Weekly News Update

September 26, 2022

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Monday, September 26, 2022

Little boy playing on therapy swing.
Parent Support Group for Families of Children Newly Diagnosed with Autism

Have you recently received an autism diagnosis for your child? Join us for a 4-week virtual support group for CTC parents and caregivers. You will have space to ask questions, talk about next steps, and learn four key strategies that are designed to impact your child’s development. This group is intended for families with children ages 1-5.

  • Monday, October 17, 2022 from 1:00-2:00 pm
  • Monday, October 24, 2022 from 1:00-2:00 pm
  • Monday, October 31, 2022 from 1:00-2:00 pm
  • Monday, November 7, 2022 from 1:00-2:00 pm

Please e-mail Ronda at ronda@ctckids.org to register. Please let us know if you require an interpreter. Click here to add the October 17 event to your calendar.

This Autism Support Group is hosted in partnership with UW Autism Center and Haring Center.

Does Your Child Communicate Using an AAC?

AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) users – and anyone currently considering using one – are welcome to join Smooth Talkers, an AAC-User and family meetup for people of all ages and abilities who use technology to communicate. This series is presented by our friends at The Arc of King County. Visit their website to learn more.

Saturdays from 10-11am, in-person

  • October 1st
  • November 12th
  • December 10th

CTC Parent Support Group on Facebook

Are you a member? Join this private, closed group for CTC parents and caregivers to share information, tips, and support for other parents on the special needs journey!

Monday, September 19, 2022

Safety Bracelets for Kids

It’s common for children who have autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to run or wander away from caregivers or secure locations. This is called elopement. Elopement is common in children with autism and can be a traumatic situation for a child and caregivers. Is your child at risk for elopement? Here are a few resources for safety bracelets and devices that our therapy teams suggest exploring:

AngelSense Personal GPS Tracker for Kids, Teen, Autism, Special Needs, Elderly, Dementia https://a.co/aRlO14d

MakeMeThis Plain ID Bracelet https://amazon.com/dp/B006E9EEYO/ref=cm_sw_r_api_i_BFF31B4CXNY0AVFY62EY_0

Building Courage in Kids and Teens

Karen Young is the author of three books, including the bestselling ‘Hey Warrior’ and ‘Hey Awesome’, which creatively assist children to understand and manage anxiety. Her website, Hey Sigmund, emphasizes strengthening the mental wellness of children and adolescents.

This week, we’re highlighting one of her articles that might be especially helpful for parents and caregivers as their children transition from summer to school.

Anxiety in Kids and the Calming, Brave-Building Power of Touch

We have something at our fingertips, literally, which is so incredibly powerful that it can calm anxiety and gently open the way to brave behaviour. It’s touch, and when we use it in ways that are safe, warm, and invited, it can soothe anxiety and help the brain and body come to rest. 

Karen Young
CTC’s Move-A-Thon is HERE!

Come join the fun! Movement is for everyone, regardless of ability, and from September 19-25 we invite you to walk, wiggle, roll, clap, or splash to help raise funds for Children’s Therapy Center! You and your child can participate virtually or in-person (on September 24 at Ft. Steilacoom in Tacoma). Learn more here and register today!

Monday, September 12, 2022

Sensory Day at the Museum of Flight

Saturday, October 8 from 8:00 to 10:00 AM. Sensory Days are for families of children, teenagers and young adults with disabilities including intellectual disabilities, autism, sensory processing disorders and other cognitive disabilities. Families will get access to the Museum during off-hours where they can explore and self-guide through the galleries with adjusted light and sound for the best possible experience. The experience is FREE, but pre-registration is required.

New Executive Director for Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council

After an exhaustive national search, the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council is proud to welcome Brandi Monts as our new Executive Director. Brandi began her duties on September 1, 2022. You are invited to reach out to her in welcome and with your insights into the future of advocacy and resource development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Read more!

Monday, August 29, 2022

Child playing with bubbles
Best Starts for Kids Announces New Child Care Subsidy Program for King County Residents

Best Starts for Kids is a King County voter-approved initiative to support every baby born or child
raised in King County to reach adulthood happy, healthy, safe and thriving. Starting in 2022,
these investments include a new child care subsidy program! Families who meet the eligibility
requirements may qualify to receive help paying for their child care.

This newly created subsidy program is also focused on populations that have faced disproportionate barriers in accessing child care. This includes Black, Indigenous, and communities of color (BIPOC), immigrant communities and children with disabilities – so these families can sustainably access child care.  

Who could benefit from this opportunity? Families may be eligible for the subsidy if they:
● Live in King County
● Have one or more children age 12 or under
● Choose a licensed child care provider
● Are not eligible for Washington State’s Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) subsidy);
and
● Fall within the income eligibility

For more information, including a detailed Frequently Asked Questions section, please visit:
www.bskchildcare.org

Free Bus Passes for Children

Starting September 1, 2022, children 18 and under can take public transportation free. Applies to: Community Transit, King County Metro, King County Water Taxi, Everett Transit, Pierce Transit, Sound Transit, Kitsap Ferries, and Kitsap Transit.
Visit https://www.piercetransit.org/FreeYouthPass/ for more information.

Parent Support Group for Families of Children Newly Diagnosed with Autism

Have you recently received an autism diagnosis for your child? Join us for a 4-week virtual support group for CTC parents and caregivers. You will have space to ask questions, talk about next steps, and learn four key strategies that are designed to impact your child’s development. This group is intended for families with children ages 1-5.

Please e-mail Kate at katew@ctckids.org or Ronda at ronda@ctckids.org to register. Please let us know if you require an interpreter.

This Autism Support Group is hosted in partnership with UW Autism Center and Haring Center.

CTC’s Move-A-Thon is September 19-25!

Come join the fun! Movement is for everyone, regardless of ability, and from September 19-25 we invite you to walk, wiggle, roll, clap, or splash to help raise funds for Children’s Therapy Center! You and your child can participate virtually or in-person (on September 24 at Ft. Steilacoom in Tacoma). Learn more here and register today!

Monday, August 22, 2022

LAST CHANCE! Adaptive Rec Pool Party in Renton

Mark your calendars for this fun event coming up August 26! One of CTC’s occupational therapists says, “A few of the families I serve have attended these and say they are fantastic. Not too busy and overall less overwhelming, sensory-wise.” Click here for more information.

https://www.facebook.com/RentonCommunityServices/posts/395693205934086

CTC Parent Support Group on Facebook

Are you a member? Join this private, closed group for CTC parents and caregivers to share information, tips, and support for other parents on the special needs journey!

Monday, August 15, 2022

CTC Parent Support Group on Facebook

Are you a member? Join this private, closed group for CTC parents and caregivers to share information, tips, and support for other parents on the special needs journey!

Parent Support Group for Families of Children Newly Diagnosed with Autism

Have you recently received an autism diagnosis for your child? Join us for a 4-week virtual support group for CTC parents and caregivers. You will have space to ask questions, talk about next steps, and learn four key strategies that are designed to impact your child’s development. This group is intended for families with children ages 1-5.

Please e-mail Kate at katew@ctckids.org or Ronda at ronda@ctckids.org to register. Please let us know if you require an interpreter.

This Autism Support Group is hosted in partnership with UW Autism Center and Haring Center.

CTC’s Move-A-Thon is September 19-25!

Come join the fun! Movement is for everyone, regardless of ability, and from September 19-25 we invite you to walk, wiggle, roll, clap, or splash to help raise funds for Children’s Therapy Center! You and your child can participate virtually or in-person (on September 24 at Ft. Steilacoom in Tacoma). Learn more here and register today!

Monday, August 8, 2022

Luke and Mom

Adaptive Rec Pool Party!

Mark your calendars for this fun event coming up August 26! One of CTC’s occupational therapists says, “A few of the families I serve have attended these and say they are fantastic. Not too busy and overall less overwhelming, sensory-wise.” Click here for more information.

https://www.facebook.com/RentonCommunityServices/posts/395693205934086

CTC’s Move-A-Thon is September 19-25!

Come join the fun! Movement is for everyone, regardless of ability, and from September 19-25 we invite you to walk, wiggle, roll, clap, or splash to help raise funds for Children’s Therapy Center! You and your child can participate virtually or in-person (on September 24 at Ft. Steilacoom in Tacoma). Learn more here and register today!

How to Get Your Kid Moving!

Looking for ways to fill the time inside at home? Interested in ideas to help your child get moving? Check out these fun suggestions from therapists – and practice your own version of “stealth therapy” right in your living room!

Summertime Fun for Kids

Pacific Science Center: “Exploration for All” program for families affected by autism. Monthly events in the morning (8-10:00am) or evening (6:30-8:30pm). Lights are dimmed, noise is decreased. Sensory guide available that maps exhibits with noise level, visual stimulation, touch and feel, and strong odors. Admission is free, entry through the North entrance only. https://www.pacificsciencecenter.org/events-programs/exploration-for-all/ Call for dates and times. 206-443-2844

KidsQuest Children’s Museum: Free low-sensory afternoons on the third Thursday of the month, 3:00-5:00pm. Low-sensory bags available for check-out include fidgets, headphones, sunglasses. Pre-register by calling 425-637-8100 or visiting https://www.kidsquestmuseum.org/accessibility-and-inclusion/low-sensory-opportunities/

Seattle Aquarium: The aquarium provides sensory bags and weighted lap pads. Bags include fidgets, headphones, etc. https://www.seattleaquarium.org/sensory-inclusive The aquarium also offers $2 off admission for persons with disabilities, and an aide/caregiver may accompany for free (no reservation needed for aide). https://www.seattleaquarium.org/discounts

Monday, August 1, 2022

Sensory Friendly Activities for Summertime!

Note: The following events and activities are not endorsed by Children’s Therapy Center, and are not a complete list of all available resources and discounts.

Check out this link for information about sensory friendly places in Washington: https://www.belikebuddy.com/washington

  • Point Defiance Zoo: The zoo offers free days for seniors and people with disabilities (one caregiver gets in free as well). https://www.pdza.org/visit/senior-day/
  • Woodland Park Zoo: $2 off regular admission for person with a disability, one aide/caregiver is complimentary. You do not need to reserve an online ticket for the aide; they will be accommodated at the zoo entrance.  https://www.zoo.org/discounts
  • We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym: A gym in Federal Way that offers a wide variety of sensory activities for young children. Single day passes and memberships available, plus field trips, parent respite provided by a dedicated attendant, parties, and classes. https://www.werockthespectrumfederalway.com/
  • Sensory-friendly movies: AMC at Kent Station partners with the Autism Society to offer movies with the lights up, sound down, and the ability to move around. You can sing and dance too! Sensory-friendly films are on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month. *Some reports of this being hit or miss – call ahead! https://www.amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films

CTC Parent Support Group on Facebook

Are you a member? Join this private, closed group for CTC parents and caregivers to share information, tips, and support for other parents on the special needs journey!

Reduced Cost Services Guide from Washington State Department of Social and Health Services

The Reduced Cost Services Guide (English) (Español) highlights a variety of products and services available in or near Washington that are offered at reduced cost for people meeting certain income levels.

Save the Date! CTC’s 2nd Annual Move-A-Thon September 19-24!

Join CTC’s annual fundraiser to support the children we serve and their families — virtually and in-person! This year, we’ll have our first in-person event on Saturday, September 24 at Fort Steilacoom Park in Lakewood with an accessible ride, roll, walk, run around the lake, followed by performances, food trucks, a community resource fair and family-friendly and accessible games and activities.

Visit us at https://moveathon.ctckids.org/ to learn more!

Parent Support Group for Families of Children Newly Diagnosed with Autism

Have you recently received an autism diagnosis for your child? Join us for a 4-week virtual support group for CTC parents and caregivers. You will have space to ask questions, talk about next steps, and learn four key strategies that are designed to impact your child’s development. This group is intended for families with children ages 1-5.

Please e-mail Kate at katew@ctckids.org or Ronda at ronda@ctckids.org to register. Please let us know if you require an interpreter.

This Autism Support Group is hosted in partnership with UW Autism Center and Haring Center.

Monday, July 25, 2022

Parent Support Group for Families of Children Newly Diagnosed with Autism

Have you recently received an autism diagnosis for your child? Join us for a 4-week virtual support group for CTC parents and caregivers. You will have space to ask questions, talk about next steps, and learn four key strategies that are designed to impact your child’s development. This group is intended for families with children ages 1-5.

Please e-mail Kate at katew@ctckids.org or Ronda at ronda@ctckids.org to register. Please let us know if you require an interpreter.

This Autism Support Group is hosted in partnership with UW Autism Center and Haring Center.

High Temperatures Coming – Be Prepared!

Our friends at Informing Families offer a variety of helpful resources and safety tips on their website. Visit https://informingfamilies.org/heatwave/

Kaleidoscope Play & Learn Classes at CTC

Offered weekly at our Maple Valley location and at J.J. Smith Elementary School in Enumclaw. Come join the fun!

Spina Bifida Walk-n-Roll

The 13th Annual Walk-N-Roll for Spina Bifida will continue this year as an IN-PERSON event on August 6, 2022. The event is a non-competitive fitness fundraiser open to individuals of all ages and abilities.
https://secure.frontstream.com/13th-annual-spina-bifida-walk-n-roll
Location: Bradley Lake Park 531 31st Ave SE Puyallup, WA 98374

Monday, July 18, 2022

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Summer Story Time in Burien with King County Library System

Garden Family Story Time at Highline Botanical Garden – Every Friday from 12:00 – 12:45 pm. Next event: Friday, July 22. For kids up to age 5. Enjoy stories, music, movement, rhymes and crafts in the rose garden at Highline SeaTac Botanical garden.

Outdoor Family Story Time at Burien’s Town Square Park – Every Wednesday from 12:30 – 1:00 pm. Next event: Wednesday, July 20.

Families of Color Seattle (FOCS) Parent Groups

FOCS Parent groups are facilitated gatherings to increase parenting skills and provide a space to discuss identity and race. Gatherings are eight to ten weekly, two-hour sessions. FOCS curriculum includes dialogue on racism, identity, and the tools to best support raising strong and compassionate children of color. Facilitators are parents themselves with lived experience specific to the group. Learn more here!

Monday, July 11, 2022

Mother and child.

Is Your Child a Picky Eater?

Are you making separate meals for your child from the rest of the family? Do they only eat the same handful of food options, and they “burn out” resulting in fewer food options? Do they have a meltdown when you change something about the food but it’s still the same food? We have some suggestions!

Summer Meal Programs Now Open!

Free Summer Meals programs are open to all families and don’t ask for any paperwork—kids can just drop in and grab a meal. Many sites also offer fun activities that help kids stay active and engaged when school is out. Click below for options available in your neighborhood.

Summer Activities for Kids

Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to local museums simply by presenting their EBT card. Due to COVID-19, many participating museums have adjusted their hours and ticket purchasing policies. Before visiting a museum, please call or check their website to see if they are open or require advance registrations. Many museums are offering virtual resources—check your local museum’s website for more information.

Headed to the library? Visit these helpful websites!

King County Library (KCLS)

  • KCLS allows cardholders to print free passes from its website. Available museums and passes are found here.
  • Did you know that KCLS museum passes are available for several local places including KidsQuest Children’s Museum, Washington State History Museum, Museum of Flight, Northwest African American Museum, and Seattle Aquarium? For details or to reserve a pass online, visit the KCLS Museum Pass page.

Pierce County Library (PCL)

  • Pierce County Library (PCL) cardholders can get a free museum pass using a valid PCL library card at your local library.
  • Pierce County museum passes are available for Foss Waterway Seaport, Harbor History Museum, Lakewold Gardens, Museum of Glass, Tacoma Art Museum, and Washington State History Museum.

More Staff Picks for Summer Fun

  • Kids Summerstage in Auburn is an exciting children’s outdoor entertainment series that will be LOADS of fun for kiddos and the adults who bring them! Pack up a picnic lunch and enjoy the performances!
  • Kent Parks Summer Playground and Lunch Program is the place for games, sports, arts & crafts, water games, story time, and more! This program is FREE and provides your child with an active way to enjoy their time off from school. Kent School District Food Services will provide a free lunch every day for children under the age of 18. 
  • The city of Renton offers a fun summer concert series!
https://moveathon.ctckids.org/

Save the Date! CTC’s 2nd Annual Move-A-Thon September 19-24!

Join CTC’s annual fundraiser to support the children we serve and their families — virtually and in-person! This year, we’ll have our first in-person event on Saturday, September 24 at Fort Steilacoom Park in Lakewood with an accessible ride, roll, walk, run around the lake, followed by performances, food trucks, a community resource fair and family-friendly and accessible games and activities.

Visit us at https://moveathon.ctckids.org/ to learn more!

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