"Caring and Progressive Therapy for Children"
"Caring and Progressive Therapy for
Children"
4721 W. Midlothian Tpk,
Ste. 25
Crestwood, IL 60445
(708) 371-7007
Kids In Motion Newsletter September 15, 2008
Kid in Motion Events and Announcements
Other Upcoming Events
For Your Information
Chicago Lighthouse Device Loan Program
The Chicago Lighthouse for the Blind has an equipment loan program. Users can borrow devices and try them out before deciding to puchase a device.
In addition they also offer the following services:
*Analysis of computer compatibility of the technology selected
*Short-term training on adaptive technology equipment at the Center or at the work site
*Set-up of the equipment in the home or office
*Follow-up for further refinements and additional specialized job-related training
Greater Access to Computing for People who are Blind & Have Reading Disabilities
System Access To Go (SAToGo) is a new, free, screen reader service. It gives people who are blind to access to the internet. It is not tied to a specific computer and will work on any internet connected computer that has sound and runs Windows Vista or Windows XP. The computer must also run Internet Explorer as its web browser.
While this program is set up for people who are blind and visually impaired; it can increase internet accessibility for people who have reading disabilities, like dyslexia or other learning disabilities.
All the user needs to do is go to any computer that has an internet connection; go to the AIR website and press alt+a.
This innovation comes from The AIR Foundation. Their mission is to promote universal acessibility so that every blind and low-vision person in the world has access to digital information over the Internet and Worldwide Web.
The foundation offers Web 2.0 accessible screen reader at no cost, Serotek Corporation offered AIR the exclusive license in perpetuity. SAToGo is powered by Serotek's System Access software. It provides immediate text to speech, magnified visual, and Braille access to digital information presented through the Web or other means, while the user is directly connected to the Internet.
The software does not remain resident on the user's computer when the connection to the Internet is interrupted or terminated. Users can obtain access to the free software by calling 877 369-0101 or visiting www.acessibilityisaright.org
"SAToGo is highly intuitive and requires minimal training to use," said Serotek CEO, Mike Calvo, "the user not only has access to information displayed on Web pages, but to Web-based applications such as Internet telephone service, and to applications resident on the host computer. The user can also access PDF files, fill out forms, and otherwise interact with information with the same facility as a sighted person."
Occupational Therapy Tips to Beat Homework Stress
Homework. The term often spells dread among students and parents alike. As students go back to school, there's no need for them to also return to previous struggles they may have had with homework. Occupational therapists can help students, teachers and parents look at all aspects of the homework process and the student's skills and help him or her to succeed in school. Consider these ideas to help your child reduce the stress of homework and be successful in school:
*Provide a consistent environment where homework is completed. Doing homework in a different place every day or in cluttered spaces doesn't provide much-needed order and structure.
*Work in an area with proper lighting that avoids glare and reflections.
*When sitting in a chair, encourage the child to sit with their back supported against the backrest. Use pillows or adjustable office furniture to help achieve proper posture.
*Slanted work surfaces help promote good postures when doing activities, such as reading or writing. For example, prop up books with another book.
*Get rid of unnecessary distractions. Homework isn't meant to be multi-tasked with television, text messaging, fixing dinner or other chores.
*To reduce stress, focus on one homework assignment at a time.
*Encourage arm and hand warm-ups such as pushing palms together or stretching before beginning homework.
*Have the student write all assignments down in a planner notebook. Keeping the list or assignments organized and complete can reduce the stress of trying to figure out what is missing.
*Urge your child's school to implement a password-protected website or message board where parents can monitor a student's assignments. By using these systems, parents can help students plan exactly which books and materials to bring home. Also, check to see if your child's textbooks are online, which also helps prevent overloaded backpacks!
*Follow the "20/20/20 Rule:" Take a rest break every 20 minutes, stop for 20 seconds and look at least 20 inches away from your homework or the computer monitor.
*When using a computer, encourage the child to work comfortably and to change their posture often. If your child uses a notebook computer, set it up with a separate keyboard and mouse and adjust the notebook computer to be used only as a monitor.
These tips were all provided by occupational therapists who work with America's school children every day. For more tips on health and success in school, visit http://www.promoteot.org/documents/OTTipsHealthSuccess 003.pdf
Excerpted from AOTA The American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc.
Hitting the Books
The Book of Wisdom
The Book of Wisdom with parent solutions to everyday problems, is located in our waiting room library. Please pick it up when you are here, and feel free to add information on doctors, equipment, toys or anything else that may benefit other families.
Phyllis M. Koch,
LCSW
Social Worker, Kids in Motion
Milestones
Congratulations to the following kids on a job well done. Nicholas L. is taking 2-3 steps on his own without his
walker. Great Job!! Percy C. stood against a table with very little assist! Awesome!! Matthew G. is crawling on
his own, coasting along furniture, and taking a few steps on his own! Terrific Work!! Congratulations! We are
very proud!! Please feel free to share your child's accomplishments. Kids In Motion would love to put your child's
name in print.
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