Disability Resource Notebook

Disability Resource Notebook

Yessenia Mata
EDSP 3210
University of North Texas

Disability Resource Notebook

Intellectual Disabilities

INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES- FACTS

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What is an Intellectual disability?

[Intellectual disability] is a disability characterized by significant

limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as
expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. This

disability originates before age 18. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

Classifications used by most schools include: mild (IQ of about 50 to 70),
moderate (IQ of about 35 to 50), severe (IQ of about 20 to 35), and

profound (IQ below about 20).

(Hallahan, et al, 2012).
Intellectual disability (once referred to as mental retardation), autism,
deafness, blindness, behavioral disorders, and ADD/ADHD are not learning
disabilities; however, these conditions are frequently confused with LD.
(http://www.ncld.org/ld-basics/ld-explained/basic-facts/ld-fast-facts)

What causes intellectual disabilities?

Prenatal causes :
o Genetic and chromosomal disorders such as: Down syndrome,
Fragile X syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, & Williams syndrome.
o Inborn errors of metabolism: Phenylketonuria (PKU).
o Brain formation disorders
o Environmental influences: maternal malnutrition, fetal alcohol

syndrome, and rubella. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

Perinatal causes:
o Problems that occur during birth: Anoxia (lack of oxygen) low birth
weight and infections like syphilis and herpes simplex. (Hallahan, et
al, 2012).
Postnatal causes:
o Problems that occur after birth: infections, unstimulating adult-child
interactions, and toxins. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES-FACTS CONTINUED

Signs

Children with an intellectual disability may:

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o
o
o
o
o

have trouble speaking, or learn to talk later.

find it hard to remember things,
not understand how to pay for things,
have trouble seeing the consequences of their actions,
have trouble solving problems and thinking logically.
(http://nichcy.org/disability/specific/intellectual#char)

Diagnosing Intellectual disabilities

Intellectual disabilities are diagnosed by looking at two main things:

intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

Intellectual functioning is measured by individual IQ tests.
Professionals measure adaptive behavior by looking at certain skills such
as daily living skills, such as getting dressed, going to the bathroom, and
feeding ones self; communication skills, such as understanding what is
said and being able to answer; social skills with peers, family members,
adults, and others.
( http://nichcy.org/disability/specific/intellectual#char)

Assessing the progress of Students with Intellectual disabilities

Accommodations for students with intellectual disabilities include

modifications in Scheduling (extended time), presentation format (reading
directions to the students), and response format. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

ORGANIZATIONS AND SERVICES

Local:
1. TARRANT CARES (http://tarrant.tx.networkofcare.org/dd/)
Tarrant Cares is an online organization in Tarrant County that provides
individuals, families, and caregivers with information about Intellectual
and Developmental disabilities. It also provides links and other
resources about tests, medications, daily news, diagnoses, assistive
devices, records, and other support for different intellectual disabilities.

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2. The Arc of Greater Tarrant County (http://www.arcgtc.org/)

Advocates on behalf of and in collaboration with people with
developmental disabilities and their families to improve their quality of
life and to expand opportunities to participate actively in the
community. We do this by supporting and educating individuals with
intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, service
providers and the community.
3. Down syndrome Partnership of Tarrant County (http://dsptc.org/)
Down Syndrome Partnership of Tarrant County is a bilingual online
organization that provides information about intervention programs,
facts, events, and other resources to parents of children or family
members diagnosed with Down syndrome.
4. The Arc of Dallas (http://www.arcdallas.org/index.php/who-weare/about-us)

The Arc believes that people with intellectual

and developmental disabilities belong in the community and have

fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to be fully included
and actively participate in all aspects of society. This online
organization provides us with family, community, and professional
services about intellectual disabilities such as upcoming events,
volunteering, and other participation.
5. The Arc of Denton
The Arc of Denton County, a non-profit, volunteer organization, is
committed to expanding opportunities for people with any
developmental disability.

State:
1. The Arc of Texas http://www.thearcoftexas.org/site/PageServer?
pagename=about_mission

Creating opportunities for people

with intellectual and developmental disabilities

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to be included in their communities and make the choices that affect

their lives.

The Arc of Texas is a diverse state organization

created by parents of children with intellectual disabilities. This

organization offers families throughout the state of Texas beneficial
services to improve the lives and participation in the community of
people with intellectual disabilities.
2. Texas Adaptive Aquatics Inc. www.ncpad.org
Texas Adaptive Aquatics is a 1989 state organization that provides
children with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to experience
water skiing, sailing, and kayaking.

National:
1. The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental
Disabilities (http://www.aaidd.org/) The American Association on
Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities is an 1876 national
organization which works towards representing the voice of individuals

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with intellectual disabilities. This organization is currently made up of

10 leaders who collaborate to provide us with action plans and other
events which support their mission statement.
2. The Arc of the United States (www.thearc.org)
We are the largest national community-based organization advocating
for and serving people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
and their families. The Arc of the United States a 1950 national
organization made up of many board members whose goals are to
include individuals of intellectual disabilities and their families in the
community as much as possible, as well as to meeting their modifying
needs.
3. Center for Disability and Development
(http://cdd.tamu.edu/whatwedo/index.htm) Following our mission to
support the self-determination, community integration, and quality of
life of people with disabilities and their families. The Center for
Disability and Development is part of national network of organizations
which provide community services, training, and technical assistance
to individuals with Intellectual disabilities and their families.
4. National Association for Down syndrome (www.nads.org) The
National Association for Down syndrome is a national organization
created for parents of individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. This
organization offers parents updated articles, information about
intellectual disability books, volunteering opportunities, current
programs, and with a bilingual website to navigate through.
5. Best Buddies (www.bestbuddies.org)
Best Buddies is A global volunteer movement that creates
opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and
leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental
disabilities (IDD).

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EVIDENCE BASED TEACHING PRACTICES

1. Functional curriculum
Involves teaching: Functional academics, Independent life skills, selfdetermination, self-advocacy. (www.academic.udayton.edu)
One example includes functional reading where the student learns to do
things such as reading a newspaper or labels for goods at the store.
(Hallahan, et al, 2012).

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2. Chaining:
Modify lengthy tasks into smaller steps to avoid overwhelming the
student. Once the student completes one step you can introduce the next
step. This method teaches the student about life skills and sequential
orders. (http://www.mentalhelp.net/poc/view_doc.php?
type=doc&id=10365&cn=208)
3. Hands on Learning:
Be as concrete as possible by using hands-on experiences and visual
objects as examples instead of verbally instructing the student what to
do.

(http://www.schoolmentalhealth.org)

4. Positive Reinforcement:
One of the most effective ways of changing behaviour, and the one which
has the greatest appeal in terms of teaching philosophy, is positive
reinforcement. Examples: smile, pat on the shoulder, and commenting
something like I love the way you..., and stickers.
(http://www.brighthub.com/education/special/articles/79002.aspx )
5. Systematic instruction:
Involves the use of instructional prompts, consequences for performance,
and strategies for stimulus control. Teachers may use modeling along
with verbal, gestural, or physical prompts. An example of systematic
instruction is pointing to an object when giving a command or instruction.
(Hallahan, et al, 2012).

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Endeavor Talker
An AAC device provides individuals who cannot speak with the capability
to communicate with others by touching graphical buttons to speak words
or compose sentences. The default Endeavor Talker vocabulary includes
over 1000 pre-built buttons for common words and phrases. Price:

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$399.00 https://store.ablelinktech.com/store.php?
crn=207&rn=413&action=show_detail

WEB RESOURCES
Web Resources for Teachers:
1. (http://www.dotolearn.com/)
The do-to-learn website provides teachers with hands-on resources such
as songs, activities, transition guides, and the latest technology available
to students. These materials support the different evidence-based
practices such as the functional curriculum and hands-on learning.
2. (http://www.senteacher.org/Home/)
This website offers free teaching resources such as special education
links, a collection of core subject printables, and other teaching supplies
which facilitate different types of lesson plans. Custom made work-sheets
provide teachers with a way of accommodating a students daily work
depending on his or her disability.
3. (http://www.touchmath.com/) touch math is a free online resource that
focuses on improving the math skills of students with intellectual

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disabilities. It also provides teachers with information about summer

programs, training, and other products in special education.
4. (http://www.teach-nology.com/ideas/) This web resource includes
information about Down syndrome and helpful teaching tips created by
teachers. It also offers a forum where teachers can share lesson plan
ideas for all topics and unique techniques applied in todays classroom.
5. (http://www.setbc.org/Download/LearningCentre/Curriculum/Moderate_Prof
ound_Intellectual_Disabilities_Resource_List.pdf)
This website provides a long list of online resources including free games
for intellectually disabled children, sites for improving life and selfdetermination skills, links to books in the classroom, list of computer
based programs, and much more.
6. http://www.kinderart.com/special/
This web resource provides art lesson plan ideas for special education
classrooms.

Web Resources for Parents:

1. (http://www.healthychildren.org)
Healthy children is an educational website focusing on the health of
individuals with intellectual disabilities. Its a site powered by
pediatricians, powered by parents.
2. (http://www.lookingglass.org/who-we-are/philosophy)
Lookingglass.org is a web resource for parents and families of
intellectually disabled children. This online organization provides parents
with state and national services, current news on special education,
scholarships, and volunteering opportunities.
3. (http://www.intellectualdisability.info/families)
This online resource includes detailed information concerning topics such
as sibling, parental, and other family issues related to intellectually
disabled children. A list of articles and other categories are just one of
many ways this site assists these families.

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4. (http://www.thearc.org/page.aspx?pid=3195)
The arcs website is a great online resource which includes a section just
for parents of intellectually disabled children. With a question and answer
page focusing on parent concerns, this site provides solutions and links to
supportive outside resources.
5. (http://www.readingrockets.org/article/41115/)
Reading rockets is a web resource for parents of intellectually disabled
children. This websites main goal is to improve the reading skills of these
children. It provides parents with tips in introducing books to toddlers and
elementary school students.
6. (http://www.dodea.edu/curriculum/special_ed/publication/MAX268_ParentGuide_12-13.pdf)
This web resource is an online handbook for parents of intellectually
disabled children. Along with brochures, it provides beneficial information
about special education topics.

Web Resources for Students:

1. (http://www.ripples-sosc.com/about.php)
This web resource provides the opportunity for students with intellectual
disabilities to be physically active as well as competing and training in
Olympics.
2. (www.bestbuddies.org)
Best buddies is an online organization for children with intellectual
disabilities to create friendships, employment, and volunteering
opportunities.
3. (http://www.kidzui.com/special_needs)
Kidzui is an interactive game website for children from ages 3-12, with all
types of disabilities. It includes videos, colorful animations, and other links
that help improve their computer learning skills.
4. (http://www.specialorchestra.org/)

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This web resource is a great way for students with intellectual disabilities
to learn about music and the orchestra. It provides many links on how to
start learning about the different instruments.
5. (http://www.helpkidzlearn.com/)
Help-kids-learn is an interactive website that provides educational
sections to students with special needs. Stories, games, and videos are
just some of the varying links that help students engage in the learning
process.

Autism spectrum disorders

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AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER- FACTS:

What is an Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Five similar conditions: Autism, Asperger syndrome, Rett syndrome,

childhood disintegrative disorder, and pervasive developmental disorder
not otherwise specified; all involve varying degrees of problems with
communication skills, social interactions, and repetitive and stereotyped

patterns of behavior. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

1 out of 110 persons has an autism spectrum disorder. (Hallahan, et al,
2012).

What causes Autism spectrum disorders?

Todays causal theories point to a neurological and genetic basis for autism.
(Hallahan, et al, 2012).
Signs for Autism spectrum disorders:

Most children with ASD seem to have tremendous difficulty learning to

engage in the give-and-take of everyday human interaction. Even in the
first few months of life, many do not interact and some may avoid eye

contact.
repeat or echo words or phrases said to them, or repeat words or phrases

in place of normal language (echolalia

repeat actions over and over again
have unusual reactions to the way things smell, taste, look, feel, or sound

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prefer not to be held or cuddled or might cuddle only when they want to
(http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/pdf/parents_pdfs/AutismFactSheet.p
df)

How is Autism spectrum disorders treated?

There is no cure for ASDs. Therapies and behavioral interventions are

designed to remedy specific symptoms and can bring about substantial
improvement. The ideal treatment plan coordinates therapies and
interventions that meet the specific needs of individual children. Most
health care professionals agree that the earlier the intervention, the
better.
(http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/autism/detail_autism.htm#18907308
2)

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER ORGANIZATIONS AND

SERVICES:
Local:
1. Dallas Aspergers Network Information Support Help
(www.aspergerinfo.org) DANISH is a support group for families in
Dallas, TX. affected by Asperger Syndrome.
2. North Texas Autism Education Center
(www.ntaec.orginfor@ntaec.org)

NTAEC is a

nonprofit organization founded by parents and professionals. NTAEC

hosts parent and professional workshops on applying the science of
ABA to teach children with autism and similar development
disabilities.
3. Hope Center for Autism in Fort Worth
(http://www.hopecenter4autism.org/)

At the Hope Center for

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Autism our mission is to enable children on the autism spectrum

and their families to live more fully functional lives.
4. Mustard Seeds (http://mustard-seeds.org/)
We provide therapy for children who have Autism or PDD
(Pervasive Developmental Disorder) near DFW during the week and
special therapy at home as well as on Saturdays for other
disabilities such as Down syndrome, TBI and CP.
5. Families for Effective Autism Treatment Center (
http://www.featnt.org)
The FEAT-NT Community Resource Center and Library is a center
for families and professionals in the autism community.

State:
1. Autism Treatment Centers of Texas (http://atcoftexas.org/)
Assists people with autism and related disorders throughout their
lives as they learn, play, work and live in the community. Centers
located in Dallas & San Antonio.
2. Texas Council on Autism
(http://www.dads.state.tx.us/autism/council/index.html) Its mission
is to advise and make recommendations to state agencies and the
state legislature to ensure that the needs of persons of all ages with
autism and other pervasive developmental disorders and their

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families are addressed and that all available resources are

coordinated to meet those needs.
3. Texas Statewide Leadership for Autism Training
(http://www.txautism.net/)
Through the network of 20 regional Education Service Centers

(ESCs) around the state and in conjunction with the Texas Education
Agency (TEA), the Texas Statewide Leadership for Autism Training
(www.txautism.net) provides a mechanism to access training,
technical assistance, support, and resources for educators who
serve students with autism.
4. Partners Resource Network
(http://www.partnerstx.org/AboutPRN.htm)
Partners Resource Network was established as a non-profit agency
in Texas in 1986 to assist families of children with all types of
disabilities throughout the State. The agency is governed by a
seven member volunteer Board of Directors comprised of parents
and professionals.
5. Texas Autism Project
(http://www.edb.utexas.edu/tap/mission.html)
The purpose of University of Texas Autism Project (UTAP) is to
provide a center of excellence for services, knowledge, and best
practices related to living, and working, with children with autism
spectrum disorders (ASD).
National:
1. Autism Speaks (http://www.autismspeaks.org/)
Autism Speaks has grown into the nation's largest autism science
and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the
causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing

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awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the

needs of individuals with autism and their families.
2. Autism Society of America Foundation (http://www.autismsociety.org/about-us/)

Founded in 1965 by

Dr. Bernard Rimland, Dr. Ruth Sullivan and many other parents of
children with autism, the Autism Society is the leading source of
trusted and reliable information about autism.
3. Autism Research Institute (http://www.autism.com/index.asp)
Conducts research and disseminates research-based information

on the cause, prevention, and treatment of autism and related

disorders.
4. Autism National Committee (http://www.autcom.org/)
Works to protect and advance the human rights and civil rights of
all persons with autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorder, and
related differences of communication and behavior.
5. Autism Network International (http://www.ani.ac)
Autistic-run self-help and advocacy organization that provides a
forum for autistic people to share information, peer support, and
tips for coping and problem-solving.

EVIDENCE BASED TEACHING PRACTICES

1. Applied behavior analysis a highly structured approach that focuses
on teaching functional skills and continuous assessment of progress. This

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teaching approach emphasizes the importance of positive reinforcement.

(Hallahan, et al, 2012.)
2. Naturalistic intervention involves acquiring language and social skills
in natural settings where students without this disability interact.
(http://autismpdc.fpg.unc.edu/content/naturalistic-intervention)
3. Pivotal Response Training (PRT)- focuses on motivation, selfmanagement, initiations, and responding to multiple cues. The teacher
uses the students favorite materials.
(http://autismpdc.fpg.unc.edu/content/pivotal-response-training)
4. Functional behavior assessment (FBA - is a systematic set of
strategies that is used to determine the underlying function or purpose of
a behavior, so that an effective intervention plan can be developed.
(http://autismpdc.fpg.unc.edu/content/functional-behavior-assessment)
5. Reinforcement- can be used to teach a variety of skills such as learning
toilet training, expanding speech production, decreasing interfering
behaviors (e.g., drooling, disruptive), increasing on-task behavior, and
increasing physical activity.
(http://autismpdc.fpg.unc.edu/content/reinforcement)

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Boardmaker v.6
Boardmaker lets you create valuable printed materials, like
communication boards, sequences and schedules that are perfect for all

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of your students. Easy-to-use features let you design your own materials,
with symbols supported in 44 languages, and choose the topics, symbols,
labels, colors borders, languages and more all designed to help your
students reach classroom goals.

(http://www.mayer-johnson.com/boardmaker-v-6/)

The Language Builder Picture Nouns Software

features 550 high quality images designed specifically for developing
language skills. This software was developed by Stages Learning
Company the creators of the bestselling Language Builder flashcards. The
digital images used for this program are the same images featured in the
Language Builder Picture Nouns 1 & 2 sets. These tried and true images
have been used successfully for years by professionals to develop
language.

Price: $99.95

(http://www.nationalautismresources.com/language-builder-picture-nounssoftware.html)

Auto-skill Version 5.3

Academy of Math is an intervention approach designed to help at-risk
students develop proficiency in math. Program focuses on skills
development and learner motivation.

Price: $500 and up.

http://www.techmatrix.org/ViewProduct?itemId=761

WEB RESOURCES
Web Resources for Teachers:
1. http://weebehave.com/
This is a web resource where teachers can create and modify their own

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behavior charts for students with autistic spectrum disorders. This is

important in that teachers can now follow the behavior patterns of
children with autism and modify their techniques to change such
behavior.
2. http://www.educateautism.com/about-us.html
This web resource provides teachers with articles, graphics and videos
about interventions and behavioral principles. It also includes information
about evidence based practices like positive reinforcement and other
topics such as intervention plans.

3. http://www.positivelyautism.com/
This web resource includes links to daily newsletters on autism topics,
free materials for the classroom, lists of books, and personal stories.
Teachers may also communicate with each other and share ideas.
4. http://www.autismclassroom.com/
This online resource is a teachers guide in topics such as behavior,
communication, lesson plans, and social skills. It also divides information
into sections for parents and teachers.
5. http://www.autismteachingtools.com/page/bbbbfg/bbbbfv
This web resource includes a variety of teaching tools such as printables,
teaching tips, blogs, and videos for an autistic classroom.

Web Resources for Parents:

1. http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services
Autism speaks is an online resource that represents the voice of parents

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of autistic children. It includes current news, events, and ways to

participate and help each other as a community.
2. http://www.autismweb.com/
A site that provides parents of children with autism spectrum disorders
with information about intervention programs, medical news, as well as
diet & supplementing.
3. http://www.palmettopearl.com/about.html
An online resource library for families and educators of children with
Autism spectrum disorders that offers therapy information and other links
for educational purposes.
4. http://www.texasprojectfirst.org/ An educational site created by parents of
children with Autism spectrum disorders. They include links on training
and available centers with resources. This web resource helps parents
understand what the next step is after diagnosis.
5. http://www.nationalautismcenter.org/about/
Provides parents with disability resources such as services, treatment
approaches, and success stories.

Web Resources for Students:

1. http://www.starfall.com/
A colorful website with vivid pictures, stories, and other activities to help
improve the reading skills of children with Autism spectrum disorders.
2. http://www.whizkidgames.com/
An interactive site with games that include step by step instructions. This
is beneficial for students with Autism spectrum disorders in that they have
the time to complete one task at a time. It teaches students cleaning
rules in the classroom.

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3. http://www.modelmekids-store.com/?Click=1017
An online resource with videos for children with Aspergers and Autism
spectrum disorders about modeling social skills.
4. http://www.aspergerresources.com/sports.html
A web resource with a list of upcoming events and sports that children
with Aspergers can join.
5. http://www.yourlittleprofessor.com/
An online resource for students with Aspergers who can join summer
camps and and other social events. A great source for parents to obtain
information about assisting their child in developing social skills.

ADHD:
Learners with Attention Deficit
Hyperactivity
Disorder

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ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER FACTS:

What is ADHD?
There are three types of ADHD:
1. ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive
2. ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive
3. ADHD, Combined Type
(Hallahan, et al, 2012.)
o In ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive type it is hard for the
individual to organize or finish a task, to pay attention to details,
or to follow instructions or conversations. The person is easily
distracted or forgets details of daily routines.
o In ADHD, Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive type the
person fidgets and talks a lot. It is hard to sit still for long (e.g.,
for a meal or while doing homework). Smaller children may run,
jump or climb constantly. The individual feels restless and has
trouble with impulsivity. Someone who is impulsive may interrupt
others a lot, grab things from people, or speak at inappropriate
times. It is hard for the person to wait their turn or listen to
directions.

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o In ADHD, Combined Type: Symptoms of the above two types

are equally present in the person.
(http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.h
tml)
What causes ADHD?
Current research shows that genetics plays an important role. Recent

studies of twins link genes with ADHD.

In addition to genetics, other possible causes include: Brain injury,
environmental exposures (e.g., lead), alcohol and tobacco use during
pregnancy, premature delivery, and low birth weight.

(http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html)
What are the signs of having ADHD?
A child with ADHD might:
have a hard time paying attention, be easily distracted from schoolwork
or play, forget things, be in constant motion or unable to stay seated,
squirm or fidget, talk too much, not be able to play quietly, act and speak
without thinking, have trouble taking turns, and interrupt others.
Prevalence:
About 3% to 7% of school-age population has ADHD.
Boys diagnosed with ADHD outnumber girls.
(Hallahan, et al, 2012).
Diagnosis:
Deciding if a child has ADHD is a several step process. There is no single
test to diagnose ADHD, and many other problems, like anxiety,
depression, and certain types of learning disabilities, can have similar

symptoms.
In most cases, ADHD is best treated with a combination of medication and
behavior therapy.
http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/facts.html)

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ADHD ORGANIZATIONS AND SERVICES:

Local:
1. Life Solutions of Dallas-Fort Worth
( http://www.drmontedavenport.com/dallas-fortworth-add-adhdcoaching/)

Living in a family of ADD/ADHD people

has given Robert a passion for helping those with the challenges that
come in day-to-day life.
2. Tarrant County Mental Health Resources
(www.mentalhealthconnection.org/local_resources.php) The
organization works to revolutionize the mental health service delivery
system in Tarrant County, Texas. Its members develop plans for longterm changes in the system while addressing key issues and providing
immediate solutions where possible.
3. ADHD Center of North Dallas
(http://www.adhdnorthdallas.com/services.aspx)
The ADHD Center of North Dallas is committed to providing expert
care that incorporates the latest research and up-to-date clinical
techniques. Our goals include accurate diagnosis of presenting
problems and co-existing conditions, patient and family education,
providing a variety of treatment options for patients and families to

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chose from, successful treatment of disabling symptoms, and highquality clinical research into attention disorders and treatments.
4. G R E A T Kids With Adhd A Texas Non-Profit Corporation in
Plano
(http://www.faqs.org) The mission of Great Lakes Academy is to
provide a positive and nurturing academic environment for students
diagnosed with a variety of learning differences, including AD/HD, and
Aspergers Syndrome.
5. North Texas CHADD ( http://www.chadd.net/template.cfm?
affid=80N&p=about)

We explore helpful ideas and knowledge

from others about living with AD/HD and children, relationship issues,
work issues, self, latest research, treatment options, and other
resources.
State:
1. River Oaks Academy ADHD Summer Camp, TX
(http://www.riveroaksacademy.com/index.php)
River Oaks Academy, located near Houston, TX, presents a specialized
Summer Camp for children/adolescents (ages 5 to 15) with Attention
Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Conduct Disorder. Program offers
free screening and an individualized treatment plan...
2. Learning Foundations (www.learningfoundations.us/)
We specialize in dyslexia, ADHD, reading, spelling, attention and focus,
organization, math, and speech.
3. ADDitude Foundation, Inc. (www.additudemag.com)
The ADDitude Directory connects families and individuals living with
attention deficit or learning disabilities with the products and services that
make their lives healthier, happier, and more organized.

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4. Texas Behavior Support Initiative

(http://www.txbehaviorsupport.org/default.aspx)

The Texas Behavior

Support Initiative (TBSI) is designed to build capacity in Texas schools for

the provision of Positive Behavior Support (PBS) to all students. The TBSI
training modules assist campus teams in developing and implementing a
wide range of behavior strategies and prevention-based interventions.
5. Support Groups in Texas: Partners Resource Network
(http://www.partnerstx.org/Resources/ADD_ADHD/Support.htm)

The mission of the agency is to empower individuals with disabilities and

their families to be effective advocates and decision makers, and to
promote equal partnerships between parents and or individuals with
disabilities and professionals.

National:
1. The Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)(
http://www.add.org)

The Attention Deficit Disorder

Association (ADDA) is an organization for adults with ADHD. Its mission

is to provide information, resources and networking opportunities to
help adults with Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (AD/HD) lead
better lives.
2. Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (CHADD)
(http://www.chadd.org) (CHADD) is a nonprofit organization that
provides information and support to families of children and adults with
attention deficit disorders (ADD, AD/HD). It houses the National
Reosurce Center on ADHD.
3. National Resource Center on AD/HD (http://www.help4adhd.org/)
The NRC provides comprehensive information and support to

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individuals with ADHD, their families and friends, and the professionals
involved in their lives.
4. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
(www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/

this web source provides us

with current statistics about disabilities such as ADHD.

EVIDENCE BASED TEACHING PRACTICES:

1. Functional behavioral assessment (FBA) - This teaching approach
involves determining the consequences, antecedents, and setting events
that maintain inappropriate behaviors. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).
2. Contingency-based self-management Students keep track of their
own behavior and then receive consequences such as rewards. (Hallahan,
et al, 2012).
3. Classroom structure Create a clear, predictable routine and structure,
this avoids confusion and helps the student work independently by
knowing what tasks should be completed. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

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4. Clean workspace- Eliminate unnecessary materials such as scissors,

papers, or other books surrounding the student. This will decrease the
number of distractions.
5. Self-management Teachers reinforce desirable behaviors, use behavior
charts to monitor behavior, and communicates what tasks the students is
expected to do within a certain time limit. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Electronic math worksheet software

http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/6585-4.html

Talking calculators: The calculator has been modified to

accommodate an earphone which is beneficial for students with ADHD.
Price: $28.95 (http://www.independentliving.com/products.asp?
dept=190&deptname=)

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Portable word http://www.amazon.com/s?

ie=UTF8&keywords=portable%20word%20processor&rh=i%3Aaps
%2Ck%3Aportable%20word%20processor&page=1 processors

WEB RESOURCES
Web Resources for Teachers:
1. http://www.educationworld.com/a_issues/issues148c.shtml
This educational website provides teachers with supportive routines,
journals, daily lesson planning, problem solving plans for students with
ADHD.
2. http://helpguide.org/mental/adhd_add_teaching_strategies.htm
This is a a great website explaining how parent and teacher involvement
together are the key to success in an ADHD students education.
3. http://www2.ed.gov/rschstat/research/pubs/adhd/adhd-teaching-2006.pdf
This site includes ways of introducing lesson plans, information on

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individualized plans, and other teaching strategies for teachers with ADHD
students.
4. http://specialed.about.com/od/behavioremotiona1/p/impulsive.htm
Provides suggested reading, behavior support links, and transition time
strategies for teachers.

Web Resources for Parents:

1. http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm269188.htm
A web resource for parents providing answers to questions such as
How do you know if your child has ADHD? It also explains the
symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
2. http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/parenting-children-with-adhd.htm
This web resource discusses the differences and obstacles in parenting
a child with ADHD. It provides solutions to parenting challenges.

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3. http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/
The centers for Disease control and Prevention is an online resource
with available links and information on ADHD facts, statistics, and
recommended sites.
4. http://ccf.buffalo.edu/pdf/WhatParentsTeachersShouldKnowADHD_2008
0430.pdf

This online handout provides information about

ADHD questions such as symptoms to families of ADHD children.

5. http://www.4-adhd.com/adhd-directory/categories/ADHD-EducationalResources_ADHD-Educational-Resources-by-Location_TX.asp
A web resource providing information about summer programs,
resource centers, and blogs for parents with ADHD children.

Web Resources for Students:

1. http://www.baltimorepsych.com/Kids_Pages.htm#A%20Kid%20In
%20My%20Class%20Has%20ADHD
A great web resource explaining the meaning of ADHD to classmates of
students with this disability. It also discusses ways students can help
their classmate with ADHD and what to expect.
2. http://www.healthcentral.com/adhd/c/1443/104720/scholarshipsstudents

This online resource provides scholarship

information and opportunities for children with ADHD.

3. http://www.playattention.com/solution/
This online resource gives students videos to watch about ADHD and
things to help them with focusing and all sorts of things.

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4. http://www.ldonline.org/kids.
This is a beneficial site for children because they have a kid zone
where they can upload their pictures, draw on the computer, and also
write stories. It also provides great examples of books for the children
to read and learn about their disability.
5. http://www.how-to-study.com
This web resource provides students with study skills, test taking skills,
note-taking techniques and tips for remembering.

Physical Disabilities

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PHYSICAL DISABILITY FACTS:

What is a physical disability?
Children with physical disabilities are those whose physical limitations or
health problems interfere with school attendance or learning to such an
extent that they require special services, training, equipment, materials,
or facilities. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).
What is the prevalence of physical disabilities?

About 1% of the child population has a physical disability, 80% of these

have chronic health problems. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

Conditions that affect health or physical disability include:

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), AIDS, a life-threatening viral infection, and

accidents. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

Characteristics of a physical disability:
Fatigue, Pain, Limited physical exertion and stamina, Limited range of
motion,

Poor coordination, Limited muscle strength,

Limited fine motor dexterity, Limited gross movement, Muscle tremors,

Paralysis, Slow typing speed, Inability to sit in one position for a sustained
length of time, and Negative side effects of medication.
(http://disabilities.mines.edu/physical_facts.html)
Educational considerations:

Early intervention should focus on communication, handling, positioning,

and social skills. (Hallahan, et al, 2012).

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Work together with the student and Student Disability Services to ensure
a successful learning experience for the student.
(http://disabilities.mines.edu/physical_facts.html)

PHYSICAL DISABILITY ORGANIZATIONS AND SERVICES:

Local:
1. MYCHILD Organization (http://cerebralpalsy.org/)
Our mission is to provide you with the most comprehensive resource
and compassionate voice for all things related to caring for a child with
cerebral palsy, Erbs Palsy, and other neurological injuries.
2. Camp John Marc in Fort Worth
(http://www.campjohnmarc.org/ourcampers.html)
Special Camps for Special Kids serves children with chronic illnesses
and major physical disabilities.
3. Amigo Mobility

(http://www.amigodfw.com/)

Amigo Mobility is one of the largest providers of specialized

rehabilitation technology products and services for severely physically
challenged individuals in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

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State:
1. The Central Texas Chapter of the Cystic Fibrosis
(http://www.cff.org/chapters/centraltexas/)
We have a wide range of volunteer activities and are always looking
for new ideas to help us achieve our mission of curing and controlling
cystic fibrosis.
2. The Talking Book Program
(https://www.tsl.state.tx.us/tbp/index.html)

Providing

free library service to Texans of all ages who are unable to read
standard print material due to visual, physical, or reading disabilitieswhether permanent or temporary.
3. Ms. Wheelchair Texas (http://mswheelchairtexas.org/)
Ms. Wheelchair Texas Pageants are competitions designed to select
the most accomplished and articulate spokeswoman for the millions of
disabled Americans.

National:
1. ZTPM Union of physically disabled youth
(http://orgs.tigweb.org/union-of-physically-disabled-youth-ztpm)

The aims of the organization is to prepare the leisure time activities

for handicapped young people (physically and also mentally

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handicapped), such a camps, weekend activities, after school activities,

sports, and painting.
2. Epilepsy Foundation (http://www.epilepsyfoundation.org/) The
organization works to ensure that people with seizures are able to
participate in all life experiences.
3. The National Spinal Cord Injury Association
(http://www.spinalcord.org/)

Our mission is to improve

the quality of life of all people living with spinal cord injuries and
disorders (SCI/D). National Spinal Cord Injury Association (NSCIA) was
founded in 1948 to improve the lives of all paralyzed Americans.
4. The National Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (http://www.cff.org/)
We are a nonprofit donor-supported organization dedicated to
attacking cystic fibrosis from every angle. Our focus is to support the
development of new drugs to fight the disease, improve the quality of
life for those with CF, and ultimately to find a cure.
5. The National MS Society
(http://www.nationalmssociety.org/about-the-society/index.aspx)

We help each person address the challenges of living with MS through

our 50-state network of chapters. The Society helps people affected by
MS by funding cutting-edge research, driving change through
advocacy, facilitating professional education, and providing programs
and services that help people with MS and their families move their
lives forward.

EVIDENCE BASED TEACHING PRACTICES:

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1. Modifications in the classroom:

Rearrange furniture or seating arrangements where the student feels
comfortable.
(Hallahan, et al, 2012).
2. Adapted physical education:
Modify basic play area rules, use special equipment (bigger or smaller),
and use alternating activities.
(http://www.pecentral.org/adapted/adaptedwhatis.html)
3. Pay attention to handling and positioning:
Pay attention to the manner a child is picked up, carried, held, or assisted.
Good positioning allows for the ability to manipulate materials. (Hallahan,
et al, 2012).
4. Allow sufficient time to complete assignments:
A physically disabled student may need more time than other students in
moving around and completing daily work such as writing.
5. Positive Reinforcement:
Accentuate the students strengths.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY:

Motion interactive video games in home training for children with cerebral
palsy

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Price: $26.16 plus tax

http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/apl/tids/2012/00000034/0000001
1/art00006?crawler=true
Other assistive technology:
Word prediction programs Walkers
Computer keyguards Power wheelchairs
Voice recognition systems Tape players
Switches to operate a computer Page turners
Mouth sticks or mouth-operated joysticks Alternative keyboards
(http://www.kulkarnikarthik.com/tag/electronics-for-physically-handicapped/)

WEB RESOURCES
Web Resources for Teachers:

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1. http://www.brighthubeducation.com/special-ed-physicaldisabilities/51778-teaching-strategies-for-students-with-physicaldisabilities/

This

educational website discusses different teaching strategies and classroom

structure for physically disabled children.
2. http://www.glencoe.com/sec/careers/teacher/strategies.shtml
Teaching Resources is a great web resource for sharing lesson plan ideas
and other issues concerning a classroom with physically disabled
students. It also provides a list of products useful in todays classroom
experience.
3. http://www.learnalberta.ca/content/inmdict/html/cerebral_palsy.html This
is a website which includes detailed information about Cerebral palsy and
tips for a first time experience with a student diagnosed with this
disability.
4. http://www.nsnet.org/start/physical.pdf This handout provides teachers
with primary areas with technological assistance as well as other areas
such as positioning techniques in the classroom.
5. http://www.amazon.com/s?ie=UTF8&rh=n%3A283155%2Ck%3ATeaching
%20of%20physically%20disabled%20students&page=1
This web resource offers an ongoing list of books for teachers with
physically disabled students.

Web Resources for Parents:

1. http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/parents_with_physical_disability.ht
ml
A web resource for parenting skills of physically
disabled children. This site shares personal stories and useful links.

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2. http://parenting.ygoy.com/2011/02/24/children-with-physicaldisabilities/ Provides ideas for disciplining a child with physical

disabilities.
3. http://www.cyh.com/HealthTopics/HealthTopicDetails.aspx?
p=114&np=306&id=1874
This is a site that answers questions about health topics for physically
disabled children and their parents.
4. http://www.scholastic.com/parents/
This is an educational website with pertinent information concerning
physical disability topics as well as other disabilities. Parents have the
opportunity to browse through different sections with issues such as
development plans.
5. http://www.ehow.com/list_7431612_physically-impaired-childrenactivities.html
This is a web resource with available exercise ideas for children with
physical disabilities.

Web Resources for Students:

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1. http://www.scholastic.com/parents/play/ Games for physically disabled

kids such as the magic school bus and colorful activities are included in
this website. Children may navigate through the story sections as well.
2. http://www.collegescholarships.com/resources/scholarships/disabilities/3/P
hysically-Disabled
Scholarship information for physically disabled students continuing their
education.
3. http://www.emergingedtech.com/category/interactive-white-boards/
Interactive white boards are online software programs for physically
disabled students.