Swim and Gymnastics classes at the Y for special needs kids

I ran into Jennifer W. this morning and she and the Down Syndrome Support Group have done a lot to get things happening for the special needs community of Marquette.  First let me tell you about two new classes being offered at the Marquette YMCA:

Special Needs Gymnastics
Special needs Gymnastics is for children ages 3-6 that require special attention.  With the help of Bell Hospital's Occupational Therapists, our staff has put together a great program to get you little one moving while developing motor skills, increasing muscle tone and coordination.
Wednesdays 5:30-6:15 pm (Fall 1 and 2)
Cost: $30 for members and $45 for nonmembers

Special Needs Swim Lessons
Special needs swimming is for children ages 3 and up that require special attention.  With the help of Bell Hospital's Occupational Therapists, our staff have put together a great program.  Program uses water education to develop water safety and swimming skills while focusing on developing self confidence and self esteem in the water.  Each child will progress through the different levels at their own speed.  An individual skills check off list is used to show parents their progress.
Saturdays 9:30-10:00 am (Fall 1 and 2)
Cost:  $39 for members and $59 for nonmembers

If you are interested in these programs or have questions, please contact Laura Murawksi at 227-9622.

Tips for employers of individuals with Asperger Syndrome

My husband, the government documents librarian, sent me the following document from the Job Accommodation Network:  Accommodation and Compliance Series:  Employees with Asperger Syndrome.


According to their website, "JAN’s Accommodation and Compliance Series is designed to help employers determine effective accommodations and comply with Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Each publication in the series addresses a specific medical condition and provides information about the condition, ADA information, accommodation ideas, and resources for additional information."

Understanding the new health care act

The Family to Family Health Information & Education Center is hosting a Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act: Practical Basics for Families forum will be held at the SAIL office on August 24. If you are interested in learning more or to register, please visit their website: http://www.gifttool.com/registrar/ShowEvents?ID=1862  or contact: Valerie Smith, smithv9@michigan.gov, 1-800-359-3722.

August 24, 2011

7:00 – 9:00pm

FREE

SAIL Office, 1200 Wright St. Ste. 3, Marquette, MI 49855