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March 2013 |
Volume 2, Issue 3 |
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Greetings ! |
Welcome to the month of March! This month is known for many things; March Madness, St. Patrick's Day, and an opportunity to celebrate all of the hard working Social Workers!
Students are anxiously awaiting a week of no school and parents are wondering what to do with them. Don't worry, Brighter, Stronger Foundation has you covered. This month's newsletter offers suggestions on how to survive Spring Break and even an invitation to leave the kids with us!!
Enjoy and have a great day! |
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Happy National Social Work Month!! |
This year the National Association of Social Workers have chosen the theme "Weaving Threads of Resilience and Advocacy" for National Social Work month. Such an appropriate theme when you take into account all that these professionals do. We at Brighter, Stronger Foundation wanted to express our deep gratitude for the hard work that Social Workers do on a daily basis.
If you know a Social Worker make sure you let them know how much they are appreciated.
Happy Social Work Month!!!! |
Spring Break Already?!?! No worries! | 
The majority of schools and day programs will begin their Spring Break during the week of March 25th-29th and for caregivers of those with special needs, the anxiety may be mounting. Often times families struggle with what to do with this "down" time. For children and adults with anxiety disorder, sensory integration dysfunction, learning challenges, ADD/ADHD, obsessive/compulsive disorder, high-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder, Asperger's syndrome, and or other sensory challenges, this time of the year can be filled with uncomfortable experiences due to changes in routines. If you, the reader, will be the one on Spring Break, these tips and suggestions are for you as well. Please utilize these supportive tips to help everyone (including you) survive Spring Break.
1. Prepare for Changes in Routines- Start preparing NOW for any plans that you have for Spring Break. Create clear visuals whenever possible BEFORE the change is scheduled to come. Use pictures/or words to tell the story of what you/they can expect during this time.
2. Cover all the Details- You cannot predict everything, but you can sure try to be prepared. If you are prepared, they will be prepared. Think back on past vacations/breaks and attempt to avoid repeating any mishaps.
3. Prepare for Visits and Interactions with New People- Try to make a story about "People we see when we are on vacation or on spring break". Talk to them about social expectations- saying "hi" when introducing self to others. For older children and adults create a laminated sheet that explains what is expected of them when interacting with visitors.
4. Smooth Sailing- Before setting out to travel during Spring Break, create a visual story so that he/she can begin preparing for the change in environment. Use the internet to show them all the places that you will visit (include hotels, places to dine, and activities) and show them pictures of people that you may see (family, hotel staff, amusement park staff, etc.)
5. Create a Loose Schedule- Even though you will be on break/vacation, routine is still very much needed for some children and adults. The schedule does not have to be as rigid as during a normal day, but allowing for some routine activities may make the adjustment easier for them.
6. Identify Natural Support Systems- Spring Break does not always mean traveling. Sometimes the individual may be at home during this week. It may be beneficial to ask a family member, friend, Therapeutic Support Counselor, or your Support Coordinator to provide necessary services and care. The individual may feel more at ease with the change if they are spending it with familiar people.
Remember, Spring Break is a time for rest and relaxation. This includes parents, caregivers, and you. Enjoy the week and make the best out everything!! |
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Brighter, Stronger Foundation's Adult Day Program Update!! | |
"Meds and You- Understanding the Role of Psychotropic Medications in Your Care"
For the month of March we are pleased to announce that Dr. Seyyid of
Brighter, Stronger Foundation. This four week training series is open to all adult participants in the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program. Brighter, Stronger Foundation will provide transportation and meals for all sessions.
Please see below for the schedule:
Tuesday, March 5th @ 10am
Tuesday, March 12th @ 10am
Tuesday, March 19th @ 10am
Tuesday, March 26th @ 10am
To register for these days and to make transportation arrangements, please call us at 410-485-7555
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Spring Break!!! | |
March 25th-29th is Spring Break!! Let Brighter, Stronger Foundation keep your youth entertained!! We are offering two day groups, one for the 4-11 year old age group and one for the 12-17 year old age group. We have various different activities planned on these days and strongly encourage you to allow your child to participate!!!
Please see below for the month's schedule and don't forget to RSVP:
March Schedule
*Wednesday, March 27th 11am-1:30pm- 4-11 Year Olds-
Transportation and Meal Provided
*Thursday, March 28th 11am-1:30pm- 12-17 Year Olds-
Transportation and Meal Provided
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BSF's Calendar of Events! | |
*March 6th @ 10am- FREE Entitlement Workshop @ BSF- Please call to RSVP
*March 20th @ 1pm- FREE Entitlement Workshop @ BSF- Please call to RSVP
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Save the Date!! | |
Brighter, Stronger Foundation will have its Spring Open House soon!
Please mark your calendar for Friday, April 26th!!
We have two different tour times scheduled for your convenience. Please schedule us in for either 9am-11am or 1pm-3pm.
More information will be coming so make sure you check your email!! Hope to see you there!
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Family Fun Activities!! | | *March 2nd- Healthy First Saturday- Dr. Seuss' Birthday!!- 10 am- 1 pm Port Discovery Children's Museum, Baltimore, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Tickets Reqd. 410-727-8120, www.portdiscovery.org
*March 3rd -The Arc presents: Sprout Film Festival- Entertaining and memorable films featuring people with Autism and other developmental disabilities. West Village Commons Towson University 424 Emerson Drive, Towson, MD 21204. 1:30pm and 6:00pm showings.
*March 29th-31st- STEM in Spring- Spend your Spring Break learning through play with Port Discovery's STEM in Spring festivities! Port Discovery Children's Museum, Baltimore, Tickets Reqd. 410-727-8120, www.portdiscovery.org.
**For family outing ideas click the following link Family Fun**
We thank you for your time and please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
Have a positive and productive day!
The Staff of Brighter, Stronger Foundation
Don't forget to follow us on Twitter @ BSF_Foundation
Like us on Facebook @ Brighter Stronger Foundation
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