Disability Pride Month & More

Welcome to this week’s newsletter for parents, caregivers, and others who support young people with disabilities. I’m happy to share news to help you celebrate Disability Pride Month, along with a few other good resources.

As always, reach out anytime if I can support or assist you with the hard work of supporting those you love and care for. You can also follow us on Facebook or Instagram, for helpful info in between issues.

A Month to Celebrate

Disability Pride Month happens every July to mark the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which passed on July 26, 1990. It’s the perfect time to learn about, celebrate, and support people with disabilities in your community, workplace, and family. (Here's a great example!) The ReelAbilities website offers some wonderful films this month for streaming, too. I hope we can all make time for this in the next few weeks, and have some fun with it, as well.

Nature’s Bounty

I’ve heard it said that the state of our mind designs the state of our life. And I’ve also been reading a lot lately about how much getting out in nature helps combat stress and support good mental health.

Consider carving out time in your day to immerse yourself in nature (even for just a short while) to relax the stressed parts of your brain. This can help release positive hormones into the body and make you feel less sad, angry and anxious.

It can also help boost immunity, improve heart and lung health, and increase focus and concentration. For readers with extra energy or ambition, check out this recent article on hiking with mobility impairments. So much to explore!

Striking a Chord

Do you know someone with a disability AND impressive music skills?

DMF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving the disability community through the power of music.

Their 5th annual Danny Awards competition is accepting nominations through August 6. Ten talented award winners will receive a cash prize and chance to perform live in NYC this Fall, along with other musicians.

Learn more and submit your entry below.

Special Ed High

A recent report by the U.S. Department of Education shows that students receiving special education services in this country has reached an all-time high.

According to the data, there were 7.5 million children ages 3 to 21 served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act during the 2022-2023 school year. That’s 15% of all students, which represents the highest number ever.  

Module 5 of Embracing Another Normal – The Online Course dives deep into how parents and educators can optimize special education and the I.E.P. process to help students succeed in school and beyond. In creating the course, I worked hard to provide time-tested tools and templates for enhancing teamwork and establishing priorities -- both of which go a long way during the school years especially. The course also includes expert advice and guidance from my interviews with numerous teachers, advocates, and educational consultants.

Learn more HERE to start preparing for a successful school year ahead.