tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66082399490353543632024-03-13T22:55:34.313-07:00My Life My AutismAutism information and resourcesUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger255125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-55139591252444743532017-01-04T16:59:00.001-08:002017-01-04T16:59:48.367-08:00Nike Raising Autism Awareness<p dir="ltr">Still raising awareness... yesterday, today and forever!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aDdH9fMU95A/WG2agvCy6gI/AAAAAAAAOyk/YLMjwIDLXsY/s1600/IMG_20170104_195518_982.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aDdH9fMU95A/WG2agvCy6gI/AAAAAAAAOyk/YLMjwIDLXsY/s640/IMG_20170104_195518_982.jpg"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-38771966842760152352016-12-30T18:41:00.000-08:002016-12-30T18:42:30.832-08:00Call for Chapters<a href="http://www.equityequality.org/" target="_blank">www.equityequality.org</a><div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">CALL FOR CHAPTER PROPOSALS</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
<b>Proposal Submission Deadline: 1<sup>st</sup> Submission Deadline February
15, 2017 2<sup>nd</sup>
Submission Deadline March 15, 2017</b><br />
<b><i>Equity, Equality and Reform in Contemporary Public Education</i><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A book
edited by Marquis C. Grant (Grand Canyon University)<span style="color: #333333;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<pre><b><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Introduction</span></u></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The American pubic education system has predicated upon the idea of equality. The values embedded in our academic institutions, dating back centuries to a time much different than our own. Our focus on EQUALITY instead of EQUITY may have contributed to the marginalization of the very children that we have sought to eradicate. Equality means giving individuals the exact same things. Equity is giving individuals what they need to promote fairness. By focusing on giving our children the SAME opportunities, instead of FAIR opportunities, would this explain:<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">• Persistent achievement gaps?<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">• Low performing schools?<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">• Disproportionality in special education?<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">• Low graduation rates?<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">• High drop-out rates?<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<br /></div>
<pre><b><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Objective of the Book</span></u></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Equality and equity are often mischaracterized, albeit erroneously, as interchangeable terms in public education. This may explain why efforts towards reform and restructure are often not met with any real measure of success. This book will offer discussions about equity, including historical and social contexts of equity, rationale (if any) for continued focus on equality, school reform as a form of equity and the how a Eurocentric curriculum prohibits an equitable distribution of resources and opportunities in modern education. <o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></pre>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Target Audience</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
The target audience of this book will be composed of professionals and
researchers working in the field of in various disciplines, e.g. education,
sociology, policy and administration, cultural studies, legal theory, education,
curriculum & development, race theory, and gender studies. Moreover<i>, Equity, Equality and Reform in
Contemporary Public Education</i> will provide insights and support educators
and policy makers concerned with improving the current contexts of education
and supporting measures of reform that will support student achievement in
public education. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<b><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Recommended topics
include, but are not limited to, the following:</span></u></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Equity & Equality: Race (Brown vs. Board of Education)<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Equity & Equality: Disability (IDEA, ADA, Section 504)<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Equity & Equality: Socioeconomics (ESEA, No Child Left Behind)<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Special Education Funding: Idealism vs. realism in special education programs<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Achievement gaps and low performing schools<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The impact of poverty and socioeconomics and student achievement<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Disproportionality in special education<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Race-based disciplinary actions<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Multicultural education/cultural responsiveness<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">School reform and the race towards equity<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Charter schools and voucher programs<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Gender biases in education (STEM)<o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 12.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Feasibility of a Eurocentric curriculum in a diverse society</span><b><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></u></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></pre>
<pre style="margin-left: .5in;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></pre>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<b><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Submission Procedure</span></u></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit on or before <b><i>February
15, 2017</i></b> a chapter proposal of 1,000 to 2,000 words clearly explaining
the mission and concerns of his or her proposed chapter. The link for proposal
submissions is </span><a href="http://www.igi-global.com/publish/call-for-papers/call-details/2514" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">http://www.igi-global.com/publish/call-for-papers/call-details/2514</span></a>.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Authors will be
notified by <b><i>April 15, 2017</i></b> about the status of their
proposals and sent chapter guidelines. Full chapters are expected to be
submitted by <b><i>June 30, 2017</i></b>, and all interested authors must
consult the guidelines for manuscript submissions at </span><a href="http://www.igi-global.com/publish/contributor-resources/before-you-write/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3366cc; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">http://www.igi-global.com/publish/contributor-resources/before-you-write/</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> prior to submission. All submitted
chapters will be reviewed on a double-blind review basis. Contributors may also
be requested to serve as reviewers for this project.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Note: There are no
submission or acceptance fees for manuscripts submitted to this book publication, <i>Trust
in Knowledge Management and Systems in Organizations</i>. All manuscripts are
accepted based on a double-blind peer review editorial process.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">All proposals should
be submitted through the E-Editorial Discovery<sup>TM</sup> online
submission manager.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<b><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Publisher</span></u></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
This book is scheduled to be published by IGI Global (formerly Idea Group
Inc.), an international academic publisher of the “Information Science
Reference” (formerly Idea Group Reference), “Medical Information Science
Reference,” “Business Science Reference,” and “Engineering Science Reference”
imprints. IGI Global specializes in publishing reference books, scholarly
journals, and electronic databases featuring academic research on a variety of
innovative topic areas including, but not limited to, education, social
science, medicine and healthcare, business and management, information science
and technology, engineering, public administration, library and information
science, media and communication studies, and environmental science. For
additional information regarding the publisher, please visit </span><a href="http://www.igi-global.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #3366cc; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">www.igi-global.com</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">. This publication is anticipated to be released in 2018.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<b><u><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Important Dates</span></u></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
<b>February 1, 2017 & March 15, 2017:</b> Proposal Submission Deadline<br />
<b>April 15, 2017:</b> Notification of Acceptance<br />
<b>June 30, 2017:</b> Full Chapter Submission<br />
<b>September 30, 2017:</b> Review Results Returned<br />
<b>October 15, 2017:</b> Final Acceptance Notification<br />
<b>October 30, 2017:</b> Final Chapter Submission<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Inquiries can be forwarded to</span></u></b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br />
Dr. Marquis C. Grant<br />
Grand Canyon University <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 7.5pt;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Email: Marquis.Grant@my.gcu.edu<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-86346528366673017042016-12-09T17:09:00.000-08:002016-12-09T17:09:47.200-08:00Things I'm Over in 2016<br />
<ol>
<li>Playing nice</li>
<li>Crying over spilled milk</li>
<li>IEP meetings (personally and professionally)</li>
<li>Being passive</li>
<li>Not taking chances</li>
<li>Fake friendships</li>
<li>Gossip (giving and receiving)</li>
<li>Exes (need I say more?)</li>
<li>Bills (wishful thinking)</li>
<li>Excuses</li>
<li>Stress</li>
<li>Depression</li>
<li>Rude people</li>
<li>Liars</li>
<li>Special education (which isn't so special)</li>
<li>Idealism (which sucks)</li>
<li>Fast food (don't hold me to this one)</li>
<li>Taxes</li>
<li>The Election</li>
<li>The Election (yep, it's here twice)</li>
</ol>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-24786012061598817572016-11-29T16:18:00.001-08:002016-11-29T16:18:59.868-08:00What I Know For Sure<p dir="ltr">I realized today that there are things in life that are absolute, no exception:<br>
1. Making mistakes is a privilege.<br>
2. Being happy with what you have is easier said than done.<br>
3. You're only as happy as your saddest child.<br>
4. Being right doesn't make you happy...but it does make you smarter. 😌<br>
5. People will remember the bad things you've done because it makes them feel better about themselves.<br>
6. Having 1 good friend that you can depend on is pretty lonely.<br>
7. If life throws you lemons...DUCK!<br>
8. Life and weekends are too short.<br></p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-2226791100423987002016-11-25T03:08:00.001-08:002016-11-29T16:00:25.899-08:00Parents as Therapists (Courtesy of My Life My Autism)<h2 data-mce-style="text-align: center;" style="background-color: #272727; color: #eeeeee; font-family: Allerta; font-size: 1.5rem; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 1.5em; margin: 0px 0px 0.83em; text-align: center;">
Parents as Therapists</h2>
<div style="background-color: #272727; color: white; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1em;">
With the high costs associated with raising a child with autism, many parents are desperate to find ways in which to support their children with limited financial resources. Many states now allow insurance companies to cover some or all of the costs of services such as speech and ABA therapy. However, there are still some families in need of additional options that will improve the outcomes of their children.</div>
<div style="background-color: #272727; color: white; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1em;">
Organizations like Rethink Autism offer cost-efficient alternatives for families who may be in need of additional support or who, for whatever reason, may not be able to cover the cost of therapy. Rethink Autism specifically supports families, caregivers and professionals through <span data-mce-style="color: #2a485b;" style="color: #2a485b;"><span data-mce-style="color: #f2f7fa;" style="color: #f2f7fa;">guided instruction using targeted "behaviorally-based teaching strategies..." with a "sequence of 7-10 minute training modules model all of the research-based techniques used in our expert-reviewed, video-based lesson curriculum in jargon-free accessible language." </span></span></div>
<div style="background-color: #272727; color: white; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 1em;">
<span data-mce-style="color: #2a485b;" style="color: #2a485b;"><span data-mce-style="color: #f2f7fa;" style="color: #f2f7fa;">As with any program, families should do their research before making any final decisions. Questions that should be asked during the decision-making process include:</span></span></div>
<ol style="background-color: #272727; color: white; font-family: "Open Sans"; font-size: 16px; margin: 1em 0px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 40px;">
<li>What do I want for my child?</li>
<li>What am I getting for the money that I will be paying to use the service?</li>
<li>Are the recommended strategies research-based?</li>
<li>Will I be able to chart my child's growth as I am using the program?</li>
<li>How do the programs compare to one another?</li>
<li>Does the program offer support through email or by telephone if I have questions or concerns that I need to be addressed?</li>
</ol>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-5214141568415495342016-11-11T16:25:00.001-08:002016-11-11T16:25:24.740-08:00Autism...The Next Unsung<p dir="ltr">Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed that autism has all but vanished from the public consciousness? I remember several years ago the big push to Light It Up Blue and how everyone seem to have some sort of opinion about the hows and whys of autism. Now you will be hard-pressed to find even the slightest mention of autism in the media. So what has happened to change the attention that was given to promoting and supporting autism acceptance? I know a lot of people objected to the whole Light It Up Blue initiative because it was associated with Autism Speaks. But now there are no true initiatives in place to keep autism on the forefront. What will that mean for my children and the children of others? I don't know...<br>
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U-Sb88qgvKo/WCZhc1-JjUI/AAAAAAAAOpU/H-_Rm65sqnc/s1600/2016-11-11%25252019.15.04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U-Sb88qgvKo/WCZhc1-JjUI/AAAAAAAAOpU/H-_Rm65sqnc/s640/2016-11-11%25252019.15.04.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-40338657523132105192016-11-02T17:46:00.001-07:002016-11-02T17:46:52.803-07:00Rock the Vote<p dir="ltr">Whomever you are, whatever you do, exercise your right to vote!!!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DJ1i3lMXrU0/WBqI-g7YARI/AAAAAAAAOnU/AvMsH2Zdp7w/s1600/Screenshot_2016-11-02-20-44-00-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-DJ1i3lMXrU0/WBqI-g7YARI/AAAAAAAAOnU/AvMsH2Zdp7w/s640/Screenshot_2016-11-02-20-44-00-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-64551074283705216492016-10-31T16:24:00.001-07:002016-10-31T16:24:45.170-07:00Bullying Stops Here<p dir="ltr">Bullying has become a major epidemic in our schools. We have to teach our children, those who are being bullied, to speak up and speak out. Here's what you can do as a parent if you suspect your child is being bullied:<br>
° Look for changes in behavior.<br>
° Encourage your child to talk openly about his or her experiences.<br>
° Report bullying to school administrators<br>
° Be proactive about seeking a solution.<br>
° If your concerns are not being adequately addressed at the school level, file a complaint with central office.<br>
° Use social media to bring awareness.<br>
° Seek counseling for your child if necessary. Bullying can lead to mental and emotional trauma.</p>
<p dir="ltr">#bullyingstopshere</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RajJ3zYSfjI/WBfSuwOGA0I/AAAAAAAAOm8/BeYA-AKgiT4/s1600/Screenshot_2016-10-31-19-14-43-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RajJ3zYSfjI/WBfSuwOGA0I/AAAAAAAAOm8/BeYA-AKgiT4/s640/Screenshot_2016-10-31-19-14-43-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-73400914000791493692016-10-25T13:00:00.001-07:002016-10-25T13:00:22.589-07:00Check Out My Interview Segment w/ Yaya the Diamond
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/dreamchasersradio/2016/10/24/dream-chasers-uniteUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-8166046351221359742016-10-22T09:03:00.001-07:002016-10-22T09:08:07.252-07:00Animated Lesson Plan on Disability<p dir="ltr">This year has been incredibly amazing and BUSY!!! One of the projects I have worked on is a disability lesson plan based on characters created by Fairmore & Friends and animated by @UMBC. The lesson is great for elementary and middle school students, as it teaches them the importance of understanding and accepting differences. Perfect as a resource for teaching character education in school or personal conversations with the kiddos at home. Contact @TheOddballz on Twitter or download the Fairmore & Friends app from the Google Play Store to get a copy of the visual lesson plan!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nq2KrGdwF-4/WAuNwzdi4hI/AAAAAAAAOmA/ZmhoVvGJFWo/s1600/Screenshot_2016-10-22-12-00-06-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nq2KrGdwF-4/WAuNwzdi4hI/AAAAAAAAOmA/ZmhoVvGJFWo/s640/Screenshot_2016-10-22-12-00-06-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-62763199011174085892016-10-21T15:02:00.001-07:002016-10-21T15:02:38.964-07:00October Is Down Syndrome Awareness Month<p dir="ltr">Let's raise awareness about Down Syndrome 365 days a year!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kBmcN4Wz2sI/WAqQfW9wUbI/AAAAAAAAOls/d7FSYpZts_4/s1600/Screenshot_2016-10-21-18-00-24-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kBmcN4Wz2sI/WAqQfW9wUbI/AAAAAAAAOls/d7FSYpZts_4/s640/Screenshot_2016-10-21-18-00-24-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-71128143527052013032016-10-21T14:57:00.001-07:002016-10-21T14:57:52.487-07:00Donate to Chancellor Lee Adams<p dir="ltr">I remember hearing about Cherica Adams's death over a decade ago and the birth of her son, who has been raised by Cherica's mother Saundra since then. After reading the article about Chancellor and Saundra as Rae Carruth's release date draws near, I couldn't help but get emotional. As the mother of two boys with disabilities, I know all too well the joy and pain that comes with the territory. I realized, too, how truly blessed I am that my children are able to do so many things that other children are not. I count my blessings and, after reading this article, promise to focus more on the positives and less on the negatives.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k6zY7uPq6Yo/WAqPXWEPoBI/AAAAAAAAOlo/vqJ7ucC9odU/s1600/Screenshot_2016-10-21-17-48-59-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-k6zY7uPq6Yo/WAqPXWEPoBI/AAAAAAAAOlo/vqJ7ucC9odU/s640/Screenshot_2016-10-21-17-48-59-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-17205317729260518322016-08-16T11:46:00.001-07:002016-08-16T11:46:06.906-07:00Blog Life Revisited<p dir="ltr">I just realized that I stopped blogging. I don't know when it happened or why it happened but it did. Maybe it's the personal drama that seems to be a never ending distraction from the good and useful things we are purposed to do? Or maybe it's the constantly changing social media requirements that keep us on a roller coaster journey--Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat... leaving little time in the day for true reflection. My blog was always my way of expressing myself. Nothing fancy, just real talk. Now instead of talking about my deepest concerns for my children, my life, my thoughts, I am engrossed in posting the best photo or capturing the best selfie ( with a little Photoshop, of course) that will make me relatable, camera-ready and culturally- in tuned all at once. But no more! I am recommitting myself to my blog. My true self. My passions in life. My jumbled thoughts and never ending ideas...at least that's what I am telling myself.</p>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-14928498799181089212016-07-24T18:43:00.001-07:002016-07-24T18:45:11.113-07:00When Will the Madness Stop???<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NcPn7S0e288/V5Vuv2j8H3I/AAAAAAAAOcM/SwbJer2Kc5E/s1600/Screenshot_2016-07-24-21-28-52-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NcPn7S0e288/V5Vuv2j8H3I/AAAAAAAAOcM/SwbJer2Kc5E/s640/Screenshot_2016-07-24-21-28-52-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-53060720304529043722016-07-19T17:13:00.001-07:002016-07-19T17:13:48.945-07:00Follow Me on the GramI'm on Instagram as @dr_marquis_grant. Install the app to follow my photos and videos. https://instagram.com/download/?r=2093213654Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-3301909257010501002016-07-15T10:29:00.001-07:002016-07-15T10:29:29.914-07:00Follow Me on the Gram!!!!I'm on Instagram as @dr_marquis_grant. Install the app to follow my photos and videos. https://instagram.com/download/?r=2093213654Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-32003840614880580422016-07-04T08:15:00.001-07:002016-07-04T08:15:59.791-07:00Happy Fourth of July<p dir="ltr">Have a safe and wonder holiday! Remember, many children and adults with special needs may have sensory issues that inhibit their ability to take part in the festivities. With that in mind, please be sensitive when it comes to triggers such as:<br>
1. Fireworks<br>
2. Heat<br>
3. Crowds<br>
4. New, unfamiliar settings<br>
5. Changes in routine<br>
6. Food preferences</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YX5j_qeRJTA/V3p9rQ947EI/AAAAAAAAOZo/rAPt0zjxKHw/s1600/Screenshot_2016-07-04-11-08-48-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YX5j_qeRJTA/V3p9rQ947EI/AAAAAAAAOZo/rAPt0zjxKHw/s640/Screenshot_2016-07-04-11-08-48-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-1844296286414988232016-06-30T10:36:00.001-07:002016-06-30T10:36:11.171-07:00Snapchat...The New Adventures of an Autism MomAdd me on Snapchat! Username: drmarquisgrant https://www.snapchat.com/add/drmarquisgrantUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-42997573483291197232016-06-30T07:04:00.001-07:002016-06-30T07:04:28.995-07:00Thank You for the Rejection<p dir="ltr">To Whom it may concern, I wanted to take the time to thank you for the rejection letter that you sent regarding a grant for my autism awareness organization. While it may seem strange to have someone thank you for NOT doing something, your denial is my motivation. Yes, initially I was a little bummed out. I mean "rejection" is something I think about in a dating situation. Being rejected by THAT guy. I was even a little perturbed by the go-to statement about the "other" parents with special needs children who cosigned on your rejection. Your determination that there are other organizations out there doing the exact same thing without acknowledging the WAIT LISTS for those organizations. It takes about 6-12 months just to have your application processed or to receive services. In fact, we need more organizations to serve the 3 million plus people who are diagnosed with autism. <br>
But I slowly began to see how this may be a blessing in disguise. I am more determined now than ever to press forward. YOU have lit a fire under me that has given me a new purpose. So, with all sincerity, thank you Pollination Project! I am truly in your debt ( seriously)!<br><br></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9Fuq2COQasY/V3Um6vbSxoI/AAAAAAAAOYI/_3MPvcCFyos/s1600/Screenshot_2016-06-30-09-52-41-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9Fuq2COQasY/V3Um6vbSxoI/AAAAAAAAOYI/_3MPvcCFyos/s640/Screenshot_2016-06-30-09-52-41-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-72143583163977672522016-06-22T22:03:00.001-07:002016-06-22T22:03:09.602-07:00Disability & Bullying<p dir="ltr">Check out a preview of the video lesson on disabilities and bullying that I wrote for The Entertaining Oddballz @ https://youtu.be/wHrLgn1BY3o</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7llg7xuo5_g/V2tti7glxpI/AAAAAAAAOVY/DZWVRB-r4oA/s1600/Screenshot_2016-06-23-00-59-48-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7llg7xuo5_g/V2tti7glxpI/AAAAAAAAOVY/DZWVRB-r4oA/s640/Screenshot_2016-06-23-00-59-48-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-91912230402413442892016-06-18T14:52:00.001-07:002016-06-18T14:52:32.039-07:00The Early Bird Initiative<p dir="ltr">About a year ago, I decided that I wanted to make a difference. I didn't want to be one of those people who just talked about doing something. I actually wanted 2 be proactive and I knew autism was going to be my platform. I look back over the past year and realize that I've made a lot of positive strides in raising awareness but I know I'm far from where I want to be. So I'm committing myself in this next year to doing great things through advocacy and Outreach. I encourage everyone to find a call to support. It's truly one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M8nNWK7PyUo/V2XCnse2IQI/AAAAAAAAOUw/b90V3IwfVSA/s1600/Screenshot_2016-06-18-17-45-47.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M8nNWK7PyUo/V2XCnse2IQI/AAAAAAAAOUw/b90V3IwfVSA/s640/Screenshot_2016-06-18-17-45-47.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-79816047113963520302016-06-16T04:17:00.001-07:002016-06-16T04:17:59.385-07:00Support a Cause<p dir="ltr">I use social media quite a bit for autism awareness. I am committed to the cause and will continue to be proactive about disability support and acceptance. However, I have noticed that people will respond positively to selfies and pictures of random events but remain radio silent when it comes to postings about donating or bringing awareness or promoting acceptance. </p>
<p dir="ltr">I knew when I began this journey as an advocate, I would experience bumps along the way. I get that it's hard for others to identify with disability awareness, especially if it's never affected them personally, but I guess I was just keeping hope alive...</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R2XcGMdBBAo/V2KK4MPkd2I/AAAAAAAAOUY/j7I-U4V4o38/s1600/Screenshot_2016-06-03-09-57-12-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-R2XcGMdBBAo/V2KK4MPkd2I/AAAAAAAAOUY/j7I-U4V4o38/s640/Screenshot_2016-06-03-09-57-12-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-69596310713869389642016-06-02T01:53:00.001-07:002016-06-02T01:53:32.410-07:00Autism & Water Safety<p dir="ltr">It's that time of the year again when families are heading to the pool or flocking to the beach to beat the heat. Having a water safety plan should be as important as your child's swimming gear or sunscreen. Children with autism especially need to be monitored because they oftentimes do not realize signs of danger, which makes them highly susceptible to accidental drownings. Your water safety plan should include:<br>
● A designated person or persons who will be your child's constant companion in the water. This could be another adult or a peer buddy. If a peer buddy is recruited, make sure an adult is in close proximity at all times. <br>
● Procedure for if one of the companions must leave your child's side for a moment. Who will he or she notify?<br>
● Floatation devices like the arm, leg or body floaties sold at Dollar Tree or other places for as little as a dollar. <br>
● Cell phone close by in case of an emergency. <br>
●Knowledge of CPR protocol in the event that an accident happens.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Remember, having a plan does not mean that you are EXPECTING something bad to happen. It just means that you want to be proactive about keeping your child's safety first! <br>
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bVLg9D2khBw/V0_0CSUSjGI/AAAAAAAAOSY/oiCxiwxjIJ4/s1600/Screenshot_2016-06-02-04-24-58-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-bVLg9D2khBw/V0_0CSUSjGI/AAAAAAAAOSY/oiCxiwxjIJ4/s640/Screenshot_2016-06-02-04-24-58-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-72895086908889245382016-05-25T17:00:00.001-07:002016-05-25T17:00:17.261-07:00Be Aware<p dir="ltr">I realize that I may have to fight this battle alone, but I'm ready! This is for my children and countless others who have no voice to speak out about what they experience on a daily basis. I am committed to raising awareness about autism...<u>#mylife</u></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6SPa2Ex_VWc/V0Y8juK3cII/AAAAAAAAONk/iNEP6IGSOBo/s1600/Screenshot_2016-05-25-19-54-52-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6SPa2Ex_VWc/V0Y8juK3cII/AAAAAAAAONk/iNEP6IGSOBo/s640/Screenshot_2016-05-25-19-54-52-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6608239949035354363.post-45161342749632092582016-05-22T11:39:00.001-07:002016-05-22T11:39:19.180-07:00What I Learned from Other Autism Moms<p dir="ltr">Yesterday I sponsored a panel discussion that was designed to bring awareness to issues related to autism in the home, school & community. Although I was a panelists, I learned so much from listening to the stories of others.<br>
1. I am truly blessed. I have had others tell me this but I understand for the first time what that means. My sons are both verbal and participate in mainstream education. Their autism is not severe, though they do have issues related to sensory overload, stimming and learning challenges. From what I learned, I definitely should count my blessings. <br>
2. Society still doesn't "get" autism & I'm not sure that they even want to. Telling someone that they should leave their kid in the car because he's making noises that are related to his disability is horrible. I was pained to see another mom cry and talk about the cruel experiences she'd had from strangers wanting her to make their lives more comfortable by suggesting she remove her child or telling him to shut up. <br>
3. Mothers of children with autism have greater stress levels than mothers of children with a critical illness. I have heard this before, but it still amazes me. People don't understand what it's like to raise a child with a disability, especially when it prevents you from doing many of the things that were once part of your daily life. Going to the grocery store can be a chore if you have a child prone to meltdowns or who makes random noises. Nobody wants people staring at their kid or making snide comments. <br>
4. There is still much work that needs to be done. Autism Awareness is not at the forefront of what we need to be focusing on as a society...but it needs to be. With over 3 million people living on the spectrum, more dialogue needs to take place as to what needs to be done in order to make sure they are as successful and supported as possible. </p>
<p dir="ltr">This panel was a great experience for me, even if turnout wasn't what I wanted it to be. I know now, more than ever, that my work is not done.<br>
"I cried because I had no shoes, then I saw a man who had no feet..."</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tduDIQ2SAIc/V0H81FlW2RI/AAAAAAAAOME/j430ozPtdUM/s1600/Screenshot_2016-05-19-15-06-55-1-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tduDIQ2SAIc/V0H81FlW2RI/AAAAAAAAOME/j430ozPtdUM/s640/Screenshot_2016-05-19-15-06-55-1-1.png"> </a> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0