Meet the Popcorn Company That Burst into Inclusive Employment

Nancy DeVault

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January 12, 2022

Meet the Popcorn Company That Burst into Inclusive Employment

January 19th is National Popcorn Day, a day bursting with good taste and good health benefits. National Popcorn Day celebrates one of nature’s most extraordinary snack foods: popcorn! You see, popcorn has the unique ability to literally turn itself inside out, providing whole-grain goodness in a tasty snack form. And as it just so happens, popcorn is also a good choice when it comes to creating a successful inclusive workforce.

Popping into Inclusive Employment

Steve Bier describes his adult son, Samuel, as fun, bright and energetic. Just like everyone else, Samuel strived to find a job that he loved within a welcoming workplace. But, because Samuel happens to have autism, landing dignified employment proved to be more challenging than it should’ve been.

All parents seem to possess problem-solving superpowers when it comes to their kiddos and, perhaps, that’s especially true when it comes to parents of children with special needs. So when Steve discovered a popcorn company for sale, the idea of an inclusive business model popped to mind. Run by this father-son duo with a team of employees with autism spectrum disorder, Popcorn for the People is a nonprofit company granting meaningful employment to individuals with disabilities. Employees are trained to cook, package and sell delicious gourmet popcorn. And lucky for them, it all happens within a fun workspace full of buttery aromas!

Samuel, of Popcorn for the People, in their facility — Samuel helps lead his team at Popcorn for the People. (photo credit: Popcorn for the People)

Popcorn for the People uses non-GMO kernels and non-GMO sunflower oil, and pops kosher and gluten-free options. They offer 11 gourmet flavors, available for purchase online in bags or tins. Nibble your way through the unique flavors, such as Cookies n’ Cream, Dark Chocolate Espresso and Chicago Baked Cheddar.

A Healthy Snack Attack

Popcorn inspires guilt-free snacking. That’s because, according to Michigan State University Extension, popcorn offers health benefits by being a low glycemic food and offering many polyphenols found in plant foods that help rid the body of free radicals which damage cells and promote aging.

Of all plant foods, popcorn has one of the highest concentrations of polyphenols, containing more polyphenols and antioxidants than most fruit.

Additionally, the USDA Agricultural Research Service says “low GI diets have proven health benefits. They improve both glucose and lipid levels in people with Type 1, as well as Type 2, diabetes. Because they are slowly absorbed, they help in weight control because they help control appetite and delay hunger. Fiber is good for diabetics because research suggests that it helps to control blood sugar levels by slowing gastric emptying.”

bowl filled with Lemon Dill popcorn — Lemon Dill Popcorn (www.popcorn.org)

Here are other nutrition tidbits about popcorn:

Popcorn is a whole grain and provides energy-producing complex carbohydrates. One serving can provide about 70% of an individual’s recommended daily intake of whole grains.
Popcorn contributes fiber to the diet. Dietary fiber from whole grains or other foods may help reduce blood cholesterol levels and may lower risk of heart disease, obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
Popcorn contains no cholesterol and is virtually fat-free.
Popcorn has a number of essential vitamins including folate, niacin, riboflavin, thiamin, pantothenic acid and vitamins B6, A, E and K.
A serving of popcorn contributes about 8% of the daily value of iron, with lesser amounts of calcium, copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium and zinc.

Ready to start snacking? Order bags from Popcorn for the People, or pop your own treat using this recipe from Popcorn.org.

RECIPE: Dilly Lemon Munch

Dill and lemon bring a brightness to this delicious snack.

Yield: 2 quarts

Ingredients

2 quarts of popcorn, popped
2 tablespoons shredded lemon peel
1 teaspoon dill weed
Optional: 1/2 teaspoon low-sodium salt

Directions

Toss popcorn with lemon peel and dill weed.
The flavor enhances as popcorn stands.

Nutrition Facts: 40 calories, 2.5 g total fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 0 mg sodium, 5 g carbohydrates, 1 g fiber, 0 g sugar, 1 g protein, 25 mg potassium

Happy National Popcorn Day!

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Understanding & Managing Complications of Lupus

Health

Staff Writer

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January 9, 2022

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Understanding & Managing Complications of Lupus

Many people may recognize the term “lupus” and think of it as an autoimmune disease that can cause joint pain and swelling, but you may not be aware lupus impacts an estimated 1.5 million Americans and can affect many parts of the body.

Who is at Risk?

The disease that causes the immune system to attack its own tissues mainly impacts women, who make up 9 out of 10 lupus patients. Genetics also play a role in lupus. If you have a family member with lupus or another autoimmune disease, you are at greater risk.

Some racial and ethnic groups are also at elevated risk, including those of Black, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, Native American and Pacific Islander heritage. Additionally, Black, Hispanic/Latino and Asian American lupus patients are more likely to develop complications, including kidney damage (also known as lupus nephritis), and these patients tend to have worse outcomes than white patients.

What is Lupus Nephritis?

Lupus nephritis – kidney swelling and irritation caused by lupus – affects up to 60% of patients with lupus, according to the American Kidney Fund. It can cause permanent kidney damage, called chronic kidney disease, which can affect your quality of life. People with lupus nephritis also have a higher chance of heart problems, blood vessel problems and developing certain types of cancer.

Symptoms of lupus nephritis include weight gain, fatigue, joint pain or swelling, muscle pain, fever, high blood pressure and frequent urination. Because some of the symptoms of lupus nephritis can also look like symptoms of other diseases, it’s important for lupus patients to talk to their doctors about testing their kidney function regularly. Testing your kidney function involves a urine test to look for protein and a blood test to check for waste products in your blood.

What Happens After A Diagnosis?

If you are diagnosed with lupus nephritis, it is important you see a kidney doctor, called a nephrologist. Treatment for lupus nephritis focuses on preventing additional kidney damage. It’s also important to recognize lupus nephritis can impact your mental health too. These tips from the American Kidney Fund can help you navigate your care and cope with lupus nephritis:

Ensure your kidney function is tested regularly and you are referred to a nephrologist.
Keep records of your symptoms, tests and test results so you can share them with your doctors in detail.
Consider medication to lower your blood pressure, if directed by your health care provider, which can help lower the amount of protein in your urine.
Write down questions you have for your doctor and bring them to your next visit.
Take notes on what your doctor says during your visits.
Find healthy ways to cope, such as meditating, journaling or exercising.
Take a diuretic, or water pill, if directed by your health care provider, to help rid your body of extra fluid, which can raise your blood pressure and cause strain on your heart.
Talk to a professional, such as a mental health therapist, counselor or social worker, to help understand and process emotions, improve coping skills and advocate for your needs.
Join a support group to connect with others who have similar experiences.
Ask your doctor for handouts or suggestions for where you can go for more information.
Don’t be afraid to get a second opinion if you feel your doctor is not taking your concerns seriously.

To learn more and find resources to help cope with lupus nephritis, visit KidneyFund.org/lupus.

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Photo courtesy of Getty Images

Remodel with Universal Design in Mind

Staff Writer

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January 7, 2022

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Local code ensures new construction homes and renovation projects reflect the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Universal design, on the other hand, does more than make living spaces more accessible for those with disabilities. It expands on regulations to create more user-friendly spaces regardless of abilities, resulting in more enjoyable, functional design.

Often, when people think of universal design, they’re thinking of design that reflects the needs of seniors who wish to age in place. That’s not always the case. Universal design can also benefit families with special needs or simply serve as a smart investment for the future.

Principles of Universal Design

To better understand universal design and how it might apply to your project, consider how the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) describes the seven principles of universal design:

Equitable use: The design is useful for people with diverse abilities.
Flexibility: A wide range of individual preferences and abilities are accommodated.
Simple and intuitive: The design is easy to understand regardless of the user’s experience, knowledge, language skills or current concentration level.
Perceptible information: Any necessary information is effectively communicated to the user.
Tolerance for error: Recognizing the possibility of accidents, the design minimizes potential hazards.
Low physical effort: The design can be used efficiently and comfortably and with minimal fatigue.
Size and space: An appropriate size and space is provided and isn’t affected by the user’s body size, posture or mobility.

Trends in Universal Design

The line between practical universal design and convenience features that drive up a room’s “cool factor” is growing increasingly blurry, according to Gary Grabowski, owner of Greater Home Services and a NARI Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP).

One example is curbless showers, which eliminate a wheelchair barrier with an appealing design element.

In fact, bathrooms are among the highest demand remodeling projects Grabowski sees, especially for people whose mobility is affected, either personally or for a loved one who visits the home.

Other examples of on-trend universal design in the bathroom are floating, wall-hung vanities. Grabowski said the open floor space that design creates is enticing whether you need to be able to roll a wheelchair under it or not.

Other on-trend upgrades, such as motion-activated fixtures like fans, faucets and touch controls for showers, may feel like a bit of luxury in the short term but could serve an accessibility role down the road.

In other parts of the house, luxury vinyl plank flooring continues to grow in popularity. Not only is it practical and easy to clean, but it’s appealing from a design standpoint and also offers a barrier-free advantage.

image of universal design blueprint and tools — photo credit: National Association of the Remodeling Industry

Getting Started with Universal Design

Because most homeowners only explore universal design when there’s a specific need, the world of options is largely unknown. That’s why Grabowski recommends enlisting the help of a UDCP.

“Knowing universal design and the features that enhance accessibility for all kinds of scenarios, I can suggest ideas that people have never thought of to make a living space easier to use,” he said.

Grabowski also suggests starting at least a year out so you can make plans from a big picture perspective, including ancillary projects that could make your project even more successful.

Find more advice for your next remodeling project and certified remodelers in your area at remodelingdoneright.com.

Words courtesy of Family Features; photo courtesy of Getty Images.

A New Blind-Focused Foundation Launches to Advance Braille Literacy and Touchable Art

Guest Contributor

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December 28, 2021

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A New Blind-Focused Foundation Launches to Advance Braille Literacy and Touchable Art

The TouchPad Pro Foundation (TPPF), a brand new 501c3 nonprofit focused on blindness, launched in early December 2021 to serve the disability community. TPPF’s mission is to ‘develop and distribute revolutionary products to children who are blind or have low vision (BLV) and provide these products to those who cannot afford them at low to no cost.’ The nonprofit launched on December 3rd to coincide with International Day of People with Disabilities, a day of activism and raising awareness for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

Quick Facts regarding the BLV community:

Only 32% graduate high school
Fewer than 16% graduate college
A staggering 70% are unemployed

How Important is Braille?

Of those who are employed, an astounding 85% are braille literate. But, unfortunately, according to the National Federation for the Blind: “Only about 10% of blind children are currently learning it.” Also, less than 10% of adults know braille. During the pandemic, braille instruction has been even more challenging, and this points out a great need worldwide.

These appalling statistics inspired Daniel Lubiner to invent a new product called the BrailleDoodle. Mr. Lubiner is a 25-year veteran teacher of students with disabilities and a teacher of the arts for BLV students. Now he is leading a diverse team including engineers, mobility specialists and educators both with and without sight. Mr. Lubiner states, “Our hope is to develop and distribute the BrailleDoodle as soon as possible. Most Braille-related products are outdated and too expensive for most. The BrailleDoodle is an inexpensive, safe and simple solution.”

The BrailleDoodle is an accessible take on the Etch-a-Sketch that allows the blind to touch what they are drawing. A simple plastic ‘Braille Sleeve’ slips over the device and acts as a stencil, creating dozens of braille cells, giving instructors the ability to teach braille remotely.

The world needs to get to a point where society is fully inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. Although many factors are at play, learning braille is crucial for success in education and employment for the BLV community. Jacqueline Becker, a Braille Specialist, states, “As a TVI for over 33 years, I am very excited at the prospect of being able to work with the BrailleDoodle. The device’s durability and affordability mean that it can be purchased for in-school use and for many of my students who continue to be remote learners. I look forward to using it!”

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Must-See Movie Alert: “See For Me”

Nancy DeVault

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December 21, 2021

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Looking for a new flick? Check this out…

SEE FOR ME

Dir. Randall Okita
(Canada, 2021, 92 min)

In this gripping thriller, Sophie, a blind woman who was a former ski champion, is house-sitting at a secluded mansion and finds herself under invasion by thieves. As the events escalate, Sophie must rely on her resourcefulness and a little help from friends if she’s going to survive the night.

Q+A with lead actor Skyler Davenport
Accessibility included (CART, open captions, and audio description)

Streaming Dec 30–Jan 5, $15
For more info + tickets, click here.

Dictionary.com Announces “Allyship” as its 2021 Word of the Year

Tech

Staff Writer

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December 20, 2021

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Dictionary.com Announces “Allyship” as its 2021 Word of the Year

Do you think the disability community has seen an increase in allyship? According to Dictionary.com, interest in allyship in support of the disability community and other marginalized groups has risen.

Dictionary.com, the leading online and mobile English-language educational resource, announced its Word of the Year for 2021: allyship. The word carries special distinction this year as it marks the first time Dictionary.com has chosen a word new to its dictionary as its Word of the Year.

Allyship is defined by Dictionary.com as “the status or role of a person who advocates and actively works for the inclusion of a marginalized or politicized group in all areas of society, not as a member of that group but in solidarity with its struggle and point of view and under its leadership.” The addition of the word to the dictionary in 2021—as well as the decision to elevate it as the top word for the year—captures important ways the word continues to evolve in language and reflects its increased prominence in English discourse.

The Word of the Year selection was based on the site’s search trends, along with the major themes of the lexicographical and educational work across Dictionary.com and Thesaurus.com this year. The word ally itself landed within the top 850 of the many thousands of search terms that led people to Dictionary.com this year. According to corpus data, the word that most commonly precedes allyship is performative, indicating the conversation about the term is concerned with the authenticity of advocacy seen this past year. Additionally, the top related search for allyship in 2021 is definitional, what is allyship, underscoring the company’s timeliness and relevance for adding the word to the database this year.

An abstract noun naming an increasingly salient and relevant concept today, the word allyship combines the noun ally, “a person who advocates for or supports a marginalized or politicized group but is not a member of the group,” and –ship, suffix denoting “status, condition.” Dictionary.com has found evidence for this sense of ally as early as the 1940s in an article by Albert W. Hamilton on “allies on the front of racial justice” for Black people. Allyship is first attested around 1850 in a more general sense of “the relationship or status of persons, groups, or nations associating and cooperating with one another for a common cause,” but use of the word in contexts of social justice, which gained momentum in the 1990s and has steeply risen since 2020.

In selecting the Word of the Year, Dictionary.com points to ways in which the term allyship is increasingly being extended to contexts of support outside of racial, gender, and sexual identity, such as disability and economic status. From workplaces to classrooms, this year the word was a throughline in important discussions involving other defining terms of 2021, including DEI, critical race theory, and vaccines. It was also a theme among the support of healthcare workers and teachers, which further inspired Dictionary.com’s own efforts in expanding from a source of definitions and synonyms to a leading educational resource aimed at supporting teachers and educators across the country.

“From the ongoing impacts of the pandemic to the ways we continue to grapple with polizariation, allyship acted as a prism for the defining events of 2021. These events were notable not only in their own right, of course, but also because of the ways we largely reacted to and discussed them through the lens of who gets a voice, who deserves empathy, and who and what is valued. This was a lens of allyship”, said John Kelly, Associate Director of Content & Education at Dictionary.com. “Words make a real difference in our lives. As our 2021 Word of the Year, allyship stands out for its role in a path of the challenges we continue to grapple with from 2020.

Here’s a Healthy Holiday Hostess Gift that Protects Against Neurodegenerative Diseases, like Alzheimer’s

Health

Nancy DeVault

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December 14, 2021

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Here’s a Healthy Holiday Hostess Gift that Protects Against Neurodegenerative Diseases, like Alzheimer’s

Oranges and orange juices are praised as excellent sources for essential vitamin consumption. But, other than zesting for an occasional recipe, orange peels are usually removed and discarded. Some medical experts, however, say you shouldn’t waste the rind! Because, just like the inner fruit segments of an orange, its peel is packed with disease-fighting nutrients.

Health Facts Worth Chewing On

Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture cites that an orange peel offers a higher daily value of fiber, vitamin C and some health-boosting plant compounds compared to the inner fruit. These findings are worth noting because diets rich in such nutrients benefit both heart and digestive health, prevent the growth of cancer cells and combat obesity.

This is important as, according to the Centers for Disease Control, some disabilities, such as spinal cord injuries, can affect how well the bowel works. Plus, people with disabilities are less likely to be of healthy weight and more likely to be obese than people without disabilities. And heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability.

hands peeling an orange — photo credit Sunkist

Additionally, clinical trials identified that a compound called hesperidin, found in orange rind, boasted protection and therapeutical effects against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, psychiatric disorders, cardiovascular diseases and other conditions, due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, lipid-lowering and insulin-sensitizing properties.

Another compound in orange peels, called polyphenols, also is believed to help prevent and manage an array of chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and, again, Alzheimer’s disease.

Try this Healthy Holiday Hostess Gift

To brighten up the typical party color palette of red and green dishes this season, consider infusing bits of orange. Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Peels can be a fresh and unexpected holiday hostess gift. Present in a clear glass jar adorned with seasonal ribbon. This simple and delicious homemade treat is from the heart (and good for the heart too)!

It’s actually peak season for sweet oranges, like Sunkist Navel oranges. Aside from gifting, these Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Peels are perfect for adding to cocktails or dessert trays. Plus, they support your immune system by offering 90% of your daily vitamin C.

Citrus fruit guide — photo credit: Sunkist

Chocolate-Dipped Candied Orange Peels

Recipe by Brandi Milloy and Sunkist

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Ingredients

4 Sunkist Navel oranges
3 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
1 cup dark chocolate, melted

Directions

Rinse and dry oranges. Slice both ends off each orange.
Using a paring knife, carefully score each orange in quarters then remove peel from each section, trying not to get too much pith.
Slice peels into 1/4-inch strips. Add to pot and cover with water and sugar; stir. Bring to boil.
Turn heat to medium-low until the water reaches a soft simmer. Simmer 45 minutes. Add vanilla before turning off heat and stirring.
Remove peels from syrup and cool on a wire rack. Roll in sugar to coat.
Dry at least 4 hours, or overnight.
Dip candied orange peels one at a time in dark chocolate.
Place on parchment paper to set up and harden. Store in an airtight container.

Pssst… maybe these treats should be left on a tray for Santa too!

chocolate dipped orange peel — photo credit: Sunkist

More Ways to Savor the Flavor

Orange peels can be an interesting addition to a well-balanced diet inclusive of many varieties of fruits and vegetables. When consuming an orange peel (or any citrus skin), opt for organic oranges to reduce exposure to pesticide residues. And, of course, wash the peel before consuming.

Use a grater or zesting tool to zest the outer skin, trying to avoid the more bitter white pith. Orange zest works great in baked goods, salads dressings and sprinkled on top of steamed veggies, rice/quinoa or oatmeal.

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Here’s How Ugly Christmas Sweaters Can Beautifully Support the Disability Community

Art & Design

Nancy DeVault

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December 13, 2021

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Here’s How Ugly Christmas Sweaters Can Beautifully Support the Disability Community

Holiday-themed appeal has evolved to include the good, the bad and the ugly. In regards to the latter look: Are you a festive fashionista that boldly dons ugly sweaters, aka brightly-colored knit tops bedazzled with bells, tinsel, garland and glitter galore? Well, I am! I typically prefer much more understated garments, but I sure hope the tacky trend of ugly, over-the-top seasonal attire never retires. Let me explain why…

Making a Meaningful Fashion Statement

Big box retailers now sell a pretty wide assortment of ugly holiday sweaters. But when this outrageous outfit choice first began several years back, shoppers hunting for kooky Christmas clothing (self-included) headed straight to Goodwill, an international chain thrift store that sells gently-used clothing, furniture and household items at discounted prices.

Four ugly Christmas sweater wearers — photo credit: Goodwill

To this day, Goodwill sells ugly Christmas sweaters and hilarious holiday pieces in every shape, size and degree of tackiness. And if you can’t find the daring, ready-to-wear pullover of your dreams, you could easily snag a basic sweater at this second-hand shop and go the DIY route to achieve a merry masterpiece like none other. In fact, Goodwill stores often sell ugly sweater crafting materials — like fuzzy balls, ribbon, felt, etc. — to eliminate a second shopping trip in search of craft supplies.

How Ugly Christmas Sweaters Provide Beautiful Support

As a cheerful customer exploring Goodwill’s racks filled with secondhand garments, you may not realize that your ugly Christmas sweater pursuit also engages your beautiful purchasing power in support of our disability community and other underserved communities. You see, giving to and/or shopping at the company’s 3,000+ retail stores and online auction (ShopGoodwill.com) empowers persons with disabilities and persons overcoming life challenges through job training, employment placement, career counseling, financial education and other related services. Goodwill has a longstanding commitment to operating an inclusive workplace staffed by employees with and without disabilities. And that’s why I never second-guess shopping at this secondhand store, especially during ugly sweater season.

Six holiday sweaters — Photo credit: Nationaluglychristmassweaterday.org (via Facebook)

When to Dress the Part

Whether you’re attending an ugly sweater party, visiting Santa Claus with the kids or tackling holiday shopping, ugly Christmas sweaters magically work for all occasions during the holiday season. Plus, there’s actually an official day of recognition for this beloved seasonal style. National Ugly Christmas Sweater Day is celebrated annually on the third Friday of December (which, this year, falls on December 16, 2022). So go ahead and dress ugly! Because this funny fashion statement is equal parts silly (igniting Christmas joy) and serious (supporting our disability community via purchasing power).

Happy holidays!

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Bring on the RACKet to Boost Christmas Cheer

Lifestyle

Nancy DeVault

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December 7, 2021

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Bring on the RACKet to Boost Christmas Cheer

As a writer, I love a cleverly worded acronym, pun or slogan. A few years back, I discovered the abbreviation “RACK” which stands for Random Acts of Christmas Kindness. Since RACK has social media accounts, you know it’s official (well, sort of)! And I officially love it ─ both the acronym and the challenge to positively pay it forward, especially within our disability community during the holiday season.

RACK is as equally beneficial for the implementer as it is for the recipient. Scientific research suggests that kindness actually changes the brain, impacts the heart and immune system, and may be an antidote to depression. Teaching kindness in the home can instill important qualities within your child (and adults for that matter), like compassion and bravery, especially as we strive to promote inclusivity. And I’m sure that practicing RACK bids kindly to those focused on Santa’s “Naughty or Nice” list.

Implementing Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

Consider planning a schedule of specific kind acts. For example, one daily RACK using the advent calendar. Log onto RackTheWorld.weebly.com for RACK suggestions and to download a “You’ve been RACK’d” notecard to leave behind for receivers to encourage them to bring on the RACKet too.

To help you get started, AmeriDisability has compiled a list of RACK ideas for you. Hmm, perhaps we’ll count this creation as one of our own RACK accomplishments! Share your ideas with us on social media (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram).

25 Random Acts of Christmas Kindness

Educate yourself about different types of disabilities. Then, help foster inclusivity by promoting awareness of various disabilities to others.
Pay for someone’s coffee or meal at a drive-through.
Deliver a hot chocolate to a Salvation Army bell ringer.
Give a lottery ticket to a stranger.
Donate new or used books (or other supplies) to a library, school or nonprofit.
Leave change in a vending machine or newspaper rack.
Give a blanket or toiletries to a homeless individual.
Bring Lifesaver candies to a fire/police station.
Rake your neighbor’s yard, shovel snow from their driveway or return their trash bins from the curb.
Donate your remaining vacation days to another employee in need (if permitted by your workplace’s human resources policy).
Offer a bottle of water or a healthy snack to household service workers (lawn maintenance, exterminator, pool tech, etc.).
Pick up litter in your neighborhood or community park.
Write thank you notes to a mentor, special education teacher or other important people (sports coach, faith counselor, therapist, etc.).
Take pet supplies to the animal shelter.
Do a household chore for another family member.
Donate canned/boxed goodies to a food pantry.
Offer candy canes to store clerks and restaurant waiters.
Post a compliment or kind message on a friend’s social media page.
Provide coloring books and crayons to a children’s hospital or pediatrician’s office, or large-print puzzle books to senior living facilities.
Say thanks or fist-bump the janitor, cafeteria worker or another person deserving of appreciation.
Stash extra dollar bills in the aisles at the Dollar Store.
Wrap presents for a busy loved one.
Let someone go ahead of you in line.
Say a prayer for someone in need.
Donate to a disability-serving charity.

Now go bring on the RACKet!

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Tips for Preparing Children with Autism for COVID-19 Vaccine

Health

Guest Contributor

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December 7, 2021

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Tips for Preparing Children with Autism for COVID-19 Vaccine

While many parents are delighted that the COVID-19 vaccine is now available for children younger than 12, many youngsters are terrified by the prospect of getting a shot. This is especially true for some children with special needs. Justine Butler, a Registered Nurse who works at one of May Institute’s schools for children with autism and developmental disabilities in Massachusetts, offers the following advice to families who want to make vaccination appointments successful:

Check:

Check in with yourself as the parent or guardian. Are you anxious, nervous or fearful? Try to remain calm. This can help your child remain calm as well.

Check in with your child’s provider and see if they recommend pre-medicating with an over-the-counter pain reliever or using a topical numbing cream/spray. One non-pharmacological suggestion, according to the May Institute, is using a Buzzy, a small hand-held device that creates a cooling vibration, or buzzing, when placed on the skin. The device is placed near the injection site from slightly before to right after the shot is administered.

Collaborate:

Before the appointment, call the office and see if your child’s provider can help you create a schedule of tasks or list of steps that will occur during the appointment. Talk your child through each step. You may find it helpful to use a video or social stories that depict children having a positive experience when receiving a shot.

Collaborate with the provider and share what is challenging for your child. Ask about accommodations such as beginning or end-of-day appointments, extra support staff or practice visits. It is okay to ask the provider to take breaks and to go slowly.

Commit:

Commit to your plan and goal of helping your child have a successful vaccination experience. During the appointment, try to remain calm and reassuring. Allow your child to move and find a comfortable position. Some children may want to stand, be held, sit or lie down for the vaccination. You might want to encourage your child to “shake out the sillies” before getting the shot by shaking arms, hands and legs in a silly way.

Lastly, reward your child after the appointment. Some children may need frequent reinforcement such as a small treat or sticker after each stage of the experience.

May Institute is a nonprofit organization that is a national leader in the field of applied behavior analysis, serving individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, brain injury and neurobehavioral disorders, and other special needs. Founded more than 65 years ago, May Institute provides a wide range of exceptional educational and rehabilitative services across the lifespan. May Institute operates four schools for children and adolescents with ASD and other developmental disabilities. www.mayinstitute.org

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