Infantile Spasm Awareness Week: Understanding West Syndrome

Infantile Spasm Awareness Week (Dec 1–7) shines a spotlight on West syndrome, a rare but serious seizure disorder in infants. Early recognition and treatment are critical to improving outcomes. Infantile spasms (IS), also known as West syndrome, are a rare type of seizure that typically begin between 4 and 8 months of age. They are characterized by:

• Sudden jerks or crunching movements of the body
• Head drops or stiffening of arms and legs
• Clusters of spasms, often occurring around sleep transitions or after feeding

These seizures may look subtle—sometimes mistaken for colic, reflux, or a startle reflex—but they are a medical emergency. Left untreated, infantile spasms can lead to developmental regression and long-term cognitive challenges.

Why Awareness Matters

Infantile Spasm Awareness Week is organized by the Infantile Spasms Action Network (ISAN). The campaign emphasizes the STOP Infantile Spasms mnemonic to help parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers recognize and act quickly:

• S – See the signs: Clusters of sudden, repeated movements like head bobs or body crunching.
• T – Take a video: Record the episodes to show a doctor.
• O – Obtain diagnosis: An EEG test can confirm irregular brain wave patterns (hypsarrhythmia).
• P – Prioritize treatment: Early intervention reduces the risk of developmental delays.

How Bio Ability Can Help

At Bio Ability, we understand that families living with infantile spasms or West syndrome often need ongoing support beyond medical treatment. That’s why we offer programs designed to promote physical development, confidence, and inclusion:

• Adaptive Sport & Exercise Classes
  • Safe, structured movement activities tailored to each child’s abilities
  • Focus on building strength, coordination, and social interaction
  • Inclusive environment where children can participate at their own pace
• Physio Support Program
  • Guided exercises to support mobility and motor skills
  • One-on-one or small group sessions to ensure personalized attention
  • Collaboration with families and healthcare providers to align with each child’s therapy goals

These programs help children stay active, build independence, and enjoy the benefits of movement in a supportive community.

Infantile Spasm Awareness Week reminds us that early recognition and treatment save lives and futures. With medical care, family support, and adaptive programs like those offered at Bio Ability, children can continue to grow, play, and thrive. Together, we can raise awareness, support families, and create opportunities for every child to shine.

National Handwashing Week: Keeping Our Exercise Classes Healthy and Happy

National Handwashing Week is Dec 1–7. The flu and other illnesses are common this time of year, and several coaches and children have already been out sick. We are disinfecting class areas often, but everyone can do their part to keep our community healthy.

• If your child is sick, please keep him home and notify Bio Ability. We will gladly schedule a makeup class when he is feeling better.
• Encourage handwashing before and after class to help stop germs from spreading.

Why Handwashing Matters

Handwashing is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to stay healthy. For children in exercise classes—especially those with special needs—it helps prevent the spread of germs after touching shared equipment, mats, or even giving high-fives to friends. Clean hands mean fewer sick days and more time for fun movement activities!

Helpful Handwashing Instructions

• Wash for 20 seconds: Teach children to scrub hands long enough by singing a short song like Happy Birthday twice.
• Cover all parts of the hands: Remind children to wash palms, backs of hands, between fingers, and under nails.
• Use warm water and gentle soap: This makes the process more comfortable, especially for children with sensory sensitivities.
• Dry thoroughly: Wet hands spread germs more easily. Use paper towels or clean cloths.
• Hand sanitizer as backup: If soap and water aren’t available, use sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol—but return to soap and water when possible.
• Routine reminders: Wash hands before class, after using equipment, before snacks, and after coughing or sneezing.
• Visual supports: Post handwashing posters or use picture cards to guide children step by step.
• Modeling: Coaches and aides should wash hands alongside children to encourage participation.
• Positive reinforcement: Praise, stickers, or high-fives (after washing!) help children feel proud of their healthy habits.

National Handwashing Week is the perfect time to strengthen healthy routines. By practicing good hand hygiene together, we can keep our exercise classes safe, active, and full of energy. Clean hands are strong hands—and strong hands make for happy, healthy movement!

What’s happening?

December Classes

Please let me know before classes are billed December 1^st if you need any changes to your class schedule. Coach Anna will be out of town most of December. Coach Sariah will cover her classes.

Winter Festival at Kidz Therapy Networks

The Fall Festival scheduled early November was cancelled. We will participate in their winter festival December 5th from 5-8PM. The address is 5000 Research Ct. #450, Suwanee, GA. 30024. Bio Ability will have a booth set up.  Come join the fun.

Staff Updates

Coach Anna will be out of town most of December. Coach Sariah is back and helping cover Coach Anna’s classes and other makeup classes in December.

I am still looking for instructors and would love someone with a behavioral therapist or special education background so if you know anyone, please refer them to dawn.koch@bio-ability.com or to apply online on our website at https://bio-ability.com/job-application/

Holiday Schedules

We will also be closed December 24^th through -January 3^rd . Students with fewer than 4 classes the month of December or January due to closures will be scheduled for a makeup class. If in doubt, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us to confirm the schedule.

Exercise of the Month: Plank

Exercise of the Month: Plank

Plank exercises are beneficial for children with special needs as they help improve core strength, stability, and coordination. These exercises can be adapted to suit individual needs, making them suitable for children with varying abilities. Plank exercises are incorporated into our structured program.

• Begin in the plank position, face down with your forearms and toes on the floor. Your elbows are directly under your shoulders and your forearms are facing forward. Your head is relaxed and you should be looking at the floor.
• Engage the abdominal muscles, drawing your navel toward your spine. Keep your torso straight and rigid and your body in a straight line from your ears to your toes with no sagging or bending. This is the neutral spine position. Ensure your shoulders are down, not creeping up toward your ears. Your heels should be over the balls of your feet.
• Hold this position for 10 seconds. Release to floor. Over time work up to 30, 45, or 60 seconds.

Recipe: Strawberry Santa Hats (Kid-Friendly) | The Picky Eater

Ingredients:

• • 20 strawberries
  • 2 bananas cut into 20 pieces
  • Whipped cream

Directions:

1. Cut the leaves off the top of the strawberries in a straight line
2. Place the cut side down on top of a piece of banana
3. Use a toothpick to hold in place
4. Top each strawberry with a small amount of whipped cream

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 1 hat:  Calories: 19.3kcal | Carbohydrates: 3.6g | Protein: 0.2g | Fat: 0.6g | Saturated Fat: 0.4g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 0.8mg | Potassium: 63.3mg | Fiber: 0.6g | Sugar: 2.1g