June is Brain Awareness Month – Announcing Bio Ability and Dr. Diana Tyler Partnership

Brain Awareness Month aims to promote understanding, advance research, and support those affected to make a meaningful impact on cognitive health. With neurological disorders affecting millions worldwide, the campaign plays a crucial role in raising awareness about diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, schizophrenia, and depression. It also emphasizes the importance of brain health across the lifespan, advocating for strategies to maintain brain function, improve mental health and enhance quality of life.

The theme of Brain Awareness Week 2024 is “The Changing Brain.”  In May, Dr. Diana Tyler, a Bio Ability partner, presented an educational seminar onsite discussing “Understand Your Child’s Brain + Neuroplasticity: Benefits of Targeted Exercise Program for Children with Neurodevelopmental Conditions”. She discussed neuroplasticity and the brain’s remarkable ability to adapt, reorganize, and form new neural connections in response to experiences, learning, and environmental changes.

She also reviewed how a targeted exercise program for children with neurodevelopmental conditions offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance their physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.

Recognizing the importance of exercise for this special population that we both serve, Bio Ability has partnered with Aura FNC and Dr. Diana Tyler to support her Neuro Intensive programs with our new Neuro Support Program. Bio Ability’s Neuro Support Program is designed to support participants in these programs with their exercise programs designed specifically for their neurological needs. This program runs the full length of Dr. Tyler’s 14-week Neuro Intensive programs.  Contact Bio Ability if you have any questions about how to connect with Dr. Diana Tyler about a Neuro Intensive Program or about any Bio Ability exercise programs.

June is Dravet Syndrome Awareness Month

Dravet syndrome, also known as Severe Myoclonic Epilepsy of Infancy (SMEI), is a rare and severe form of epilepsy that begins in infancy, typically within the first year of life. It is characterized by frequent, prolonged seizures that are often triggered by high temperatures or fever. These seizures can be of various types and are usually resistant to common epilepsy medications.

Children with Dravet syndrome often experience developmental delays and may have issues with speech and language, movement, and walking. The condition is typically caused by a genetic mutation in the SCN1A gene. While it may be inherited, most cases result from new mutations in the gene that are not found in the parents.

Dravet syndrome can affect a child’s development, including their ability to think, talk, move, and learn. Your doctor might recommend that your child get a developmental assessment before they start school. A combination of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy can help children with this condition stay on track with their peers. Bio Ability can work with your physical and occupational therapists and provide exercise opportunities outside of therapies, designed specifically for individuals with Dravet syndrome that are, are tailored to minimize seizure triggers and ensure safety.

What’s happening?

Summer Kickoff Party June 1 @ 1

We are looking forward to a great kickoff to the summer with our inaugural Summer Kickoff Party. This event is designed specifically for children and adults with special needs. Join us for fun, games and camaraderie.  We will have exciting activities including gymnastics and outdoor activities. We will have community partners onsite to provide more information about available services in our area. We look forward to seeing you all there.

Summer Camps

We are offering weekly themed summer camps starting June 1^st. Some themes include Under the Sea, Stars and Stripes, Sports, Nature, Music and more! Camps are Monday through Friday from 8Am to 1 PM except for an abbreviated camp the week of July 4^th.  Camp will include games, gymnastics, crafts, music and more.  Sign up online or contact us for more information.

It is always best to find current class availability online at BIO Ability Classes. Some classes may be wait list only. Here are some of our offerings.

Monthly Class Schedule

Adaptive Fitness (teen/adult) is a tailored to accommodate individuals of all abilities. It is not just about breaking a sweat; it’s a celebration of diverse strengths and a commitment to fostering a health and resilience.

Adaptive Gymnastics is a delightful and inclusive experience designed to introduce children with special needs to the world of gymnastics. This program combines the grace and skill of gymnastics with adaptive techniques, creating a supportive environment where every child can shine.

Adaptive Ninja is a one-of-a-kind experience tailored for children with special needs! This dynamic and inclusive program is designed to empower every child to explore the exciting world of ninja training in a supportive and adaptive environment.

Homeschool PE is a holistic and supportive program that not only addresses the physical aspects of gymnastics but also caters to the sensory and social needs of children with special needs.

Exercise of the Month: Cross Crawl

Cross crawl exercises refer to movements in which we use opposition, such as crawling, walking, running, and swimming. These movements involve coordinating opposite sides of the body—first the right arm and left leg, then the left arm and right leg.

1. Stabilizes your walking gait coordination – builds core strength
2. Energizes your body and calms your mind – releases tension and stress
3. Improves your eye teaming skills – essential for focus, reading, and writing
4. Enhances whole-brain thinking – your left and right hemispheres work together
5. Develops proprioception – your spatial and kinesthetic awareness

Recipe of the Month: Pesto Chicken Bake (eatingwell.com)

Ingredients

• 8 (4 ounce) chicken cutlets
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• ¼ cup refrigerated basil pesto (such as Buitoni)
• 4 medium plum tomatoes, sliced
• 1 ½ cups shredded whole-milk mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup thinly sliced fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons pine nuts, lightly toasted

Directions

1. Place rack in top third of oven; preheat to 425 degrees F. Coat a large rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange chicken in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the chicken with salt and pepper and spread evenly with pesto. Top with tomato slices and cheese.

2. Bake until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is lightly browned and bubbly, 18 to 20 minutes. Top with basil and pine nuts. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information 

Serving Size: 8 servings

Calories: 218; Total fat: 11g; Saturated Fat 4 g; Carbohydrates: 3g; Fiber 1g; Protein: 25g