A few little flags were being raised when it came to my third son’s development. As a been-there-done-that mom, I didn’t panic over every little thing anymore. I didn’t call the doctor when my child had a mild fever. Belly aches, colds and even hand foot mouth disease were all swiftly dealt with. Many booboos were effectively kissed.  For some reason, I thought being a relaxed and experienced Mom would give me some credit with the doctor when I said “I think we may need a speech referral and some type of assessment for my son’s development”. But it didn’t.

Sitting in the small, yet brightly painted pediatrician’s office, the doctor met my concerns with “Well, Einstein didn’t speak until he was 3 or 4. Have you considered getting him a dog?” I’m sorry, but… WHAT? I had just expressed that my child is losing their words. Regressing. Not saying Mama anymore. And the doctor is trying to get me to adopt a puppy?!

I’m not sure if my befuddled looking face convinced him, or my further nudge of “Well, just seeing if speech therapy could help couldn’t hurt, right?” made the difference… but we walked out of the office with a speech referral.

Now years later we have Autism, Apraxia and Global Delay diagnoses and hundreds of hours of speech and occupational therapy under our belts. I sit and wonder… what if we had just gotten that dog? 

Point being.. always follow your intuition and advocate for your children. IF you see little flags that make you raise your eyebrow or feel a little concerned, advocate for your child and ask for resources and additional support.

In our case, early intervention made a world of difference in the following ways:

• More communication, in new ways! My non-speaking  son learned simple signs that we still use years later. More, eat and all done are three signs that can ease frustration when a child wants something but they’re having a hard time communicating it. For speaking children, early intervention can boost brain development and help you child reach their full potential! More words means the ability to communicate feelings and needs, and having wants and needs met means less meltdowns.
• Family Support! Our family was connected with First Steps (we are in KY, the OH program is Help Me Grow) and through Speech and OT, we learned how to best meet our child where he was and to challenge him appropriately. Beyond the therapy sessions, these programs are designed to teach families how to keep the fun and learning going. Having an expert in the field teach you how to play with your child in a productive way is so helpful!
• School readiness. For our family, being a part of First Steps helped our child gain access to a special needs pre-school in our hometown and connected us to DDBP at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. Having First Steps or Help Me Grow on your side can lead your family find the next chapter of your child’s journey. Early intervention can also get kids Kinder ready through helping kiddos learn the ABC’s, 123’s, colors and more.

Overall, when it comes to parenting… follow your gut. Instincts and intuition are seldom fully wrong. If you have a hunch that your child would benefit from a little extra help with their speech, behavior, movement, etc. say something! Be their advocate and their cheerleader!

Find even more Special Needs Resources by clicking here.

The post Following Mother’s Intuition appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Early Intervention State Services 

Help Me Grow (Ohio)
800-755-GROW | helpmegrow.org
Families with concerns about delays or disabilities in children up to age three can seek Early Intervention through the Department of Children & Youth

First Steps (Kentucky)
1-877-41STEPS | chfs.ky.gov
Kentucky’s Early Intervention System provides support and services for families with children birth to three who have developmental delays or disabilities

Therapy Services

ABC Pediatric Therapy
Multiple locations
abcpediatrictherapy.com
Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy as well as specialty services like Feeding Therapy, Torticollis Therapy and more
Ages Accepted: children of all ages
Funding Sources Accepted: In-network for most insurance companies–contact your coverage provider for more information

Applied Behavioral Services
Multiple locations
877-797-1352 | appliedbehavioralservices.com
Speech and Language Pathology, Behavioral Counseling, Art Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Music Therapy, Social Skills Groups, After School 1:1 Focus Sessions
Ages Accepted: children of all ages
Funding Sources Accepted: Medicaid, In-network for most insurance companies–contact your coverage provider for more information 

Heidt Center of Excellence by Best Point Education & Behavioral Health
Multiple locations
513-272-2800 | bestpoint.org
Campus-based instruction for grades 6-12, transition program up to age 21, electives, extracurriculars and so much more
Ages Accepted: children of all ages
Funding Sources Accepted: Call for individualized information

Cincinnati Center for Autism
100 Commercial Drive, Fairfield, OH
513-874-6789 | cincinnaticenterforautism.org
CCA offers a school program, appointed based services and summer services
Ages Accepted: 36 months-21 years old
Funding Sources Accepted: Anthem (BCBS), Cigna, Aetna, Humana, UBH, UMR, Medical Mutual, School District Agreements, Autism Scholarship, Private Pay

Cincinnati Occupational Therapy Institute (COTI)
4400 Carver Woods Drive #300, Blue Ash, OH
513-791-5688 | cintiotinstitute.com
The largest OT private practice in the area with over 30 years of expertise
Ages Accepted: 1-21 years old
Funding Sources Accepted: CareSource, Molina, Paramount, HealthSmart 

Elite Kids Therapy
8520 East Kemper Road, Suite 201, Cincinnati, OH | 6860 Tylersville Road, Suite 5, Mason, OH
513-444-0770 | elitekidstherapy.com
Assistance with IEPs, ETRs, Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Intervention Teaching and more
Ages Accepted: 2-18 years old
Funding Sources Accepted: Autism Scholarship Provider, Jon Peterson Scholarship Provider, Private Pay, including HSA

The Kelly O’Leary Center for Autism Spectrum Disorder at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center
3333 Burnet Avenue, Cincinnati, OH
513-636-4611 | cincinnatichildrens.org
Testing and Diagnosis, Behavioral Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Group Therapy, Early Intensive Behavior Intervention, Brief Intensive Behavior Treatment Program, Brief Intensive Toilet Training Program, Brief Intensive Feeding Treatment
Ages Accepted: children of all ages
Funding Sources Accepted: most commercial health insurance providers + medicaid

Keystone Pediatric Therapy
8595 Beechmont Avenue, Suite 202, Cincinnati, OH
513-278-7006 | keystonepedtherapy.com
Occupational and Speech Therapy
Ages Accepted: birth to 12 years old
Funding Sources Accepted: Private Pay, can be HSA

KTL Therapy
18 North Fort Thomas Ave., #302, Fort Thomas, KY
859-441-0139 | ktltherapy.com
Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy and additional services
Ages Accepted: children of all ages
Funding Sources Accepted: Private Pay, can be HSA

SMILES Integrative Therapy Services
1120 Cottonwood Drive, Suite 4, Loveland, OH
513-583-8333 | smilestherapy.com
Feeding Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Social Skills Groups, PROMPT Therapy
Ages Accepted: birth to 21 years old
Funding Sources Accepted: Aetna, Anthem, Behavioral Health Systems, CareSource, Concern, Custom Design Benefits, Humana, Medicaid, Medical Mutual and Optum

TherapyWorks Cincinnati
4757 Cornell Road, Unit 4A, Blue Ash, OH
513-489-4919 | therapyworkscincy.com
Ages Accepted: birth-22 years old
Funding Sources Accepted at Ohio Location: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Humana, Cigna, Aetna, Private Pay, Autism Scholarship, Jon Peterson Scholarship,  PASSS funding and County Vouchers
Funding Sources Accepted at KY location: Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Humana, Cigna, Aetna and Private Pay

ABA Focused Therapy

Anchor ABA, LLC
7264 Columbia Road, Mason, OH
513-816-1512 | anchoraba.live
Providing in-home services in Cincinnati and NKY, Camps at the Mason Clinic and more
Ages Accepted: up to age 10
Funding Sources Accepted: Most insurances accepted for ABA services. For specialty services, training, coaching and other services, private pay is accepted. 

BlueSprig Autism
3611 Socialville-Foster Road Suite 101, Mason, OH 45040
513-322-5779 | bluesprigautism.com
ABA therapy
Ages Accepted: children of all ages
Funding Sources Accepted: Aetna, Anthem, BayCare, BlueCross BlueShield, Carelon, Cigna, CMS, ComPsych, First Health, Gulf Coast, Humana, Kaiser Permanente, Life Stance, Magellan, Medicaid, Premera, United Healthcare, Volusia, TRICARE

Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers
Multiple locations
hopebridge.com
Testing and diagnosis, ABA Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Feeding and Swallowing Therapy, Family Training
Ages Accepted: 15 months to 10 years old
Funding Sources Accepted: most commercial health insurances providers + medicaid

Ruby ABA Therapy
Multiple Locations
513-401-8953 | rubyaba.com
Home, center and school based therapy and support
Ages accepted: infancy to 21 years old
Funding Sources Accepted: Anthem, CareSource, United Healthcare, Aetna, Medical Mutual, Humana, Molina, Buckeye Health Plan, AmeriHealth, Cigna

Support  Systems

Blume Counseling
A place of inclusion and customized therapy for parents and special needs families who may need help navigating the special needs journey
Located in Bellevue, KY | 859-474-1080 | blumecounseling.com

The Collaborative IEP
Comprehensive support for navigating special needs school services
603-490-5543 | ashleybarlowco.com  

Around Town

All Abilities Sports NKY
allabilitiesnky.com
An all encompassing sports league for children ages 3-15 with special needs.

Big Blue Canopy
11230 Cornell Park Drive, Cincinnati, OH | 513-880-6800 | bigbluecanopy.com
Providing programs and activities like yoga and mindfulness, music therapy, adaptive fitness and movement, dramakinetics and art classes. Big Blue Canopy also offers open gym hours and birthday parties. Therapy sessions include physical, occupational, speech, feeding and group.
All ages welcome.

Lori’s H20 Skills
5610 Wolfpen Pleasant Road, Milford, OH | 513-514-8468 | h2oskills.com
Special Needs Swim Classes for ages three months and older.

Milestones, Inc.
12372 Riggs Road, Independence, KY | 859-694-7669 | milestonesinc.org
Therapeutic Horseback Riding for individuals ages three and older with disabilities

We Rock the Spectrum Cincinnati
4060 E. Galbraith Road, Unit #17, Cincinnati, OH | 513-429-5905 | werockthespectrumcincinnati.com
All ages welcome, events, open play, birthday parties.
$14 Open Play Drop-in, Multi-visit packages available 

We Rock the Spectrum NKY
331 Kenton Lands Road, Suit 400, Erlanger, KY  | 859-727-9787 | werockthespectrumnorthernkentucky.com
All ages welcome, events, open play, birthday parties.
$14 Open Play Drop-in, Multi-visit packages available 

Nonprofits

Autism Connections
513-561-2300 | autismcincy.org
Education, resources, connections, lifelong support

Autism Rocks Cincinnati
autismrockscincy.org
A rocking nonprofit with a rocking FUNdraiser each year 

Mothers of Special Children of NKY
859-640-0806 | mscnky.com
Emotional support group for mothers of special needs children, especially those just learning of their child’s disabilities

Northern Kentucky Inclusive Students in Education
nisenky.org
This educational initiative aims to engage and develop learners as empathetic and critical thinkers who collaborate and lead in a global community

Starfire Council Cincinnati
513-281-2100 | starfirecincy.org
Building better lives for people with disabilities through inclusivity and community

Stepping Stones
513-831-4660 | steppingstonesohio.org
Educational and recreation programs for individuals with disabilities including weekend recreation and summer camps

Find more special needs resources by clicking here.

The post Autism Support & Services appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

With the Autism rate being 1:36, chances are that most neurotypical families know someone with an autistic family member. Whether a family member’s child has been newly diagnosed or a new friend has a child on the spectrum, the question may be looming in your mind… how can I support my friend or family member who has an autistic child? 

Kelly Jones, LPCC, MS of Blume Counseling notes, “You need zero special training or skills to be a good friend to a person with a disability. You should not feel unequipped. Ask yourself if previously you have needed skills to be kind to another human. This friendship is no different.” Along with simply exhibiting general human kindness, here are some additional tips on supporting a family with an autistic child:

Invite.

Everyone wants to feel included! An autism diagnosis can make a family feel othered—different from the rest. Combat that by accepting those differences and remembering to include the whole family in invitations. Jones suggests that intentions matter, “Let your actions speak positively about your love and care for others.” Depending on a myriad of factors, they may or may not be able to attend a given gathering, but simply being invited can mean the world. 

A get-together can be stressful for a family that has a member on the spectrum. Asking “Is it easier for us to meet somewhere, you to come to us, or us to come to you?” may be helpful in the planning stages! With the Autism Spectrum Disorder affecting how senses are perceived and felt,  bright lights, loud sounds, and pungent smells could be triggering for ASD individuals. Making modifications, even making sure there is a quiet, dim space for the child if they become overstimulated, will allow everyone to enjoy themselves. Also understand your loved ones’ family may need to take breaks or even need to leave early. Life is unpredictable, and while optimism and hoping for the best are beautiful mindsets, being ready to accept alternatives is good preparation for reality. 

If life is handing your friend a particularly difficult phase where spending time together in person is temporarily out of the question, don’t be a stranger! Keep the friendship alive through phone calls and texts. Just like all parents deserve some time in the world as adults (not just parents)… special needs caregivers also need respite; be sure to invite your loved one out for some quality one-on-one time, too! 

Embrace.

Unfortunately, having an autistic child can come with a lot of unfair judgement. Strangers staring at innocent stims, gawking at meltdowns, offering snide comments about what they’d do if their own child did X,Y or Z. This can be disheartening and absolutely exhausting to the family of a newly diagnosed individual. It hurts. The good news is that many veteran been-there-done-that parents will tell you they develop thick skins to thwart ignorance, they become immune to a vast majority of strangers’ side eyes and that they even enjoy joining in on their kids’ happy stims. Additionally, having people who accept and embrace their whole family unit is the biggest blessing of all.

Kelly Jones reminds, “As a friend, you have a lot of power to change someone’s day. One small act of inclusion or kindness could be a life-changing or hope-saving event for a family with a disability. Never underestimate the rippling effects of your choice to include—not only do you positively impact the child, but the parents, and others who may make a choice of inclusion after they see how easy it can be!” The best feeling for a family with autism is simply being accepted with open arms. Having a safe space to exist, unjudged, feels like a sigh of relief. Be a safe space! Simply accept your friend and meet them where they are with patience and love. 

Every individual on the spectrum is unique and finding the path to connecting will certainly vary. Get to know the child and be a model for positive behavior and inclusion. Does the autistic child have a special interest? Enter their world and ask all about it. Does the autistic child enjoy certain activities? Join in. Does the autistic child have a favorite snack? Offer it. Treat the autistic child like any other child, with kindness, respect and the assumption of competence. 

Evolve.

As an adult, there are millions of resources out there! Research is your friend and knowledge is power. Read up on works from trusted medical sources, dig into “actually autistic” content creators who use their voices to educate and simply familiarize yourself with the world your friend exists in. We all start from somewhere and we all have a lot to learn. 

In your research, you may find there are strongly varying opinions within the autism community, for example “child with autism” vs. “autistic child.” Jones notes that the vastness of resources can sometimes be overwhelming and it is a wonderful idea to go straight to the source! “The disability community is always evolving and all humans are always learning. Simply ask the person’s preference re: language or description. If you get it wrong, apologize, make the change and move forward.” 

One thing of beauty about being an inclusive person is that it can lead to raising empathetic children. Having a conversation with your kids about disabilities does not have to be difficult or daunting; simple and direct is best. Explain what it is: Autism is a developmental disability where an individual thinks, senses, moves, communicates and socializes differently. Every individual on the spectrum has different strengths and different challenges. And how it may affect an individual: through eye contact, stimming, repetition, difficulty with social cues, use of PECS or an AAC device, etc. A snippet of the conversation may sound like, “While they may have some differences from you, I bet you can find lots of things you share in common!” 

To close, Jones profoundly remarks that “exclusion takes more effort than inclusion.” This is especially true if empathy, patience and understanding are instilled as habits when kids are young. More than just a nice buzz word in the month of April, inclusion should be a model to live by and lead by every single day. In all facets of life encourage your Cincinnati family to accept differences, celebrate individuality and most of all, always be kind.

Discover more Special Needs article by clicking here. 

The post Supporting an Autism Family appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

For families with special needs children, a trip to an amusement park can feel overwhelming. The crowds, long lines, loud noises, and unpredictable schedules can present challenges that might make the experience more stressful than enjoyable. However, with thoughtful planning and knowledge of the resources available, families can create a magical and stress-free day for their children. Here is our advice for making your next theme park experience as inclusive and stress-free as possible!

Plan Ahead

Before you book your tickets, thoroughly research your park’s disability accommodations and register for any necessary passes. While many parks may have similar services, not all of them will operate the exact same, and some rules may differ. Also, children with autism or sensory disorders can often struggle with changes to their routines, so it’s important to make a game plan for each of your park days. You may not be able to stick to exact times, but giving your child a clearer idea of what’s next will benefit the whole family in the long run. Remember to plan breaks and speak with park employees about sensory-friendly spaces, as many parks offer quiet areas where families can retreat from the excitement.

Pack Smart

When heading to an amusement park with a child who has sensory sensitivities, packing the right items can make all the difference. Noise-canceling headphones are a must to help block out the overwhelming noise and create a more peaceful experience. Don’t forget to bring along familiar sensory-friendly items—think comfort toys, fidget tools, or even a weighted blanket—to provide reassurance in moments of stress. Staying hydrated and having snacks on hand are key to keeping energy levels up and preventing meltdowns. Finally, make transitions easier by using visual schedules, social stories, or countdown timers, giving your child the tools they need to navigate the day with confidence.

Disney’s DAS Pass

Walt Disney World is one of the most accommodating parks for guests with disabilities, offering the Disability Access Service (DAS) Pass. This system is designed for guests who cannot tolerate waiting in a traditional queue due to a disability. Instead of standing in line, DAS allows families to schedule a return time for attractions comparable to the current wait time, allowing them to explore the park, take a break, or enjoy other activities while waiting.

To obtain a DAS Pass, families must pre-register online through a video chat with a Cast Member up to 30 days before their visit. Guests can also visit Guest Relations at the park, but in-person registration is no longer available. Once registered, DAS can be used through the My Disney Experience app to schedule ride return times. Guests can only hold one active DAS return time at a time, and the pass is valid for up to 120 days, or the length of the ticket validity, whichever is shorter.

Other Amusement Parks with Similar Programs

Many amusement parks across the country have their own accessibility programs designed to help guests with disabilities. Some examples include:

• Dollywood Theme Park: Offers a Special Access Pass for guests with disabilities, providing alternate ride entrances, return times, sensory-friendly spaces, and a sensory-friendly guide to ensure a more accessible experience.
• LEGOLAND: Features the Blue Hero Pass, allowing children with autism and their families to bypass standby lines and immediately board the first ride of the day. The park also features quiet rooms equipped with sensory tools like noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, fidget tables, and LEGO building tables, creating a supportive environment for all guests.
• Sesame Place Philadelphia: Offers an Accessibility Pass, allowing guests with disabilities to bypass regular lines and enjoy the park without waiting in long queues. The park also provides quiet areas, sensory spaces with calming tools, and accessible ride entrances, ensuring a welcoming experience for all families, including those with sensory sensitivities.
• Six Flags: Provides an Attraction Access Pass for guests who are unable to wait in line due to disabilities, offering scheduled ride return times.
• Universal Orlando Resort: Offers an Attraction Assistance Pass, which functions similarly to Disney’s DAS by allowing return times instead of waiting in a standard queue.
• Kings Island: Offers an Attraction Accessibility program with Ride Boarding Pass. Guests should visit Guest Services, to the right of ticket taking stanchions at the park entrance, where they will be asked a few simple questions. Please call (513) 754-5700 with any questions and visit the Kings Island Accessibility page,  here, for even more information.  “Kings Island is proud of our reputation for accommodating guests with disabilities, which includes talking with guests to ensure that they have the required physical criteria to safely experience the park’s attractions. Beginning with the 2025 season, these guests also will be able obtain an access card from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards website prior to their visit. This optional step helps identify accommodations needed.”

Each park has different policies and requirements, so checking their official websites and contacting Guest Services ahead of time is the best way to prepare.

A day at an amusement park should be full of joy, not anxiety. With proper preparation and knowledge of available resources, families with special needs children can experience the magic of places like Disney World without unnecessary stress. By utilizing services like the DAS Pass and taking extra steps to accommodate sensory and mobility needs, parents can ensure their children have a fun and memorable adventure that caters to their unique needs.

The post Making Magic Accessible appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Save the date: November 14th @ 8:30 a.m.! 

Carl the Collector is slated to make its debut on PBS on November 14th, featuring adorable fluffy critter friends Carl, Forrest, Sheldon, Lotta, Nico and Arugula. They go on adventures together, bravely face problems and experience the neighborhood together. 

A first of its kind, this sweet show is puts the spotlight on Carl, a lead character on the autism spectrum. The beautiful series will celebrate diversity and inclusion while helping kiddos develop a strong sense of self and community. Carl’s friends are diverse, also! Ranging from the neurotypical and neurodiverse, each as unique as the next for their own reasons!

Be sure to tune in! And head to PBS’s Carl the Collector page to meet the cast and get some sneak peeks at the cute collector, Carl. 

Additional Showtimes include:
November 15th 8:30 a.m. – The Fake Mustache Collection/The Lint Dinosaur Collection
November 17th, 10 a.m. – The Plushie Collection/The Bouncy Ball Collection
November 18th, 8:30 a.m. – Lemons!/The Butterfly Collection
November 19th, 8:30 a.m. – Whole Lotta Lotta/ Leaf It to Carl
November 20th, 8:30 a.m. – The Tool Collection/The Stick Collection
November 21st, 8:30 a.m. – The Fall/The World Collection
Check the CET schedule for even more shows, here. 

The post Carl the Collector debuts on PBS appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

ADHD Services 

The Affinity Center, Inc. 
(513) 984-1000
theaffinitycenter.com

Brain Balance 
(513) 707-0125
brainbalancecenters.com

The Center for ADHD 
(513) 636-4336 
cincinnatichildrens.org

Katkin and Associates
(513) 831-9408
katkintherapy.com

Springer School and Center
(513) 871-6080
springer-ld.org

Autism Services: Speech, OT, Feeding and additional Special Needs Therapy

ABC Pediatric Therapy 
(513) 271-2419 (Red Bank Road)
(513) 755-6600 (West Chester)
(513) 922-5437 (Western Hills)
(513) 587-8699 (Milford)
(513) 653-4177 (Loveland)
abcpediatrictherapy.com

Applied Behavioral Services 
(877) 797-1352 (Cincinnati/West Chester)
appliedbehavioralservices.com

Best Point Educational & Behavioral Health 
(513) 272-2800
bestpoint.org

Big Blue Canopy
(513) 880-6800
bigbluecanopy.com

Cincinnati Center for Autism
(513) 874-6789 
cincinnaticenterforautism.org

COTI – Cincinnati Occupational Therapy Institute for Children 
(513) 791-5688
cintiotinstitute.com

Elite Kids Therapy 
(513) 444-0770
elitekidstherapy.com

Hopebridge Autism Therapy Centers
(859) 795-3000 (Edgewood)
(513) 402-1711 (Mason)
(513) 831-2578 (Milford)
hopebridge.com 

The Kelly O’Leary Center at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center
(513) 636-4611
cincinnatichildrens.org

Keystone Pediatric Therapy 
(513) 278-7006
keystonepedtherapy.com

KTL Therapy
(859) 441-0139
ktltherapy.com

SMILES Integrative Therapy Services 
(513) 583-8333
smilestherapy.com 

TherapyWorks Cincinnati 
(513) 489-4919 (Blue Ash/ Florence)
therapyworkscincy.com 

Down Syndrome Services and Support 

Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati
(513) 761-5400
dsagc.com

GiGi’s Playhouse Cincinnati
(513) 888-1653
gigisplayhouse.org

Thomas Center for Down Syndrome 
(513) 636-4611
cincinnatichildrens.org

Services for the Blind and Visually impaired

Cincinnati Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired
(513) 221-8558
cincyblind.org

Clovernook Center for the Blind & Visually Impaired 
(513) 522-3860
clovernook.org

Services for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Hands & Voices
ohiohandsandvoices.org

Hearing Speech + Deaf Center 
(513) 221-0527
hearingspeechdeaf.org

The Hill Hear Better Clinic
(513) 506-2197
hillhearbetter.com

St. Rita School for the Deaf
(513) 771-7600
srsdeaf.org

Support Groups and Nonprofits

Autism Connections
(513) 561-2300
autismcincy.org

Autism Rocks Cincinnati
autismrockscincy.org

CancerFree Kids 
(513) 575-5437
cancerfreekids.org

Mothers of Special Children of NKY 
(859) 640-0806
mscnky.com

Northern Kentucky Inclusive Students in Education
nisenky.org

Starfire Council Cincinnati 
(513) 281-2100
starfirecincy.org

Stepping Stones
(513) 831-4660
steppingstonesohio.org

Fun for ALL!

All Abilities Sports NKY 
allabilitiesnky.com

Lori’s H20 Skills – Special Needs Swim Classes
(513) 514-8468
h2oskills.com

Milestones, Inc. Therapeutic Horseback Riding
(859) 694-7669
milestonesinc.org

SnapDragons Cincinnati
snapdragonscincy.org

We Rock the Spectrum Cincinnati
(513) 429-5905
werockthespectrumcincinnati.com

We Rock the Spectrum Northern Kentucky 
(859) 727-9787
werockthespectrumnorthernkentucky.com

Many local attractions offer a variety of accessibility accommodations such as: social narratives, sensory rooms, sensory borrow bags, braille booklets, audio and touch tours, and more. Visit each attraction’s website for more information regarding onsite accessibility accommodations and special needs events offered, too! 

Cincinnati Art Museum 
(513) 721-2787
cincinnatiartmuseum.org

Cincinnati Reds – Great American Ballpark 
(513) 765-7000
reds.com

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden 
(513) 281-4700
cincinnatizoo.org

Contemporary Arts Center 
(513) 345-8400
contemporaryartscenter.org

FC Cincinnati – TQL Stadium
(513) 977-5425
fccincinnati.com

Heritage Bank Center 
(513) 421-4111
heritagebankcenter.com

Kings Island 
(513) 754-5700
visitkingsisland.com

Newport Aquarium 
(800) 406-3474
newportaquarium.com

Taft Museum of Art 
(513) 241-0343
taftmuseum.org

The post Exceptional Needs Resource Guide appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Upcoming retreats take place Nov. 17 – 19 at 1414 Lake Allyn Road, Batavia for $350 per session. Call 513-831-4660 or steppingstonesohio.org/weekend-respite-program.

The post Stepping Stones Respite appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

ANIMALS

CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN
3400 Vine St., Cincinnati
cincinnatizoo.org/plan-yourvisit/zoo-access-for-all
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has an Access for All program to accommodate its guests with special needs. The zoo provides resources for individuals with developmental disabilities including calming rooms, sensory bags, Access passes and sensory-friendly restrooms. The Calming Rooms are private spaces in the zoo that include several items and tools, such as rocking chairs, dimming lights, bubble walls and weighted lap pads. Sensory Bags provide on-the-go tools for guests, such as chewy tubes, noise-reducing headphones, sunglasses, scratch and sniff stickers, bendy fidget toys and pinwheels. Access Passes are available for guests who may have difficulty waiting in standard lines for their attractions. Sensory-friendly restrooms are one-person restrooms that have manual flush toilets and manual paper towel dispensers. The zoo also has free resources like a sensory map and social stories, all of which are available on-site or online.

CINCINNATI THERAPEUTIC RIDING AND HORSEMANSHIP
1342 U.S. Highway 50, Milford
513-831-7050; ctrhohio.org
Cincinnati Therapeutic Riding and Horsemanship offers programs to teach horseback riding to people with disabilities and unique challenges.

MILESTONES, INC.
12372 Riggs Road, Independence
859-694-7669; milestonesinc.org
Milestones, Inc. offers therapeutic horseback riding to individuals with challenges.

NEWPORT AQUARIUM
1 Aquarium Way, Newport
800-406-3474; newportaquarium.com
Occasional Family Inclusive Sensory Hours (F.I.S.H) events where, sound, lighting or other modifications are made to accommodate guests with special needs.

WINTON WOODS RIDING CENTER
Parky’s Farm 10073 Daly Road, Cincinnati
greatparks.org/parks/wintonwoods/winton-woods-ridingcenter
In addition to mainstream lessons for beginners through advanced riders, they also offer programming for other-abled riders.

ARTS & THEATER

AMC WEST CHESTER
9415 Civic Center Boulevard, West Chester

AMC NEWPORT ON THE LEVEE
One Levee Way, Suite 4100, Newport

AMC DINE-IN ANDERSON TOWNE CENTER
7490 Beechmont Ave., Anderson Twp.

AMC CLASSIC HAMILTON
1453 Main St., Hamilton
amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films
AMC Theaters in Cincinnati offers select sensory-friendly screenings.

CINCINNATI ART MUSEUM
953 Eden Park, Cincinnati
513-721-2787; cincinnatiartmuseum.org/events-programs/accessibility
Cincinnati Art Museum offers offer monthly sensory mornings, social narratives online and sensory bags.

CINCINNATI BALLET
1801 Gilbert Ave., Cincinnati
513-621-5219; cballet.org
The Cincinnati Ballet always offers a sensory-friendly performance.

CINCINNATI MUSEUM CENTER
1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati; 513-287-7000
cincymuseum.org/accessibility
Cincinnati Museum Center offers accessible amenities, quiet zones and fidgets/ear muffs available on request.

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE OF CINCINNATI
4015 Red Bank Road, Cincinnati
513-569-8080; thechildrenstheatre.com
The Children’s Theatre of Cincinnati has sensory-friendly and ASL performances of their shows.

ATHLETICS

ALL ABILITIES SPORTS NKY
allabilitiesnky.com
A new non-profit that offers families “try it days” so children have an opportunity to try new sports. Contact Samantha@allabilitiesnky. com or Jon@allabilitiesnky.com for more information.

SNAPDRAGONS
snapdragonscincy.org
Special needs athletes can participate in a basketball league, cheer squad, softball league or soccer.

WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM GYM
4060 Galbraith Road, Unit #17, Cincinnati
513-429-5905; werockthespectrumcincinnati.com
Caters to children with fine motor and sensory-related disabilities.

CAMPS

CAMP ABILITY – CINCINNATI CENTER FOR AUTISM
100 Office Park Drive, Fairfield
513-874-6789; cincinnaticenterforautism.org
Cincinnati Center for Autism hosts Camp Ability, half and full-day camps for people with special needs.

STEPPING STONES
5650 Given Road, Cincinnati
513-831-4660; steppingstonesohio.org
An organization that offers programs, including summer day camp and its “Step-Up Autism Alternative Education,” for individuals with disabilities.

ENTERTAINMENT

CHUCK E. CHEESE
• 4394 Eastgate Square Drive, #900, Cincinnati
• 1429 East Kemper Road, Sharonville
• 7635 Mall Road, Florence
chuckecheese.com/sensorysensitive-sundays
Participating locations open two hours early on the first Sunday of the month to offer a sensory-friendly experience.

KINGS ISLAND
6300 Kings Island Drive, Mason
800-288-0808; visitkingsisland.com/accessibility
Offers various programs to accommodate disabilities.

PEDIATRIC THERAPY ABC PEDIATRIC THERAPY
(numerous locations)
abcpediatrictherapy.com
A pediatric practice that specializes in ADHD, autism, Down Syndrome, Sensory Integration Dysfunction and more.

BIG BLUE CANOPY
11230 Cornell Park Drive, Blue Ash
513-880-6800; bigbluecanopy.com
A multidisciplinary pediatric therapy practice offering physical, occupational and speech therapy services in a play-based setting.

KTL THERAPY
18 North Fort Thomas Ave., #302 Fort Thomas, KY
859-441-0139; ktltherapy.com
Offers occupational, physical and speech therapy.

SELECT PARKS

1000 HANDS PLAYGROUND
5915 Ridge Ave., Cincinnati
pleasantridge.org/parks-and-rec

BEECH ACRES PARK
6910 Salem Road, Cincinnati
513-474-0003

CRESCENT PARK
340 Crescent Ave., Wyoming
wyomingohio.gov/208/ParksPlaygroundsFields

EVERY CHILD’S PLAYGROUND
801 East Pete Rose Way Cincinnati
cincinnati-oh.gov
Caters to physically disabled children and children with cognitive disabilities.

MAKINO PLAYGROUND
6100 Kopfler Court, Mason
imaginemason.org
The Common Ground Playground was designed with local parents of children with disabilities.

MT. AIRY FOREST
5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati
cincinnati-oh.gov
The park features a wheelchairaccessible public treehouse.

The post Places & Spaces for Special Needs Kids appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Heather and her son, Peter, were attending an autism preschool where he received occupational therapy. It’s quite common for kids to run toward the swing set during play time or recess and go soaring on their tummies because it’s just plain fun. Not many parents would think twice about it. In Haley’s son Peter’s case, that was his preference rather than sitting upright the “correct” way, and for kids who have autism, swinging is a big part of OT, she says.

“His therapists would comment about how he preferred to swing on his stomach because he had a weak core,” Haley says. “The ideal would be for him to be sitting upright to swing. At school during conferences, the teachers were telling me that Peter’s biggest obstacles to progress were motor planning issues and his general sense of body awareness. They also would comment that having a weak core made it hard for him to sit and pay attention in the classroom.”

It wasn’t then that she realized it was physical therapy that her son needed; it was the moment when she was filling out a questionnaire to prepare for a consultation with her doctor.

“The form asked, ‘Does your child have motor issues?’ Which I answered with a resounding, ‘Yes.’ Then it asked if your child is getting physical therapy for their motor issues. That’s when the light bulb went on,” she says.

Can Your Child Benefit From PT?

Having the “aha” moment that your child needs PT doesn’t exactly happen overnight. You may think that they are just being a kid or this too shall pass. So how do you know? One way is by paying attention to milestones that may not be met and asking your doctor, just to be safe. With some trial and error, there are ways to know if your kid is in need of a PT consultation.

Puja Gaitonde, physical therapist and founder of Big Blue Canopy, says you can detect if your child may need PT as early as babyhood.

“If the baby is having difficulty holding their head up it may indicate decreased tone, or if your child feels floppy when changing their diaper or carrying them,” she says. In older kids, low muscle tone or decreased core strength can be a tell-all, says Gaitonde. If you notice your big kid is leaning into the table or needing a backrest/slouching when sitting on a chair for tabletop activities, PT may be in the cards.

“Tone and strength both affect posture,” says Gaitonde. “These kiddos can benefit from strengthening exercises and stretches to help maintain a better posture and decrease the chance of pain or discomfort.” Some other signs to look out for according to Gaitonde include decreased coordination on the playground; inability to go up the steps without assistance; having challenges when participating in group/recreation sports, toe walking that is persistent past age 2 and repeated injuries.

“Most kids will avoid certain activities if they are challenging for them,” she continues. “If the kiddo consistently avoids certain activities it may be a good idea to get the underlying cause evaluated,” says Gaitonde. In Peter’s case, he needed help with core strength and participation in everyday activities. PT helped open the doors to new activities and possibilities for him.

“In physical therapy, they worked on strengthening Peter’s core in playful ways,” says Haley. “Now he sits upright when he swings.”

The best thing you can do as a parent is to encourage your child to overcome new obstacles, set up your home environment for success and praise even the smallest achievements.

Helpful Resources

BIG BLUE CANOPY | bigbluecanopy.com
Offers age-appropriate activity ideas and more.

CONNECTING FOR KIDS | connectingforkids.com
Education and support for families.

CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION | cdc.gov
Provides tools to help you navigate physical therapy, early intervention and more.

CINCINNATI CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER | cincinnatichildrens.org
The Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy (OTPT) division offers specialized and personalized services.

The post Road to Physical Therapy appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.

Families with special needs children ages 3 – 16 can learn how to get involved by visiting All Abilities Sports NKY here.

The post All Abilities Sports in NKY Lets ALL Kids Get in on the Fun appeared first on Cincinnati Family Magazine.