Families Together, Inc.

Families Together, Inc. Monday Memo

 

Seclusion-Restraint Guidelines

Former commissioner of education in Kansas and now Assistant Secretary of Special Education, Alexa Posny, says OSEP will issue guidance to schools this fall and provide the first national data on the use of restraints and seclusion in schools.  Recommendations put forth by Special Education Advisory Council to KSDE will be voted on next month by the Kansas State Board of EducationRead more...and view the report put out by TASH in last year's effort to pass a bill to keep our students safe. 

The Cost of Waiting Report

Finding a Pediatrician

Finding a pediatrician for a child with a disability or complex medical need can be extremely difficult.  Add to that the problem that many primary care pediatricians do not accept Medicaid, HMO's or other insurance policies, and it can be almost impossible to find adequate care.  Check out this article in Complex Child's e-magazine by Susan Agrawal to get tips on how to find a good pediatrician and questions to ask when looking. 

Is Your Home Safe?

Check out these video clips put together by Safe Kids and the MetLife Foundation to help prevent injuries in the home to children with physical, developmental or cognitive disabilities.

Now Hiring

In partnership with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Families Together is looking for Parent Support Liaisons for the Kansas City and Wichita specialty care clinics.   Parents raising a child with a special health care need are encouraged to apply. Job description

Is your child with CP at risk for oral health problems?

Periodontal Disease:  Disease of the gums and bone around the teeth is more common in people with cerebral palsy due to poor oral hygiene and complications of oral habits, physical abilities, and medication side effects.  A consistent hygiene schedule, power toothbrush and floss holders can make daily oral hygiene easier for the person or their caregiver.

Dental Caries (cavities): Risk factors for those with cerebral palsy include food pouching, mouth breathing, medication effects, and poor enamel development. Inspect the mouth for food after eating and giving medication, and remove by rinsing with water, or sweep a gauze-covered finger or cotton applicator around cheeks, lips, and tongue. Be aware of foods and drinks that contribute to cavities.

Overactive bite or gag reflex: Gently introduce toothbrushes and floss holders into the mouth. Using a mouth prop to keep the mouth open can be helpful. Caregivers that brush the teeth of someone with cerebral palsy should place the chin in a neutral position or tilted down.

Trauma and injury: Falls and accidents can occur and cause oral trauma. Traumas require immediate attention by a professional. Fractured or missing teeth should be located if possible.

Check out http://www.oralhealthkansas.org/ for more tips!

Families Together, Inc.

Topeka Center

(785) 233-4777 or (800) 264-6343 

Garden City Center

(620) 276-6364 or (888) 820-6364

Kansas City Center

(913) 287-1970 or (877) 499-5369

Wichita Center

(316) 945-7747 or (888) 815-6364

Statewide Spanish parent line

(800) 499-9443 

Wichita Administrative Center

(316) 945-7747 or (888) 815-6364

 

All toll free numbers for Kansas parents & education advocates

 

www.familiestogetherinc.org

Who are We?

Families Together, Inc. is the statewide organization that assists parents and their sons and daughters with disabilities. Our program's mission is to encourage, educate, and empower families to be effective advocates for their own children.

 

Families Together, Inc. is dedicated to a society that includes and values all people. We offer families the security of belonging to a support network of other parents that face similar goals, challenges and needs.

Fund Raising Events

Celebrating the Unique

Lawrence - June 11

 

Hulas & Harleys

Wichita - June 18

 

Upcoming Events

Familias Unidas Equipo de Conferencias de Capacitacin

 Wichita
June 19. 2011 

 

Family Employment Awarness Trainings

 

Overland Park

Part 1: Nov. 11
Part 2: Nov. 12

Wichita

Part 1: Aug. 6
Part 2: Sept. 9

Hays

Part 1: Sept. 10
Part 2: Sept. 24

Salina

Part 1: Oct. 21
Part 2: Oct. 22

 

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