Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

Staying active is crucial for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) as it can significantly improve their overall health and well-being. At Bio Ability we strive to make being active fun and we can and will work closely with your physical therapist to assure we are helping you meet your therapy goals as well.

Here are some key points on the importance of physical activity for people with CP:

1. Cardiovascular and Muscular Health: Regular physical activity helps improve the health of the cardiovascular and muscular systems, reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, and stroke.
2. Mental Health: Being active can enhance mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. It can also improve self-esteem and overall mood.
3. Pain Management: Physical activity can help manage pain by improving range of motion and coordination of movement. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to identify the source of pain and discuss appropriate treatment strategies.

1. Social Benefits: Participating in sports and physical activities can increase confidence, motivation, and social interactions. It provides opportunities for individuals with CP to meet others, form friendships, and be part of a community.
2. Quality of Life: Regular exercise can improve the quality of life by maintaining mobility, flexibility, and muscle strength. It helps prevent declines in physical abilities and supports the ability to perform daily activities.
3. Adapted Activities: It is important to choose activities that are enjoyable and accessible. Adapted sports and exercises can be tailored to individual abilities and preferences, ensuring that everyone can stay active.

Remember, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new exercise program to ensure it is safe and appropriate for the individual’s specific needs and abilities.

March 21 is World Down Syndrome Day

Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. This extra chromosome affects how the body and brain develop, leading to a range of physical and developmental characteristics. Here are some of the physical impacts of Down syndrome:

Physical Characteristics

• Facial Features: Flattened face, almond-shaped eyes that slant upward, small ears, and a tongue that tends to stick out.
• Body Structure: Shorter stature, shorter limbs, small hands and feet, and a single line across the palm.
• Muscle Tone: Poor muscle tone (hypotonia) and loose joints.
• Health Issues: Higher risk of congenital heart defects, hearing loss, obstructive sleep apnea, and other medical conditions.

How Bio Ability Can Help

Bio Ability offers a range of adaptive services and activities designed to support individuals with Down syndrome. Here are some ways they can help:

• Adaptive Fitness Programs: Bio Ability provides adaptive fitness programs that collaborate closely with therapists to support physical development and health goals.
• Physio Support: We offer physio support programs focused on improving strength, mobility, and overall movement efficiency as well as supporting you with meeting your specific therapy goals.

By providing accessible, affordable, and inclusive programs, Bio Ability helps individuals with Down syndrome lead healthier and more active lives.

What’s happening?

Bio Ability is Moving

We are moving out of our current space.  Temporarily we are able to continue classes at two wonderful partner locations: Kidz Therapy Network in Suwanee and Building Bridges, right down the street.  A big shout out to Dr. Kai, our PT partner who helped make the connection with the owners of Kidz Therapy Network. Chris and Megnan, the owners have been so wonderful and accommodating.  Another big shout out to Hayley O’Hara, our Friday instructor.  She referred us to Marla and David with Building Bridges who have also been so wonderful.

Both of these locations have agreed to let us offer classes in their space after hours.  For this reason at this time we are limited to the class time offerings we can provide.  Thank you to all of our parents who have been so flexible and understanding during this process. With this transition, we are also transitioning to a new scheduling and billing system.  We will temporarily be billing for March through one system until we can find a more permanent system solution. Through this transition, please do not hesitate to call and leave a message or text our Bio Ability number or email dawn.koch@bio-ability.com with any questions or concerns.  We truly appreciate all of our wonderful families.

Class Availability

We still have some openings in our class schedule on Saturday mornings at Kidz Therapy Networks and Saturday afternoons at Building Bridges.

Kidz Therapy Networks

5000 Research Court #450

Suwanee, GA. 30024

Classes available 9-12 on a first come first serve basis.

Building Bridges Therapy

1389 Weber Industrial Drive

Cumming, GA. 30041

Class availability Saturday 1-4 on a first come first serve basis.

Contact Bio Ability to schedule. If you have never taken class with us, an initial evaluation is required.

Exercise of the Month: Swinging

Swings are simply a great tool for sensory input as well as sensory integration. The predictability of linear swinging can be calming and settling for the children who need that support. Thankfully, both of the locations we will be providing services at have swing rooms with a variety of options that they are allowing us to use.

Types of Sensory Swings

1. Platform Swings: These swings have a flat platform or seat, providing a stable base. They are great for improving balance and coordination.
2. Pod Swings: These swings offer an enclosed, cocoon-like experience, providing a sense of security and promoting relaxation.
3. Hammock Swings: These swings offer gentle, swaying motion, which can be calming and soothing for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
4. Stretchy Swings: Made from soft, stretchy fabric, these swings provide deep pressure input, similar to a hug, which can be very comforting.
5. Rotational Swings: These swings allow for spinning movements, which can be very stimulating and help with vestibular input.
6. Bolster Swings: These swings have a cylindrical shape and can be used for various activities, including swinging, spinning, and balancing.

Benefits of Sensory Swinging

1. Improved Balance and Coordination: Swinging helps develop better proprioception and spatial awareness, leading to improved balance and coordination skills.
2. Calming and Soothing: The rhythmic motion of swinging can have a calming effect, similar to rocking a baby, helping individuals feel grounded and safe.
3. Enhanced Focus and Attention: After a swinging session, many individuals experience increased focus and a better ability to engage in learning and play activities.
4. Emotional Regulation: Swinging can help individuals self-regulate when they are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or overstimulated.
5. Strengthening Core Muscles: Swinging helps maintain balance and stability, strengthening the back, pelvic, and abdominal muscles.
6. Sensory Integration: Swinging provides vestibular input, which is crucial for sensory integration and helps individuals process sensory information more effectively.

Sensory swings can be a valuable tool for promoting physical, emotional, and sensory well-being. If you’re considering incorporating sensory swings into your routine, it’s essential to choose the right type and use them safely to maximize their benefits.

Shamrock Avocado Toast

Ingredients

• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• Green bell pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1 slice of bread, toasted
• 1 tiny avocado or ⅓ of a regular avocado
• pinch of salt and black pepper
• optional – pinch of red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Slice both ends off a bell pepper and remove and interior pith and seeds. Slice two ¼-inch rounds of pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the rings of bell pepper.
3. Crack one egg into each bell pepper ring. Allow the egg to cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until the white is fully cooked.
4. Meanwhile, cut the avocado and spread it onto the piece of toast.
5. Place the pepper and egg rings onto the avocado toast.
6. Top with a sprinkle of salt and pepper and optional red pepper flakes.
7. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 351Total Fat: 26gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 20gCholesterol: 327mgSodium: 191mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 5gSugar: 7gProtein: 14g