child_learn“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” ~ Nelson Mandela.

Did you know that at risk children who don’t receive a quality early education are:

  • 25% more likely to drop out of school
  • 40% more likely to become a teen parent
  • 50% more likely to be placed in special education
  • 60% less likely to go to college
  • 70% more likely to be arrested for a violent crime

So what are we doing about this?  Municipalities are increasingly seizing the momentum on early education.  In many cases, cities around the country are offering programs that are available to more students than state funding would allow.

The latest initiative is New York Mayor Bill de Blasio’s plan to create a universal preschool program for the city’s four-year-olds through a tax on the city’s highest earners.  The next step would be whether Albany lawmakers grant the Mayor the authority to increase taxes on the approximately 40,000 city residents who earn more than $500,000 a year.

Early-EdCertainly most cities would not have the tax base to allow this; however, research has demonstrated that quality early learning programs have positive effects that extend beyond the first years of school, well into adulthood, and benefit society as a whole.  For every $1 spent on early childhood programs for at risk children, society sees a savings of $7.

I encourage each of you to contact your legislators and tell them about the importance of early childhood education programs to our community, state and society.   It’s not too late to start paying it forward for the young children in our communities.   Below are some additional links on how communities and businesses are advocating for early education programming.

PNC Grow Up Great
Sesame Street
HighScope Perry Preschool

Posted on January 23, 2014 by all about autism | 5 Comments
Ryan skiiing 1.2014

Ryan Skiing (2014)

Have you been walking your way to health?  This week is Healthy Weight Week.   Unfortunately, obesity is more prevalent in people with disabilities than people without disabilities.  Obesity rates for children with disabilities are approximately 38% higher than children without disabilities.   Certainly there are behavioral, environmental and genetic factors that can affect if a person is overweight or obese.

It can be difficult for people with challenges to eat healthy, control their weight and be physically active.  This might be due to:

  • A lack of healthy food choices
  • Medications that can contribute to weight gain
  • Physical limitations that can reduce a person’s ability to exercise
  • Lack of accessible environments that enable exercise
  • Lack of resources (for example, money, transportation, social support)
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Adaptive Bike Program at ELBS

We do know, though, that regular physical activity provides important health benefits for people with disabilities.  These benefits include improved cardiovascular health, improved mental health and better ability to do everyday tasks.  Engaging in physical activities with typical peers enable friendships and increase their social circle, thus decreasing the social isolation experienced by many children with disabilities.

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Barber Beast on the Bay Adaptive Course (2013)

Research has also demonstrated that increased aerobic exercise can significantly decrease the frequency of negative, self-stimulating behaviors that are common among individuals with autism, while not decreasing other positive behaviors.

Ryan Kayaking

Ryan kayaking at Lake Erie

Exercise has always been a big part Ryan’s and my life.  From participating in the kids marathon through skiing, 10k’s, bowling, kayaking, racquetball, golf, a part of our day is always set aside for exercise.  I encourage all parents to start exercise early and together as a family.  It’s Tuesday at 5, we’ve both completed our workday and we are off to the local health club, LECOM, to exercise.

What are you doing to promote Healthy Weight Week?

Posted on January 21, 2014 by all about autism | Leave a comment

How Will You Celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day?

Posted on January 16, 2014 by all about autism
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Martin Luther King, Jr.

As we look to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. day on Monday, I see how far we have come since the first school where children with disabilities was established in 1817.  Our accomplishments have been many, yet we continue to struggle with barriers for equality of persons with disabilities.

Did you know that …

  • 10% of the world’s population, or 650 million people, live with a disability.  They are the world’s largest minority.
  • 20% of the world’s poorest people are disabled.
  • Women with disabilities are recognized to be multiply disadvantaged, experiencing exclusion on account of their gender and disability.
  • 90% of children with disabilities in developing countries do not attend school
  • 386 million of the world’s working age people are disabled.
  • People with physical and mental disabilities continued to be underrepresented in the U.S. workplace.

The following quote by Martin Luther King, Jr. both encourages and inspires me to continue the fight for equality for all people:

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Martin Luther King, Jr.

“Whatever career you may choose for yourself – doctor, lawyer, teacher – let me propose an avocation to be pursued along with it.   Become a dedicated fighter for civil rights.  Make it a central part of your life.  It will make you a better doctor, a better lawyer, a better teacher.  It will enrich your spirit as nothing else possibly can. It will give you the rare sense of nobility that can only spring from love and selflessly helping your fellow man.  Make a career of humanity.  Commit yourself to the noble struggle for human rights.  You will make a great person of yourself, a great nation of your country and a finer world to live in.” 

How do you plan to honor Dr. King’s dream?

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Families attend an autism-friendly performance on April 29, 2012 in this photo released by the Theatre Development Fund.
Families attend an autism-friendly performance on April 29, 2012 in this photo released by the Theatre Development Fund.

With an increasing number of children being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, more organizations are acknowledging the need to offer an adaptive program for children with special needs.

Three years ago, we initiated an autism/disability friendly Santa at the Millcreek Mall.  As our numbers continue to grow, I became a vocal advocate for the inclusion of children and adults with disabilities in cultural events.

Erie Playhouse AladdinThe Erie Playhouse responded with an autism/disability friendly performance of Disney’s Aladdin, Jr. on January 18th.   Tickets are available for purchase now.

What makes this performance special?  Students attending the performance can read a social story on Aladdin.  Written by BNI faculty and artist Jude Shingle, the social story prepares students so they know what to expect when attending the play, appropriate behavior at the theatre and what to do if they need a break.  Lights and sounds will be at a safe and comfortable level and a sensory break area will be provided in the lower lobby.  All the members of the cast attended a seminar on autism to help them better understand the challenges experienced by some children on the autism spectrum.

In addition, BNI partnered with ArtsErie and Very Special Arts of PA to provide a workshop for local cultural organizations and artists interested in learning how to prepare an environment for children and adults on the autism spectrum.

I’m thankful for the Erie Playhouse for this initial production and I’m hopeful that this will become a new trend that we see in all local productions.

Posted on January 15, 2014 by all about autism | Leave a comment

Creativity (student & Krista Amon)Did you know that January is International Creativity Month?   Walking through the BNI halls you see expressions of creativity all around – artwork on the walls, students creating angels made of clay, technology everywhere.

I am thankful for our faculty whose imagination has led us to develop new and original ideas.  They have introduced our students to various technologies, like creating animated videos and interactive electronic books.  We have explored the art of photography through adaptive cameras and iPads, allowing the students to showcase their own creativity.

Patricia Czulewicz and David Chergi

Patricia Czulewicz and David Chergi

Our young people with significant physical challenges are able to create their own masterpieces through Artistic Realization Technologies (A.R.T.).  Check out David Chergi’s story (cousin of Andy Warhol) whose dream of being an artist came to true through the A.R.T. program.

Science, math and reading come alive when you are creative.  Not only are our students motivated, but creativity sustains their attention, encourages engagement in the activities, and fosters social interactions with their peers.  On snowy, no school days like Tuesday, I’ve included some fun activities to do with your child at home.

“Imagination is the beginning of creation.  You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine and at last you create what you will.” ~ George Bernard Shaw

I am always looking for new and creative ideas.  Share yours with me and I will reference them in a future blog.  Stay creative!

Posted on January 9, 2014 by all about autism | Leave a comment

Don’t Forget To Say Thank You

Posted on January 7, 2014 by all about autism

Danke, grazie, merci, gracias, spasibo, 谢谢, cảm ơn bạn, thank you!

January is National “Thank You” Month.Thank you card

Growing up, my siblings and I quickly learned that thank you was an essential word in our vocabularies.   Of course, mothers are always right.  Studies have shown that being thankful improves sleep patterns, mental and physical well-being, relationships and anxiety — not just for the giver, but the recipient, too.  Research found that by saying thank you, people felt valued, appreciated and were more likely to provide additional assistance.

From the age of 2, I always encouraged Ryan to say thank you.  Today, he may be the most polite person ever, and I think his thankfulness to others has had a positive impact not only on him, but on those who provide him with support.

There are many ways to celebrate National Thank You month.  This article suggests many that I myself practice.

  • Keep a gratitude journal
  • Random acts of kindness
  • Write a note of gratitude (teacher, child, parent, spouse, friend)
  • Take the time to visit a friend or relative who is confined to their home

As I walked down the hall today, one of our high school students was talking with faculty member Maria Hopkins.  I overheard the student say “You’re a gift from God, Maria Hopkins. Thank you Jesus Christ.”

thankful4I often ask myself as I drive myself to work what am I thankful for?  It’s a great way to start the day off with a positive attitude.

I’d encourage you to post on the blog what makes you thankful this January.

“When you arise in the morning, give thanks for the morning light, for our life and strength.  Give thanks for your food, and the joy of living.  If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies with yourself.” ~ Tecumseh, Shawnee Chief

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As I look to the start of another year, I find that it is not the end nor a beginning but an opportunity to continue to expand the knowledge and experience that we have gained over the last 365 days.

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Tap-it Technology

  • Technology burst onto the scene at the ELBS and across the world. Classrooms equipped with iPads, touch screens and Tap-its enable faculty to truly individualize students programs.  A conference room equipped with an interactive white board, state of the art printer, computer and conference speaker phones allows us to fully engage our parents in the IEP process.
  • Adaptive equipment for children with mobility challenges is enabling students who came to us wheelchair bound to walk with assistive devices in the halls.
    Dr. Mary Beth Pinto and Jessie, therapy dog
    Dr. Mary Beth Pinto and Jessie, therapy dog
  • Dog therapy has been integrated into our curriculum and was showcased during our Christmas play.
  • Under the direction of Jude Shingle, artist in residence, students are creating their own iBooks with the use of digital technology.
  • Research continues to tell us the most effective treatments for students with autism and other challenges.
  • Our Beast on the Bay, an extreme obstacle course challenge and adaptive course brought many new friends to Erie and the BNI.  Mark your calendars for next year’s Beast on the Bay on September 6, 2014.
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    Beast on the Bay
  • Every student has an individually designed adaptive bicycle program thanks to Chris Gross, PT.  Sharing her expertise with others across the country, Chris has written an iBook on adaptive bicycling which can be purchased at the iTunes store.
  • Our students and faculty reached out to the community with a penny drive for the John Kanzius Foundation and raised over $1,000.
  • Working with University of Notre Dame on our robot project allowed us to be on the cutting edge of using robotics in teaching children with ASD.
  • My blog has had over 10,000 visits. What began as a desire to share what I have learned with others is helping many internationally from Saudi Arabia to Mexico to China.
  • Music is heard daily through our halls as we expanded our collaborations to include not only the YPC of Erie but also the Erie Chamber Orchestra.

2013 was a year of many accomplishments.  We have achieved much through the efforts of our dedicated staff who inspired our children and adults.  With the support of our community we will continue to make dreams come true in 2014.

“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”  Eleanor Roosevelt

Posted on December 31, 2013 by all about autism | Leave a comment

Stories from Christmas Past

Posted on December 24, 2013 by all about autism
Newborn Collage
Clockwise from Top Left: Dr. Gertrude Barber, Ryan and Dr. Maureen Barber-Carey; Dr. Maureen Barber-Carey, Ryan and Jeanne Baker; Ryan in his Christmas outfit; Ryan in his Notre Dame bib; Ryan and Dr. Maureen Barber-Carey
Ryan's 1st Christmas Collage

Ryan’s First Christmas

As I look forward to Christmas tomorrow, I’m thinking of the many memories of Christmas past.  Ryan was only 23 days old when he celebrated his first Christmas.  Yes, he had a red Christmas outfit and was already a Notre Dame fan. Unfortunately, our annual Christmas birthday dinner with Uncle Joe and his family did not happen, as it took us 1 hour for a 20 minute drive due to the raging snow storm.  We turned back as we knew we would never make it out to North East and Uncle Joe’s.  That first Christmas, Ryan slept most of the day but holding him in my arms was a dream come true.

Ripping wrapping paper from the gifts was the highlight of Ryan’s second Christmas.  I was so disappointed that he was more interested in the paper than what was in the boxes.  His favorite gift that year was a lawn mower that he pushed anywhere and everywhere.   When Claire and Nick visited us, Ryan had no interest in their gifts and continued to roam with his lawn mower.

Ryan's 1st Christmas Play & Santa Collage
Ryan’s 1st Christmas Play and Visit with Santa

His second Christmas, at 1 year old, was also a year of firsts – his first visit with Santa and his first Barber Center Christmas play.  His first visit to Santa was uneventful; he didn’t cry, but he didn’t smile, either.  His first Barber Center Christmas play overwhelmed him with the crowds, music and the general noisy atmosphere.

Ryan's 2nd Christmas Play Collage
Clockwise from Left: Dr. Gertrude Barber with Adrian Pinto, Ryan Carey and Patrick Barber; Ryan with Happy Hearts at his 2nd Christmas Play

As a 2 year old, Ryan was again up on stage for the Christmas play with his classmates from Happy Hearts.   It warmed my heart to see him playing his tambourine.

Ryan and Santa collage
Ryan and Santa over the years

Visits with Santa when Ryan was a preschooler were challenging.  Ryan, was typically overwhelmed with meeting Santa even though we attempted to go when crowds were small and noise levels were bearable.  That is why I was so pleased to bring Autism Friendly Santa to the Millcreek Mall.  One year we arranged for Santa to visit our home, which was a huge success.   When Ryan went to answer the door and found Santa, he was as excited as anyone would be when their dream came true.   If Ryan had his way, Santa would never have left.

Ryan was a believer in the magical tale of Santa until 12.  I knew his classmates would laugh if he talked about Santa so I thought it best to break the news to him myself.  I explained that Santa was for little kids and that as he was getting older mom and dad would become his Santa.  His biggest concern, after the Santa talk, was would he continue to get presents.

From the start I encouraged Ryan to think about baby Jesus and the story of the first Christmas.  As the wise men brought Jesus three gifts, Ryan would receive three gifts on Christmas.  We’ve continued this through the years.  Just yesterday Ryan wondered out loud what his three gifts would be this year.

This year his gifts will be a Peek’n Peak season ski pass, skis and cold weather attire, but it’s a surprise so don’t tell him!  I have encouraged many to use the story of the three gifts of the magi for their children.

Christmas 2013 begins for us this evening with a 5 p.m. mass at St. Patrick’s.  On Christmas day we will be in North East celebrating Uncle Joe’s birthday with family, which for me is the best Christmas gift of all.

Merry Christmas to all!

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Have You #AJO’d Today?

Posted on December 19, 2013 by all about autism

#AJO#AJO has taken the world by storm!  With a single act of kindness to honor their daughter, Alyssa, the O’Neills purchased 40 pumpkin spiced lattes for strangers at an Erie, PA Starbucks.  The family asked the baristas to write her initials, #AJO, on the cups.  This one act inspired a nation and the world.

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Ryan buying a 50 / 50 Raffle Ticket to help the Elizabeth Lee Black School students.

Moved by #AJO, Ryan and I made a commitment to pay it forward by being kind and merciful this Advent season.  Each day, we tell each other what we have done that has been kind and merciful.  Ryan holds the door open at church for me and everyone attending Mass.  When asked to donate to help others, he quickly opens his wallet and is the first to place money in the basket.  When there is a job to be done, Ryan is the first to volunteer.

Random Acts of Kindness

Clockwise from Top Left: Linda Breakiron, Marion Spencer, Julie McCain; Pendant; Rotary Club of Erie; Mennonite Choir; W.W. Chorus; Jingle Bell Hop

As I look back over the holiday season I realize how fortunate we have been to be recipients of random acts of kindness.  Linda Breakiron, owner of Breakiron Jewelers, donated a custom-designed genuine amethyst and blue green topaz pendant as the premiere gift for the Ladies Only Luncheon.  Student volunteers from Villa Maria Academy have danced with our kids at the Jingle Bell Hop and entertained children waiting to see Santa at the Autism-Friendly Santa event.  The North East Mennonite choir and the Woodrow Wilson Middle School chorus sang Christmas carols and holiday songs at our school.  The Rotary Club of Erie shared the Christmas spirit by donating presents for our high school students.

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Santa Claus visiting students at ELBS.

Rhonda and Joe Schember, a.k.a. Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, have been surprising children at BNI for 25 years since their daughter began attending at the age of 3.  It is miraculous to see the students interact, make eye contact and engage with Santa.  “This is my favorite day of the year,” said Mr. Claus. 

Random acts of kindness come in all forms — from helping a person cross an icy street to putting coins in an expired meter. Paying it forward not only benefits the recipient, but the giver, too.  Did you know studies have shown that being kind and helping others reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, reduces stress and increases happiness? Today is a great time to incorporate random acts of kindness into your daily life and inspire others to pay it forward.

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Maureen Dancing with the Beast
Maureen Barber-Carey dancing with the Beast On The Bay at the 2013 BNI Christmas Ball

This past weekend the Barber National Institute (BNI) held its annual Christmas Ball, marking its 49th anniversary.   When Dr. Gertrude Barber started the first ball, she was happy to have 50 people in attendance.  Now, it has grown to be one of Erie’s largest events with over 1,200 guests dancing the night away.

Today, fundraising is key to the survival of non-profits. With federal, state and municipal budgets slashed, non-profit organizations are dependent on funding from private philanthropy and local support.   When communities band together and support a cause, amazing accomplishments can occur.  Organizations such as Best Buddies, Special Olympics, One Step Beyond and BNI have prevailed because they are supported by people like you — people who believe in a world of equality and inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

This holiday season and throughout the year, I encourage you to find a local non-profit organization that is near and dear to your heart and support them as they support your community.  You can make a difference!

As St. Francis of Assisi said, “For it is in giving that we receive.”

Posted on December 17, 2013 by all about autism | Leave a comment