The Schoolhouse Store has quite a selection of items for special needs. Right now you can save up to 50% on those items. So get ready for the school year and save now! Remember, there's ALWAYS free shipping at the Schoolhouse Store.
While you're in the Store, treat yourself and your family to a two-year subscription of TOS Magazine. You'll be interested to know that our popular Grab Bag promotion is in progress. Be one of the first 100 to purchase a new or renewing two-year (U.S) print subscription AND the 2009 Schoolhouse Planner, and you'll receive 38 gifts in all! Plus, shipping on all the gifts is FREE! Go here to find out more.
Right Track Reading LLC
20% Off
Get your reader on the right track with Right Track Reading Lessons books!
Whether you suspect you have a child with Attention Deficit Disorder or ADHD or you have an official diagnosis, it goes without saying that you're exhausted . . .
That's where this E-Book steps in. It will help you figure out the questions you need to ask. Knowing the right questions to ask is the first step in gaining control.
Ruth Wacker
50% Off
Buy Understanding Down Syndrome: A Practical Guide for Young Readers E-Book for ONLY $1.50
This E-Book utilizes family interviews and numerous photos to educate youngsters about Down syndrome. Readers will perform simulation exercises that give them a small feel for what it's like to live with Down syndrome. Finally, readers will discover that philanthropy can be fun!
We trust you are keeping cool this summer! As most of you know we moved into a professional building in March of this year. While there is always more to do we are ready to invite all of you to come see our new work place. We are celebrating this move with some special activities all through the month of August. See the attached flier.
Open House & Curriculum Sale – August 3-27 (Mondays through Thursdays only) – 10:00-4:00
New and used curriculum, household items – new items all month and consignments welcome.
Free Introductory Lecture – Maximize Learning Potential – 6:00 p.m. on August 10 (This is offered every 2nd Monday evening of the month.)
Meet the Teachers @ Center for Neuro Development – August 10 – 7:00 p.m.
Workshop – Brain Development and Learning – Saturday, August 22 9:00-1:00 $20.00 per family.
We are attaching two other documents: Our Fall Class Schedule and Assessments, Evaluations and More!
With the move, we have changed our name from Master Enterprises Learning Center to Center for Neuro Development. We continue to offer services (classes, testing and consultation) to homeschoolers and are adding more services for families who face learning challenges. We are keeping Special Helps and Homeschool Helps so it is either Homeschool Helps @ Center for Neuro Development OR Special Helps @ Center for Neuro Development.
Also, we have a new mailing address: P.O. Box 99369 Lakewood, Washington 98496-0369
Our physical address is: 8907 C Gravelly Lake Drive SW Lakewood, Washington 98499
Classes begin September 8 so August is the time to prepare.
In the Master’s Name,
Ronnie and Maggie Dail
ATTACHMENT INFORMATION BELOW:
Open House & Curriculum Sale
August 3 – August 27 (Mondays through Thursdays only)
10:00 – 4:00
Come see the Center for Neuro Development, find out about what we do, what classes we are offering beginning in September, AND find some bargains on new and used curriculum and household items. New items all month – consignments welcome.
Free Introductory Lecture –
Maximize Learning Potential
6:00 p.m. on August 10
(Every 2nd Monday evening of the month.)
Meet the Teachers @ Center for Neuro Development
August 10 7:00 p.m.
Workshop -
Brain Development and Learning
Saturday, August 22 9:00-1:00
$20.00 per family
Individualized Online Classes
A Writer’s Guide To Powerful Paragraphs
Biographies – 8 books and 8 essays
Write Your Roots –by Carol Thaxton
Learn to Write the Novel Way by Carol Thaxton
Literature and Christianity 1 Tape/3 books/9 essays
Writing Powerful Personal Narratives / College Applications
Contemporary Issues and Position Papers
How Should We Then Live and Position Papers
Courses may be customized. Contact us for details
2009-2010 Online Class –
Economics / Composition
Students read books and respond to questions posed by the instructor – short answer, paragraphs or essays – on a private yahoo group.
Politically Incorrect Guide to Capitalism
Uncle Eric’s: Wha ever Happened to Penny Candy?; The Clipper Ship Strategy and The Money Mystery
Academy Northwest Classes
2009-2010
Tuesdays – 1:00-3:00
1st Semester - Life Practicum - .5 credit
2nd Semester - Integrated Science Lab – up to 1.0 Credit
Homeschool Helps Classes
Spanish – Family Fun with Conversational Spanish – Tuesday evenings 6:00-8:00
Elementary Class – This class covers a variety of areas using Charlotte Mason methods with elements of Classical Education. Thursday – 1:00-3:00
Picture This – book of Bible and memory verses
Logic Activities (Critical Thinking Press)
Exposure to French, German and Spanish
Latin and Greek Roots for English vocabulary
Science Kit (www.homeschoolscience.com)
Story of the World by Susan Wise Bauer
Brain Training – Individualized (Diagnostic) Math, Language Arts or Neurodevelopmental Program – Up to 3 hour periods to provide a combination of neurodevelomentally friend stations and one-on-one time with teacher.
Up to 5 days a week. Monday – Thursday
10:00-1:00 or Monday – Friday 4:00-5:00
Classes and Seminars for Parents
Able to Teach – Family Academy’s parent qualifying class.
Offered as hybrid (class and online)at:
TCC in Tacoma and Gig Harbor
(253) 566-5020 and (253) 851-2424
Pierce College – South Hill Park
(253) 964-6502
and completely online through:
Cascade Bible College (Family Academy contact) (800) 877-4586
Homeschooling the High Schooler – contact us for information.
Maximize Your Child’s Learning Potential – 2 hour seminar. www.specialhelps.com (Offered free 2nd Monday evening of every month at the Center for Neuro Development at 6:00 p.m.)
Brain Development and Learning (Reading, Math, Other Subjects) – sometimes given as an all day or series of 2 hour seminars.
www.specialhelps.com
maggie@homeschoolhelps.com www.homeschoolhelps.com
maggie@specialhelps.com www.specialhelps.com
mdail@academynorthwest.net www.academynorthwest.org
Assessments, Evaluations and More
Non-Test Assessment – up to 2 hours; $50.00
PIAT-R (Peabody Individual Achievement Test-Revised) – Given orally - General Information, Reading Recognition, Reading Comprehension, Math and Spelling
Optional – evaluation of a one-page writing sample – corrected with criteria; instructional lesson for one area of concern) - $10.00
Each additional half hour $10.00
Neurodevelopment Screening (auditory and visual processing; dominance)
NTA Report
Fulfills requirement for annual homeschool assessment in Washington State.
Non-Test Assessment Plus – up to 3 hour assessment; 1 hour consultation after 3 months and brief telephone / e-mail consultation for 6 months. $200.00
PIAT-R (Peabody Individual Achievement Test –Revised) – Given orally - General Information, Reading Recognition, Reading Comprehension, Math and Spelling)
Optional – evaluation of a one-page writing sample – corrected with criteria; instructional lesson for one area of concern) - $10.00
Each additional half hour $10.00
Complete handedness /dominance profile
Reflex Checklist
Assess Auditory and Visual Processing
Assess Gross Motor Function
Plan of Action (POA) - activities to address difficulties, how to teach reading, math, other subjects using own, as appropriate or recommended materials.
NTA Report
Fulfills requirement for annual homeschool assessment in Washington State.
Homeschool Helps or Special Helps Consultation Fees
(To follow up on a NTA or NTA-Plus)
$50.00 – monthly w/ 1 year agreement
$60.00 – monthly w/o 1 year agreement
Except for short times here and there, we are HERE for you this summer. While we all like to “take the summer off” there is only one sector in society that really does that – school. In life we usually take shorter times off. For individuals of all ages who have learning challenges, “taking the summer off” can be devastating. Have you ever noticed that the first six weeks of school is just review? If you take shorter times off, not as much time is needed for review. Summer is an excellent time to have evaluations and get started on an Individualized Neurodevelopmental Plan. We have a 3-day a week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) Brain Training Session beginning on July 14 and lasting through August 21. This 6-week program is ideal to jumpstart learning. If you cannot do all 6 weeks, you can pay by the week. Contact us to find out how to get started – maggie@centerforneurodevelopment.com (253) 581-1588
ADD: A Neurodevelopmental Approach
Kay Ness, ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist
Attention Deficit Disorder is a common diagnosis of school age children. With the prevalence of this diagnosis, approximately 5 to 10% of the school-aged children according to the Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy, it is important that parents understand exactly what this label is, what it means, how it is determined and alternatives that are available for their children.
ADD is defined as "a persistent and frequent pattern of developmentally inappropriate inattention and impulsively, with or without hyperactivity." The DSM-IV criteria for ADD include nine signs of inattention, six signs of hyperactivity, and three signs of impulsivity. All signs do not have to be present for a child to receive the diagnosis of this permanent mental disability. It is important to note the subjectivity of this diagnosis: there are no objective medical tests, no brain scans, no blood tests, no scientifically objective criteria to establish that anyone has this permanent psychological disorder. The Merck Manual states, "diagnosis is difficult. No particular organic signs or set of neurological indicators is specific, and no specific test has been validated." Diagnosis is based on observation by parents, psychological professionals and teachers who complete a checklist. Based on a checklist, an individual is labeled with a mental disorder. So, the parent is confronted by a situation where their child has been saddled with a label based on symptoms.
There is Life after “Learning Disabilities” Part 2
Many parents wonder how their child with learning struggles will do in the future – there can be a bright future. Last month you read the story of a mom and now you can read her son’s college essay. (If you missed that issue, link to it from our home page: www.centerforneurodevelopment.com) Today J is in a college and doing well.
How have hardships or challenges you have faced in your life influenced your decision to apply to a military Academy? What have you learned from these experiences?
For the past 15 years, I have started my day looking at the words “Beat Navy”. A black and gold sweat towel hangs on my bedroom wall with these words. My Father gave this towel to me when I was a little boy. “Beat Navy” is a phrase I heard over and over again from my family – my Dad, my uncle and my brother – all West Point grads. It was spoken with such meaning and passion. It was almost as if they were in love with the phrase. Why is “Beat Navy” such a significant phrase? I believe I have learned the answer, which is portrayed in the following story.
“Mrs. B., J. is a very nice boy, however, he has many problems. He doesn’t focus during class time, he struggles with his peers, and he is loud and distracting. We just don’t ever see J. amounting to much in life or going very far.” My first grade teacher to my mother said this during a parent-teacher conference. This was how my teachers and classmates saw me from kindergarten through the second grade. I was labeled a problem child with learning disabilities and was written-off by most everyone except my family.
I did have a variety of issues such as dyslexia, hypersensitive hearing and memory problems. Though everyone wanted to know “why”, the real matter was “now what?” Odds seemed to be against me. However, my loving parents took me out of grade school after the 2nd grade to be home-schooled because they knew we could beat these problems. My wonderful mother knew of my potential and was determined to fix her son and prove all of the non-believers wrong. Though it took years, guidance from expensive experts, and lots of patience and love, we succeeded.
I returned to a regular school environment for the 6th grade. As a high school student, I used this experience of being labeled a failure to fuel my attitude and desire to be best - in academics, athletics and school leadership. Now, I’m a straight A student, member of the National Honor Society, captain of high school sport teams and student government officer. I beat the odds, I “Beat Navy”.
Today, I understand that these words have such powerful meaning. These words are part of and reflect upon the passion, spirit, and service of the cadets preparing to serve their country at West Point. I credit my difficult school years for making me a perseverant and dedicated young man, ready to do my best all the time. I am ready to join the elite group of men and women who attend the United Sates Military Academy. I know West Point will be the perfect place for me to demonstrate my development and potential as a leader and servant soldier.
Position Available: Brain Training Coordinator
We are praying for God to send us a person or persons who will train to work with our clients and their parents on implementing Individualized Neurodevelopmental Plans. Contact us for more details.
What is Happening at the Center for Neuro Development?
The Center for Neuro Development presents a FREE Introductory Lecture at the Center the 2nd Monday of every month. The next one will be July 13, 2009! We begin at 6:00 p.m. Call for questions, get directions or just to let us know you will be joining us! Also, we are available to speak at your function. Call for information.
We are gearing up for a special summer session: July 14-August 20 We will be meeting 3 days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) during this session allowing families to take long weekend trips and still providing some consistency during the summer. If you know someone who faces learning challenges contact us. Those interested in this session please notify us as soon as possible as we need to schedule an assessment / evaluation. Those interested in the school year session beginning the 2nd week of September, be sure to get in touch with us so that the necessary assessment / evaluation will be done by the beginning of September.
Brain Development and Learning
4 hour workshop
in August – in Center, Lakewood and in Redmond
See below for details.
Fall Classes – See Below
For Academy Northwest and/or Independent Homeschool Classes
If you would like to offer classes in our center, please contact us for information, schedule a time to come by to visit our center so we can get to know you and submit class descriptions.
Brain Development and Learning
Learn how to apply what we know about brain development
to learning reading, math and other subjects.
Where and When? 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Two Opportunities:
Saturday, August 22 in Lakewood
CENTER FOR NEURO DEVELOPMENT
8907 Gravelly Lake Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington 98499
For directions: maggie@centerfordevelopment.com
(253) 581-1588
OR
Saturday, August 21 in Redmond
Randy and Joyce Eichenberger’s home in Redmond
For directions: eichenbe@verizon.net
(425) 881-9691
Browse excellent resources for more study!
How Much? $20.00 per family
(includes handouts)
Space is limited.
Send to: 8907 Gravelly Lake Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington 98499
(Or call with credit card information – (253) 581-1588)
Workshop Presenter? Maggie Dail, MA; ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalists Maggie has been teaching for 30 years in private schools and homeschooling groups. She and her husband, Ronnie operate Center for Neuro Development (formerly Master Enterprises Learning Center). She has an M.A. in Special Education. For more information call: (253) 581-1588 or e-mail: maggie@specialhelps.com. www.centerforneurodevelopment.com and www.specialhelps.com
Academy Northwest Classes
2009-2010
Maggie Dail
All Year Mostly Online
Economics and Composition
Up to 1.0 credit each
Weekly (with some breaks)
In Center Classes – 1:00-3:00 pm
1st Semester
Life Practicum
.5 credit
2nd Semester
Integrated Science Lab
Up to 1.0 Credit
Brain Training – (Independent or with ANW)
Math, Reading & More
Up to 5 days a week
(10:00 – 12:00 or 3:30-5:30)
ANW TUITION
One Credit Option Per Semester $100.00
Full Load Option Per Year
Registration - $90.00 (by 6/20)
$125.00 (after 6/20)
Tuition - $480.00
Homeschool Helps Tuition- Monthly
Brain Training
– 4 days a week
– $275 per month
OR
– 5 days a week
– $325 per month
Online or In Center
$75 month – each class
Home School Classes
Offered by Independent Teachers
Music - Mrs. Aimee Wilkins
2nd – 4th Grade
Tuesdays, 1:00 PM, 55 minutes
September 22, 2009 – November 10, 2009
Class Fee $65
Class minimum: 10
This class is designed to teach basic music theory, beginning vocal technique, and performance. The final class will be a dress rehearsal for a culminating performance celebrating Veteran’s Day that evening. Younger siblings not eligible for class, but who have memorized the songs will be invited to participate in the final rehearsal and performance. Class fee includes a practice CD.
Art - Mrs. Aimee Wilkins
2nd-4th Grade
Tuesdays, 2:15 PM, 74 minutes
September 8, 2009 – November 10, 2009
Class Fee $85
Class minimum: 10
“All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”
Pablo Picasso
This hands-on course will introduce students to different mediums and modes of artistic expression. Ranging from one-dimensional portraits to three-dimensional sculptures, the students will enjoy learning while creating. Students will be required to bring basic supplies to each session, and will leave each week with at least one project they have created.
Check back for more to be offered. If you would like to offer classes in our Center, contact us for more information, make an appointment so we can get to know you and submit your class offerings
--
Maggie Dail, MA
ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist
www.centerforneurodevelopment.com
Meet our Neuro Developmental Advisor and Evaluator
Cyndi Ringoen, BA, BS
ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist
Co-Founder and President of ICAN
As a teen, Cyndi began volunteering in schools for the disabled and in special education classrooms. Later she worked with many of her own foster and adopted children who had different physical and academic challenges. In her research, she found the neurodevelopmental program. She began volunteering to help explain programs to parents and used this method with at least nine of her family members. In addition to the neurodevelopmental method, she realized that overall health was a key component to achieving wellness. She continues to search for better and more effective methods of dealing with health problems. She studied at Eastern Washington University earning degrees in Applied Psychology, BA, and Developmental Psychology BS Further she trained and worked with National Academy for Child Development (NACD) until leaving to co-found the International Christian Association of Neurodevelopmentalists.
www.icando.org www.can-do.net
Someone you know or love has been labeled “learning disabled.” What does this mean? What are you to do now? The first and most important thing you can do is try to find out and understand what exactly does this label mean. It absolutely does not mean that someone has a disease. It does not have anything to do with how intelligent a person is. And it does not mean you have to accept it and live a life learning how to ‘cope’ with this problem. You need to find out what exactly the underlying inefficiencies are and then start eliminating them.
Eliminate it?? Yes, learning disabilities can be eliminated. But in order to do that you must identity the causes, and create a plan of attack to address each of them. The reason that more learning disabilities are not eliminated has to do with how they are perceived. Often they are viewed as static - meaning they do not have the ability to change - they are what they are and nothing you can do will impact them. This is an incorrect view. Other times, professionals become microscopic in their assessment of learning problems. Meaning, each professional sees only within a very small, narrow scope-the width of their profession and expertise. If 15 clients with reading problems, came to be assessed, it is likely that such a professional would find somewhere between one to three reasons why the person was having a problem. And the worst part is that after you have paid for an assessment, often the professional identifies a problem or two and sends you on your way without the most important piece of information that you need. THE SOLUTION! In reality, if 15 clients came to me with a reading problem, it is likely that I might find 30 or more reasons or combination of reasons as to why reading wasn’t working for them. After identifying the major underlying problems it is then necessary to develop an individualized plan for addressing each area of inefficiency. Identifying and addressing each inefficiency is the key to eliminating the learning problems.
The organ that you use to learn with is your brain, therefore, if learning is a problem it becomes necessary to take a look at the brain and how it is functioning in order to pinpoint possible problem areas. According to Information Processing Theory, the components necessary for learning are the ability to Receive, Process, Store and Utilize information. By looking at each of these we may be able to find areas of weakness that are causing learning problems.
To read the rest of this article click here: http://www.specialhelps.com/Articles/LearningDisabilities.htm
There is Life after “Learning Disabilities”
Many parents wonder how their child with learning struggles will do in the future – there can be a bright future. Read the story of a mom and next month, her son’s college essay. Today J is in a college and doing well.
We know for certain that ND completely clears up dyslexia. Several years ago, our then 7-year-old son was failing in 2nd grade. He was the sweetest little boy on the planet, but just couldn't do anything successfully when it came to academics. Upon his first evaluation with Cyndi Ringoen, she confirmed that yes, he was dyslexic as all the experts (teachers etc) had been telling us. Not only that, but he was ADD and ADHD as well with a host of other problems thrown in too. She then offered us such hope and said...... ."Don’t worry, he's going to be easy to fix"! I sat across from her balling my head off. No one had ever given us hope before. No one...
Well, it did take some time...we kept plugging and patching and doing program to beat the band...years came and went...but it was our son, the very same 7 year old who is now 18 who stood on the podium just a few short months ago at his high school graduation proudly accepting his full-ride ROTC scholarship of $40,000.00 a year to the college of his choice. He also was awarded many other scholarships and awards (Kiwanis, Christian Athletic Scholarship) that evening that he proudly accepted as well.
J. not only has an organized brain now thanks to the ND approach, but he has a heart that lives for Jesus Christ and praises Him for all that he's been given. We couldn't be prouder of him if we tried. :) One of the neatest things is that when J. wrote his essay for college acceptance, he wrote about me, his mother doing ND with him and helping become the man that God intended him to be in the first place. I'd be happy to share this essay with anyone who would like to read it. It completely blessed my heart!
Keep doing program moms and dads. Keep plugging and patching. Don't give up!!! The very best is right around the corner for your child. It might not happen over night...but it will happen. Each month you'll see little changes.... some months you'll see many. And it might not look like our son's best, but it'll be God's very best for your child and you won't want to miss it.
Blessings,
J. B., proud ND mama for many years still happily doing program with bonus babies L. and L. after completing program with J. and J.
Position Available: Brain Training Coordinator
We are praying for God to send us a person or persons who will train to work with our clients and their parents on implementing Individualized Neurodevelopmental Plans. Contact us for more details.
What is Happening at the Center for Neuro Development?
The Center for Neuro Development presents a FREE Introductory Lecture at the Center the 2nd Monday of every month. The next one will be June 8, 2009! We begin at 6:00 p.m. Call for questions, get directions or just to let us know you will be joining us! Also, we are available to speak at your function. Call for information.
We are gearing up for a special summer session: July 14-August 20 We will be meeting 3 days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) during this session allowing families to take long weekend trips and still providing some consistency during the summer. If you know someone who faces learning challenges contact us. Those interested in this session please notify us as soon as possible as we need to schedule an assessment / evaluation by June 25. Those interested in the school year session beginning the 2nd week of September, be sure to get in touch with us so that the necessary assessment / evaluation will be done by the beginning of September.
Brain Development and Learning
4 hour workshop
in August – in Center, Lakewood and in Redmond
See below for details.
Fall Classes – See Below
For Academy Northwest and/or Independent Homeschool Classes
If you would like to offer classes in our center, please contact us for information, schedule a time to come by to visit our center so we can get to know you and submit class descriptions.
Brain Development and Learning
Learn how to apply what we know about brain development
to learning reading, math and other subjects.
Where and When? 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Two Opportunities:
Saturday, August 22 in Lakewood
CENTER FOR NEURO DEVELOPMENT
8907 Gravelly Lake Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington 98499
For directions: maggie@centerfordevelopment.com
(253) 581-1588
OR
Saturday, August 21 in Redmond
Randy and Joyce Eichenberger’s home in Redmond
For directions: eichenbe@verizon.net
(425) 881-9691
Browse excellent resources for more study!
How Much? $20.00 per family
(includes handouts)
Space is limited.
Send to: 8907 Gravelly Lake Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington 98499
(Or call with credit card information – (253) 581-1588)
Workshop Presenter? Maggie Dail, MA; ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalists Maggie has been teaching for 30 years in private schools and homeschooling groups. She and her husband, Ronnie operate Center for Neuro Development (formerly Master Enterprises Learning Center). She has an M.A. in Special Education. For more information call: (253) 581-1588 or e-mail: maggie@specialhelps.com. www.centerforneurodevelopment.com and www.specialhelps.com
Academy Northwest Classes
2009-2010
Maggie Dail
All Year Mostly Online
Economics and Composition
Up to 1.0 credit each
Weekly (with some breaks)
In Center Classes – 1:00-3:00 pm
1st Semester
Life Practicum
.5 credit
2nd Semester
Integrated Science Lab
Up to 1.0 Credit
Brain Training – (Independent or with ANW)
Math, Reading & More
Up to 5 days a week
(10:00 – 12:00 or 3:30-5:30)
ANW TUITION
One Credit Option Per Semester $100.00
Full Load Option Per Year
Registration - $90.00 (by 6/20)
$125.00 (after 6/20)
Tuition - $480.00
Homeschool Helps Tuition- Monthly
Brain Training
– 4 days a week
– $275 per month
OR
– 5 days a week
– $325 per month
Online or In Center
$75 month – each class
Home School Classes
Offered by Independent Teachers
Music - Mrs. Aimee Wilkins
2nd – 4th Grade
Tuesdays, 1:00 PM, 55 minutes
September 22, 2009 – November 10, 2009
Class Fee $65
Class minimum: 10
This class is designed to teach basic music theory, beginning vocal technique, and performance. The final class will be a dress rehearsal for a culminating performance celebrating Veteran’s Day that evening. Younger siblings not eligible for class, but who have memorized the songs will be invited to participate in the final rehearsal and performance. Class fee includes a practice CD.
Art - Mrs. Aimee Wilkins
2nd-4th Grade
Tuesdays, 2:15 PM, 74 minutes
September 8, 2009 – November 10, 2009
Class Fee $85
Class minimum: 10
“All children are artists. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.”
Pablo Picasso
This hands-on course will introduce students to different mediums and modes of artistic expression. Ranging from one-dimensional portraits to three-dimensional sculptures, the students will enjoy learning while creating. Students will be required to bring basic supplies to each session, and will leave each week with at least one project they have created.
Check back for more to be offered. If you would like to offer classes in our Center, contact us for more information, make an appointment so we can get to know you and submit your class offerings
--
Maggie Dail, MA
ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist
www.centerforneurodevelopment.com
Welcome to the first issue of our e-newsletter! While we have been working with homeschoolers with a special emphasis for those who have learning challenges since 1994, March 16, 2009 marks the day we opened the Center for Neuro Development. We have the benefit of having two Medical Advisors: Dr. Thomas Young and Dr. Gary Kiefer. Also, Cyndi Ringoen, co-founder and current president of the International Christian Association of Neurodevelopmentalists is our Neurodevelopmental Advisor.
What is the Neurodevelopmental Approach?
By Maggie Dail
Labels represent a group of symptoms exhibited by an individual. Many approaches target those symptoms. On the other hand, the Neurodevelopmental approach seeks to find the underlying neurodevelopmental causes and prepares an Individual Neurodevelopmental Plan. The Neurodevelopmentalist designs this INP with a list of activities that develop the areas of deficiency. Most often, labels limit expectations rather than lead to a solution. The Neurodevelopmentalist looks at the five sensory ways of sensory input: tactile (taste and smell), auditory and visual as well as the three areas of motor output: fine motor, expressive language and gross motor. All of these areas are necessary in the process of neurological organization.
To read the rest of this article: http://www.specialhelps.com/NeurodevelopmentalApproach.htm
For Parents Who Are Searching for An Alternative to Drugs for ADD / ADHD
At three years of age, our son was diagnosed with behavioral and social issues. He was unable to function or behave appropriately in a preschool or daycare setting. We were referred to Child Find, who, at that time, placed him in a special education classroom. Unfortunately, his behavior did not improve. In first grade he tried to put scissors to his neck while trying to cut himself saying that he wanted to die. He did this while in front of his class. The school psychologist suggested therapy, which we gladly tried. We were at a loss as to why and how he had gotten worse, especially since we were doing everything, short of medication, that we were asked to do by his teachers and school psychologist. During this time, his academics suffered greatly. He struggled to read and write and learn basic math concepts. He didn’t even fully know his ABC’s until the end of first grade and things did not get better. By the third grade, we were open to anything, including medication. We got a diagnosis of ADD along with a prescription for Ritalin. The first two weeks on the medication, we noticed a difference. He was calm and more easily controllable. Then one day it just stopped working for him. Even though he was taking the medication, it had no effect on him whatsoever. After doing much research online and with our family doctor, we found that to be a common problem with much of the different medication that is used for ADD and ADHD. Both our family and our doctor were shocked to see the different statistics against the usage of medication to treat this problem. The most impressive were the studies done after the children had reached puberty and were taken off the medication permanently. The numbers of illegal drug use among these children were 2:1. We knew then that we had to find something else.
Through a friend who had a child with learning disabilities, we found out about the neurodevelopmental approach. This approach addresses the issues with activities that are designed to specifically stimulate the brain causing normal development to occur, thus eliminating those difficulties. While this approach demands much of our time to date we have noticed a great deal of change. Our son is now able to focus on specific tasks as well as having an increase in self-esteem. His behavior has improved greatly and his social functioning is normal. He no longer fidgets or acts out inappropriately. His academics are steadily improving which has contributed to his increase in self-esteem. We no longer hear him call himself stupid and he no longer puts himself down or is unwilling to try new tasks for fear of failure. The neurodevelopment approach has done for our son is what medication, special education, and psychologists could not do. It has given us the tools to fix the core problems in his development, not just cover over it and hope that he will out grow it.
Finally, as parents, it is our responsibility to exhaust all methods before we subject them to the potential harm and lasting side effects of medication.
T and M. – May 15, 2005
What is Happening at the Center for Neuro Development?
The Center for Neuro Development presents a FREE Introductory Lecture at the Center the 2nd Monday of every month. Our first was in April. The next one will be May 11, 2009! We begin at 6:00 p.m. Call for questions, get directions or just to let us know you will be joining us!
We are gearing up for a special summer session: July 14-August 21 We will be meeting 3 days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday) during this session allowing families to take long weekend trips and still providing some consistency during the summer. If you know someone who faces learning challenges contact us. Those interested in this session please notify us as soon as possible as we need to schedule an assessment / evaluation by June 25. Those interested in the school year session beginning the 2nd week of September, be sure to get in touch with us so that the necessary assessment / evaluation will be done by the beginning of September.
Position Available: Brain Training Coordinator
We are praying for God to send us a person or persons who will train to work with our clients and their parents on implementing Individualized Neurodevelopmental Plans. Contact us for more details.
Note: If you have any questions regarding the contents of this newsletter or our program, please e-mail: maggie@centerforneurodevelopment.com or call: (253) 581-1588
Thank you!!!
--
Maggie Dail, MA
ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist
www.centerforneurodevelopment.com
Greetings!
Since 1994 we have spent our time serving families in a number of ways. Beginning this month, we are joining together with other professionals to continue our efforts of expanding the services we provide to families. We have opened the Center for Neuro Development, along with another another neurodevelopmentalist, two naturopathic doctors and possibly some other teachers. We will continue to offer Academy Northwest classes, homeschool testing as well as services to families with members who have learning difficulties.
The new website and e-mail address (top line above) have not been activated, but much of what we offer can be found on the other websites. You may contact us at any of the other e-mails. Our phone number has not changed.
Unless it is “out of center” testing, the address above is where we will be doing non-test assessments and standardized testing for homeschooling families.
Beginning on June 9, we will begin a “Brain Training” program on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings. In the fall, we will have morning and after-school sessions available for up to 5 days a week. Anyone who has learning difficulties will benefit from the assessment and training process. Beginning on April 13th we will give free, introductory lectures on the second Monday of every month. Call or e-mail with questions and to RSVP for the introductory lecture.
Feel free to share this information with anyone you know who may be interested.
In the Master’s Name,
Maggie Dail, M.A.
Washington State Certified Teacher
ICAN Certified Neurodevelopmentalist--
Homeschoolhelps @
Master Enterprises Learning Center
(253) 581-1588
www.homeschoolhelps.com
www.specialhelps.com
What's the big deal about using the word retard?
A lot of people are talking about the movie 'Tropic Thunder' that opened in
theaters Friday. One of the reasons that it is being talked about is that
the characters use the term 'retard' over and over. They use it the same way
that kids do all the time -- to jokingly insult one another. The people who
made the movie, DreamWorks and Paramount, and many of the critics who have
reviewed it, say that the term is being used by characters who are dumb and
shallow themselves.
You see, we are supposed to get the joke: Only the dumb and shallow people
use a term that means dumb and shallow. My dad tells me that this is called
'irony.'
So, what's the big deal? Let me try to explain. I am a 26-year-old man with
Down Syndrome. I am very lucky. Even though I was born with this
intellectual disability, I do pretty well and have a good life. I live and
work in the community. I count as friends the people I went to school with
and the people I meet in my job. Every day I get closer to living a life
like yours.
I am a global messenger for Special Olympics and make speeches to people
all over the country. I once spoke to more than 10,000 people at the
Richmond Coliseum. I realize that I am a voice for other people with
intellectual disabilities who cannot easily speak for themselves. I thank
God that he gave me this chance to be someone's voice.
The hardest thing about having an intellectual disability is the
loneliness. We process information slower than everyone else. So even normal
conversation is a constant battle for us not to lose touch with what the
rest of you are saying. Most of the time the words and thoughts just go too
fast for us to keep up, and when we finally say something it seems out of
place.
We are aware when all the rest of you stop and just look at us. We are
aware when you look at us and just say, 'unh-huh,' and then move on, talking
to each other. You mean no harm, but you have no idea how alone we feel even
when we are with you. That is why I love being a global messenger. I work
for days telling my dad what I want to talk about and he tries to write it
down for me. Then we do it over and over until we have something that says
what I mean. We wrote this column the same way.
So, what's wrong with 'retard'? I can only tell you what it means to me and
people like me when we hear it. It means that the rest of you are excluding
us from your group. We are something that is not like you and something that
none of you would ever want to be. We are something outside the 'in' group.
We are someone that is not your kind. I want you to know that it hurts to be
left out here -- alone. Nothing scares me as much as feeling all alone in a
world that moves so much faster than I do. You don't mean to make me feel
that way. In fact, like I say in some of my speeches, 'I have always
depended on the kindness of strangers,' and it works out OK most of the
time.
Still, it hurts and scares me when I am the only person with intellectual
disabilities on the bus and young people start making 'retard' jokes or
references. Please put yourself on that bus and fill the bus with people who
are different from you. Imagine that they start making jokes using a term
that describes you. It hurts and it is scary.
Last, I get the joke -- the irony -- that only dumb and shallow people are
using a term that means dumb and shallow. The problem is, it is only funny
if you think a 'retard' is someone dumb and shallow. I am not those things,
but every time the term is used it tells young people that it is OK to think
of me that way and to keep me on the outside.
That is why using 'retard' is a big deal to people like me.
John Franklin Stephens is a Special Olympics Virginia athlete and a global
messenger for the organization. Contact him at visteph@aol.com.
We have an awesome opportunity to learn about the neurodevelopment of our young learners, as well as help them overcome learning roadblocks!
WHO: Maggie Dail, M.A., - Certified Neurodevelopmentali st
WHAT: Seminar for parents
(Additional materials will be available to purchase)
WHEN: Tuesday, August 12th, 6:30 - 8:00pm
WHERE: Sunrise Baptist Church, Puyallup
12115 Shaw Rd. E., Puyallup, WA 98374
HOW: $5 per person NON-REFUNDABLE registration fee
Sent to: Holly Norquist
5633 A Street, Tacoma, WA. 98408
Make checks out to: Holly Norquist
Money due by: Friday June 20th
Space is limited, please reserve your spot today by sending registration fee. When the Seminar is full a posting will be sent out with a confirmation of all names attending.
Get this helpful information before school starts again and make a difference in your kids year!
Here is some of Maggie's bio. -
Ronnie and I are Christians (early adult; child) and are involved in our church, Academy Northwest, International Christian Association of Neurodevelopmentali sts and CareNet, all of which require us to be Christians. I also taught in the Immanual Co-op for 3 years and willing signed their statement of faith.
You can read About Us on our websites www.amazinggraceboo ks.com (in need of updating); www.homeschoolhelps .com; www.specialhelps. com . Also, www.academynorthwes t.com, www.familyacademy. org, www.icando.org
Holly Norquist
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future!
News, events and Information as it pertains to Homeschool Families in Washington State. Please note, posted information has not specifically been reviewed or is endorsed by The Old Schoolhouse Magazine or the volunteer blog coordinator. Please review posted information carefully to determine its suitability for your family. God bless your homeschooling journey.
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