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(813) 387-6388

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One in four children are affected by vision impairment and one in five children can't afford eye care. For over a decade, the Glazer Vision Foundation has been committed to full-treatment vision correction for underserved children by providing more than 200,000 free eye screenings and over 20,000 free pairs of prescription glasses throughout Tampa Bay.

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Glazer Vision Foundation Home - glazervisionfoundation.org

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One in four children are affected by vision impairment and one in five children can't afford eye care. For over a decade, the Glazer Vision Foundation has been committed to full-treatment vision correction for underserved children by providing more than 200,000 free eye screenings and over 20,000 free pairs of prescription glasses throughout Tampa Bay.

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back

100 Day Kit for Young Children

Knowledge is power, particularly in the days after an autism diagnosis. The Autism Speaks 100 Day Kit helps families of children ages four and under make the best possible use of the 100 days following the diagnosis. A 100 Day Kit for school age children is also available.

This kit will help you learn more about autism and how to access the services that your child needs. It contains information and advice collected from trusted experts on autism, autistics and parents.
The 100 Day Kit is divided into the following sections:

What is autism?

Core signs and symptoms

Understanding your child's behavior

Responding to the diagnosis

How is autism treated?

Getting help

Living with autism

A week-by-week plan for the next 100 days

Glossary

Through a generous partnership with FedEx, after calling an Autism Response Team coordinator and providing them with your information, you can pick up a complimentary printed copy of the 100 Day Kit at a FedEx Office location near you!
Haga clic aquí para acceder este recurso en español.

Complete the form below to access the Tool Kit
By submitting this form you will receive periodic communications from Autism Speaks. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Our Autism Response Team (ART) is specially trained to connect people with autism, their families, and caretakers to information, tools, and resources.
Get in Touch with ART

Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

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100 Day Kit for Young Children | Autism Speaks

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Click here to download the Autism Speaks 100 Day Kit for Young Children - a guide to support families in the days following a child's autism diagnosis

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727-544-4433

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Lighthouse of Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties

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Lighthouse of Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties

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The mission of the Lighthouse is to educate, empower, and employ people who are visually impaired and blind. We have provided residents of Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties with no cost vision rehabilitation since 1983.
COVID-19 UPDATE:
Lighthouse remains committed to supporting our clients and the community. Programs and services are provided in-person and we also offer Hot Topics by conference call to keep our adults and seniors connected. We encourage anyone in need of LVIB training & services to call us to find out how we can help.
Heather & Valencia were interviewed by Sarah Blazonis of Bay News 9 about the challenges of being blind during COVID-19 & how LVIB has added services to meet the emerging needs of our clients. Here's a link to that video & article.

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Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind

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The mission of the Lighthouse is to educate, empower, and employ people who are visually impaired and blind. We have provided residents of Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties with no cost vision rehabilitation since 1983. COVID-19 UPDATE: Lighthouse remains committed to supporting our clients and the community.

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Pediatric Epilepsy and Neurology Specialist

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It is our belief that knowledge is power. The easier information is to obtain and understand, the more your child benefits. Information is the vital tool that equips us all with an ability to make clear, informed decisions on health, education, wellness, and more. It's almost always true that the more information, the better the potential outcome.

MyChild™ provides information on topics from A to Z, all made available here, for your convenience. After decades representing families of special needs children, and protecting their rights in the courts and in state legislative hearings, attorney Ken Stern recognized the need for an informative resource where all parents could quickly access needed information to learn, understand and to protect their child. My Child TM, including the website CerebralPalsy.org, its Facebook page, and the MyChild TM Call Center are owned by Ken Stern and serve to make information and compassionate understanding readily available to those who need it most - parents just like you.

Beyond an informational resource, our website features stories of success and inspiration regarding children and adults living with Cerebral Palsy, embracing their challenges and achieving amazing things we hope inspire you as much as they do us. Contact us today for free information on anything related to Cerebral Palsy - we're here to help your child achieve their full potential in any way that we can. For the information you need, and that your child deserves, we're here for you!

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CerebralPalsy.org | Help, Resources for Children with CP

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CerebralPalsy.org is your ultimate resource for everything Cerebral Palsy. Contact us today for assistance and help for your child living with CP!

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Pinellas and Pasco Counties

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CARD - Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at USF

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The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of South Florida provides services, information, and resources related to autism spectrum disorders and related disabilities for professionals, educators, and families.

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An Optometrist Will Provide a One-Time, Comprehensive Eye Assessment To Infants In Their First Year Of Life
(888) 396-3937

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We are a group of families supporting others who have Neurological Conditions. We were originally brought together by hydrocephalus and have expanded to include and support others with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy.

We are located in the Tampa Bay area in West Central Florida. HUGS of Florida, Inc. was formed for charitable and educational purposes to Connect, Support, Educate and Advocate with individuals and families who are affected by these conditions.

We are a volunteer based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.If you would like to be added to our mailing list

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We are a group of families supporting others who have Neurological Conditions. We were originally brought together by hydrocephalus and have expanded to include and support others with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. We are located in the Tampa Bay area in West Central Florida. HUGS of Florida, Inc.

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Hernando and Citrus Counties

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The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) provides support and assistance with the goal of optimizing the potential of people with autism and related disabilities.

Counties Served by UF CARD Gainesville: Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee, Union If you live in a different county in Florida, find your CARD here.

Our office hours are Mondays 1pm-5pm, and Tuesday-Friday 9am-5pm. You can call us Toll Free 1-(800)-9-AUTISM or Local (Gainesville Area) (352)-265-2230. We look forward to seeing you!

Please note that CARD may be considered an agency of the State of Florida and that certain records of CARD may be considered public records, which are subject to the Florida Public Record law. Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records. The mailing list is not shared with any other agency, individual, or entity outside of CARD unless required by law.

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Center for Autism and Related Disabilities " College of Medicine " University of Florida

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The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) provides support and assistance with the goal of optimizing the potential of people with autism and related disabilities. Counties Served by UF CARD Gainesville: Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee, Union If you live in a different county in Florida, find your CARD here.

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813-874-2020 ext. 4024

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Preserve Vision Florida (formerly Prevent Blindness Florida)
9200 Seminole Boulevard - Second Floor
Seminole, FL 33772
Phone: 813-874-2020 x 4024
Fax: 813-226-3745
Map and directions
Call or email staff members directly or use the form below to contact us.
Joanne Olvera Lighter, President & CEO
813-874-2020 x4024
Email her

Jennifer Whittington, Vice President - Programs
813-874-2020 x4025
Email her

Pilar Bradley, Coordinator - Vision Services
813-874-2020 x4022
Email her

Kathleen Alley, Director - Special Projects
813-874-2020 x4026
Email her
Contact Preserve Vision Florida

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Preserve Vision Florida (formerly Prevent Blindness Florida) 9200 Seminole Boulevard - Second Floor Seminole, FL 33772 Phone: 813-874-2020 x 4024 Fax: 813-226-3745 Map and directions Call or email staff members directly or use the form below to contact us.

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(727) 524-4464

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Directions for Living – Life Gets Better Here

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Download forms, get questions answered, find the right location, and feel your most confident before your visit.

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Intensive Feeding Program

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The Happy Mealtimes program helps wean children from tube feeding so they can successfully eat on their own.

Our intensive feeding program Happy Mealtimes helps wean children from their feeding tubes, and also helps children who do not have a feeding tube but are at risk for not meeting their nutritional needs.

Children with a medical history of tube feeding may have some of the most challenging feeding problems. They often don't know what it feels like to be hungry or full, they may have oral motor or sensory issues, and their inexperience with feeding may cause adverse feeding behaviors.

The complexity of their feeding difficulties often makes traditional outpatient treatment less effective. Families become frustrated, and children remain unable to successfully transition to oral feedings.

Happy Mealtimes is one of just a few programs of its kind in the country, designed to address the needs of children who are being weaned from long-term gastric or nasogastric tube feeding. Led by speech-language pathologists with specialized training in pediatric feeding, this intensive four-week program helps families through this process, with the ultimate goal of complete tube weaning within one year. The program also helps to prevent the need for tube placement for children who are at risk or failing to thrive.

What to expect during the Happy Mealtimes program

Over the course of four weeks, children and their families are seen three times a day for feeding therapy, while also receiving additional therapies as needed. We provide training for parents to help them manage any resistant behaviors so they can help their child become a successful eater.

Our strategies aim to help your child:

Enjoy positive eating

Decrease behaviors that interfere with eating

Improve the oral motor skills necessary for eating age-appropriate foods

Increase food intake amount and variety

Gradually decrease dependence on tube feeding

Our speech-language pathologists work together with other specialists, such as a pediatric nutritionist to assist with your child's nutritional needs, and a pediatric occupational therapist to assist with sensory, motor and self-feeding concerns.

Our team approach to your child's treatment and our focus on family involvement helps children and families find success when other traditional programs have failed. We follow up with patients and families for a year after completion of the program to continue monitoring food intake and weight gain, and provide input and consultation with the speech-language pathologist near your home who continues to work with your child.

While Happy Mealtimes is an intensive four-week program, children do not need to be hospitalized during this time, and families may stay at the Ronald McDonald House on the Johns Hopkins All Children's main campus for a small fee so they can be available for the full schedule of daytime treatments.

How to enroll your child in Happy Mealtimes

With the agreement of your child's physician, the program is available for children who are:

18 months or older with cognitive skills at or near age level;

Currently receiving a portion of their nutritional needs through tube feedings, but who are medically able to eat orally, and who follow a normal mealtime schedule for their age/developmental level, or;

At risk for requiring supplemental tube feedings.

Families must demonstrate a strong commitment to attending and fully participating in the four-week daily treatment program and follow-up outpatient services. The program is intended for children and families who have found limited prior success with traditional feeding programs despite consistent attendance. Families will need to provide their child's complete medical and treatment records before entering into the program.

Our team will work with your child's current gastroenterologist throughout the program to consult on tube weaning and any related medical issues. If your child does not currently see a gastroenterologist, we can assist you in obtaining an appointment to see a board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist near our facility.

Contact us

For more information on Happy Mealtimes and whether the program is right for your child, call us at 727-767-4141.

Medical records may be faxed to 727-767-6743.

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The Happy Mealtimes program helps wean children from tube feeding so they can successfully eat on their own. Our intensive feeding program Happy Mealtimes helps wean children from their feeding tubes, and also helps children who do not have a feeding tube but are at risk for not meeting their nutritional needs.

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Donate

NDSS envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities. Your support helps make that vision a reality.

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Human Rights Organization for Individuals with Down syndrome | NDSS

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NDSS envisions a world in which all people with Down syndrome have the opportunity to enhance their quality of life, realize their life aspirations and become valued members of welcoming communities. Your support helps make that vision a reality.

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EpilepsyAdvocate is a community of people living with epilepsy, their family members, and their caregivers.

When it comes to epilepsy, knowledge is power. Whether you've had epilepsy for years or you are newly diagnosed, the more you know, the more you can do to try to control epilepsy and live life on your terms.

Read More About Epilepsy

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Created in 2006 by UCB, a bio-pharmaceutical company that focuses on immunology and neurology research and treatment, EpilepsyAdvocate is a community of people living with epilepsy, their family members, and their caregivers. Here people with epilepsy and their loved ones can learn more about the condition and how to manage it.

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Clarke School Hearing & Speech Education

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Clarke School Hearing & Speech Education

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Nora has congenital profound hearing loss and uses bilateral cochlear implants. She shines on stage in her school plays!
Read More "

Krystina attends the University of New Hampshire as an empowered advocate for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Read More "

Celebrating Clarke alum, Jaimie, for her college graduation!
Read More "

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Nora has congenital profound hearing loss and uses bilateral cochlear implants. She shines on stage in her school plays! Read More " Krystina attends the University of New Hampshire as an empowered advocate for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. Read More " Celebrating Clarke alum, Jaimie, for her college graduation!

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Cerebral Palsy Family Network - Cerebral Palsy Resources | CPFN

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The Cerebral Palsy Family Network

Originally started by a group of families whose children developed cerebral palsy (CP) due to medical errors and birth injuries, the Cerebral Palsy Family Network (CPFN) is the world's largest online community for connecting and supporting families like theirs. In partnership with Howard Janet, founder of the Cerebral Palsy Family Lawyers of Janet, Janet & Suggs, LLC, and Dr. Giles Manly, a board-certified OBGYN, CPFN provides families with the educational, emotional and financial support they need to care for their loved ones.

A Community That Understands

Caring for a child with CP can be confusing and, at times, lonely. CPFN is a place where you can ask questions, connect with families facing similar challenges and gain insights into how to give your child the best care possible. Whether your child's CP was the result of a medical error or some other cause, you'll find a wealth of information and encouragement on our pages.

We Are Stronger Together

We know first-hand how overwhelming CP can be. Armed with the knowledge of over 100K community members, we've outlined the diagnosis process, medical resources and treatments, as well as potential solutions to financial pitfalls many families encounter. By connecting with other families and sharing what works, we are stronger together.

Join Our Family

Enter your email address to receive the Cerebral Palsy Family Network newsletter. Get the latest in CP news, tips, articles, family stories and more!

We do not sell, rent, or lease our subscription lists to third parties, and we will not provide your personal information to any third party individual, government agency, or company at any time unless compelled to do so by law.

CP Hero

There is nothing more exciting to us than celebrating the strong and courageous individuals and families in our community who are living with cerebral palsy. We love hearing your inspirational stories and sharing them with the CPFN community as our CP Heroes. We receive submissions from families all over the world and share them here on our website and our Facebook page.

share your cp hero

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Cerebral Palsy Family Network | Cerebral Palsy Resources| CPFN

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Originally started by a group of families whose children developed cerebral palsy (CP) due to medical errors and birth injuries, the Cerebral Palsy Family Network (CPFN) is the world's largest online community for connecting and supporting families like theirs.

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Daily Autism - Listen on Spotify - Linktree

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View DailyAutism's Linktree. Listen to their music on Spotify here.

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New Eyes Financial Assistance for Glasses

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New Eyes Financial Assistance for Glasses

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Apply for Eyeglasses — New Eyes for the Needy

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(727) 388-1220

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Scottish Rite membership supports the clinic network. However, the Scottish Rite encourages all concerned citizens to assist in this worthy humanitarian effort. One way to assist is through estate planning. A bequest to the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida U.S.A., Inc. 501(c)(3), can be designated for support of our children's charity. Gifts, of course, are tax deductible as provided by law.

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Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida, U.S.A, Inc. - Helping Children Communicate

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Scottish Rite membership supports the clinic network. However, the Scottish Rite encourages all concerned citizens to assist in this worthy humanitarian effort. One way to assist is through estate planning. A bequest to the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida U.S.A., Inc. 501(c)(3), can be designated for support of our children's charity.

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We provide families with a path towards joyful, relaxed, independent oral eating while offering the support needed throughout the process.
Get started now! Click below to fill out your free intake form.

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Growing Independent Eaters Feeding Tube Weaning Services

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Growing Independent Eaters provides feeding tube weaning services to wean all ranges of children (infants, toddlers, and beyond) to get off of their tube (NG tube, G tube/g-tube, J tube, etc.) and eating orally. We incorporate feeding therapy, social services, dietician support, and more that focuse

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Florida Elks Children's Therapy Services provides in-home physical and occupational therapy to Florida children in need of such services. This rehabilitation is necessary to be rendered in the home because of the absence of these services locally or because of the patient being medically infirmed at home. Priority is given to children who do not have ready access to therapy as a result of financial considerations.

Our services focus on child-centered treatment and family education throughout Florida. Our program is based on the premise that skilled therapy services combined with the completion of an individualized home program, exercises and activities designed by the therapist will positively impact children and families. FECTS believes children and their families or caregivers need to be viewed in a holistic manner. Upon receiving the patient application of referral, the therapist will arrange a home visit for evaluation purposes. If the patient is accepted into the program, a regular weekly home visitation schedule is established.

Parents are required to be present so they can carry out treatments between visits by the therapists.

Although FECTS has made considerable gains in helping children and families in need, Florida DCF estimates there are 25,000 kids still awaiting therapy services.

Together We Can Do Great Things!

Elks Care. Elks Share.

Sign up for our newsletter.

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Florida Elks Children's Therapy Services - Florida Elks Children's Therapy Services

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Florida Elks Children's Therapy Services provides in-home physical and occupational therapy to Florida children in need of such services. This rehabilitation is necessary to be rendered in the home because of the absence of these services locally or because of the patient being medically infirmed at home.

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The purpose of this non-profit Club shall be to educate and support mothers, expectant mothers, guardians, and families of multiple birth children; to establish friendships and support systems; and to provide information on the development and rearing of multiple birth children, all while understanding the needs of the singletons in the family.

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National Association for Down Syndrome | Serving the Down Syndrome community since 1960

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The Epilepsy Foundation is your unwavering ally on your journey with epilepsy and seizures. The Foundation is a community-based, family-led organization dedicated to improving the lives of all people impacted by seizures.

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WHAT IS CHILDHOOD APRAXIA OF SPEECH?

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to speak. Children with the diagnosis of apraxia of speech generally have a good understanding of language and know what they want to say. However, they have difficulty learning or carrying out the complex sequenced movements that are necessary for intelligible speech.

Search our directory of speech-language pathologists who have a high level of experience in assessing and treating childhood apraxia of speech.

Learn how YOU can strengthen the support systems in the lives of children with apraxia of speech.

Become a member of our community! Connect with our network of parents and professionals around the world.

GET INVOLVED

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WHAT IS CHILDHOOD APRAXIA OF SPEECH? Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a motor speech disorder that makes it difficult for children to speak. Children with the diagnosis of apraxia of speech generally have a good understanding of language and know what they want to say.

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(727) 501-2323

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Saint Petersburg Free Clinic Food Pickup: Aug. 24, 2023

Please participate for ALL Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Florida!

Please participate for ALL Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Florida!

Please join us at Family Center on Deafness for food distribution. Drive through to pick up free fresh foods from St. Pete Free Clinic - ALL Pinellas County residents welcome! Share with those who may be in need.

Please participate for ALL Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Florida!

Please participate for ALL Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Florida!

Please participate for ALL Deaf and Hard of Hearing in Florida!

Family Center on Deafness, in partnership with Jabil Electronic Manufacturing Solutions (EMS) and Center for Public Safety Innovation (CPSI) at St. Petersburg College AL L people in Florida with any degree of hearing loss. Currently, the most accurate data was collected in the year 2000!

Florida residents, either full time or part time who are Deaf or hard of hearing are asked to complete this survey. To get the most data we are asking everyone to share with their D/HH friends in Florida.

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Family Center on Deafness is devoted to supporting Deaf and hard of hearing people and their families. We provide access to Deaf resources in Pinellas County.

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What do I do next?

Your baby or child has just received a diagnosis of hemiplegia or hemiparesis due to an early stroke or a different cause. You're suddenly thrust into the world you did not expect. How do you help your child live a full life while experiencing your own roller coaster of emotions? You are not alone. CHASA has been helping families since 1996 - we're here for you.

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Children's Hemiplegia & Stroke Association

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Your baby or child has just received a diagnosis of hemiplegia or hemiparesis due to an early stroke or a different cause. You're suddenly thrust into the world you did not expect. How do you help your child live a full life while experiencing your own roller coaster of emotions?

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NAMI -  National Alliance on Mental Health

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NAMI -  National Alliance on Mental Health

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NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

Skip to content

NAMI Social Media

Follow NAMI on social media! Get the latest updates and information and become part of the online NAMI community.

Important Mental Health Issues

Advocacy makes a difference in the lives of people with mental health conditions and their loved ones.

Together for Mental Health

NAMI is here to help. With your support, we can continue fighting for higher-quality, culturally competent care for people living with mental health conditions.

Help In The Fight

From Next Door To Across The Nation

Find Support

If you or someone you know is struggling, you are not alone. There are many support services and treatment options that may help.

Get Involved

Get involved and make a difference in the lives of Americans living with mental health conditions.

Advocate for Change

Policy change is one major way we can make a difference in the lives of people living with mental health conditions and their families. Limits the...

Helping Those In Need

NAMI started as a small group of families gathered around a kitchen table in 1979 and has blossomed into the nation's leading voice on mental health. Today, we are an alliance of more than 600 local Affiliates and 49 State Organizations who work in your community to raise awareness and provide support and education that was not previously available to those in need.

gathered around a kitchen table

NAMI State Organizations and NAMI Affiliates across the country

NAMI HelpLine transitions to

NAMI HelpLine is available M-F 10 am - 10 pm, ET. Connect by phone 800-950-6264 or text "Helpline" to 62640, or chat.

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Home | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness

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NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness.

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Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital Autism Center

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Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital Autism Center

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(727) 767-8035

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The autism program at Johns Hopkins All Children's provides comprehensive assessment and diagnostic services for children and adolescents with known or suspected autism spectrum disorder.

An accurate diagnosis is critical for helping children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and their families identify appropriate intervention services. We provide comprehensive diagnostic evaluations in one centralized location to help families understand their child's unique strengths and areas of need to help each patient reach his or her greatest potential.

Our team believes the first years of life are critical to a child's development and are particularly important for children with ASD. The greatest progress is made through direct care provided by a comprehensive team of experts working together. We also include the family as part of our care team and offer parents support, education and training.

Although autism can't be cured, early diagnosis and treatment can make a dramatic difference in a child's life and ability to function at home, school and social settings. The needs of children with ASD may change as they grow and develop. We offer specialized developmental and psychological services to help children with ASD navigate challenges that may arise.

In addition to comprehensive pediatric care, Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital has nationally recognized programs in pediatric speech, occupational and physical therapy to help children reach developmental milestones.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism spectrum disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by restricted or repetitive behaviors and difficulties with social communication and interaction. The symptoms are present from early childhood and impact daily functioning. Signs of ASD may include:

Avoiding eye contact

Reduced sharing of interests, emotions or affection

Difficulty in nonverbal and verbal communication

Limited showing of toys or objects of interest to others for shared enjoyment

Playing with toys in ways other than their intended use (e.g. arranging toys in a line, watching the wheels spin on toy cars)

Unusual, repetitive behaviors such as hand flapping, rocking from side to side or more complicated full-body movements

Many children with ASD have complex needs requiring the support of specialists in different fields working together. Treatment for ASD is most successful when it is designed to meet a child's specific needs.

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The autism program at Johns Hopkins All Children's provides comprehensive assessment and diagnostic services for children and adolescents with known or suspected autism spectrum disorder. An accurate diagnosis is critical for helping children and adolescents with developmental disabilities and their families identify appropriate intervention services.

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Since 1921, The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) has been a leader in expanding possibilities for the millions of Americans living with vision loss.

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The mission of the Hydrocephalus Association is to find a cure for hydrocephalus and improve the lives of those impacted by the condition.

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Shayla Ellis 727-345-9111 ext. 6328

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'Materials Exchange’ (in top bar)

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Speaking of Speech.com, inc. - Free Speech Therapy Materials, Speech Therapy Games, Speech Therapy Schools

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Interactive forum for speech/language pathologists and teachers to improve communication skills in our skills. Loads of free speech therapy materials.

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Informational Materials

Visual supports are evidenced based practice tools which may be used to enhance the communication skills of individuals impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Parent, doctors, and other professionals serving individuals with ASD will want to print these materials as they prepare for the next health and wellness related appointment.

Food Chaining Milk

This page includes links to both internal (CARD) and external (non-CARD) websites. External links are selected and reviewed when the page is published. However, the CARD is not responsible for the content of external websites. The CARD website does not accept submissions or requests.

Nutrition Education

As parents, we know many of our children are picky eaters, prefer only a small variety of foods, and often refuse to try new food choices. Here are a few online resources where you can find information, picture stories, and some visual ideas to use to help your child understand what healthy foods are, and perhaps be more willing to try something new.
Read the Label Youth Outreach
Read the Label Youth Outreach materials challenge kids (ages 9 to 13) to look for and use the Nutrition Facts label on food and beverage packages.
Nutrition and Eating Problems School Nurses and Nutrition Autism and Supplements Mealtime and Children on the Autism Spectrum: Beyond Picky, Fussy, and Fads. Autism 204: Helping Children with Autism who Struggle with Restrictive Eating (2016)
Seattle Children's Autism Center present information about factors that contribute to feeding difficulties, best practices in assessment and various treatment approaches for addressing increased acceptance in children, and troubleshooting specific feeding problems, such as fears, and refusal.
Nutrition Therapy for Autism Food Chaining for ARFID
Steps to Introducing New Foods or Fear Foods.
ASD and Diet
People with ASD often repeat behaviors and have narrow, obsessive interests. These types of behavior can affect eating habits and food choices. This article provides nutrition strategies.
Weight-Loss Tool Designed for Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities
Obesity is among the most significant public health problems facing our society today. Not only do high rates of obesity contribute to soaring health care costs, the condition may also contribute to diminished quality of life among those affected.
FDA: Read the Label on Snacks
The Food and Drug Administration has provided a general overview of how to read food labels by comparing snack options, checking serving sizes (100 calories per serving is moderate), and monitoring the amount of consumption of sodium, sugars, saturated fats, and trans fats to ensure children are not exceeding the recommended daily caloric intake. As many children with autism are problem feeders and picky eaters, the favoring of certain foods is important to keep in mind as the amount of these foods can be ultimately detrimental and they do not contain all essential proteins, vitamins and minerals.
FDH: Food Allergies vs. Food Intolerances
Florida Department of Health has made accessible the 'Food Allergy Fact Sheet' which deciphers the difference between food allergies and food intolerances. FDH provides the signs of food allergy symptoms and how to obtain medical statements to avoid and substitute these foods. Children and adults with autism often times have a sensitivity to certain foods and products and the non-life threatening food allergies/intolerances could go unrecognized if signs and symptoms are not of knowledge.
BDA: Food Fact Sheet
The British Dietetic Association, a leading researcher in autism spectrum disorders, provides information to parents and professionals on eating problems with children on the spectrum. It addresses the pick eating behavior, helpful mealtime strategies, and the role a dietician plays.
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Nutritional Therapy ATN/AIR-P Guide to Exploring Feeding Behavior in Autism
Learn more about the guide on the Autism Speaks website.

Download the Guide (This requires filling out a brief form.)

Feeding Issues in People with ASD (Video)

Many children with autism spectrum disorders develop food selectivity, or what may be called "picky eating." It is not uncommon for children to restrict their diets to one or two things, to refuse to eat certain colors or textures, or to consume only pureed foods. This session will focus on strategies that have been demonstrated to be successful in helping children with autism learn to eat a wide variety of new foods. Participants will also learn what assessments should be completed before starting feeding therapy. Time will be available for questions and answers immediately following the webinar. Presented by Missy Olive PhD, BCBA. * The information presented is generously offered by Dr. Olive and is not vetted or reviewed by The Johnson Center. JCCHD does not assume responsibility for the information shared.

Nutrition & Autism: What Is The Connection & What Does The Research Tell Us (Video)

Is there an "autism diet"? What is dietary intervention? What role does nutrition play in autism spectrum disorders? In this webinar we will look at what answers the existing research gives us, and discuss areas where more research is needed. Presented by Kelly Barnhill, MBA, CN, CCN, Director of Clinical Services at The Johnson Center and in collaboration with Dr. Dane Mosher, Physician, The Johnson Center.
Tar Heel Reader
Tar Heel Reader is a great site where you can search for books or write and upload one of your own on a variety of topics.

Search the Book Database (Use terms such as "nutrition" or "healthy food".) Books here have been uploaded by parents, teachers, and others, some of which may be very helpful.

Search terms such as "children healthy foods" to find links to pictures, lesson plans, books, and other great visual resources.

Food Assistance
Women, Infants, Children (WIC)
Visit the Florida Health website to learn more about the program and who is eligible.

Find your local WIC office

For Adults with Disabilities: Access Florida
Apply food assistance such as SNAP or SUNCAP.
Florida Association of Food Banks
13 regional food distribution centers provide food donated by farmers, manufacturers, restaurants, and stores. Dial 211 from any phone in Florida to be connected to the United Way Help Line. 211 will help you to identify emergency food pantries and other human services available nearest to your home. Many food pantries have eligibility rules, such as proof of income, hardship or residency.

Tampa: Feeding America Tampa Bay, 4702 Transport Dr., Bldg 6, Tampa 33605. 813-254-1190. Distribution centers in Bradenton, Land O' Lakes, Lakeland and Sebring.

Sarasota: All Faiths Food Bank, 8171 Blaikie Ct., Sarasota 34240. 941-379-6333.

Get Help Florida: Food Pantries by City
The Get Help Florida site helps families locate not only food pantries, but other important resources such as Food Stamps application, WIC locations, Meals on Wheels, and summer food programs for children.

Finding Healthy Food in Your Community
(Information for Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties)
Community Farmers Markets (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services)

These are the markets that are open on certain days each week, often from October to May each year, offering local produce, crafts, food products and other items. At this link, enter the county name in the search window for a list of markets in that county.

Families enrolled in the WIC program can obtain Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupons that allow certain purchases at farmers markets.
(Information for Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, and Lee Counties)
Additional Food Banks, Community Farmers Markets, Food Pantries

These are additional resources compiled by USF-CARD for our constituents.

U-Pick Farms (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services)

Most farms are open on a seasonal basis. Before visiting a farm, call to confirm availability and days & hours of operation.

Learn more about U-Pick farms and view a full listing of farms in Florida on the Florida FDA websit e.

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CARD - Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at USF

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Visual supports are evidenced based practice tools which may be used to enhance the communication skills of individuals impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Parent, doctors, and other professionals serving individuals with ASD will want to print these materials as they prepare for the next health and wellness related appointment.

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Horses for Handicapped Foundation of Pinellas, Inc.

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Horses for Handicapped Foundation of Pinellas, Inc.

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Recreational Therapy

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Horses for Handicapped Foundation of Pinellas County, Inc.
This Horses for Handicapped program is a Kiwanis Florida Division 13 supported project which was started for the purpose of promoting and teaching recreational horseback riding to the handicapped.

Horseback riding is widely recognized as one of the most beneficial forms of recreational therapy disabled persons can receive. It develops self awareness, builds self-confidence, improves concentration and discipline. Horseback riding also improves posture, balance, and coordination as well as increasing joint mobility and core stabilization.

The child's spirits soar as he/she react to the new sensation of being on a height above others. They become aware that, for the first time, they can be mobile and independent of others and mechanical aids. The horse is their "equalizer" and they are performing just as others do.

The Horses for Handicapped was founded by the late Gene Harris in ~1981 as a Kiwanis project when he approached Girl Scout/4-H leader Mary Urquhart with his idea. To this day, we operate strictly on volunteer staff made up of community members from various organizations including Kiwanis, Girl Scouts, 4-H as well as many others, and we depend on donations from the community. We serve over 75 riders and horse lovers each week.
We are located in west central Pinellas County in the city of Seminole, FL.

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Horses for Handicapped Foundation of Pinellas County, Inc. This Horses for Handicapped program is a Kiwanis Florida Division 13 supported project which was started for the purpose of promoting and teaching recreational horseback riding to the handicapped. Horseback riding is widely recognized as one of the most beneficial forms of recreational therapy disabled persons can receive.

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REACHING OVER 2 MILLION TWIN FAMILIES WEEKLY!

YOU'RE NOT ALONE - WE'RE HERE FOR YOU.

Twiniversity provides education and resources to parents of twins. Whether you are expecting for the first time or are a seasoned parent, we've got you covered with relevant information about feeding, sleeping, baby gear, partner and parenting advice, and much more!

In What to Do When You're Having Two, national twins guru and founder of Twiniversity (and twin mom herself!) Natalie Diaz provides a no-holds-barred resource about life with twins, from pregnancy and birth all the way through your duo's first year of life.

"YOU MUST BUY THIS BOOK IF YOU ARE HAVING TWINS. I have purchased 8 books since discovering that we are having twins. This is by far full of the most useful information. My husband who rarely reads actually sits down and read chapters at a time. It is very informative and has a lot of great useful info." - Amazon User Niki M.

BUY ON AMAZON

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Twiniversity | Your Twin Pregnancy + Parenting Home

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REACHING OVER 2 MILLION TWIN FAMILIES WEEKLY! Twiniversity provides education and resources to parents of twins. Whether you are expecting for the first time or are a seasoned parent, we've got you covered with relevant information about feeding, sleeping, baby gear, partner and parenting advice, and much more!

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People with Down syndrome never stop learning

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People with Down syndrome never stop learning

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When expectant parents learn their child will be born with Down syndrome, they invariably have questions about what this diagnosis will mean for their son or daughter and for the rest of their family. When will their child be able to walk, to speak clearly, to care for most basic needs? Will he or she be able to hold a job, to live or travel independently? A new study from investigators at MassGeneral Hospital for Children (MGHfC) and colleagues in the Netherlands is providing answers to some of those questions.

"More and more parents are opting for prenatal testing during their pregnancies, and if they learn about a diagnosis of Down syndrome, they want to know real-life answers to such questions," says Brian Skotko, the Emma Campbell Endowed Chair on Down Syndrome at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), director of the MGH Down Syndrome Program, and senior author of the study published online in American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A. "Contrary to some public beliefs, people with Down syndrome never stop learning, and functional skills can still be attained and improved well into adulthood."

While previous studies have looked at the development of specific skills by people with Down syndrome, most of them have been small, and several were based in countries where limited support services can restrict the potential of children with Down syndrome. The current study combines the results of surveys taken of more than 2,600 families in the U.S. and the Netherlands.

The U.S. survey, sent in 2008 and 2009 to families involved with six nonprofit Down syndrome organizations across the country, asked parents to rank their child's functional abilities in 11 areas - walking, eating, speaking, grooming/personal hygiene, reading, writing, preparing meals, working at a job, dating, traveling independently, and living independently. They were also asked whether their child had significant health problems or educational/learning difficulties. The same questionnaire - with some subtle differences due to translation from English into Dutch - was administered online in mid-2016 to families recruited through the Dutch Down Syndrome Foundation. For both groups, the family members with Down syndrome ranged from younger than 5 to older than 40, with the largest numbers in the youngest age groups.

"Contrary to some public beliefs, people with Down syndrome never stop learning, and functional skills can still be attained and improved well into adulthood."

From the standpoint of major functional milestones, the results indicated that most people with Down syndrome in the U.S. could walk by 25 months of age, speak reasonably well by age 12, maintain personal hygiene by 13, and work independently by 20. By the age of 31, 49 percent were reading reasonably well, 46 percent could write reasonably well, 34 percent were living independently, and around 30 percent could travel independently. Dutch parents reported largely similar results. In both groups, learning challenges were reported more often than health problems, and reports of serious health problems in individuals with Down syndrome increased as they grew older.

An associate professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, Skotko said, "Now we have guideposts - based on the responses of thousands of parents - that can help clinicians know when children may be falling behind their peers with Down syndrome and, when necessary, refer parents to additional supports, resources, and therapies." He also notes that recent advances in social, educational, and medical supports for people with Down syndrome should lead to even greater improvement in the acquisition of functional skills.

Skotko added, "Here in the U.S., there have been 'wrongful birth' and 'wrongful life' lawsuits filed either by parents of children with Down syndrome or on behalf of the children themselves, claiming that parents were not given information allowing them to terminate a pregnancy or that the child is living a life of suffering. These headline-grabbing lawsuits center around basic questions, such as what a person with Down syndrome can reasonably be expected to achieve. Such discussions should be centered around accurate information, rather than wild, outdated speculation, and we hope our research will help give clearer answers to those questions."

The lead author of the American Journal of Medical Genetics Part A paper is Gert de Graaf of the Dutch Down Syndrome Foundation; additional co-authors are Susan Levine of Family Resource Associates in Shrewsbury, N.J., and Richard Goldstein of Boston Children's Hospital.
The study was supported by grants from the Fred Lovejoy House-Staff Research and Education Fund, the Joel and Barbara Alpert Endowment for the Children of the City, the Tim White Foundation, and the Harvard NeuroDiscovery Center.

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Functional skills of those with Down syndrome can improve into adulthood

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When expectant parents learn their child will be born with Down syndrome, they invariably have questions about what this diagnosis will mean for their son or daughter and for the rest of their family. When will their child be able to walk, to speak clearly, to care for most basic needs?

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You found us because you or someone you care about is facing the uncertainty that comes with a premature birth. We know the roller coaster. Our twins, Graham and Reece, where born 15 weeks prematurely on Thanksgiving Day 2006. We lost Graham after 45 days and our daughter spent 4 months in the hospital before finally coming home and as we know, bringing your premature baby home presents an entirely new set of challenges.

We created Graham's Foundation to empower parents of premature babies to help improve outcomes for their preemies and themselves. We are committed to a world where no parent goes through the preemie journey alone.

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Graham's Foundation: Supporting Parents of Preemies

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You found us because you or someone you care about is facing the uncertainty that comes with a premature birth. We know the roller coaster. Our twins, Graham and Reece, where born 15 weeks prematurely on Thanksgiving Day 2006.

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We are a group of families supporting others who have Neurological Conditions. We were originally brought together by hydrocephalus and have expanded to include and support others with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy.

We are located in the Tampa Bay area in West Central Florida. HUGS of Florida, Inc. was formed for charitable and educational purposes to Connect, Support, Educate and Advocate with individuals and families who are affected by these conditions.

We are a volunteer based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.If you would like to be added to our mailing list

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We are a group of families supporting others who have Neurological Conditions. We were originally brought together by hydrocephalus and have expanded to include and support others with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. We are located in the Tampa Bay area in West Central Florida. HUGS of Florida, Inc.

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American Speech Language Hearing Association

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American Speech Language Hearing Association

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Apraxia is a motor speech disorder that makes it hard to speak. It can take a lot of work to learn to say sounds and words better. Speech-language pathologists, or SLPs, can help. Visit ASHA ProFind to locate a professional in your area.

On this page:

About Childhood Apraxia of Speech

In order for speech to occur, messages need to go from your brain to your mouth. These messages tell the muscles how and when to move to make sounds. When a child has apraxia of speech, the messages do not get through correctly. The child might not be able to move their lips or tongue in the right ways, even though their muscles are not weak. Sometimes, the child might not be able to say much at all.

A child with CAS knows what they want to say. The problem is not how the child thinks but how the brain tells the mouth muscles to move.

CAS is sometimes called verbal dyspraxia or developmental apraxia. Even though the word "developmental" is used, CAS is not a problem that children outgrow. A child with CAS will not learn speech sounds in typical order and will not make progress without treatment. It can take a lot of work, but the child's speech can improve.

Signs and Symptoms of Childhood Apraxia of Speech

Not all children with CAS are the same. Your child may show some or all of the signs below. You should talk to your doctor and see an SLP if your child is older than 3 years and

does not always say words the same way every time;

tends to put the stress on the wrong syllable or word;

distorts or changes sounds; or

can say shorter words more clearly than longer words.

Children with CAS may have other problems, including

difficulty with fine motor skills;

delayed language; or

problems with reading, spelling, and writing.

Causes of Childhood Apraxia of Speech

Most of the time, the cause of CAS is unknown. In some cases, damage to the brain causes CAS. Damage may be caused by a genetic disorder or syndrome, or by a stroke or traumatic brain injury.

Seeing a Professional

Testing for CAS

An SLP can test your child's speech and language skills. Many children with speech sound disorders also have language disorders. Find an ASHA-certified SLP in your area by using ASHA ProFind .

To test for CAS, the SLP will look at your child's oral-motor skills, speech melody (intonation), and how they says different sounds. To test how your child says sounds, the SLP will

check how well your child says speech sounds alone and combined in syllables or words and

check how well others can understand what your child says.

You should also talk to your doctor, who can check for any medical problems. It is important to have your child's hearing checked by an audiologist. A child with a hearing loss may have more trouble learning to talk.

Treatment for CAS

A child with CAS should work with an SLP. Your child may begin with therapy 3-5 times per week. As speech improves, treatment may be less often. Individual or group therapy may be appropriate at different stages of treatment.

See ASHA's information for professionals on the Practice Portal's Childhood Apraxia of Speech page.

Treatment Goals

The goal of treatment is to help your child say sounds, words, and sentences more clearly. Your child will learn how to

plan the movements needed to say sounds and

make those movements the right way at the right time.

Doing exercises to make the mouth muscles stronger will not help. Mouth muscles are not weak in children with CAS. Working on how to move those muscles to say sounds will help.

Your child must practice speaking to get better at it. It helps to use all the senses when learning how to say sounds. Your child may use

"touch" cues, like putting their finger on their lips when saying the "p" sound as a reminder to close the lips;

"visual" cues, like looking into a mirror when making sounds; or

"listening" cues, like practicing sounds with a recorder and then listening to hear if the sounds were made correctly.

Other Ways to Communicate

In order to communicate, your child may learn sign language or may learn to use picture boards or computers that talk. This is called augmentative and alternative communication (AAC).

Some parents are afraid that their child will only want to use AAC systems and not try to talk. There is no evidence to support this idea. AAC systems support communication and help your child as they work on their speech with the SLP.

Family Support

CAS treatment takes time, and your child will need your support. Practice what your child learns with the SLP to help them make progress. Take breaks when your child is tired and make practice as much fun as possible. Tell your child's SLP what happens at home so you can all work together to help your child succeed.

Other Resources

This list does not include every website on this topic. ASHA does not endorse the information on these sites.

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Apraxia is a motor speech disorder that makes it hard to speak. It can take a lot of work to learn to say sounds and words better. Speech-language pathologists, or SLPs, can help.

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Free Hearing Screenings/Evaluations
(727) 547-7833

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The anticipation and bliss of having a baby is usually not far from the anxiety that something will go wrong with the birthing process, possibly causing disabilities like cerebral palsy in the child. Cerebral palsy diagnoses increase every year and the cause may be linked to medical malpractice, in which case a cerebral palsy lawyer may be needed.
learn more ...

Cerebral Palsy Information

Exactly what is cerebral palsy? Cerebral palsy, or static encephalopathy, is the collective name used to describe a spectrum of chronic movement disorders affecting body and muscle coordination. These disorders are usually caused by damage to one or more areas of the brain. The movement problems can vary from barely noticeable to extremely severe.
Learn more...

Cerebral Palsy Treatment and Therapy

The numbers on cerebral palsy patients are growing every year. Currently, there are 800,000 children and adults in the United States alone affected by some type of cerebral palsy, and an additional 8,000 children are diagnosed each year. With each case being as unique as the individual it affects, the type of cerebral palsy treatment a patient requires will vary from person to person.
learn more ...

Educating Cerebral Palsy Patients

There is no doubt that special education for cerebral palsy patients will be needed at some point in their life. Whether it's in just the first few years of education or continuously through their school career, these special programs will help them achieve their highest potential.
learn more ...

Contact our Affiliated Network of Cerebral Palsy Attorneys

If you're asking "Why does my child have Cerebral Palsy?" You can find out if it may be due to a medical error by contacting our network of affiliated attorneys today.

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Cerebral Palsy Lawyers - Birth Injury Attorney

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The anticipation and bliss of having a baby is usually not far from the anxiety that something will go wrong with the birthing process, possibly causing disabilities like cerebral palsy in the child. Cerebral palsy diagnoses increase every year and the cause may be linked to medical malpractice, in which case a cerebral palsy lawyer may be needed.

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PEMHS- Personal Enrichment Mental Health Services

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PEMHS- Personal Enrichment Mental Health Services

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We are requesting that those wishing to contact a family member or a friend please call 727.362.4314 or 727.362.4301 to provide your email address, so you can be contacted. After hours phone number is 727.362.4328. Sessions will be conducted via Zoom. Please, be aware that data rates may apply.

You may call as usual, to speak with your loved one by phone.

Please bear with us during this time. We are making every effort to keep those in the facility as well as those in the community safe.
Thank you for your cooperation.

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PEMHS - Caring, compassionate and competent care in crisis

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We are requesting that those wishing to contact a family member or a friend please call 727.362.4314 or 727.362.4301 to provide your email address, so you can be contacted. After hours phone number is 727.362.4328. Sessions will be conducted via Zoom. Please, be aware that data rates may apply.

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Autism Care Today continues to distribute funds for treatment products and services, but Autism Care Today launched the first nationwide campaign to help military children impacted by autism as they have unique challenges. Military families must fight a war on two fronts, one overseas and one for th…

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American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus

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American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus

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Home - American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus

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We are a group of families supporting others who have Neurological Conditions. We were originally brought together by hydrocephalus and have expanded to include and support others with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy.

We are located in the Tampa Bay area in West Central Florida. HUGS of Florida, Inc. was formed for charitable and educational purposes to Connect, Support, Educate and Advocate with individuals and families who are affected by these conditions.

We are a volunteer based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.If you would like to be added to our mailing list

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We are a group of families supporting others who have Neurological Conditions. We were originally brought together by hydrocephalus and have expanded to include and support others with conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy. We are located in the Tampa Bay area in West Central Florida. HUGS of Florida, Inc.

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From Autism Speaks

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Challenging Behaviors Tool Kit

Sometimes, people with autism display behaviors that are challenging to understand and address.

The Challenging Behaviors Tool Kit will provide you with strategies and resources to address these behaviors and help support you during difficult situations.
The kit is broken into different sections. You may want to read the kit in its entirety or work through a section at a time:

Why is Autism Associated with Aggressive and Challenging Behaviors?

Why is it Important to Do Something about Challenging Behaviors?

Who Can Help? What is this Idea of a Team?

What are the Things to Consider?

What are the Positive Strategies for Supporting Behavior Implementation?

What Might I Need to Know about Managing a Crisis Situation?

What are Long Term Solutions and Where Can We Learn More?

Challenging Behaviors Glossary

Do you have any questions or are you looking for resources to help your loved one with challenging behaviors? Call our Autism Response Team at 888-288-4762 or email us at help@autismspeaks.org . We are always happy to help!

Need Personalized Support?

Our Autism Response Team (ART) is specially trained to connect people with autism, their families, and caretakers to information, tools, and resources.
Get in Touch with ART

We're Here to Help Chat with Us

Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

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Challenging Behaviors Tool Kit | Autism Speaks

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This kit will provide you with strategies and resources to address challenging behaviors and help support you during difficult situations.

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Scottish Rite membership supports the clinic network. However, the Scottish Rite encourages all concerned citizens to assist in this worthy humanitarian effort. One way to assist is through estate planning. A bequest to the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida U.S.A., Inc. 501(c)(3), can be designated for support of our children's charity. Gifts, of course, are tax deductible as provided by law.

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Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida, U.S.A, Inc. - Helping Children Communicate

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Scottish Rite membership supports the clinic network. However, the Scottish Rite encourages all concerned citizens to assist in this worthy humanitarian effort. One way to assist is through estate planning. A bequest to the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida U.S.A., Inc. 501(c)(3), can be designated for support of our children's charity.

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Each sleep center in this directory has demonstrated a commitment to the highest quality of care in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders.

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Speech Language Therapy Videos | Teach Toddler To Talk | SLP Training

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Speech Language Therapy Videos for late talkers. Let Laura Mize show you how to teach your toddler to talk. Best tips for toddlers with language delays.

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ASL - American Sign Language: free, self-study sign language lessons including an ASL dictionary, signing videos, a printable sign language alphabet chart (fingerspelling), Deaf Culture study materials, and resources to help you learn sign language. Good for homeschool sign language classes, parents (baby signing), interpreters, and people who just want to learn fun ASL phrases like hello, thank you, I love you, etc.

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Increasing Food Choices - Chicken Nuggets

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Increasing Food Choices - Chicken Nuggets

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Scottish Rite membership supports the clinic network. However, the Scottish Rite encourages all concerned citizens to assist in this worthy humanitarian effort. One way to assist is through estate planning. A bequest to the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida U.S.A., Inc. 501(c)(3), can be designated for support of our children's charity. Gifts, of course, are tax deductible as provided by law.

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Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida, U.S.A, Inc. - Helping Children Communicate

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Scottish Rite membership supports the clinic network. However, the Scottish Rite encourages all concerned citizens to assist in this worthy humanitarian effort. One way to assist is through estate planning. A bequest to the Scottish Rite Foundation of Florida U.S.A., Inc. 501(c)(3), can be designated for support of our children's charity.

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Multiples of America Home - Multiples of America

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Multiples of America support families through education, research, and community. Connect with other families of multiples near you.

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F.R.I.E.N.D.S Local Down Syndrome Group 

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F.R.I.E.N.D.S Local Down Syndrome Group 

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March 21, 2021 marks World Down Syndrome Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about Down syndrome and celebrating individuals around the world living with the genetic condition. According to the World Down Syndrome Day website, the date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.

With the challenges non-profits are facing during this global pandemic, your support will have a direct impact on the people we serve now-and into the future! The lasting impact of your support will help us expand our services. Thank you again for supporting our mission, the families we serve, promoting community involvement and encouraging a lifetime of opportunities for people with Down syndrome.

Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring genetic condition at 1 in every 800 births. Down syndrome occurs in people of all races and economic levels. More than 250,000 people in the United States are living with the condition. DSG welcomes approximately 50 new babies each year. Down syndrome is not a disease and people do not suffer from it. They are born with Down syndrome and will have it their whole life.

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March 21, 2021 marks World Down Syndrome Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about Down syndrome and celebrating individuals around the world living with the genetic condition. According to the World Down Syndrome Day website, the date for WDSD being the 21st day of the 3rd month was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome.

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A MOTHER OF
A MOVEMENT

TO FIGHT FOR THE HEALTH

OF ALL MOMS AND BABIES

WE NEED TO UNITE, CONNECT AND FIGHT FOR FAMILIES NOW.

With preterm birth rates continuing to rise, the U.S. remains among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, especially for women and babies of color.

By joining March for Babies: A Mother of a Movement™ you're lifting up communities, creating connections and taking action to make America a more equitable place and ensure that every mom and baby is healthy.

Together, let's be a part of something big.

TAKE THE MARCH FOR BABIES STEP UP CHALLENGE!

Together, let's take 500 million steps in honor of the nearly 500,000 babies born preterm or with birth defects-a new way to raise critical funds for moms, babies and families.
Here's how to participate:

Set your step and fundraising goal.

Mask up and get moving! Invite family, friends and co-workers to join you. Share your experience on social using #MarchforBabies

CELEBRATE BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH WEEK

As part of March of Dimes: A Mother of a Movement™, your fundraising helps provide all moms and babies the health equity they deserve.
Here's how to participate:

Speak up, speak out and call for #BlanketChange for moms and babies using social media.

Use our helpful social tools to spread the word on your March for Babies fundraiser during Black Maternal Health Week using #MarchforBabies.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE

More than just a walk, March for Babies helps you lift up communities for health equity, open the door for all moms to have access to care and protect the health of families through advocacy.

the stories that inspire the movement

MEET THE RAZZAK FAMILY

Pregnancy can be challenging at any time. Now imagine giving birth months too soon during the COVID-19 pandemic. On March 24, Alicia was diagnosed with coronavirus while pregnant.

MEET THE KILGORE FAMILY

Dani's journey to motherhood wasn't picture perfect. In 2010 she experienced her first devastating miscarriage, but she was able to try again.

MEET THE MOSELEY FAMILY

Early in the pregnancy of her son, Adrian, Keelee Moseley sensed something might be wrong. She went for a checkup, but the doctor said everything was fine and normal. She insisted that he check her cervix.

Congratulations to our Circle of Champions: those who raised $1,000 or more on their personal page. They're taking action for all families by raising critical funds for March of Dimes. Thank you!

THE IMPACT YOU MAKE HELPS MOMS AND BABIES

Thank you to our National Partners

Become a partner

PEOPLE ARE TALKING

And they want to hear from you, so reach out on social and be sure to use #MarchforBabies!

Chat with us, powered byLiveChat

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MARCH FOR BABIES: A MOTHER OF A MOVEMENT

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TO FIGHT FOR THE HEALTH OF ALL MOMS AND BABIES With preterm birth rates continuing to rise, the U.S. remains among the most dangerous developed nations for childbirth, especially for women and babies of color.

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Sensory Scout | Let's Embrace Different!

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Welcome to the best store for sensory solutions. Your home for all things sensory! From seekers, to avoiders, and beyond... and all areas of the spectrum! You'll find therapy toys, tools, and games. As well as information to help you overcome sensory challenges and get the support you need to help your special child.

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Epilepsy Association | Clearwater, FL - Suncoast Epilepsy Association

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To find support and education on your condition, you can turn to the epilepsy association in Clearwater, FL, that is focused on helping all individuals.

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National Institute on Deafness and Other Disorders

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National Institute on Deafness and Other Disorders

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What is apraxia of speech?

Apraxia of speech (AOS)-also known as acquired apraxia of speech, verbal apraxia, or childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) when diagnosed in children-is a speech sound disorder. Someone with AOS has trouble saying what he or she wants to say correctly and consistently. AOS is a neurological disorder that affects the brain pathways involved in planning the sequence of movements involved in producing speech. The brain knows what it wants to say, but cannot properly plan and sequence the required speech sound movements.

AOS is not caused by weakness or paralysis of the speech muscles (the muscles of the jaw, tongue, or lips). Weakness or paralysis of the speech muscles results in a separate speech disorder, known as dysarthria. Some people have both dysarthria and AOS, which can make diagnosis of the two conditions more difficult.

The severity of AOS varies from person to person. It can be so mild that it causes trouble with only a few speech sounds or with pronunciation of words that have many syllables. In the most severe cases, someone with AOS might not be able to communicate effectively by speaking, and may need the help of alternative communication methods.

What are the types and causes of apraxia of speech?

There are two main types of AOS: acquired apraxia of speech and childhood apraxia of speech.

Acquired AOS can affect someone at any age, although it most typically occurs in adults. Acquired AOS is caused by damage to the parts of the brain that are involved in speaking and involves the loss or impairment of existing speech abilities. It may result from a stroke, head injury, tumor, or other illness affecting the brain. Acquired AOS may occur together with other conditions that are caused by damage to the nervous system. One of these is dysarthria, as mentioned earlier. Another is aphasia, which is a language disorder. (For more information, see the NIDCD fact sheet Aphasia.)

Childhood AOS is present from birth. This condition is also known as developmental apraxia of speech, developmental verbal apraxia, or articulatory apraxia. Childhood AOS is not the same as developmental delays in speech, in which a child follows the typical path of speech development but does so more slowly than is typical. The causes of childhood AOS are not well understood. Imaging and other studies have not been able to find evidence of brain damage or differences in the brain structure of children with AOS. Children with AOS often have family members who have a history of a communication disorder or a learning disability. This observation and recent research findings suggest that genetic factors may play a role in the disorder. Childhood AOS appears to affect more boys than girls.

What are the symptoms of apraxia of speech?

People with either form of AOS may have a number of different speech characteristics, or symptoms:

Distorting sounds. People with AOS may have difficulty pronouncing words correctly. Sounds, especially vowels, are often distorted. Because the speaker may not place the speech structures (e.g., tongue, jaw) quite in the right place, the sound comes out wrong. Longer or more complex words are usually harder to say than shorter or simpler words. Sound substitutions might also occur when AOS is accompanied by aphasia.

Making inconsistent errors in speech. For example, someone with AOS may say a difficult word correctly but then have trouble repeating it, or may be able to say a particular sound one day and have trouble with the same sound the next day.

Groping for sounds. People with AOS often appear to be groping for the right sound or word, and may try saying a word several times before they say it correctly.

Making errors in tone, stress, or rhythm. Another common characteristic of AOS is the incorrect use of prosody. Prosody is the rhythm and inflection of speech that we use to help express meaning. Someone who has trouble with prosody might use equal stress, segment syllables in a word, omit syllables in words and phrases, or pause inappropriately while speaking.

Children with AOS generally understand language much better than they are able to use it. Some children with the disorder may also have other speech problems, expressive language problems, or motor-skill problems.

How is apraxia of speech diagnosed?

Professionals known as speech-language pathologists play a key role in diagnosing and treating AOS. Because there is no single symptom or test that can be used to diagnose AOS, the person making the diagnosis generally looks for the presence of several of a group of symptoms, including those described earlier. Ruling out other conditions, such as muscle weakness or language production problems (e.g., aphasia), can help with the diagnostic process.

In formal testing for both acquired and childhood AOS, a speech-language pathologist may ask the patient to perform speech tasks such as repeating a particular word several times or repeating a list of words of increasing length (for example, love, loving, lovingly). For acquired AOS, a speech-language pathologist may also examine the patient's ability to converse, read, write, and perform nonspeech movements. To diagnose childhood AOS, parents and professionals may need to observe a child's speech over a period of time.

How is apraxia of speech treated?

In some cases, people with acquired AOS recover some or all of their speech abilities on their own. This is called spontaneous recovery.

Children with AOS will not outgrow the problem on their own. They also do not acquire the basics of speech just by being around other children, such as in a classroom. Therefore, speech-language therapy is necessary for children with AOS as well as for people with acquired AOS who do not spontaneously recover all of their speech abilities.

Speech-language pathologists use different approaches to treat AOS, and no single approach has been proven to be the most effective. Therapy is tailored to the individual and is designed to treat other speech or language problems that may occur together with AOS. Frequent, intensive, one-on-one speech-language therapy sessions are needed for both children and adults with AOS. (The repetitive exercises and personal attention needed to improve AOS are difficult to deliver in group therapy.) Children with severe AOS may need intensive speech-language therapy for years, in parallel with normal schooling, to obtain adequate speech abilities.

In severe cases, adults and children with AOS may need to find other ways to express themselves. These might include formal or informal sign language; a notebook with pictures or written words that can be pointed to and shown to other people; or an electronic communication device-such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop computer-that can be used to write or produce speech. Such assistive communication methods can also help children with AOS learn to read and better understand spoken language by stimulating areas of the brain involved in language and literacy.

Some adults and children will make more progress during treatment than others. Support and encouragement from family members and friends and extra practice in the home environment are important.

What research is being done to better understand apraxia of speech?

Researchers are searching for the causes of childhood AOS, including the possible role of abnormalities in the brain or other parts of the nervous system. They are also looking for genetic factors that may play a role in childhood AOS. Other research on childhood AOS aims to identify more specific criteria and new techniques to diagnose the disorder and to distinguish it from other communication disorders.

Research on acquired AOS includes studies to pinpoint the specific areas of the brain that are involved in the disorder. In addition, researchers are studying the effectiveness of various treatment approaches for both acquired and childhood AOS.

Where can I find additional information about apraxia of speech?

The NIDCD maintains a directory of organizations that provide information on the normal and disordered processes of hearing, balance, taste, smell, voice, speech, and language.

For more information, contact us at:

NIDCD Information Clearinghouse
1 Communication Avenue
Bethesda, MD 20892-3456
Toll-free voice: (800) 241-1044
Toll-free TTY: (800) 241-1055
Email: nidcdinfo@nidcd.nih.gov

NIH Pub. No. 13-7466
September 2016

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Apraxia of speech (AOS)-also known as acquired apraxia of speech, verbal apraxia, or childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) when diagnosed in children-is a speech sound disorder. Someone with AOS has trouble saying what he or she wants to say correctly and consistently.

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Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital Audiology

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Johns Hopkins All Children's Hospital Audiology

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(727) 767-8989

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Johns Hopkins All Children's Pediatric Audiology program provides hearing tests for infants, hearing aids and auditory brainstem response testing.

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Cerebral Palsy Guide provides free educational materials, financial options, and emotional support for those affected by cerebral palsy.

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We have made it through so much. Sometimes we still feel stressed or anxious. Remind yourself that tomorrow is a new day that could bring new celebrations and challenges.

Scroll down and use the feelings words to find trusted resources that can help us through the range of emotions we all face.

Start a Conversation

Sharing concerns and challenges with your community helps relieve stress and build resilience. Use these tools to start a conversation together.

Looking for motivation?

We are all in this together. Hear from people who have found ways to feel better in hard times.

Resources that can help

These resources include tools and information to help us cope and be resilient.

About the Campaign

How Right Now is a communications campaign designed to promote and strengthen the emotional well-being and resiliency of populations adversely affected by COVID-19-related stress, grief, and loss. Support for the campaign is provided by CDC and the CDC Foundation.

Need Help Right Now?

Don't know where to turn? Find support right now.

Safety Exit: You can quickly leave this website by clicking on the "X" icon at the bottom left of the screen. The "X" will direct you to a blank Google search page.

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We have made it through so much. Sometimes we still feel stressed or anxious. Remind yourself that tomorrow is a new day that could bring new celebrations and challenges. Scroll down and use the feelings words to find trusted resources that can help us through the range of emotions we all face.

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Informational Materials

Visual supports are evidenced based practice tools which may be used to enhance the communication skills of individuals impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Parent, doctors, and other professionals serving individuals with ASD will want to print these materials as they prepare for the next health and wellness related appointment.

Food Chaining Milk

This page includes links to both internal (CARD) and external (non-CARD) websites. External links are selected and reviewed when the page is published. However, the CARD is not responsible for the content of external websites. The CARD website does not accept submissions or requests.

Nutrition Education

As parents, we know many of our children are picky eaters, prefer only a small variety of foods, and often refuse to try new food choices. Here are a few online resources where you can find information, picture stories, and some visual ideas to use to help your child understand what healthy foods are, and perhaps be more willing to try something new.
Read the Label Youth Outreach
Read the Label Youth Outreach materials challenge kids (ages 9 to 13) to look for and use the Nutrition Facts label on food and beverage packages.
Nutrition and Eating Problems School Nurses and Nutrition Autism and Supplements Mealtime and Children on the Autism Spectrum: Beyond Picky, Fussy, and Fads. Autism 204: Helping Children with Autism who Struggle with Restrictive Eating (2016)
Seattle Children's Autism Center present information about factors that contribute to feeding difficulties, best practices in assessment and various treatment approaches for addressing increased acceptance in children, and troubleshooting specific feeding problems, such as fears, and refusal.
Nutrition Therapy for Autism Food Chaining for ARFID
Steps to Introducing New Foods or Fear Foods.
ASD and Diet
People with ASD often repeat behaviors and have narrow, obsessive interests. These types of behavior can affect eating habits and food choices. This article provides nutrition strategies.
Weight-Loss Tool Designed for Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities
Obesity is among the most significant public health problems facing our society today. Not only do high rates of obesity contribute to soaring health care costs, the condition may also contribute to diminished quality of life among those affected.
FDA: Read the Label on Snacks
The Food and Drug Administration has provided a general overview of how to read food labels by comparing snack options, checking serving sizes (100 calories per serving is moderate), and monitoring the amount of consumption of sodium, sugars, saturated fats, and trans fats to ensure children are not exceeding the recommended daily caloric intake. As many children with autism are problem feeders and picky eaters, the favoring of certain foods is important to keep in mind as the amount of these foods can be ultimately detrimental and they do not contain all essential proteins, vitamins and minerals.
FDH: Food Allergies vs. Food Intolerances
Florida Department of Health has made accessible the 'Food Allergy Fact Sheet' which deciphers the difference between food allergies and food intolerances. FDH provides the signs of food allergy symptoms and how to obtain medical statements to avoid and substitute these foods. Children and adults with autism often times have a sensitivity to certain foods and products and the non-life threatening food allergies/intolerances could go unrecognized if signs and symptoms are not of knowledge.
BDA: Food Fact Sheet
The British Dietetic Association, a leading researcher in autism spectrum disorders, provides information to parents and professionals on eating problems with children on the spectrum. It addresses the pick eating behavior, helpful mealtime strategies, and the role a dietician plays.
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Nutritional Therapy ATN/AIR-P Guide to Exploring Feeding Behavior in Autism
Learn more about the guide on the Autism Speaks website.

Download the Guide (This requires filling out a brief form.)

Feeding Issues in People with ASD (Video)

Many children with autism spectrum disorders develop food selectivity, or what may be called "picky eating." It is not uncommon for children to restrict their diets to one or two things, to refuse to eat certain colors or textures, or to consume only pureed foods. This session will focus on strategies that have been demonstrated to be successful in helping children with autism learn to eat a wide variety of new foods. Participants will also learn what assessments should be completed before starting feeding therapy. Time will be available for questions and answers immediately following the webinar. Presented by Missy Olive PhD, BCBA. * The information presented is generously offered by Dr. Olive and is not vetted or reviewed by The Johnson Center. JCCHD does not assume responsibility for the information shared.

Nutrition & Autism: What Is The Connection & What Does The Research Tell Us (Video)

Is there an "autism diet"? What is dietary intervention? What role does nutrition play in autism spectrum disorders? In this webinar we will look at what answers the existing research gives us, and discuss areas where more research is needed. Presented by Kelly Barnhill, MBA, CN, CCN, Director of Clinical Services at The Johnson Center and in collaboration with Dr. Dane Mosher, Physician, The Johnson Center.
Tar Heel Reader
Tar Heel Reader is a great site where you can search for books or write and upload one of your own on a variety of topics.

Search the Book Database (Use terms such as "nutrition" or "healthy food".) Books here have been uploaded by parents, teachers, and others, some of which may be very helpful.

Search terms such as "children healthy foods" to find links to pictures, lesson plans, books, and other great visual resources.

Food Assistance
Women, Infants, Children (WIC)
Visit the Florida Health website to learn more about the program and who is eligible.

Find your local WIC office

For Adults with Disabilities: Access Florida
Apply food assistance such as SNAP or SUNCAP.
Florida Association of Food Banks
13 regional food distribution centers provide food donated by farmers, manufacturers, restaurants, and stores. Dial 211 from any phone in Florida to be connected to the United Way Help Line. 211 will help you to identify emergency food pantries and other human services available nearest to your home. Many food pantries have eligibility rules, such as proof of income, hardship or residency.

Tampa: Feeding America Tampa Bay, 4702 Transport Dr., Bldg 6, Tampa 33605. 813-254-1190. Distribution centers in Bradenton, Land O' Lakes, Lakeland and Sebring.

Sarasota: All Faiths Food Bank, 8171 Blaikie Ct., Sarasota 34240. 941-379-6333.

Get Help Florida: Food Pantries by City
The Get Help Florida site helps families locate not only food pantries, but other important resources such as Food Stamps application, WIC locations, Meals on Wheels, and summer food programs for children.

Finding Healthy Food in Your Community
(Information for Pasco, Hillsborough, Pinellas, Polk, Manatee, and Sarasota Counties)
Community Farmers Markets (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services)

These are the markets that are open on certain days each week, often from October to May each year, offering local produce, crafts, food products and other items. At this link, enter the county name in the search window for a list of markets in that county.

Families enrolled in the WIC program can obtain Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupons that allow certain purchases at farmers markets.
(Information for Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, and Lee Counties)
Additional Food Banks, Community Farmers Markets, Food Pantries

These are additional resources compiled by USF-CARD for our constituents.

U-Pick Farms (Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services)

Most farms are open on a seasonal basis. Before visiting a farm, call to confirm availability and days & hours of operation.

Learn more about U-Pick farms and view a full listing of farms in Florida on the Florida FDA websit e.

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CARD - Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at USF

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Visual supports are evidenced based practice tools which may be used to enhance the communication skills of individuals impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Parent, doctors, and other professionals serving individuals with ASD will want to print these materials as they prepare for the next health and wellness related appointment.

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Welcome to the Florida Division of Blind Services website. We are here to help blind and visually impaired Floridians achieve their goals and live productive and independent lives. Our services cover all ages from babies to senior citizens. We also offer Employer Services, the Braille and Talking Books Library, and the Business Enterprise Program. We encourage you to explore our website and then contact your nearest DBS office to find out more about eligibility requirements and how we can help you achieve your goals.

Robert Lee Doyle, III, Director
Florida Division of Blind Services
325 W. Gaines St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399

Return to Top of Page

DISCLAIMER: Links on the Florida Division of Blind Services (DBS) website that are directed toward websites outside the DBS, provide additional information that may be useful or interesting and are being provided consistent with the intended purpose of the DBS website. DBS cannot attest to the accuracy of information provided by non-DBS websites. Further, providing links to a non-DBS website does not constitute an endorsement by DBS, the Florida Department of Education or any of its employees, of the sponsors of the non-DBS website or of the information or products presented on the non-DBS website.

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Florida Division of Blind Services Main Page

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Helping blind and visually impaired Floridians achieve their goals and live productive and independent lives. Services cover all ages. Employers, Braille and Talking Book Library, Business Enterprise Program.

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Signs & Symptoms

Being sick can be scary, especially when you are a kid. It can be scary for parents and caregivers too. Sometimes fear can be caused by not knowing. For example, you could be scared because you do not understand why you are sick. This section of the HYDROKIDS™ website will help you.

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Signs & Symptoms Being sick can be scary, especially when you are a kid. It can be scary for parents and caregivers too. Sometimes fear can be caused by not knowing. For example, you could be scared because you do not understand why you are sick.

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Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind

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Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind

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Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind

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The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind is a tuition-free state public school and outreach center available to eligible Pre-K and K-12 students who are deaf/hard of hearing or blind/visually impaired.

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Richard B. Funk Center For Great Expectations

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Richard B. Funk Center For Great Expectations

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The Richard B. Funk Center for Great Expectations provides Applied Behavior Analysis services for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?

Applied Behavior Analysis is:

A scientifically proven method used to produce socially significant behavior change in individuals with disabilities

Focuses on increasing desired behaviors using reinforcement

Highly individualized

Progress is tracked by taking daily data

Decreases Problem Behavior:

Increases Appropriate Behavior:

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Autism & Behavioral Therapy | Clearwater, FL | The Arc Tampa Bay

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The Richard B. Funk Center for Great Expectations provides Applied Behavior Analysis services for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. What is Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)?