[Source: Medical X Press]
 

While most Down syndrome research has focused on the brain, a new report by Johns Hopkins University biologists uncovers how the disorder hampers a separate part of the nervous system that plays a key role in health and longevity.
 

The paper, to be published Dec. 14 in the journal Nature Communications, traces complex biochemical signals leading to peripheral nervous system dysfunction found in people with Down syndrome.

[Source:  Psych Central]
 

A new study of Finnish children has found that exposure to bullying as a child was associated with psychiatric disorders in adulthood that required treatment.
 

For the study, a team of researchers led by Andre Sourander, M.D., Ph.D., of the University of Turku in Finland, examined the associations between bullying behavior at age 8 and adult psychiatric outcomes by age 29.    The study used data from 5,034 Finnish children. Assessments of bullying and exposure to bullying were based on information from the children, their parents and teachers. Information on the use of inpatient and outpatient services to treat psychiatric disorders from ages 16 to 29 was obtained from a nationwide hospital register.

[Source:  Science Daily]
 

Using antidepressants during pregnancy greatly increases the risk of autism, Professor Anick Bérard of the University of Montreal and its affiliated CHU Sainte-Justine children's hospital revealed. Prof. Bérard, an expert in the fields of pharmaceutical safety during pregnancy, came to her conclusions after reviewing data covering 145,456 pregnancies. "The variety of causes of autism remain unclear, but studies have shown that both genetics and environment can play a role," she explained.

"Our study has established that taking antidepressants during the second or third trimester of pregnancy almost doubles the risk that the child will be diagnosed with autism by age 7, especially if the mother takes selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, often known by its acronym SSRIs." Her findings were published in JAMA Pediatrics.

We have a great opportunity for an Occupational Therapist to work in the schools with us for the remainder of the 2015-2016 school year. This position is full time in the Tri-Cities area. The therapist will work with elementary through high school aged students with a broad range of disabilities.  We are able to consider new graduates for this opening.
 

Qualifications: Must hold appropriate Degree in Occupational Therapy; a current state license (or eligible) if applicable. ESA certificate to work in schools required.

[Source:  PreKinders.com]
 

The kids in my class love these "I Have, Who Has" card games. There are many of these games that teach skills, but here is a fun version for Christmas. Bring these out when your class gets antsy from all the holiday excitement, or use them for a Christmas party game. You can find more of my "I Have, Who Has" games for Numbers, Shapes, and Wildlife Animals at these links
 

I play this game with the class at large group and small group. Once the children understand how to play, I'll add the cards to a center so children can play on their own. You can even use it as a transition activity by having the kids line up as soon as they have "read" their card and put it in the basket.