May 9, 2007
Best Shoes to fit over AFO’s (Ankle-Foot Orthoses)
You don’t have to spend a ton of money on expensive shoes to fit over AFO’s. Many Physical Therapist will recommend get a wide width shoe from Payless or Wal-Mart. The ankle support is there in the AFO so the shoe is the to prevent slippage and for “style” . If you have a choice- look for mesh rather than leather- the leather will stretch out but the mesh will accommodate the AFO better.
Whether you choose laces, velcro or open back is a personal choice.
You can buy specially made shoes for AFO’s- from Keeping Pace ( which are quite cute) or Hatchback Footwear http://www.hatchbacksfootwear.com/index.htm , which are known for their ease of use BUT many kids find them to be on the heavy side.
Other suggestions for a shoe that works well with AFO’s-
http://www.biteshoes.com/ : These are quite funky and trendy looking- older kids will LOVE them.
New Balance : again buy these in wide width.
Stride Rite
K-Swiss
Adidas
Have you had particular luck with a shoe that fits well over your child’s AFO? Please share !
April 28, 2007
Portable Potty for Children with Cerebral Palsy and Special Needs
A product recommended by many moms – “On The Go Potty .” It is a portable potty that works well for children with special needs. Its totally portable and comes with self absorbing liners and disposable bags. No public toilet seats! It is great for travel or to take anywhere that you may not have access to a sanitary bathroom. It’s a clean potty for your child no matter where you go.
Sturdy well-balanced base helps your child feel secure.
Legs lock into place when opened.
Folds flat so it can fit in a purse or diaper bag.
A great potty to keep in your car, boat, camper or RV.
Uses self-absorbing, disposable liners that discard like a diaper.
Disposable liners hold up to 5 ounces of liquid.
Liners are lightly scented to absorb odors.
Liner handles secure to the potty and tie closed for disposal.
Drawstring carrying bag included.
Comes with 3 super absorbent, leak-proof and easy-to-use disposable liners
For ages 2 years and up to 50lbs
Order Brachiation Ladder Kits Online
I have written about Ben before, ( article on brachiation ladder kits here) here and how he began building brachiation ladders kits after his grandson was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. You can now order his kits ( and see photos too) online on his website : http://www.brachiationkits.com/index.html
The kits are made almost at cost- they really are a labor of love for Ben.
April 16, 2007
Getting a Donated AmTryke Therapeutic Tricycle for Children with Cerebral Palsy
The website www.ambucs.com offers children with disabilities the chance for independent movement by donating Amtrykes to special needs kids. For years, the AmTryke has benefited and delighted children with disabilities. It gives children the opportunity to experience the fun and independence of riding a bicycle with their siblings and friends.
This unique tricycle is hand and/or foot powered. It improves motor coordination, increases self-esteem and is fun to ride!
You can buy the tryke directly from them, get a partial donation or ask for a tryke to be donated. In return they ask that you donate the trike back to them when your child outgrows it so it can be placed with another special needs child.
A form will need to to be filled out by your child’s therapist requesting the Amtryke describing your child’s needs.
March 29, 2007
Money For Adaptive Equipment: Michigan Assistive Technology Loan Fund
Families with people or children with disabilities who want to buy special needs equipment are eligible for United Cerebral Palsy of Michigan’s Assistive Technology Loan Fund.
The Michigan Assistive Technology Loan Fund allows people with disabilities and seniors (or their family members) to buy assistive technology devices or services, including modification of vehicles and homes. The loan may also cover cost of training to use the purchased equipment, warranties,and service agreements.
What is considered assistive technology? Any item, piece of equipment or device that enables an individual with a disability to improve individual independence and quality of life. This can cover a wide range of items- from wheelchairs, strollers, clothing, communications aids- anything that will enhance quality of life and independence.
The loan is a low interest, fixed-rate loan available to Michigan residents.
If you would like to apply for a loan to purchase any item or piece of equipment that will help you, your child or family member contact Michigan Assistive Technology Loan Fund at 1.800.828.2714.
March 20, 2007
Text-to-Speech Tool for Face to Face Conversation
This is a very neat tool, Lightwriter from Spectronics. You may have seen in on the the MTV show, True Life featuring Jeremy, who is living with autism.
The communication device allows people and children with speech impairments, autism, laryngectomies, cerebral palsy and head injuries to interact and communicate with others face-to-face.
The Lightwriter is portable and fairly lightweight. After you turn it on, type your message into keyboard and it will appear on the display, OR can be spoken out loud with DECtalk speech synthesis.
March 14, 2007
Bath Seat for Children with Cerebral Palsy
Many parents have a hard time finding the right bath seat for their children living with cerebral palsy. Often times simply laying a child down in the water isn’t an option because of chronic ear infections. With smaller children most bath seats are simply to big or require the tub to be over filled. If you really need or want to use a bath seat, many parents with small children like this bath seat, or similar ones for children who cannot sit by themselves. Look for a seat with a high back and adjustable hand rails as well as ways to secure your child safely and comfortably.
Most insurance will cover the cost. If you need help with insurance you can always contact one of our Live CareCenter Specialists, who can provide support or advice.
February 27, 2007
Turning Automotive Seating (TAS) for Children with Wheelchair or Walker
What a great option. If your child has problems getting in and out of the car or uses a wheelchair or walker this may be a solution for you. A Turning Automotive Seat or TAS is now coming as an option on many makes of minivans. The seats actually turn or swivel to face the door, making it easy to get in and out of the van. The seat will simply take the place of a captains chair with little alteration. It can also move up or down with a power lift option. The TAS seat may also be covered under most insurance plans. I know both Dodge Caravan and Toyota Sienna have these seats available. You can also buy aftermarket from http://www.bruno.com/tas-models.html.
February 22, 2007
Compression Garments such as Theratogs and Benik “Wearable Therapy”
A wearable compression garment such as the ones made by Theratogs and Benik are often used in treatment of children with cerebral palsy. The garments are worn and then Velcro straps are used to provide support. The use of compression garments is also often called wearable therapy and it also helps with stability- helping with movement.
Many have achieved good results, specifically children with these conditions:
- Ataxia
- Hypotonia
- Intoed gait
- Out-toed gait
- Athetosis
- Weakness
- Muscle imbalance
The suit is worn under clothing and fits like a second skin. It looks a bit like a leotard. Using straps, different areas are given support.
To find out how to order you can visit these suppliers:
http://www.abilitations.com/
https://theradaptcom.terrasite.com/new/secure/frameMain.htm
December 20, 2006
Solutions for Finger Chewing in Children with Cerebral Palsy
Many children living with cerebral palsy with have different types of sensory issues. One behavior that often pops up in children is chewing their fingers, often as a form of self-soothing, and they will do it while bored or anxious.
There are several products you can buy, often referred to as “chewies,” a number of different products your children can safely chew can be found at Sensory Tools.
A cheap and easy solution many moms use is to cut sections (1-2 feet) of suction tubing or rubber tubing.
Older children, if they can manage, like chewing gum (sugarless will much easier on the teeth)!
