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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You’re sharing a great conversation with friends at a holiday party when it hits you: You need to go… and you need to go NOW. As you make a clumsy exit, unsure if you’ll be able to make it to the bathroom in time, you may ask yourself for the thousandth time, “Is this normal?”
Well, you’re not alone. More than 30 million Americans 40 and older live with the symptoms of overactive bladder (OAB). That’s about 1-in-10 people and as many as 40% of women in the United States. Yet many do not seek help from a physician for their symptoms. Rather, many continue to cope with the symptoms and navigate their lives around their symptoms of OAB.
“People – both men and women – are reluctant to mention OAB concerns to their doctors. It’s embarrassing for them to discuss the topic,” said Dr. Cornelia Haag-Molkenteller, a clinically trained urologist and executive vice president and chief medical officer at Urovant Sciences, Inc. “Because of the stigma, many patients do not seek out medical treatments that are available to help manage the symptoms that have a limiting effect on their lives.”
Identifying an Overactive Bladder Condition
OAB is a common lower urinary tract or bladder health problem that can cause incontinence, which is the leaking of urine that cannot be controlled.
Symptoms of OAB may include urgency, meaning a sudden need to urinate immediately; frequency, which is defined as urinating more than eight times per day; urge incontinence, or urine leakage following a sudden urge.
There are many causes of OAB, including taking certain medications and being overweight. Your risk also increases if you have had a stroke or have Alzheimer’s disease.
Managing an Overactive Bladder
According to the American Urological Association, the first step in managing OAB is behavior modification. That means patients should talk with their health care providers to learn about the benefits of new habits, such as restricting fluid intake, reducing sodium and limiting alcohol consumption, for example.
If changing some habits does not work, the next step is usually oral pharmacological therapies. A third option (available if medications don’t work) is medical procedures to manage symptoms. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of overactive bladder, talk to your doctor and ask for help managing the condition.
Practical Tips to Help Manage OAB
Here are some helpful tips to manage your symptoms over the holiday.
Travel
* Stop every 2-4 hours to help reduce strain on your bladder.
* Drink plenty of water but limit your intake a few hours before traveling.
* Kegel exercises can help improve OAB symptoms.
* Wear an absorbent pad that can hold more liquid on your travel days.
* Book an aisle seat near the bathroom.
Diet
Drink six to eight glasses of fluid, 8-ounce each daily. However, avoid foods and beverages that can irritate the bladder including:
* Caffeinated beverages and foods
* Alcohol
* Spicy foods
* Citrus fruits and juices
* Carbonated beverages
* Dairy
* Sugar, honey or artificial sweeteners
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During the most wonderful time of the year, you may notice iconic green and red hues everywhere you look. But, in reality, the holidays can be far from “green” or eco-friendly. Think about all the waste that accumulates during the season and harms our planet. Global warming will impact the temperature of the North Pole (and all of Earth). And that means the issue will affect everyone, including our disability community because climate change does not discriminate.
Embracing an eco-friendly lifestyle can be trickier for people living with disabilities. Certain things that we need and want to live life to the fullest and/or independently aren’t always environmentally friendly. And, frankly, that’s nothing to feel guilty about. Some people can and have shifted to greener disability-serving products, like rechargeable hearing aids or straws made of bamboo or metal. But sometimes alternatives simply aren’t applicable or easily accessible. And maybe, one day, more eco-friendly options will become available for inclusion products.
Still, for now, we’re “making a list and checking it twice” for ways to embrace going “green” this holiday season, if and when possible.
Here are some eco-conscious ideas.
Double Click on Greeting Card Sending.
This digital greeting of e-cards is eco-friendly, plus it’ll save you both time (with the elimination of penning cards/envelopes) and also save money (no need for postage stamps). Talk about a 3-4-1 holiday bargain! I admit, I enjoy receiving Christmas and Hanukkah cards snail-mail style and I’m not ready to join the trend of informal seasons greetings via social media platforms. So I may use cards made from recycled paper or go with a photo card that could be kept as a keepsake. Plus, cards can be repurposed into homemade gift tags.
Do Good with Decorations.
Don’t just toss old decorations. Rather, explore donation options. Pass them along to a friend, secondhand store or a nonprofit organization.
Attempt Tree Trimmings beyond Christmas.
Contact your local recycling center to see if area programs convert used Christmas trees into mulch.
Wrap Excess Wrapping Paper Use.
Gift bags may be a better choice compared to wrapping paper because bags can be reused, whereas paper is commonly ripped and tossed. And don’t shy away from using household alternatives, like newspaper (bonus for holiday comics) and paper grocery bags.
Don’t Leave a Paper Trail!
More and more stores offer receipts via text or email. This method decreases paper copies that end up trashed.
Become a Sustainable Shopper.
You’re in control of your purchasing power! Choose brands that use eco-friendly materials. Or, when applicable, gift homemade presents crafted with love. I am definitely going to explore sensory crafting ideas with my son to utilize as grandparent gifts.
Drum roll please for my favorite eco-friendly effort…
Gift No Gifts!
I do like giving purposeful gifts on occasion and receiving them too. But holiday shopping can be all-consuming. And have you ever evaluated why you purchase so many gifts? You may buy for your partner, children, colleagues, neighbors, miscellaneous relatives, friends and household service workers. It can be A LOT – in every sense of the word. My husband and I haven’t exchanged Christmas presents with each other for many years. We’ve decided that, for several reasons, we actually maximize our merriment by minimizing gifts. Before you label us “The Grinch Couple,” here is why the gift of no gifts is valuable:
Read more:- Think and explore
Reason for the Season: People exchange gifts for many reasons. Obligation? Um, maybe you really don’t want to get anything for your boss. Tradition? Well, backing out of the family secret Santa swap could seem rude. Joy? Yes, finding the perfect thing for a loved one can be priceless.
For some, holiday gifts connect to when the Three Wise Men brought gold, frankincense and myrrh to Jesus after his birth in the manger. Additionally, it is believed that Saint Nicholas gave gifts to the poor. In the present day, of course, Santa Claus rewards children who’ve behaved well. So, I have pondered… “Is itreally Christmas without presents? Am I a Scrooge?” NO! In fact, decreasing presents has granted me the opportunity to be more present during the holidays than ever before. And with the hustle and bustle of life, especially with a child with disabilities, that really means something.
Good Tidings of Time: For many of us, time is much more valuable than stuff that comes with a receipt. Instead of spending hours shopping for loved ones, I have more time to experience jolly jubilation with them. Rather than spending hours in big box stores, we can spend quality time together marveling at neighborhood Christmas lights, attending holiday happenings, decorating allergen-free cookies, doing sensory-friendly crafts, etc.
Seasonal Sanity: Let’s face it ─ holiday stress can bring out the worst in people (i.e. Black Friday stampedes and parking lot scuffles). Wouldn’t you love to eliminate the angst of return lines, bargain bins and that lengthy shopping checklist? Listen, Santa’s elves can’t gift-wrap your sanity and put it under the tree. Preserving your sanity could be a Christmas miracle! And as a mama within our disability community, perhaps my sanity should be prioritized.
Festive Fun: Instead of investing in gifts, how about investing in one another by embracing old traditions and making new ones? Much of this goes back to time, as previously noted. On Christmas morning, for example, without time spent opening gifts, I enjoy lounging in matching pajamas, making Santa-shaped gluten-free pancakes and listening to my little ones sing carols. We’ll be able to get to the family party earlier too, which will increase opportunities for more connecting. And while my family is generous to my children, I’ve asked them to limit the number of gifts and be conscious of the types of gifts they present. Does my kid really need yet another huge plastic car (that we can barely cut free from the plastic packaging)? Research indicates that experiences make us happier than things do because, in part, they create bonds and memories. For example, my children loved getting a membership to the sensory-stimulating science center; and I loved sneaking away for a Christmas-colored mani-pedi with my gal pals.
Frosty Financials: According to the American Research Group, shoppers around the country spend an average of $1,000 on holiday gifts. Wowzer! It’s easy to talk about money with my spouse so I had no hesitation communicating that I’d rather redirect funds from stocking stuffers to connective date nights, enriching vacations and necessary home repairs. Talking to others about money can feel awkward. It’s not exactly merry to tell someone, “I don’t want to spend money on you” or “I am short on cash this season” or “I want to invest in myself.” Over time, I have become more comfortable telling people that I’m scaling back on gifts and hope they understand. You can offer an explanation but you don’t have to. If you want to exchange, consider setting clear guidelines about budget and gift type.
My sister-in-law’s extended family started a tradition of charitable giving instead of gift-giving. Each person contributes whatever amount they see fit to the chosen nonprofit. And each year, a different person gets to choose the organization. Do good-feel good gifts are amazing! Like this idea? Check out our article titled “Disability-Serving Nonprofits Can Be Year-Round Gift-Givers With Your Support” for a list of Santa-approved organizations.
Hopefully, expressing my genuine well wishes of “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Hanukkah,” and “Happy Holidays” is more valued than discounted scented bath soaps. My anticipation of Santa’s arrival is ever-present as I cherish the gifts of no gifts: family, faith, love and kindness. How else are you going green this holiday season? Share with AmeriDisability in the comments below.
‘Tis the season for sweets and, more specifically, Christmas cookies! Whether you need cookies for holiday exchanges, hostess gifts or just to satisfy your own sweet tooth, cookie delivery companies may help to simplify your already packed holiday schedule. And, for an added cherry on top, we’ve discovered professional cookie companies run by talented foodies with disabilities.
The following four cookie companies each strive to fill our communities with skilled employees of all abilities… all while filling bellies with deliciousness.
Collettey’s Cookies
“Changing the world one cookie at a time” may sound like a simple, sweet slogan to some. But, in reality, it’s a serious business strategy addressing disability representation in the workforce. Owner Collette Divitto shares that it pains her to know that over 80% of people with a disability that are capable of work cannot find paying jobs – a statistic she, an adult with Down syndrome, was once a part of. Described as a “tough cookie” by many, Divitto started stirring cookie batter and stirring up conversation about inclusion.
Collette Divitto, owner of Collettey’s Cookies, employs people with disabilities.
Divitto has earned accolades as a disability advocate and speaker and, of course, as a baker. Her signature cookie, The Amazing Cookie, is packed with chocolate chips and cinnamon (available in regular or gluten-free). Other cookie flavors, using organic ingredients, include peanut butter, oatmeal raisin and an unexpected breakfast cookie.
Collettey’s online shop features multiple cookie order options, company swag and themed gift packets. Two holiday cookie packets feature Christmas décor in addition to the sweet treats; plus Collettey’s sells a holiday doggie treat basket too.
South Fork Bakery
Five years ago, Shirley Ruch founded South Fork Bakery to kick-start meaningful employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. As a speech and language pathologist focused on children with autism, Ruch recognized that her former students struggled to find work after high school. So, she whipped up a purposeful baking effort. She explains that she already incorporated cooking and baking into therapy practice, as it fostered socialization and direction-following.
South Fork Bakery employs 16 workers with autism and other disabilities, as well as a professional baker and special education teacher.
This holiday season, South Fork Bakery is making gift-giving and cookie exchanges easier than ever with three holiday cookie basket size options: large (48 cookies) at $105, medium (24 cookies) at $50 and small (16 cookies) at $40. Assortments flavors include gingersnap, wheat-free oatmeal raisin, wheat-free chocolate chip, blondie bars, wheat-free chocolate chunky brownies and peppermint brownies. Beyond the holidays, South Fork features party platters and cookie packets with individually-wrapped goodies, vegan/gluten-free “em-power” bars and more.
Reason to Bake
Want to leave something other than chocolate chip cookies on a plate for Santa Claus? Reason to Bake suggests its White Chocolate Cranberry, bursting with the juicy tartness of cranberries, melt-in-your-mouth white chocolate chips and a light cookie texture. Reason to Bake is an artisan small-batch bakery in the North Carolina Appalachian Mountains, specializing in gluten-free, all-natural cookies that are freshly made from scratch and available to ship around the country.
This company was founded by a mother-daughter team, Elise Sampson and Carolyn Sampson, with a mission to foster entrepreneurship among young adults with intellectual disabilities. Carolyn, who has Down syndrome, infuses creative flavors into her gluten-free cookie line, such as Spicy Ginger Cookie and Cranberry Oatmeal Cookie, in addition to a decadent Chocolate Chip. Reason to Bake cookie boxes and variety packs are a sweet find for the holidays or any other occasion.
Kenosha Awesome Cookies
Kenosha Awesome Cookies makes scrumptious cookie kits to delight Wisconsin residents (local sales only). They operate out of the Kenosha Achievement Center (KAC), which provides services and programming for adults and children with special needs. Last December, with a rolling pin in hand, KAC rolled out an initiative to develop job skills that could seamlessly transfer to community settings and workplaces.
KAC elves only made 200 of these limited-edition holiday jars. Order now while supplies last.
Each cookie-baking kit created by Kenosha Awesome Cookies consists of one 16- or 32-ounce Mason jar filled with the dry ingredients needed to freshly bake cookies. Customers just need to add the ingredients listed on the label of the jar and pop into a warm oven to achieve ooey-gooey goodness. This season’s featured flavor is Dark Chocolate Peppermint! This limited-edition option is priced at $6.50 for a ready-to-stir 16-ounce jar. If you live in the Kenosha area, order via email at kenoawesomecookies@thekac.com or call (262) 658-9500. Other flavor choices include dark chocolate peanut butter, white chocolate lemon, triple chocolate chip and M&M’s.
Happy holidays… And happy snacking!
Header image courtesy of Collettey’s Cookies (via Facebook).
Thanksgiving inspires reflection on what we cherish. For those with service dogs, companion animals and/or pets, this includes an appreciation of feathered and furred loved ones. While focused on turkey legs, remember to stay attentive to the safety needs of four-legged companions! Here are animal-focused precautions for autumn’s gratitude gatherings:
Bowwow buffet: Since some people foods are toxic for animals, consider sticking to a “no table food” approach, or giving seasonal made-for-pet treats. If you decide to offer Fido a Thanksgiving meal, plate a small amount of skinless, fully-cooked turkey with plain green beans. A lick of potatoes and pumpkin pie may be OK too, especially if dairy-free. Be mindful of potentially risky Thanksgiving ingredients, according to ASPCA, like nuts topping casseroles which may cause vomiting, diarrhea and pancreatitis in animals; onions, garlic and chives in mashed potatoes which may also cause gastrointestinal irritation, plus red blood cell damage and anemia; and chocolate, raisins and artificial sweeteners (xylitol) in some desserts which could result in abnormal heart rhythm, kidney failure and seizures.
Canine clean up: Ensure that trash bins are snuggly shut to curb your pup’s temptation to dumpster dive for turkey carcasses. Raw meat, fatty bits (including skin) and bones pose risk of salmonella, digestion issues or worse. While you may be inclined to let the dishes sit to allow for more visitation with guests, do remove dirty baking dishes from the counter and sink and stow in the dishwasher. That’s because raw eggs and yeast in raw dough can lead to life-threatening complications for companion animals and pets.
Hostess hound: Some floras are hazardous to animals, such as amaryllis, Baby’s Breath, hydrangeas, some ferns and Holly’s and more. When guests present a hostess gift, position flower vases out of animals’ reach.
Festive firefighters (Dalmatians and all): You love seasonal scents, like apple cider, cinnamon and pumpkin spice; but fragrant candles can overwhelm pets’ senses and even ignite hazards. When your curious companion is near, use caution lighting candles, toasting marshmallows over an open fire or sipping cocoa beside a fire pit.
5. Tail-wagging time: The season’s time change means darkness comes earlier. Utilize a reflective collar on walks. And, while temperatures have cooled, pavements can still be hot on delicate paws.
6. Stray away: Hectic holiday celebrations often means frequent entering or existing. Stay aware of your animal’s access to doors and ensure that tag identifications and microchips are up-to-date.
7. Tyke travel: Holiday travel should include plans for companion animals and pets too. Health certificates and therapy animal requirements vary by state and country. Of course, confirm that booked accommodations are pet-friendly. If boarding a pet, ask your veterinarian about the risk of canine flu and other concerns. Car-riding restraints like pet seat belts, carriers or barriers might be useful on road trips.
8. Furry fashion: If you love dressing your fur baby up, you might be eyeing a pilgrim or turkey costume for Thanksgiving. Animal attire should not be too snug or baggy, restrict mobility or breathing, or hinder the ability to go to the bathroom or communicate. Costumes should be free of choking hazards (i.e. beads, feathers, etc.).
If you suspect that your service dog, companion animal and/or pet has ingested a harmful ingredient, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435. And yes, your animal is thankful for you too! All that tail-wagging and purring proves it.
Overflowing with heavy dishes, the Thanksgiving meal can leave you feeling more stuffed than a turkey! But it doesn’t have to. In fact, you don’t have to waste your time worrying about expanding waistbands. Rather, expand your appreciation of Thanksgiving staples by gobbling up healthier approaches to this annual feast.
Don’t Wing Portion Control of Thanksgiving Staples
Americans take in 3,000 to 4,500 calories during Thanksgiving dinner, as estimated by the Calorie Control Council. That means this one festive feast serves up more calories than most people eat in a day — even double for some! That’s why it’s essential to focus less on what you eat versus how much you consume and how it’s prepared.
When using traditional recipes containing creams and added sugars, opt for smaller portions to allow ample plate space for healthier fare. For example, you’ll sacrifice fat (not flavor and creaminess) when using low-fat buttermilk or low-sodium chicken stock in place of cream or whole milk in mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes or butternut squash. Maybe try working in mashed cauliflower into mashed potatoes for a lighter bite.
And, of course, there’s no rule that all Thanksgiving staples have be served in mashed or casserole form. A more whole and less-processed form might be gobbled up at your table just the same. This also applies to green beans. You could smother them with a can of thick, mushroom soup as usual, but maybe you should toss them in a light citrus vinaigrette instead.
Color Code Your Thanksgiving Staples
Ever notice that many Thanksgiving staples are sort of bland in color and, well, served mushy? As with any meal, create a food rainbow comprised of vibrant colors. Perhaps that means less brown gravy… and more cranberry (red), sweet potato (orange), squash (yellow), beans/sprouts (green) and purple carrots (blue/purple). Eating diverse, nutrient-packed produce helps to control weight, blood pressure and the risk of heart disease and cancer; while combating post-meal guilt.
Thanksgiving Staples to Celebrate Year-Round
Turkey is a great source of protein because it’s leaner than most red meat and even chicken. A 3-ounce portion of roasted skinless turkey breast contains only 3 grams of fat and is naturally low in sodium, containing less than 25 milligrams per ounce, according to the National Federation of Turkeys. You may only roast a whole bird once a year, but turkey (ground, sliced, etc.) should remain a go-to staple.
Sweet potatoes boast vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium and fiber that can make a tasty side dish or dessert. Rather than serving casserole-style using heavy cream and sugary marshmallows, explore ingredients like ginger, orange zest, cinnamon and a pinch of brown sugar. Year-round, sweet potatoes are yummy as French fries, veggie oodles, basic roasted (or microwaved) and in pancake batter.
Canned cranberry sauce is loaded with sugar, but homemade chutneys work on holidays and year-round — from topping turkey to toast (like a jam). Smash fresh cranberries and combine with apple or orange juice, honey or white balsamic vinegar to achieve desired sweetness. Like other berries, antioxidant-rich cranberries aid the body’s digestive health and promote good heart-health, even possibly improving blood pressure, cholesterol and lowered risk of cancer. If dried cranberries are your go-to for salad toppings or baking, note that one cup of chopped raw cranberries contains 14.6 milligrams of vitamin C per serving, while one cup of dried cranberries contains 0.3 milligrams.
Butternut squash, according to UF/IFAS Extension, has an impressive nutrition profile containing vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber and phytochemicals. It provides 582 milligrams of potassium in one serving which is better than the 422 milligrams found in a banana. Butternut squash is delicious in multiple forms, including soups and stews. If you have a picky eater, puree butternut squash to sneak into tomato sauce for pasta dishes.
Brussels sprouts are a good source of vitamins C and K, folate, carotenoids and fiber. Forgo the artery-clogging bacon bits and, instead, top with brain-boosting walnuts or pine nuts, tossed with olive oil, apple cider vinegar and a bit of salt. While this vegetable omits a strong smell when cooked, it surely can maintain a strong body year-round.
Pumpkin is low in fat and calories, and loaded with potassium, vitamin A and vitamin C. Using a low-sugar recipe, make pumpkin pies with canned, evaporated fat-free milk, a graham cracker crust and light or fat-free whipped topping. Keep a can in your pantry to whip into muffins or breads beyond the fall season. Of course, you can swap out decadent Thanksgiving pies for baked apples or poached pears.
Bread is the star of traditional stuffing but recipes using cornbread are better as corn meal is a whole grain. Lighten the dish with onions, celery, carrots and apples, rather than using fatty sausage.
Gravy can be less greasy if you use a fat separator or refrigerate the pan juices and skim the fat off before making gravy.
Game Day Strategy for Thanksgiving
Plan to come to the Thanksgiving table hungry, but not starving. If you skip breakfast or lunch, your famished state may lead to overindulgence. Have a sensible breakfast, like yogurt and fruit, and light lunch, like salad or a broth-based soup. And don’t fill up on heavy appetizers or go crazy on holiday drink refills.
Finally, after your Thanksgiving meal, it’s time to shake a tail feather! Research by the American Heart Association shows that you can gain about two hours of life expectancy for every hour of regular, vigorous exercise that you do. That’s a great 2-4-1 deal. Once you’ve fueled your body with healthier holiday selections, hit the pavement for a walk. Bonus points for briskly wobbling like a turkey! And football fans can use half-times for post-turkey pigskin scrimmages in the yard too.
Why this Nutritional Guidance is Needed, Especially within the Disability Community
Obesity is a major health concern in our country; and, unfortunately, some people with disabilities are at a greater risk of obesity. Here are some alarming statistics:
Children and adults with mobility limitations and intellectual or learning disabilities are at greatest risk for obesity.
20% of children 10 through 17 years of age who have special health care needs are obese compared with 15% of children of the same ages without special health care needs.
Annual health care costs of obesity that are related to disability are estimated at approximately $44 billion.
What Can Be Done?
Obesity is a complex problem that requires a strong call for action, at many levels, for both adults as well as children. Just educating yourself with this article is a great step, and especially if you take these tips to heart.
Also try to:
Eat more fruits and vegetables and fewer foods high in fat and sugar.
Drink more water instead of sugary drinks.
Watch less television.
Be more physically active.
Evidence shows that regular physical activity provides important health benefits for people with disabilities. Benefits include improved cardiovascular and muscle fitness, mental health, balance and a better ability to do tasks of daily life.
Despite the stress of the pandemic, most parents in households with at least one child with special health care needs felt close to their children during this time and did a variety of activities with them, according to a family snapshot survey. But families in these households also experienced several challenges, including high rates of disruption in daycare, health care, and employment, and a loss of technological and therapeutic supports.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Prevent Child Abuse America (PCAA), and Tufts Medical Center, is surveying a total of 9,000 parents over a period of seven months to measure the impact of the pandemic on family life, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and positive childhood experiences. The latest Family Snapshot report seeks to understand the significant impact on families raising children and youth with special health care needs.
Analyzing Disruptions
As noted in an earlier report, a major impact on families during the pandemic has been the disruptions to children’s daily lives. This is especially true for families with children with special health needs. More households with children with special needs indicated disruptions compared to other households (92% vs 74%). Specifically, households with kids with special needs experienced higher rates of disruptions in child care or daycare closings (24% vs 17%); canceled medical or dental appointments (45% vs 25%); and the inability to receive free or reduced-cost meals at school (18% vs 9%).
“Families with children with special health care needs had a particularly hard time during the pandemic,” said Robert Sege, MD, PhD, a pediatrician at Tufts Children’s Hospital and director of the Center for Community-Engaged Medicine at Tufts Medical Center. “Physical distancing meant that, for many families, the therapists that they had depended on were less available, and the loss of in-person schooling may have been even more difficult.”
Families in households with children with special needs experienced financial stress (41%) at a similar rate as other families (37%), the survey found. However, parents who were employed either full-time or part-time before the pandemic, reported a higher percentage of change in employment in households with special needs (61%) compared to other households (46%), indicating that parents from households with special needs were laid off, furloughed, or had reduced work hours at a higher rate.
Fifteen percent of parents of children with special needs reduced their work hours to care for children or family, and female parents were more likely to reduce work hours compared with males (19% v 11%). The number of parents in households without children with special needs reducing work hours to care for children or family was slightly lower at 10%.
Other Findings
Most parents in households with children with special needs enjoyed positive experiences with their children. Similar to households without children with special needs, parents in households with at least one child with special needs had done a variety of activities with their children in the seven days prior to taking the survey, including watching TV or other media together (72%), cooking together (63%), and engaging in educational activities (53%). In addition, 71% of these parents have felt quite close or extremely close to their children since the start of the pandemic.
Parental stress was associated with accessing certain services. Those who reported feeling nervous or stressed most/all the time were more likely to have accessed mental/behavioral health or social work services for their child during the pandemic compared with those who did not report these feelings (42% vs 31%).
The number of parents in households with children with special needs reporting family violence was higher than parents in households without children with special needs. More parents in households with at least one child with special health care needs reported intimate partner violence during the pandemic compared with other households (physical and/or emotional intimate partner violence: 30% vs 17%), physical partner violence (17% vs 7%), and emotional partner violence (26% vs 15%).
“When pediatricians work with these families, it makes sense to ask about how they have coped, and to be on the lookout for lasting problems for both children and adults in the family,” Dr. Sege said.
There’s the family you’re born into and the family you choose. Close friends become our second family, and perhaps especially so within our disability community. Because of this special bond, we often want to celebrate the holidays together. And this type of celebration is legit! “Friendsgiving” is typically held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, but you could host a festive gathering anytime during the holiday season. Here’s a guide to hosting an inclusive Friendsgiving.
Importance of Friends with Disabilities
Two studies conducted at the University of Washington explored the impact of friendships among people with disabilities — with survey respondents who specifically cited blindness, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis (MS), post-polio syndrome and spinal cord injury. The study reported that people with physical disabilities feel a special connection with friends who have the same or similar disability, such as people they meet in support groups. And respondents with a greater number of friends with disabilities said they were happier with their lives overall compared to respondents with fewer friends having disabilities. Plus, those with more friends with disabilities even had a better quality of life.
One participant with MS shared, “I think it’s a matter of feeling less self-conscious around [other people with MS] because they don’t see you the way other people see you.” Another person, who is blind, offered this statement about her friends who are also blind: “We all immediately share a common bond, and have an understanding and camaraderie with each other right away.”
credit: Food Network
The “Give” in Inclusive Friendsgiving
A special bond among friends is definitely something to be thankful for and celebrate. Plus, an inclusive Friendsgiving party can satisfy your hunger for festive fun and for holiday fare shared among your favorite peeps!
But, what if you could change an alarming statistic through the power of friendship too? You see, 1-in-6 kids in America today face hunger; some of which are also impacted by disabilities. You can help by hosting an inclusive Friendsgiving celebration in support of No Kid Hungry. Plus, their resources can actually simplify your party planning. Just sign-up to host a Friendsgiving, plan your event with their handy-dandy checklist, fundraise with mobile tools and toast to a meaningful meal with friends.
If fundraising is not normally your thing, remember that the giving spirit is typically amped up (for many) during the holidays. In fact, a number of your loved ones and connections may be looking for ways to make a difference. So, perhaps your inclusive Friendsgiving fundraising efforts fit the bill. Now that’s a valuable -win opportunity!
credit: Fannie May
An Inclusive Friendsgiving Menu
Sharing is Caring
Intimidated to prepare a full Thanksgiving spread? Before you decide to slice the big turkey, cut yourself some slack! A potluck is a great way to share the workload and, ultimately, the meal itself. Assign guests a food item, like stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, dessert, appetizers or beverages. It is customary (but not a requirement) for the host to cook the turkey and gravy unless you have a foodie friend eager to tackle the lion’s share of cooking (aka the bird).
Turnkey Turkey
If you want to spend quality time with your guests rather than cooking the day away, just order a complete Thanksgiving meal. Consider your options: food delivery companies (Hello Fresh, Blue Apron, etc.), grocery stores (Whole Foods), chain eateries (Honey Baked Ham, Boston Market) and food retailers (Sprouts Farmers Markets, etc.).
Hostess with the Mostess
If you’re a culinary wizard, whip up the whole meal yourself. While most may think this is biting off more than one can chew (self-included… I’m all about friends pitching in), it’s possible, especially if you select somewhat easier recipes. Your friends will be very thankful indeed.
Birdie Brunch
You don’t have to follow tradition. Instead of hosting a formal dinner, how about a casual breakfast, lunch or, better yet, brunch? Brunch is the most delicious meal of the week — the perfect union of breakfast and lunch dishes. Tip: Host your inclusive Friendsgiving on the weekend following Thanksgiving day, and ask guests to bring a potluck brunch item prepared with their Thanksgiving leftovers.
Make Reservations
Some restaurants host Friendsgiving-themed menus and/or events. If you love the concept of gathering friends but are not up for the task of hosting, opt for restaurant reservations. For example, Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant serves up inventive renditions of classic Thanksgiving dishes paired with Cooper’s Hawk Wines (with gluten-free selections). Family-style eateries, like Buca Di Beppo, are a great option too; as are tapas-style places that specialize in sharable dishes.
Menu Mix-Up
If you plan to have your fill of turkey on Thanksgiving day, consider serving alternative dishes on Friendsgiving. For example, a pork tenderloin, lasagna, salmon or quinoa-stuffed butternut squash. Or, stick to party classics like tacos, pizza, hamburgers or any sort of DIY spread.
Blended Group
Your group of friends is a truly unique blend. Channel that same blended concept with a turducken. This Louisiana dish is a deboned chicken stuffed into a deboned duck and further stuffed into a deboned turkey! Maybe your friends will gobble up this uniquely memorable dish (and its tongue-twister namesake too).
Backyard Bash
Host a laidback inclusive Friendsgiving similar to a BBQ by deep-frying the turkey. Always use caution when using a turkey fryer. Serve with corn on the cob (instead of corn pudding), oven-roasted fries (instead of mashed potatoes) and steamed green beans (instead of green bean casserole).
credit: Amazon
Festive Fun at Inclusive Friendsgiving
Here are ways to have festive Friendsgiving fun at your gathering:
Turkey Shoot: Order Friendsgiving-themed photo props (as pictured above) to shoot the best selfies!
Turkey-Lovin’ Pigskin: You might watch a football game on Thanksgiving afternoon but, for your Friendsgiving, tackle fun head-on with a game of touch football in the yard or a video game version.
Game (Hen) On: If the harvest colors present an inviting outdoor ambiance, plan for tailgate-style games (well, feathergate). Lawn games like cornhole, horseshoes and others add friendly competition. Or, stay cozy inside making warm Friendsgiving memories by playing board games. Gaming may seem simple, but this classic pastime allows friends of all abilities to interact, laugh and even learn something new about each other. Bonus… board games are a great way to boost brain health!
Get Wacky: Need to use up leftover Halloween candy? Stuff a turkey piñata and let everyone have a whack!
credit: Party City
Gobble Up Extra Helpings
Special touches make gatherings memorable. Consider the following:
Interactive Stations: Try a DIY candy apple bar (pictured below). Or, a Thanksgiving-themed beverage station using cranberry juice or apple cider instead of orange juice. Add garnishes of fresh fruit and herb sprigs. Need a reason to toast with cranberry? Well, studies show that cranberry extract may help treat Alzheimer’s disease.
Decorations: Order Friendsgiving-specific décor, like finds on Amazon or any party store.
Leftovers: Have plastic containers ready so you can send guests home with a second helping.
Parting Gift: Bid your friends farewell with a keepsake, like turkey-shaped chocolates (pictured above).
credit: Craftberrybush.com
Pandemic-Friendly Inclusive Friendsgiving Tips
While statistics are less alarming than in previous years, COVID-19 continues to be a factor. Thus, precautions may be needed to ensure a safe inclusive Friendsgiving to avoid the spread of coronavirus, especially since some people with disabilities and chronic illness are at a greater risk of contracting it. Here are a few pointers:
The “more the merrier” may not be applicable if high-risk health is a concern. Consider if smaller-sized gatherings are more appropriate for your circle of friends.
Ask friends to decline attending if ill with COVID, the flu or other contagious conditions.
Dine outdoors if weather permits. Aside from fresh air circulation, you can enjoy the fall foliage.
Ask friends to utilize hand sanitizer when entering your home, wash hands regularly and, if preferred, sit distanced or remain masked when not feasting.
Opt for a virtual Friendsgiving. Online gatherings can still be joyful and exude gratitude! This can be especially fun for friends who do not reside in the same city.
As the world undergoes a travel revolution brought on by the way people live and work, Airbnb continues to focus on making it easier for people with disabilities and other accessibility needs to also enjoy the flexibility of this new approach to travel. To better serve the estimated 1.2 billion people in the world who have a disability, the company is introducing new ways to help guests find and book accommodations and activities that meet their needs.
These innovations were announced as part of the Airbnb 2021 Winter Release, a suite of features that provide additional support and protection for Airbnb Hosts, while giving guests a better, more seamless approach to living and traveling on Airbnb.
Accessibility Review
Under a new accessibility review process, Hosts simply submit photos of the accessibility features in their home, which are then manually reviewed by a specialized team of Airbnb agents. This way, guests can be confident that the features listed by Hosts have been confirmed by a team of specialists.
This process is designed to give guests clear information to help them determine if a listing meets their needs. To date, Airbnb agents have reviewed and confirmed the accuracy of 100,000 accessibility features in 25,000 homes around the world.
Improved Search Filters
Airbnb is also making it easier to find these stays with updates to 13 search filters, including step-free bedroom access and accessible parking, which are more prominent on the search screen and include more specific details about the accessibility feature. For example, the “Wide entrance to bedroom” feature was changed to “Bedroom entrance wider than 32 inches.”
Experiences Accessibility
With Experience Hosts around the world offering activities that accommodate a variety of needs, accessibility features for Experiences are now clearly displayed on each listing page. Guests can also select from 11 filters to find Experiences where Hosts offer sign language, an activity with no stairs or steps, or free admission for access providers who assist people with disabilities, among other features.
Hosts of Experiences must submit a detailed written description of each accessibility feature, which are designed to help meet a variety of mobility, communication and sensory needs. These descriptions are manually reviewed by a specialized team of agents for description quality.
Several organizations have outlined their support of these new measures and Airbnb’s commitment to improving accessibility across the platform:
“It’s been a privilege to work with Airbnb to help develop a streamlined experience for their guests with disabilities. We’re especially thrilled that guests with disabilities will be able to make reservations with confidence, thanks to Airbnb requiring Hosts to provide photos of the accessibility features they advertise in their homes and now launching a process to review these photos for accuracy.” – Reyma McCoy McDeid, MA, Executive Director, National Council on Independent Living
“We commend Airbnb for advancing the inclusion of people with disabilities in all facets of our society. Its commitment to our community enables wheelchair users to participate in the joys of travel and live with greater independence.” – Vincenzo Piscopo, president and CEO, United Spinal Association
“We are pleased to create alliances that transcend borders and break down barriers, and that is why we are collaborating with Airbnb to offer new opportunities for leisure, recreation and tourism to people with disabilities, without limitations that restrict their rights to access destinations in our country on equal terms. Through its platform, and its new Accessibility Review process and updated search filters, Airbnb is promoting accessibility in accommodations, and as the governing body of disability in Costa Rica, Conapdis, has had the joy of being part of this process that is undoubtedly a fundamental step so that no one is left behind.” – Francisco Azofeifa Murillo, executive director of the Costa Rican National Council of Persons with Disabilities (Consejo Nacional de Personas con Discapacidad – Conapdis)
“We are delighted to continue collaborating with Airbnb because they are truly committed to developing and offering more accessible options on their platform. Costa Rica Tourism Accessible Network believes in the right of leisure and recreation for all, so our vision is that accessibility is the route for a healthy coexistence and we love the path Airbnb is working towards achieving it.” – Stephanie Sheehy, Executive Director of Costa Rican Accessible Tourism Network (Red Costarricense de Turismo Accesible)
Jennifer Dempsey flourished as an exceptional student education (ESE) teacher but, over time, the ring of the oven timer sounded sweeter than the school bell. The self-proclaimed “stress baker” was accustom to whisking away worries using pantry ingredients. Though she admits, there was a lengthy learning curve to mastering pie baking. In fact, it took her a full year to perfect buttery, flaky, crack-free crusts.
“[About five years ago], when everyone else was making New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, I made a resolution to bake a pie a week,” recalls Dempsey. The Gainesville, Florida resident even surpassed that goal and baked 54 sugary sensations within the year. “I fell in love with the versatility of pies and the creativity of making them,” she explains. Somewhere along the way, her daughter Joscelyn inspired her to close the textbooks and open recipe books.
A Taste of Purpose
At 13 months old, Joscelyn had a hemispherectomy, a complicated neurosurgery. “Doctors had to take out the entire left side of her brain because it was malformed and she was having catastrophic, life-endangering seizures that didn’t respond to medication,” Dempsey says of her youngest of five children. Once engaged in the disability community, Dempsey noticed an alarming gap. “I didn’t recognize the need for more employment opportunities for adults with disabilities until I started talking to other parents and thinking about Joscelyn’s future and what she would do when she grew up.”
PiesAbilities handpies
Cooking Up an Inclusive Concept… And the Untimely Fizzle
Adults with disabilities account for one-fifth of the population, yet are unemployed at a rate twice that of peers without disabilities. In January 2020, Dempsey literally rolled out a plan for change with her rolling pin! She launched PiesAbilities, an artisanal business that stirred up much more than baked goods. Dempsey saw sweet symbolism in her business venture. Like people, no two pies are alike; and, so, the subtle differences are what grant each and every person/pie unique flavor and flare.
PiesAbilities invested in equipment geared for bakers with physical disabilities. For example, an adaptable hand pie maker, a simple, one-crank machine that Joscelyn loved to use. Everything seemed to be falling into place. Then, the coronavirus pandemic hit. Dempsey and her cutie-pie sidekick were heartbroken to see their dreams go up in flames. So the duo, known for their unique concoctions, whipped up something new.
Cooling the Oven to Light the Candle
Dempsey says that when her home-based bakery closed as a result of the pandemic, she missed the smell of baked pies. She began to re-imagine the “piesability” of sharing her love of yumminess with the world through a new approach. That’s when the concept of bakery-scented products ignited! “I’ve always enjoyed the cozy ambiance that candles provide and realized I could recreate those same scents and give people a new way to enjoy the cozy, nostalgic feelings that come from smelling those delicious, familiar smells,” she explains.
Dempsey started learning the process of candle-making in the summer of 2020. In April 2021, PiesAbilities Candle Co. launched! “There was a lot to learn about the process of making candles, including understanding the different wax types, wick sizes and fragrance oil calculations,” says Dempsey. “Making a bad, unsafe candle is easy but making a highly-fragranced, non-toxic candle that burns cleanly and evenly is definitely a learned skill that takes time.”
PiesAbilities’ candles use premiere ingredients, like 100% soy, cotton wicks and recyclable containers. Dempsey hand-pours the candles and custom blends phthalate-free fragrance combinations to achieve comforting aromas that match fresh-from-the-oven goodies. “I converted our enclosed patio into a candle studio, complete with a wax melting area, pouring/mixing area and packaging area. My house smells great all the time,” she cheerfully affirms.
The customization often comes from Dempsey’s close circle of loved ones. For example, inspired by a garden-loving friend, she made a candle that emits notes of heirloom tomatoes and rich soil. Thanks to a cowgirl pal, PiesAbilities blended scents of saddle leather, woodfire smoke and orange blossom. Oh, and as for the apple of Dempsey’s eye (Joscelyn), PiesAbilities Hot Apple Cider is a fall favorite. That’s what it’s all about – letting your senses magically embrace and feel the sweetest moments. “Light a PiesAbilities candle, close your eyes and suddenly you’re in Grandma’s kitchen eating a freshly-baked cookie! Mom is cutting your 8th birthday cake and all your friends are there to celebrate you. Your family is gathered around the dining table on Thanksgiving sharing laughter and pie. You feel warm, love and included,” Dempsey describes. That inclusion is the main ingredient.
From edible pies to inedible pie candles, Dempsey is committed to cooking up something special. PiesAbilities Candle Co. donates five percent of every candle sale to nonprofits that support and empower adults with disabilities, such as GrowHub. “With every candle we sell, we’re lighting a path to a more inclusive world,” Dempsey proclaims.
Joscelyn, now 10 years old, is learning the different aspects of the business, from making the candles to packaging. Safety is a priority, so she isn’t yet tasked with mixing or pouring hot wax. Although she’s a pro at centering wicks in containers, pulling inventory for order fulfillment and even naming scents.
A Bigger Slice of the Pie
Dempsey says the biggest advantage PiesAbilities has with the candle company versus its original pie baking business is the ability to reach more people with the message of inclusion. That’s because it’s easier and less expensive to ship candles beyond the local market. Plus, there is much less waste, meaning the shelf life of a candle is better than an expiration-dated pie. The bulk of PiesAbilities Candle Co. sales comes from online orders, although a limited selection is sold at retail locations.
“I love stepping into my ‘candle kitchen’ and whipping up a recipe for a candle that smells like my favorite pie! In many ways, creating a candle with layered scent notes isn’t that different than creating a pie with different flavors. You have to get the proportions right so no one ingredient overpowers the others and the different components complement one another,” Dempsey compares.
Once business demands more manpower than the mother-daughter team can manage, PiesAbilities Candle Co. will further employ adults with disabilities. PiesAbilities is already exploring business partnerships with two creative artists who have disabilities: a designer of candle coasters, and a ceramics artist making candle containers.
5. Tail-wagging time: The season’s time change means darkness comes earlier. Utilize a reflective collar on walks. And, while temperatures have cooled, pavements can still be hot on delicate paws.
