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 January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month

The focus this year is on raising awareness of birth defects and sharing the message that they are Common, Costly, and Critical. The National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN) produced state profiles on data and rates for 12 conditions. See Arizona's profile.

ABA Therapy OK'd For More Military Kids

Disability Scoop

More military children with autism will soon have access to behavior therapy under a new government program. Disability advocates say the coverage expansion is a step in the right direction, but said they are dismayed that the new benefits will be short-term.

Strategy to Slow Health Spending Growth by $2 Trillion and Improve Health System Performance

The Commonwealth Fund

A set of synergistic policies designed to accelerate innovation in care delivery could slow health spending growth by $2 trillion over 10 years, according to a new report released today by the Commonwealth Fund Commission.

Children's Health Fund Comments on the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012

Children's Health Fund

Some tax measure extensions included in this bill worth mentioning are: the Child Tax Credit, the Earned Income Tax Credit, and the American Opportunity Tax Credit (college tuition) - all of which were extended for five years and are vitally important to underserved children and their families.

'Cliff' Deal Made Adoption Tax Credit Permanent

The Columbus Dispatch

Legislation that averted the "fiscal cliff" also saved an expiring tax credit - and finally made it permanent - for families who adopt... Families who adopt special-needs children, a category that includes the vast majority of foster kids, won't have to document their adoption-related expenses for the credit.

Link between Health Care Spending, Quality Unclear

Reuters Health

Whether states, hospitals and smaller practices that spend more money on health care provide better treatment is still an open question, according to a new review of past studies.

New Study on Early Intervention Services

Disability Scoop

The proportion of infants and toddlers likely to be eligible for Part C services ranges from 2% to 78% across the United States. The proportion of children enrolled in Part C ranges from 1.48% to 6.96%.

Recess a Crucial Part of School Day, Says American Academy of Pediatrics

CBS NEWS

Recess is an essential part of a child's school day that should never be taken away as punishment.

Suspensions Linked to Lower Graduation Rates in Fla. Study

Edweek.org.

About three-fourths of Florida 9th graders who were never suspended out of school as freshmen graduated from high school, compared with a 52 percent graduation rate for those suspended once and a 38 percent rate for those suspended twice in their first high school year, an analysis has found.

New Information Available on the AzEIP Website

Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP)

This page has a link to a video about changing to a team-based model of early intervention services. The "Updates" link on that page leads to a page with a Transition Timetable and an Update to the Community on Transition with the most up-to-date information on the timelines and changes coming soon. Also available on this page are updated versions of AzEIP's family rights' brochure in English and Spanish (under "Family Rights.")

Arizona Leads the Way to Improve Treatment of Traumatic Brain Injury

"Treatment decisions immediately after a severe brain injury are critical. That response, in the first few minutes after TBI, may have more impact on how well a patient recovers than any treatment at a hospital or in rehabilitation." More information at http://www.epic.arizona.edu/.

Flu Widespread in Arizona

After an early start to the flu season, Arizona flu activity hit widespread this week; widespread is the highest category possible. Influenza has been reported in 14 of the 15 counties. Doctors' visits for influenza or influenza-like illnesses have steadily increased over the last few weeks.

Vaccines at Issue for Arizona Foster Families

The Republic | azcentral.com

A group of parents prevented from adopting or fostering kids in Arizona's child-welfare system because of licensing rules that require the parents to immunize their own children has won the backing of two legislators to push to eliminate the vaccination requirements.

Program Assists CPS Youths Who Age Out Of System

The Republic | azcentral.com

Services from Arizona's Child Protective Services end at age 18, and most of the people in the system are forced at that time to be self-sufficient. These young people often are not prepared to be out on their own without family support. Many of them have criminal records in their past or pregnancies or learning disabilities or behavioral issues.

Arizona's Common Core Adoption Hits Funding Snags

Educations News

Arizona's drive to put tougher academic standards in place for its primary and secondary school system have hit a snag -- money...A report compiled by the state sets the cost of full CCS implementation at roughly $131 million, but the chances of the full amount being made available by the Legislature are slim.

After Louise and her husband received a diagnosis for their son, Robert, they felt unsure about what to do next, "We had a diagnosis but nowhere to go." A speech therapist recommended the Collaborative Therapies Conference presented by Raising Special Kids at Phoenix Children's Hospital.

Louise, still feeling overwhelmed by her son's diagnosis, decided to attend. Talking with staff between presentations led to assistance with her son's IEP, a parent mentoring connection, information about Individual Service Plans, and other resources.

Robert has made significant progress, but Louise knows there is still work to be done and likes the reassurance of having a parent mentor. "She is my sounding board whenever I'm thinking of trying something new or looking for guidance." 

Raising Special Kids needs your help to serve more families like Louise's. Please make your donation today through our secure online system.

If you itemize on your taxes, here is a special tax credit you should know about. 

Raising Special Kids is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization.

Joint Legislative Budget Committee

This webpage lists Fiscal Policy Analysis documents for the Arizona Legislature including Budget Updates, Meeting Agendas, Legislative Reports, Monthly Fiscal Highlights and more.

Don't Forget the Soft Skills - Employment Success Requires More than Just Opportunity

NCWD-Youth.info

Opportunity and skills - these two factors are critical to preparing all youth, including those with disabilities, for successful transition to employment. This blog article features links to videos for teens preparing for employment.
 

50 Questions about LD

A free downloadable e-book on Learning Disabilities with links to explanatory videos and resources.

Free Classes for Parents at Maricopa Integrated Health System

The Family Learning Center publishes a monthly newsletter with class schedules. Classes are free of charge and are offered in English and Spanish. For questions, please call 602.344.1352.

Understanding Food Sensitivities

Information on allergies, Celiac Disease, Lactose Intolerance and more.

iPad Special Needs - Free e-book

A guide for caregivers or parents to learn how to make best use of iPads, accessories, and special needs learning apps.

Events and Activities

Action Day at the Capitol

Arizona Disability Advocacy Coalition (AZDAC) Action Day at the Capitol & Legislative Training

Where: 3rd floor conference room, Capitol Towers, 1700 W. Washington St., Phoenix, AZ 85007
Tuesday, February 26, 2013 - Time TBA 

• Hear how Arizona Legislators plan to deal with the budget.
• Learn what disability issues AZDAC will be tracking this legislative session.
• Join AZDAC to be introduced on the floor of the House and the Senate.
• Observe the Legislature in action.
• Learn how you can testify on bills from anywhere you have internet capabilities through the Legislative electronic system.
• While at the Capitol, register to use the "Request to Speak" system. 

Box lunch provided. Registration (Free of Charge) begins Wednesday, January 15, 2013
For more information contact: David Carey (602) 443-0723 or davidc@abil.org.

First Annual ESA Provider Fair

February 2, 2013, 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

Lexis Preparatory School, 12753 North Scottsdale Rd - Scottsdale, AZ

Event will highlight private school/educational/therapeutic options available for students through Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) funds. The Fair offers families an opportunity to meet with and learn more about approved ESA service providers available for students. Arizona Department of Education representatives will also be there for questions, and parents are encouraged to bring children.

2nd Annual African American Conference on Disabilities

Friday, March 1, 2013

8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Coast Phoenix Sky Harbor Hotel, 4300 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034

Registration (Free of Charge) begins Wednesday, January 15, 2013

For more information and Vendor opportunities

Click link for scenes from the 1st Annual African American Conference on Disabilities

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TdB1avmfmzc

Contact: David Carey (602) 443-0723 or Renaldo Fowler (602) 274-6287

10th Annual Camp Fair

Two Days/ Two Locations

• Sat. Feb. 23, 2013 - Tesseract School Shea Campus, 3939 E. Shea Blvd., Phoenix
• Sun., Feb 24, 2013 - Chandler Preparatory Academy, 1951 N. Alma School Rd., Chandler

Meet with day camps around the Valley and overnight camps around Arizona, throughout the Southwest and across the country. Talk with camp staff and directors, pick up registration information, and ask questions. Free admission.

Webinar: Results from 2011 American Community Survey (ACS)

A presentation on results related to disability and employment, education, poverty, household income and labor earnings.

WHO: Cornell University's Employment and Disability Institute
WHAT: Free Online Webinar on Disability Statistics
WHEN: Friday, January 18th from 2:00-3:00 pm EDT (12 noon - 1 pm AZ time)
WHY: Cornell University researchers will present the latest information and issues associated with disability statistics and the circumstances that people with disabilities face.
WHERE: To register for this free webinar, please go to http://www.ilr.cornell.edu/edi/register/index.cfm?event=4152
 

Movie Night at AZ ASSIST January Meeting

Vectors of Autism Documentary

Monday January 21, 2013, 7 - 9 pm

Campus of Redemption Church & EdOptions High School, 2150 E Southern Ave, Tempe

Parents, caregivers, and young adults will join together to watch the Vectors of Autism film. It is a captivating look at the experiences of an adult that has autism, Laura Nagle. Laura's experiences and her ideas about Autism along with her unique artwork provide the window into a story of a life lived on the autism spectrum.

Cost for all teens and young adults is $5.00.

Snacks & drinks provided. No charge for parents, guests and professionals.

Previously Listed in Monday Memo:

9^th Annual Inclusive Practices Institute

A Conference for Parents and Professionals Supporting Children with Disabilities

January 18-19, 2013

Deer Valley District Office, 20402 N. 15th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85027

• Sparkle Effect - An innovative student run program that helps students across the country create cheerleading and dance teams that include students with disabilities.
• iPad Apps - And other technologies for supporting children and adults with disabilities
• Common Core - Adapting the general education curriculum for students with disabilities
• I AM NORM - A youth forum on promoting inclusion
• Literacy Strategies For Students With Autism
• Universal Design For Learning
• Para educators
• General Education Modifications
• Positive Behavioral Supports
• Post-High School Options For Teens With Disabilities
• International Treaty On Disability
• Best Practices In Supporting Self-Advocates

For conference pricing and to register go to http://www.regonline.com/9thannualinclusivepracticesinstitute

For more information please contact:

Sherry Mulholland - mulhollandmatsutakeout@yahoo.com or 520-603-4010 or Andrea O'Brien - andreamobrien@cox.net or 602-717-8106.

Provider Fair

Saturday, January 26, 2013

10 am - 2 pm

Steele Indian School Park, Phoenix

For families and individuals seeking services through the Division of Developmental Disabilities. This fair provides opportunities to connect face to face with providers from the Valley.

Tuesday, January 29, 9-11 am

Educational Topic: "Current Recommendations for the Academic and Athletic Management of Sport-Related Concussion" 

Location: Disability Empowerment Center, Conference Room 1 & 2, 5025 E. Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85034

Presented by Dr. Tamara Valovich-McLeod of AT Still University, Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences

Cost: $10 per person includes continental breakfast. BIAAZ Professional, Members are free.

Register Online at www.ShopBIAAZ.org

Event Schedule:

9:00 - 9:30 am          Networking/Continental Breakfast         

9:30 - 10:45 am        Brain Injury Alliance of Arizona Updates & Educational   Presentation

10:45 - 11:00 am       Networking

Dads4SpecialKids, in collaboration with H.O.P.E. Group, will be hosting a free seminar designed to assist individuals with special needs and their caregivers in developing their emergency and disaster plan. There will also be a discussion how to work with your local first responders in preparedness planning.

When: February 2, 2013, 9 am - 12 noon

Where: H.O.P.E. Group, LLC, 4530 E Muirwood Dr. Suite 103, Phoenix, AZ 85048

Please contact administrative assistant Leah Williamson to reserve your spot, 480-610-6981 or lwilliamson@hopegroupaz.com . For any questions please feel free to email Caitlin Watson at cwatson@hopegroupaz.com .

***Refreshments will be provided and kids are welcome to attend.  

Special Day for Special Kids

Saturday, March 23, 2013

10 am - 2 pm

McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park, Scottsdale

• Train & carousel rides
• Carnival games and booths
• Clowns, mascots, face painting & petting zoo
• Hot dog lunch & ice cream

Free for families of children with disabilities and special needs.

Registration required (on the day of the event).

9th Annual American Indian Disability Summit

Monday, April 1, 2013

8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Embassy Suites Hotel - Paradise Valley, 4415 E Paradise Village Pkwy South, Phoenix, Arizona

Theme: "Gathering Native Voices to "Ensure Well-Being & Preparedness in the 21st Century"

The summit is held to facilitate training, outreach and technical assistance for American Indians with disabilities residing in urban and rural areas. Attendees will gain awareness of support services, become empowered and improve their lifestyle by learning strategies to eliminate barriers to service delivery.

For registration information and for an application, please call: 602-443-0707 (Rosalie), 602-443-0708, 1-800-280-2245 x707(Fernando), or 602-495-7521(Dorothy).Visit website http://9thamericanindiandisabilitysummit.eventbrite.com/ for on-line registration.

This is a fragrance and tobacco free event. If special accommodations needed, call Fernando Cruz at (ABIL) Arizona Bridge to Independent Living at (602) 443-0708, by March 16, 2013.

To register, call 602-242-4366 or click on the link to register online.

Unless otherwise indicated, workshops are located at our office in the Disability Empowerment Center (DEC).

Please do not wear fragrances in the DEC facilities.

Raising Special Kids

5025 E. Washington St., Suite 204

Phoenix, AZ 85034