International Day of Persons with Disabilities Dec 3

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) is observed annually on December 3rd. This year’s theme is “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” The day aims to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities at every level of society and development3. It also raises awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life.

The United Nations and various organizations around the world hold events to celebrate the

contributions of persons with disabilities and to reflect on the challenges they face. The main event will be held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York on December 3, 2024.

Bio Ability would like to highlight and celebrate contributions of persons with disabilities in our community. If you would like to highlight someone you know, please email dawn.koch@bio-ability.com with a photo and brief description of the accomplishments you wish to highlight.

Safe Toys Month

December is recognized as Safe Toys and Gifts Month. This initiative, promoted by Prevent Blindness America, aims to raise awareness about the importance of choosing safe toys for children1. The goal is to prevent injuries and ensure that children can enjoy their gifts without risk.

When it comes to children with autism, selecting the right toys is crucial. Toys for children with autism should cater to their sensory needs, promote skill-building, and provide a safe and engaging play experience3. Here are some safe toy options for children with autism:

Sensory Toys

• Squishy Balls: Provide tactile stimulation and can help with sensory processing.
• Fidget Spinners and Putty: Great for keeping hands busy and reducing anxiety.
• Weighted Blankets: Offer deep pressure, which can be calming.

Skill-Building Toys

• Puzzles: Help with problem-solving and fine motor skills.
• Building Blocks: Encourage creativity and improve motor skills.
• Visual Schedule Boards: Assist in understanding daily routines.

Safe and Engaging Toys

• Melissa & Doug See and Spell Learning Toy: Enhances vocabulary and spelling skills.
• USA Toyz Play Tent: Provides a safe space for retreat during sensory overload.
• Chewy Tubes Super Chews: Silicone-based toys for oral sensory input.

Choosing toys that are appropriate for the child’s age, interests, and sensory preferences is essential. Always check for safety labels and avoid toys with small parts, sharp edges, or toxic materials.

What’s happening?

New Staff

Please welcome Ms. Bridget Grizzle. Ms. Bridget is a Special Education teacher and a certified Personal Trainer.  She joined Bio Ability staff starting in December.  She will be working Saturday mornings.

Holiday Hours

We will have abbreviated hours for the holidays. Bio Ability will be closed Wednesday through December 24-25 and 31-January 1. If in doubt, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us to confirm the schedule.

Holiday Makeups

Please talk to your child’s instructor to schedule a makeup class. We have several Saturday morning openings through December to schedule Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday makeup classes.

Free Evaluations the Month of December

We are offering free evaluations this month. Bring your child with special needs and abilities in for a trial class and evaluation this month.  Contact us at 470.560.3981 to schedule an appointment.

Referral Bonus

Refer a friend to us for an evaluation and have them mention your name.  Receive 10% off your next month if they enroll.

Need Volunteer Hours?

Do you need volunteer hours for college applications, confirmation, or just have a heart to volunteer.  Get involved with us.  Click here and complete a volunteer application Volunteer – BIO Ability or email dawn.koch@bio-ability.com with your interest and availability.

Exercise of the Month: Balance Exercises

When a child engages in balance activities, they are not only refining their physical coordination but also forming and strengthening neural pathways in the brain. These pathways are the foundation for various cognitive functions. Balance exercise may improve cognitive function, attention span, and memory.

Bio Ability offers a variety of balance stations:

1. Balance beams
2. Foam beam or pad
3. Uneven stone path
4. Bosu Ball
5. Balance Board
6. Climbing equipment
7. Trampolines

Honey Pecan Triangles Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons plus 1/2 cup butter, softened, divided
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 large egg yolk, room temperature
• 1-1/2 cups all purpose flour4 cloves garlic, minced

TOPPING:

• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
• 4 cups chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Line a 13×9-in. baking pan with foil, letting ends extend up sides; grease foil with 2 teaspoons butter.

1. In a large bowl, cream remaining butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, 5-7 minutes; beat in egg yolk. Gradually beat in flour. Press into prepared pan. Bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, in a large saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter and honey. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly; cook and stir 3 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in cream and pecans. Pour over crust. Bake until hot and bubbly, about 30 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack.
3. Lifting with foil, remove from pan. Cut into 24 squares. Cut squares diagonally into triangles.

Nutrition Facts

1 piece: 159 calories, 12g fat (4g saturated fat), 18mg cholesterol, 44mg sodium,13g carbohydrate (9g sugars, 1g fiber), 1g protein.