Uniquely You - Michigan Detroit & Metropolitan Areas

02/13/2025

Thank you so much Student Advocacy Michigan for running such informative workshops on IEP Advocacy. Below is the link for the recording: Topic is: 504/IEP Problems: Actions You Can

https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/Em3hjKiMSDZ8yy4tGzGLTLov8YTa5bZe5fKMvGvG-gLYlIoZhSEYouT7WmLIE7Ji.bTDHj2M1J2Ybx9id?startTime=1738886377000

Passcode: Fp7=!ki6

Zoom is the leader in modern enterprise video communications, with an easy, reliable cloud platform for video and audio conferencing, chat, and webinars across mobile, desktop, and room systems. Zoom Rooms is the original software-based conference room solution used around the world in board, confer...

02/12/2025

Expressing Love to Your Child with Autism
BY EMILY CRANE, HEALING HAVEN

Our culture has preconceived ideas of what love looks like. Since autism can cause differences in communication, understanding of context, and atypical sensory perceptions, some may believe a person with autism won’t understand love. However, developing relationships and learning to express and receive love when you have autism is not only possible but important.

With February being the month of “love”, this is a great time to share ideas to help build these relationship skills. We can model acts of love for individuals with autism by understanding what makes them feel loved.

Using Love Languages to Express Love

Our founder and president, Jamie McGillivary, MS, LLP, BCBA, LBA, uses Dr. Gary Chapman’s book The 5 Love Languages as her resource on this subject We all have a “love language”, so it’s important to identify which “language” your child or loved one with autism uses to love. Here we include examples for each love language:

Receiving Gifts

Gifting a child with autism an item they are interested in, such as a sensory toy, Legos, new fidgets or a book with their favorite character may be what fills their cup. But you can also think outside the box and consider experiences. Look for sensory-friendly events and activities in your area that might appeal to your child.

Quality Time

If your child’s love language is quality time, it may be challenging to identify it. So, use their behavior to guide you. Are they constantly in your space, repeating your name, or otherwise doing something to get your attention? If this sounds like your child, set aside dedicated time to honor their requests and engage with an activity they want to do. Remember to not place demands on them during quality time.

Physical Touch

Children with autism seek sensory input in a multitude of ways. Some may like hugs and cuddles, while others may only accept a hug from the side or back. Some children only seek sensory input in broader ways through their environment. If this is your child, consider taking them outside for the sensation of the cold and snow. Or create a sensory bin with tactile objects and play next to them.

Words of Affirmation

Many children with autism are visual learners. As a result, they may respond better to pictures, videos, and written words over spoken words of affirmation. To connect with your child in this way, consider making a photo book of experiences from a trip or outing, or pictures of friends and family that they will enjoy looking at.

Acts of Service

Caring for a child with autism requires additional “acts of service” to meet their unique needs every day. So, another way to recognize this love language is to schedule your own self-care time - like a massage or dedicated time to do what you love. Doing so will help your stress levels, so you can continue to serve your child with love.

We hope you’ve learned some new ways to express love and connect to your child with autism. For more indepth information, get a copy of The 5 Love Languages – there is also a children’s version!

To learn more about the comprehensive autism services at Healing Haven, visit thehealinghaven.net.

https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy/docs/feb_2025_uniquely_you_detroit_metro_web/s/65147895

BY EMILY CRANE, HEALING HAVEN

02/10/2025

🎳 Join Uniquely You for a Fun-Filled Bowling Event! 🎳
📍 Location: Bowlero Lanes & Lounge
📅 Date: April 15th
⏰ Time: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
📍 Address: 4209 Coolidge Hwy, Royal Oak, MI 48073
Step back in time at Bowlero Lanes & Lounge, a retro-styled boutique bowling alley and cocktail lounge that’s been a local favorite since 1957! Experience the vintage charm, live entertainment, and an inclusive space designed for all.
✨ Enjoy FREE Bowling! ✨
🕑 Choose from two one-hour bowling sessions:
🎳 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM or 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
👟 Shoe rental included!
Space is limited—reserve your spot today!
🔗 Register here: https://buytickets.at/uniquelyyou/1585947
Come for the bowling, stay for the fun—because at Bowlero, there's something for everyone! 🎶🎤🕹️

🎳 Join Uniquely You for a Fun-Filled Bowling Event! 🎳 📍 Location: Bowlero Lanes & Lounge📅 Date: April 15th⏰ Time: 4:00...

02/10/2025

The Gift of CJ
A Journey of Love and Resilience

Cheri and Randy Riemer, who live in Haslett, MI, found their lives forever transformed by the arrival of their only son, CJ. His life began not with the simplicity of a newborn’s coos but with a diagnosis that shaped their path as parents in unexpected ways.

As CJ entered the world, Cheri felt a wave of love and joy. But shortly after his birth, a pediatrician visited their hospital room with a grave expression. “We think your son has severe neurological problems,” she stated nervously. Cheri and Randy exchanged concerned glances, wondering what this could mean.

When the doctor continued, “We think he has Down syndrome,” a mix of confusion and reassurance washed over Cheri. A sudden laugh almost escaped her. Down syndrome, she thought, is not a severe neurological issue; it’s a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.

At that moment, Cheri instinctively wanted to reassure the pediatrician. She understood the challenges that lay ahead but also knew the depth of love she and Randy felt for CJ. They had heard stories about children with Down syndrome and seen the joys and struggles of families navigating similar paths. One nurse, sensing their uncertainty, offered comfort: “You’ve received a joyous gift from God,” she said. Cheri held onto that sentiment, ready to embrace the journey ahead.

As CJ grew, the family learned more about his unique needs and capabilities. Cheri and Randy understood that Down syndrome is not a barrier but a different way of experiencing life. They had heard the statements from well-meaning friends and family: “He won’t be able to do this” or “You should prepare for that.” Instead of succumbing to doubts, the couple adopted a different approach: They cultivated an environment that fostered CJ’s abilities, refusing to let limitations define him.

In 2019, CJ received a weather station for Christmas, and his fascination with clouds and meteorology grew. During the COVID-19 shutdown, CJ, now a bright and energetic teenager, started to show an unexpected passion for daily weather reporting. Cheri and Randy realized they needed to keep him engaged, especially with the challenges of online learning. So, they devised a plan. Every day, CJ created a weather report, using an outline he helped create. The reports evolved beyond mere forecasts, incorporating themes, dances, and guest appearances.

As CJ shared his findings online, his passion blossomed into a social media phenomenon. The WCJR Weather platform amassed 2,500 followers, and CJ became a local celebrity, bringing joy to many during uncertain times. Since its inception on April 13, 2020, he has not missed a single day of reporting.

In May 2023, CJ graduated from high school with a certificate of completion, marking a significant milestone in his life. He enrolled in the Skills for Adult Independent Living (SAIL) program, designed to equip young adults with essential life skills. Here, he participated in morning meetings, learned to cook, and practiced budgeting and financial management. His experiences extended to job placements in the community, where he gained hands-on experience at the YMCA, a technology center, and even an animal shelter. A paid work experience at a local bowling alley became a cherished opportunity, showcasing his ability to engage with the world around him.

Raising CJ was not without numerous challenges for Cheri and Randy, even though they took a positive approach to his diagnosis. Communication proved to be a significant hurdle for CJ. While he expressed himself with enthusiasm, the nuances of language often eluded him. They focused on teaching him the WH questions—who, what, when, where, and why—recognizing that these skills would aid in his communication development. It became a family project, one where patience and perseverance were key. Cheri and Randy reassured CJ that they wanted to understand him and encouraged him to try again when he struggled to convey his thoughts. Many people weren’t patient with him, and this was discouraging for both CJ and his parents. CJ continues to struggle with the WH questions which is not uncommon. We keep working on it.

Still, there were many moments when CJ exceeded everyone’s expectations. Cheri remembered the moments of doubt when she was told he might not walk until the age of three or four. With dedication and playful encouragement, he surprised them all by taking his first steps at just 15 months.

Cheri and Randy enrolled CJ in PEAC bike riding classes, where instructors assessed his balance and helped him find his confidence. In no time, he was riding a bike, joy radiating from his beaming face. The family learned that sometimes, a little external encouragement could work wonders.

One summer, CJ expressed a desire to surf behind the family’s boat. Cheri and Randy hesitated, worried that he lacked the strength and balance needed. But one sunny afternoon, Cheri got in the water with him, guiding him gently as he rose up on the surfboard, his laughter echoing in the air. They realized once again that assumptions

can limit possibilities. CJ’s triumph reinforced their belief that he should never be placed in a box; he is capable of so much more than others may perceive.

The Riemer’s family motto, “Don’t lower the standard for CJ; let’s find a different way to help him reach it,” echoes in their minds as they navigate the world together. They refuse to back down in the face of challenges, embodying a spirit of resilience. Repetition has become their friend, a tool to reinforce learning and communication. Each small success builds upon the last, weaving a tapestry of progress.

Cheri and Randy embrace the importance of community in their journey. They actively participate in local organizations, including the Capital Area Down Syndrome Association and the Special Olympics of Michigan. CJ joined the MSU Special Olympics teams for basketball and football, where he finds camaraderie and joy. These experiences expand his social circle, introducing him to others who understand his journey.

As the Riemers engage with their community, they notice how perspectives shift. They find themselves in conversations with other parents navigating similar challenges, exchanging insights and offering support. Cheri often tells them, “Get involved. Talk to other parents. Look for local organizations that can help.” The connections they forge become lifelines, reminding them that they are not alone.

The family’s leisure time has adapted to ensure CJ’s inclusion. They find joy in activities that can accommodate everyone. From biking to water sports, each adventure becomes a celebration of togetherness. Cheri and Randy introduced CJ to extreme tubing, surfing, and paddleboarding—activities that ignite his adventurous spirit. Even family travel is an opportunity for growth, exploring new places while fostering connections. Cheri often reflects on the transformative power of her family’s journey. “Learn to take a break and return to the challenges,” she tells herself. “Never give up.” It’s a philosophy that permeates their lives, reminding them that the hard work they invest yields incredible rewards. The moments of laughter and connection overshadow the struggles, creating a rich tapestry of memories.

As the years pass, CJ continues to evolve. His involvement in community initiatives has expanded, and he has become a valued participant in local events. The family remains active in their New Hope church community, where they find support and friendship. Cheri and Randy recognize that their focus has shifted since CJ’s arrival. They seek ways to give back and support causes that resonate with them, creating a ripple effect of positivity.

One day, while attending a community event, Cheri met a mother whose child had just received a diagnosis similar to CJ’s. The mother’s eyes were filled with uncertainty and fear, and Cheri felt a rush of empathy. She shared her journey, explaining the beauty that lies within the challenges. “Your child is a unique individual,” she assured the mother. “Embrace their gifts and don’t let others define their potential. You’ll find a community of support, and you’ll learn so much about resilience and love.”

At that moment, Cheri realized the importance of sharing her family story. By opening up, she could inspire others to embrace their journeys with hope and determination. The lessons her family learned over the years are universal, and they resonate with anyone facing adversity.

As CJ prepares for the next chapter of his life, he remains hopeful and excited. The SAIL program has equipped him with invaluable skills, and his dedication to daily weather reporting continues to inspire others. Cheri and Randy stand by his side, ready to support him as he ventures into adulthood.

The family understands that life will always present challenges, but they face them together. They cherish every milestone, every laugh, and every tear shed along the way. CJ is not defined by his diagnosis; he is defined by his spirit, his laughter, and his unwavering determination.

Cheri and Randy know that as long as they stand together, they can face any storm. And as CJ continues to shine brightly, they embrace each moment, knowing that their story is one of triumph and hope—a story that will inspire others to see the beauty in the journey, no matter the obstacles they face.

Cheri and Randy Riemer, who live in Haslett, MI, found their lives forever transformed by the arrival of their only son, CJ. His life began not with the simplicity of a newborn’s coos but with a diagnosis that shaped their path as parents in unexpected ways.

02/08/2025

02/07/2025

🙏 Celebrating the Life of Autism Advocate Dr. Laurence A. Becker September 23, 1936 - October 25, 2024 🙏

BY RON SANDISON


DR. LAURENCE A. BECKER was the founder of Creative Learning Environments, a documentary film producer, an educator, an advocate for those with autism and special needs, and most importantly, a father figure and friend of every person with autism and their families.

I had the privilege of being featured in his documentary film Fierce Love and Art along with eight other artists on the autism spectrum. I stayed twice with Laurence and his wife Rosanne at their home in Austin, Texas, and traveled with him to speak on autism. Our friendship began on March 22, 2017, when Laurence discovered my book, A Parent’s Guide to Autism: Practical Advice. Biblical Wisdom., and decided to contact me.

The next day, Laurence and I talked for over an hour. I loved hearing about his documentary Fierce Love and Art, and as he spoke I knew I wanted to be one of his featured artists. The documentary shares stories of autistic savants and prodigies whose parents used art, music, or poetry to help their child’s creativity to blossom. Renowned animal behaviorist, autism advocate, and prolific author, Dr. Temple Grandin, is the narrator of the film.

In May of 2017 I learned that my family and I were chosen to be part of Fierce Love and Art. After Laurence interviewed and filmed Dr. Darold Treffert, a world-renowned expert on savants and prodigies in Wisconsin, I was the final stop on his 2,500 mile trip. He and cinematographer Ron Zimmerman filmed me at my parents’ house in Rochester Hills, MI, in June. Earlier in the day they had interviewed my parents. My mom proudly displayed all my artwork for the film. I shared in the documentary how my mom quit her job as an art teacher and became a full-time “Ron Teacher.”

Laurence saw the potential of people with autism and other disabilities and by promoting their gifts, he enabled them to gain connections. Many of the young adults he worked with had profound challenges, but he wrote articles about them, presented at conferences, and held art shows, making sure their stories and voices were heard and their artwork was seen. He shared with me, “God has a way of connecting me with young adults with autism and their families and I watch for synchronicity and see my work as a mission from God.”

After spending 5,000 hours writing three books and two hundred articles on autism, I’ve noticed that young adults with autism who thrive have two main attributes: First, they had a family member, friend, mentor, or teacher who believed in them, and invested time refining their strengths and talents to compensate for their limitations. Second, they had someone who marketed and promoted their gifts and this helped them build connections and develop social skills. Laurence believed in people with autism and empowered them by marketing and promoting their gifts in films and art shows.

My friendship with Laurence and Rosanne taught me four life lessons. First, the importance of a kind and gentle spirit that displays the love of Christ. These qualities attracted young adults with autism and their families to Laurence and his wife. Ephesians 4:2 says, “With all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love.” He demonstrated his love and gentleness by mentoring people with autism and listening to their stories. He often sent gifts and encouraging letters.

Second, never stop learning and let your life be a fountain of knowledge and love. Autism causes me to love facts. One of the first things Laurence said to me when he picked me up at the airport was “Texas is so large that if you drove straight across the state, it would take the same amount of time as driving from Texas to Michigan.” We spent hours talking and sharing about our favorite books and quotes. Laurence’s guestroom was filled with books and his living room was an art studio of savants’ and prodigies’ original artwork including Richard Wawro, Ping Lian Yeak. Christophe Pillault, Kimberly Dixon, Seth Chwast, and Grant Manier.

Third, stories provide power to change people’s perspective of disabilities and to impact the world for good. Laurence had a gift for sharing his stories about life and the prodigies and savants he mentored and loved. Laurence’s two documentary films are filled with the stories and voices of people with autism and their families. These stories are inspiring and teach that with love and acceptance anything is possible.

Finally, finish your race strong. At 88, Laurence was still speaking at autism conferences and doing Zoom presentations. In his eighties, he drove 2,500 miles across the country to film Fierce Love and Art and he presented the film in Texas, Florida, and California. He stayed healthy by playing tennis and bicycling. As artist Grant Manier states in his YouTube video, Cherished Memories with Dr. Laurence Becker, “Goodbye for now until we say hello again.” Laurence’s advocacy and love for the autism community carries on with the people he impacted by his gentle and kind spirit and passion for life.

Cherished Memories with Dr. Laurence Becker https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=M2C5LRFqVn0 Movie Trailers for Fierce Love and Art https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=5a9dexAK4Bw

https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy/docs/feb_2025_uniquely_you_detroit_metro_web/s/65147489

September 23, 1936 - October 25, 2024

02/04/2025

💜💜 LOCAL EVENTS 💜💜
Due to COVID-19, many museums participating in Museums for All 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. Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,000 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID. Check here for participating museums. https://museums4all.org/

Museums

Impression 5
Check website for February dates and hours https://impression5.org/sensoryfriendly
Impression 5 Science Center, 200 Museum Dr., Lansing, MI 48933

Explore your Science Center with select exhibits altered to reduce sounds, scents, and lighting stimuli. Guests can expect a limited building capacity, pop-up activity, and map designating the sensory experiences in each exhibit. Thank you to MiABLE for supporting Sensory Friendly.

Admission: Regular admission prices apply. Free for members.

Abrams Planetarium Sensory Friendly Shows
755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI
Skywalkers of Africa
Feb. 16, 11:30 am

For thousands of years, Africans have used their knowledge of the sky to build their societies, shape their spiritual lives, and meet their physical needs for survival. Skywatchers of Africa highlights the diversity of African astronomy, examines cultural uses of the sky that developed throughout history, and celebrates our shared human experience.

In My Backyard
Feb. 16, 1:00 pm
Join children's entertainer Fred Penner as he explores things large and small, from the colors of the rainbow, to the reasons for the seasons. Through the use of entertaining songs and immersive environments, children are encouraged to participate while learning about the planets, constellations, meteors, the moon and more.

These shows will run with the lights up, the sound down, and the theater doors open so people can move about as needed. We also provide a place to “chill out” in our lobby. All shows include a live star talk about what is up in the sky that night. We will include a short break between the main show and the star talk. Information about what to expect during the show will be provided when you purchase tickets.

Cost: Adults, $5.50, Students and senior citizens, $5.00, Children (age 12 and under), $4.50Friends of Abrams Planetarium Members, FreeFree with Museums For All (with valid EBT, Medicaid, or WIC card and photo ID)

https://www.abramsplanetarium.org/Programs/Sensory.html

Ella Sharp Museum
Sensory Time Every Saturday at 9:00 am
3225 4th Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203

During Sensory Friendly Hours, the Ella Sharp Museum will open its galleries at 9 a.m., an hour before the museum opens to the public. Families with members who are neurodiverse, autistic, or have other sensory processing disorders or cognitive disabilities are welcome to visit the museum for a quieter experience in a more controlled environment. Designated quiet zones will allow visitors to decompress and experience the museum at their own pace.

Before each program, families are invited to browse our “pre-visit” materials to help them prepare for their visit including social narratives and maps of our facility. These pre-visit materials are also available to help families plan for visits that take place outside of program hours and a sensory backpack is available at the front desk for use.

To provide the most sensory-friendly environment possible, we will limit the capacity for these special times to 50 people. https://ellasharpmuseum.org/classes-and-events/sensory-time/

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
Sensory Friendly Play Feb. 3, May 5, Aug. 4, Nov. 3, 4:00 pm- 7:00 pm

Together with Autism Support of Kent County, GRCM welcomes families to play in a calmer, quieter environment outside of regular Museum hours.
Registration required.

Various Events Scheduled
Jan.1 - Jan. 31 various events scheduled

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Check calendar for Sensory Friendly evenings https://www.grpm.org/visit/

https://www.autismsupportofkentcounty.org/new-products/p/2024-night-at-the-gr-childrens-museum

Sports

TheraplayYoga: Therapeutic Playful Yoga for Diverse Abilities
Adaptive Yoga Studio, 2015 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912

Inclusive & Accessible Yoga for Diverse Bodies, Brains, and Abilities. Check website for schedule. [email protected] https://theraplayoga.com/

Detroit Zoo
Sensory Friendly Evenings Check website for date and times

As part of our work to create accessible and welcoming spaces for all, the Detroit Zoo will turn down the music and adjust the lights during special evenings this summer.

Starting in June, the Detroit Zoo is hosting three Sensory Friendly Evenings for guests with different sensory needs. During these times, the Zoo and its attractions will be open to all visitors, but special accommodations will be in place to ensure the Zoo can be enjoyed by families and individuals of all abilities. Sensory bags and a dedicated sensory room is available for those who may need a quieter and more secure space.

Included with Zoo admission | Free for members | No event registration required

https://detroitzoo.org/events/zoo-events/sensory-friendly-evenings/

Various fun events through the month.
DNR Outdoor Adventure Center Sensory Friendly Play
Feb. 2, Mar. 2, Apr. 6, May 4, June 8, July 13, Aug. 10, Oct. 5 10:00 am- 12:00 pm

Outdoor Adventure Center, Globe Trading Company Building, 1801 Atwater St, Detroit, MI

The DNR Outdoor Adventure Center welcomes friends and families with sensory processing differences to our sensory-friendly building hours! Enjoy the opportunity to explore and experience the OAC with building sounds and ambient noises at a lower volume. During your visit, there will be a quiet room with sensory materials available to use, and a limited building capacity. At noon, the building will open to the public, with volumes returning to standard operating levels. All staff are KultureCity-certified to ensure the best possible experience.

Various Activities scheduled Dec.1 - Dec. 31 Check website https://www.michigan.gov/oac

Fascination Factory Sensory Friendly Play
Feb. 4, 2:30 pm- 5:30 pm

2295 E Lincoln St; Suite 150, Birmingham, MI

What to expect in our new sensory sensitive hours: Back door locked for safety No music Noise Cancelling Headphones Oral chews offered at check-in Calming corner tent Minimized Capacity Families $30.00 https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/events/list/?tribe-bar-date=2024-10-01

Together Let’s Sing, Dance and Jam!!

Feb. 5, 6:30 pm- 7:30 pm Virtual
Please join us for our monthly "virtual" music therapy event!! Please RSVP by February 25 to Cathy Blatnik at [email protected] with your name, age, contact phone number and e-mail address

Inclusive Game Night Feb. 28, 6:00 pm- 7:30 pm
Therapeutic Concepts, LLC 38257 Mound Road, Building D, Sterling Heights, MI

For the whole family focusing on inclusion, safety, and enjoyment! $10 per family, register online https://therapeuticconceptsllc.com

Adult Adaptive Social Engagement: Diner's Club
First Monday of the month January 6,-April 2025. Ages 14+ check,website for times and to register enjoy a meal with friends at various local restaurants. This opportunity is designed to support persons with special needs. Participants pay for their own meal, beverage, and tip. Spots are EXTREMELY limited, so you must pre-register so that we have enough assistance and space reserved. Selected restaurant will be emailed the week before the program.

https://rararecreation.org/programs/social_engagement.php

MJR Digital Cinema Sensory-Friendly Film
Check the website for movie times

100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI, 48083, United States
https://www.mjrtheatres.com/sensory-friendly-films?fbclid=IwAR1JnETT-4LqVME0tv0TkWPiYH5lckEcSi4o-u3EcdA4eyfbqJYLgmReJ00

Legoland Discovery Center Michigan Sensory Friendly Morning
Check website for upcoming dates
4240 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326

During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum.

Sensory-sensitive adults are welcome to visit during Sensory Friendly Mornings without a child (age 16 or under) in the party until the attraction opens to the general public at 10 am. Adults who are not accompanied by a child must exit the attraction upon opening. Groups that are accompanied by a child are welcome to stay past 10 am.

Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event.
https://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/michigan/tickets-passes/

Sealife Michigan Sensory Friendly Morning
Check website for upcoming dates
4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326

During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum.

The aquarium will open to the general public with normal lighting, sound, etc. at 10 am, but you're welcome to stay as long as you like and do not have to leave when the event ends at 10 am.

Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event. Please check https://www.visitsealife.com/michigan/what-s-inside/events/sensory-friendly-mornings/

💕💕 Events 💕💕

Come Join Scout Troop 1197! First All Inclusive Troop!
4920 Groveland Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462

The ONLY troop of its kind in MI, troop 1197 is being held right now at O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) in Ortonville for those with special needs ages 11 and up. The troop, designed with experienced scout leaders, will include typical scouting activities including camping and outdoor skills. For more information, email [email protected]

Unlock Your Child's Full Potential: Free 4-Part Workshop Webinar Series on IEPs & 504 Plans. Sponsored Student AdvocacyMI and Uniquely You!
Online Workshop Series. Workshop times are 7:00 pm- 8:00 pm
1. Jan. 13, 2025- 505 Plans and IEPs: What Are They and How Do I Get One for My Child?

2. Jan. 22, 2025- Preparing for 504 or IEP Meeting: A Parent’s Guide

3. Jan. 28, 2025- Behavior Challenges: What Should You Do?

4.Feb. 6, 2025- 504/IEP Problems: Actions You Can Take

Imagine this: You’re a parent at a school meeting, sitting across from a table of education professionals. They start throwing around terms like "accommodations," "evaluations," and "LRE." You nod politely, hoping they don’t realize you have no clue what “LRE” even means. You just want your child to get the support they need without navigating what feels like an alphabet soup.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone! Join our free 4-part workshop series to finally demystify the world of special education plans and learn exactly how to get the right help for your child. Each workshop covers key strategies to make sure you’re prepared and confident every step of the way. To register: https://form.jotform.com/243185805423153

Mobility and Accessibility Clinic
Feb. 26 and Apr. 29, 11:00 am- 2:00 pm
Oceana County Council on Aging 4250 W. Tyler Rd., Hart, MI
Bring your assistive living devices to our Mobility & Accessibility Clinic. Meet with Carelinc to have basic repairs made to equipment, meet with an advocate from Disability Network and check in with our nurse to have blood pressure checks and ask questions.

Registration is not required, but encouraged. To register or for questions, call us at 231-873-4461 https://disabilitynetworkwm.org/event/mobility-and-accessibility-clinic/

https://issuu.com/specialneedslivingindy/docs/feb_2025_uniquely_you_detroit_metro_web/s/65148167

Due to COVID-19, many museums participating in Museums for All 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 loc...