Mounting Research Shows Gut-Brain Connection

Lawmakers Look To Improve Care For Kids With Complex Needs

[Source:  Disability Scoop]
  

Finding care for children with medically complex or rare conditions can force parents to tap into networks of highly specialized physicians and hospitals scattered around the country.
 

This is especially challenging when the children are covered by Medicaid, because each state-run program has a different benefit package, payment structure and provider network. Conflicting regulations and paperwork requirements can delay treatment and lead to unnecessary hospitalizations. Medicaid's state-based rules also have thwarted efforts to develop a national clinical database researchers could use to find ways to improve the care of children with rare conditions.

Trunk Control, Gross Motor Function and Cerebral Palsy

[Source: Your Therapy Source]

30-Minute Naps May Boost Infants' Learning and Memory

[Source Medical News Today]
 

It seems like young infants spend most of the day sleeping, and according to the National Sleep Foundation, they do. On average, infants aged 3-11 months have around one to four naps a day, each lasting 30 minutes to 2 hours. Now, a new study finds these daytime naps may be key to a child's development, helping them remember newly learned skills and behavior.

Scientists Uncover Molecular Map of Autism-Related Genes

Past studies have identified numerous genes believed to play a role in the development of autism. Now, a new study reveals how scientists from the US have uncovered a molecular network consisting of some of these genes. It is hoped that the network will aid the discovery of new autism-related genes.

Lead study author Prof. Michael Snyder, of the Stanford Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine at Stanford School of Medicine in California, and colleagues publish their findings in the journal Molecular Systems Biology.

In Practice, IDEA Remedies May Not Be Available To All

[Source:  Disability Scoop]

Family income appears to be a major factor influencing whether parents will seek mediation or due process in special education disputes with their child's school district.

A nationwide survey of over 500 parents with children on the autism spectrum finds that families earning more than $100,000 a year are significantly more likely to pursue litigation compared to those with incomes that are half that level.

Hot Job:  Pediatric EI Speech-Language Pathologist - Fargo, ND  

New Grad Job of the Week:  School Psychologist Job - Monroe, WA 

Hot Job: Pediatric NICU Occupational Therapist  

We are working with a hospital facility in San Antonio who is in need of a n OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST in the NICU full time.  Hours are Monday through Friday with a Saturday rotation.  Hours can either be 7:30 - 4:00 or 8:00 - 4:30 dependent on the patients needs.

1 year NICU and pediatric experience required. 

POSITION SUMMARY/RESPONSIBILITIES
Plans, develops and implements professionally competent, comprehensive individual treatment programs for inpatients and outpatients in the NICU setting. Provides supervision of patient care duties

Pinboard of the Week:  Martin Luther King Themed Activities  

Are you looking for some fantastic activities to do for Martin Luther King Day?  Look no further than our Pinterest board!   There is some great stuff in here including word searches, craftivities, printable books, writing prompt, fine motor crafts, conversation starters, book recommendations, and more!

Sensory Activity of the Week: Rubbery Marshmallow Play Dough  

School Nurse?: Stand Up and Be Counted 

Pediatric Therapy Activity of Week: Conversation Heart Jump Game