So, you’re the parent of a special needs child. Maybe she is newly diagnosed, or maybe it’s something you’ve dealt with for years. Usually the words “special needs” often are followed by lists of things that your child can’t do. That’s why we like the phrase “differently-abled.” Through the differences in your child’s personality, you’ve found amazing strengths. But how do you support them? Where do you turn? The differently-abled roller coaster has more spins on it than Manta at SeaWorld. We took the liberty of putting together a handy-dandy resource guide of some of the best places in Central Florida to help you out.


THE ACADEMY FOR AUTISM The Academy for Autism is a McKay-sponsored school, offering individualized learning plans for children. Besides the fact that it has curriculum tailored to fit the specific needs of autistic children, students are required to pick a life skill to focus on that will help them be as independent as possible in their daily living. 5232 B S. Orange Ave., Orlando www.academyforautism.org 407-852-9922


ADAPTIVE CYCLING Lance Armstrong has never ridden bikes like these! Motivated by his daughter Breanna, who is afflicted with Rett syndrome, Winter Garden bike racer Dennis Sutherlin, along with fellow racer, Rich Benton, decided to put their racing experience to good use. Together they formed Adaptive Cycling, which caters to the special needs of both children and adults. Adaptive Cycling is located on the West Orange Trail at the Winter Garden trailhead. Bikes can be modified to accommodate multiple family members. This allows everyone to enjoy himself by riding at the effort that best suits him. Bikes like the Buddy Bike allow your child to sit in front of you on his own seat and have his own set of pedals that he can use at his own pace. Adaptive Cycling is open only on Sundays. Bikes are available for purchase or rental. 455 E. Plant St., Winter Garden www.adaptivecycling.net 407-877-8030


A.LL THERAPY CONNECTION AND THE MAITLAND ACADEMY Founded by Tonina Llull in 2001, A.LL Therapy Connection helps children boost self-esteem and maximize potential through amazing therapeutic outlets. This place takes a whole-body, whole-mind approach. The PowerMeKids! class is specially designed to help enhance your child’s sensory integrative skills and helps support engagement in pre-reading, math and athletics, social routines and creative tasks, making these things old hat by the time school comes around. Children also can participate in yoga therapy with Angelique Micallef, who has been featured on the Today show. Sounds very Zen, right? Jen Goldman, an Orlando occupational therapist, says that yoga builds core strength and muscle tone, improves breath control,


improves balance, improves motor planning skills, helps to center attention and improves ability to focus on a task. Who knew that channeling your inner chi had so many added perks? 140 Tonina Cove, Ste. 100, Maitland www.alltherapyconnection.com 407-388-0246


BECKMAN & ASSOCIATES Debra Beckman is a nationally renowned oral motor specialist. She and her team of specialists offer classes in oral motor therapy, occupational therapy, and mental and behavioral health. Debra offers baby clinics for infants who have trouble breastfeeding. She has even developed an EZ spoon to help kids with oral sensitivity and a Tri Chew that helps children with oral motor issues. 620 N. Wymore Rd., Ste. 230, Maitland www.beckmanandassociates.com 407-647-4740


A.LL Therapy Connection


PLAYGROUND Fall 2010


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