitles children to special education services if their disability significantly impacts their ability to access education, and if a specially designed program is needed. Part C of IDEA includes a special education law that governs special education programs and services for children who are birth to 3 years old. Special needs children in this age grouping and their families receive an Individualized Family Service Plan, and parents/caregivers are integral to the assessment and intervention process. This program is often called “Early On”.
At MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy, our specialists understand the critical role an IEP plays in a child’s education. We work closely with families and school districts to ensure that the IEP aligns with the child’s developmental goals, ensuring a smooth transition between therapy and the classroom environment.
2. The Evaluation Process: How Does It Start?
The IEP process begins with an initial evaluation with a MET (Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team). The MET only includes the required personnel for areas being assessed, which always includes a district representative, and a general education teacher in addition to other special education staff (special education teacher, speech and language pathologist, occupational therapist, and teacher consultants). This initial evaluation is a crucial step in the special education process to assess whether a child qualifies for special education services. In order to be eligible for special education programs and services, the child must have needs that pose an adverse academic impact. If your child has been diagnosed with a developmental disorder, such as autism, you should contact your local school district to request a special education evaluation. If parents disagree with the school's evaluation, they have the right to request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) at the school district's expense. This request must be made in writing, as it ensures a documented trail of your efforts to seek assistance.
Once the request is made, the school district has 30 school days to complete the initial evaluation. MetroEHS is proud to assist families during this process, offering insights and support to ensure that every evaluation considers the child’s full range of needs.
3. Developing the IEP: Collaborating for Special Education Services Success
Once the evaluation is complete and eligibility is confirmed, the IEP team—including parents, teachers, and specialists—convenes for an IEP meeting to develop the IEP. During the IEP meeting, various school personnel, including teachers and administrators, collaborate to create a plan that addresses the child's unique needs. The plan outlines specific goals for the school year, the type of classroom environment the child will be placed in, and any additional services they will receive to support the child's educational development. An IEP meeting should be held at least once per year and can occur more often at the discretion of any IEP team member.
At MetroEHS, we emphasize the importance of parental involvement in this process. Parents are the experts on their child’s needs, and their input is crucial in creating an effective IEP. We work with families to ensure their voices are heard, advocating for the services and accommodations that will best support their child’s growth and learning.
4. Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments: Keeping the IEP Relevant under the Disabilities Education Act
An IEP is not a static document; it is reviewed annually and adjusted as needed to reflect the child's educational progress and any changes in their needs. Every three years, a full reevaluation is conducted to reassess the child’s eligibility and to update the IEP accordingly. However, parents can request an IEP review at any time if they feel the current plan isn’t meeting their child’s needs. The 3 year Reevaluation may be waived, and the child’s eligibility at that time may be continued. This occurs if there is not a concern about the child’s eligibility, (e.g., the child’s condition is chronic).
MetroEHS is dedicated to ongoing collaboration with schools and families. We monitor the effectiveness of the IEP and make recommendations for adjustments when necessary. This commitment ensures that the child receives the most appropriate education and therapeutic services at every stage of their development.
MetroEHS: Your Partner in the IEP Process with a Special Education Teacher
At MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy, we are committed to helping children with developmental needs reach their full potential. We understand that the IEP is a vital tool in achieving this goal, and we work tirelessly to support families through every step of the process. From initial evaluations to IEP development and ongoing adjustments, our team is here to provide the expertise and advocacy needed to ensure your child’s success in school and beyond.
The best start for your child is for a family member or caregiver to contact their local school district to get the IEP ball rolling. They can call their district’s special education department and seek an evaluation/support as needed.
The Procedural Safeguards is a document given to parents/caregivers at every special education meeting. This includes specific guidance for special education for children in Michigan. You can access this information here: State of Michigan's Website
If you’re seeking more information about the IEP process or need support navigating special education services, contact MetroEHS today. Our experienced professionals are ready to assist you in unlocking the full potential of your child’s educational journey.
As April and Autism Awareness Month have come to a close, we’re highlighting the incredible work of MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy in Metro Detroit. With multiple locations and more on the way, MetroEHS is dedicated to helping families with children on the autism spectrum and those needing specialized therapy. Today, we’re focusing on a universal challenge for parents: potty training.
Joining us are Deanna Coker, a board-certified behavioral therapist analyst, and Kelly Johns, the director of physical therapy at MetroEHS. They share valuable insights on potty training, addressing common issues and providing practical solutions.
Recognizing Readiness for Potty Training
Kelly Johns emphasizes that recognizing when your child is ready for potty training is crucial. Key signs include:
- Extended Bladder Control: Holding their bladder overnight or for several consecutive hours.
- Interest in the Potty: Playing with their diaper, showing curiosity about the toilet, or performing a "potty dance."
- Communication: Telling you they need to go or showing signs they’re aware of their bodily functions.
Addressing Potty Training Challenges
Sometimes, despite a parent’s best efforts, potty training can hit a snag. Deanna Coker points out that issues such as regression, frequent nighttime accidents, or persistent constipation might indicate underlying problems like pelvic floor complications.
Assisting with Physiological Challenges
To support children struggling with potty training, Kelly recommends several strategies:
- Blowing Bubbles: This helps relax the pelvic floor. Encourage your child to blow bubbles while sitting on the toilet or during playtime.
- Using a Squatty Potty: This stool ensures a proper 90-degree angle, aiding in effective bowel movements.
- Belly Breathing: Teach your child to focus on their belly rising and falling, which can help with relaxation and control.
Effective Potty Training Methods
Deanna shares essential potty training tips:
Ditch the Diapers: Transition your child to underwear to help them feel the wetness of accidents.
Stay Hydrated: Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids to ensure they need to use the bathroom regularly.
Set a Schedule: Take your child to the potty every 20 minutes initially, allowing them to sit for a few minutes each time.
Positive Reinforcement: Use rewards like a sticker chart to celebrate successes. This visual progress tracker can be highly motivating for children.
Deanna shares a personal anecdote about using a princess-themed sticker chart for her daughter, highlighting how such simple tools can make the process enjoyable and rewarding for children.
MetroEHS Pediatric Therapy provides comprehensive support for various therapy needs, including ABA, speech, occupational, feeding, and physical therapies. With their expanding network of locations, they are readily accessible to families across Metro Detroit.
For more information or to find the nearest MetroEHS location, visit http://metroehs.com
**Thank you, Deanna and Kelly, for sharing your expertise and practical advice.** Potty training can be a daunting task, but with these tips, parents can navigate this essential milestone more effectively.
