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TCOB Phased Re-Entry to Clinic

6/1/2020

 
Dear families –

TCOB wants to share some important updates regarding the clinic’s phased re-entry over the next 7-8 weeks. We will be contacting all our families individually to discuss scheduling options in the coming weeks. We want to reiterate TCOB continues to take COVID-19 seriously and the health of our families and staff.

As many of you are aware, TCOB launched telehealth services shortly after publicly closing in March. For those families who feel they benefit from telehealth, we want to reassure you we will continue to offer these services to families for the foreseeable future and we highly encourage you to minimize exposure and take advantage of this service as long as possible.

We recognize not all families benefit from telehealth, and we hope to welcome you back safely to the clinic with necessary precautions in place for the entire wellbeing of our families and staff. I wanted to share changes we will make to the visits and what you can expect when you return to in-person visits.

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Explaining wearing masks to the kids

4/24/2020

 
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It seems like we have a new reality for the foreseeable future. One of these realities is wearing face coverings (masks) to protect ourselves and those around us while outside our homes. 

It is important to recognize that Autistics, those with sensory processing disorder, and other neuodiverse people may have a difficult time wearing masks for a variety of reasons. It is important that we avoid extreme dysregulation/ melt downs as they pertain to wearing masks.  When meltdowns happen as a result of mask wearing it is alright to focus on the other avoidance techniques of social distancing and avoiding public places/ gatherings.  Don't force mask wearing if that mean a melt down will happen, remember that we want to honor the communication from our littles even if the message is something we don't want to receive.


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Teletherapy FAQs

4/17/2020

 
On March 18, 2020 Therapy Center of Buda made the difficult, yet necessary decision to close to the public to ensure we do our part to keep our community safe and avoid the spread of COVID-19 (i.e., Coronavirus).  At the time we closed teletherapy was not an approved by the Texas Department of Licensing (TDLR) for speech-language pathologists and assistants. Nor was it reimbursable by Texas Medicaid (and MCOs) or private insurance policies. We relentlessly engaged with Governor Abbott, TDLR and Gov. Abbott in order to obtain approvals and coverage for our families and other Texan children.  After a tireless fight, we obtained approval from TDLR and The Governor to allow our therapists to provide our services via teletherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic.   We also have obtained approval from all forms of Medicaid and private insurance companies (with the exception of a few self-funded plans).  Many of the private insurance companies have also agreed to waive patient portion of teletherapy visits. This was wonderful news for our families and other Texan children that required speech-language and occupational therapies.

You may be wondering…What IS teletherapy? How is it different than the therapy we already get? Is it “right” for my child?  Let’s explore these questions together:

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COVID-19 closure and teletherapy options at TCOB

3/31/2020

 
TCOB families:
Due to the apparent longevity of our quarantine, we have been working around the clock to get teletherapy up and running and approved by your insurance companies. Below you will find a consent for treatment via teletherapy (PDF).  We will need one of these completed for each patient being treated by our clinicians. I will be emailing families over the next couple of days, but if you want to preemptively complete the document (with signature) and email to us here.

It is important for us to note:

We have the Occupational Therapy department ready to treat starting next week via teletherapy (We will confirm appointments via text).

Speech-language department is a bit tricky at the moment because we are waiting on Governor Abbott to sign an executive order allowing the speech-language pathology assistants we all know and love (Katherine, Katie, Haylee, and Ashley) to be able to provide services via teletherapy with Amy's supervision and guidance.  So, until we get this executive order or until we are able to find another solution our hands are tied on speech-language therapy.  However, we are still preparing as though he will sign this executive order.  If you have connections to Governor Abbott feel free to advocate on our behalf.

Please remain safe and quarantined.

Kindest Regards,
Your TCOB Family

treatment_consent_teletherapy.pdf
File Size: 135 kb
File Type: pdf
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March 21st, 2020

3/21/2020

 
Here is an amazing resource for you! Click below to download and print this social story on the Coronavirus and about the need to quarantine. If you are having trouble explaining school closures, safety precautions, or the need to quarantine to someone you love, this is perfect!
Coronavirus Social Story
File Size: 926 kb
File Type: pdf
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8 Reasons to choose TCOB

5/9/2019

 
From time to time I meet people and they ask me HOW we are different than other clinics, well here are 8 of the things I explain to them.  In all honesty, it was difficult for me to narrow it down to 8.  I feel deep in my heart that we ARE different because we really do see TCOB as a family and we love each and every family that chooses TCOB.

1. We embrace neurodiversity

At TCOB we embrace the diversity of the families we serve. We respect that all individuals are that, individuals. At our premise we want our families to feel accepted, loved, supported, celebrated, and free to communicate their thoughts and needs in the manner that works best for them. We honor communication in all forms.

2. Family Involvement

Family involvement is strongly encouraged and carry-over activities are provided on a regular basis to support generalization of therapeutic progress which accelerates mastery of skills.

3. Differential Diagnosis

Evaluations are not time based.  They are conducted face-to-face and our clinicians employ a variety of standardized, non-standardized, and criterion referenced protocols to provide differential diagnosis.  Caregivers remain with their children during evaluations to ensure a team approach.

4. ADOS-2 Testing

Our Certified Autism Specialist and lead SLP is formally trained to administer The Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule- 2 (ADOS-2) testing for identification (or the ruling out) of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Data, diagnosis recommendation/s, and comprehensive recommendations are discussed with the family by the evaluating clinician and provided in a narrative report.

5. Certified Autism Specialist

Therapy Center of Buda is proud to have an in-house Certified Autism Specialist, who consults with any family requesting assistance and offers parent education and access to community resources with support.



6. Collaboration

We welcome collaboration with all caretakers, educators, physicians, and specialists in order to maximize therapeutic progress and increase our families overall quality of life.

7. In and outdoor sensory gyms

We are the first facility of our kind, utilizing the traditional indoor sensory gym AND a 3,000 sq ft outdoor sensory gym. Our outdoor gym is a full sensory immersion experience that cannot be replicated in a traditional indoor sensory gym.

8. Superior Mandate Exemption

COFK (in coordination with Superior Healthplan) has agreed TCOB is a specialty facility. Receiving this designation will exempt our facility from the Superior/COFK mandate that was implemented March 1, 2018. Individuals can still obtain their evaluations and care through TCOB directly (without going through COFK).

Embracing neurodiversity.

3/11/2019

 
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Diversity.  We all know the obvious forms of diversity; race, nationality, gender, socioeconomic status, general background, etc. But, lately I find myself discussing a lesser known type of diversity; neurodiversity.  Neurodiversity is the concept that neurological differences (e.g., Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Dyscalculia, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, etc.) are respected as any other human variation.  Therapy Center of Buda has always embraced diversity and we celebrate the diversity of our families.  We don’t believe in “cures” and we don’t want neurodivergent people to look neutrotypical.  In fact, suppressing the communicative efforts, including stims and non-spoken forms of communication have long been proven to be counterproductive to overall communicative and daily living success.  Rather, listening to each individual and their wants, desires, requests, and rejections is a way to honor their communication styles.   


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SENSORY HALLOWEEN SCAVENGER HUNT

10/30/2018

 
BY LAUREN DROBNJAK

This Sensory Halloween Scavenger Hunt is the perfect way to keep kids calm if they’re nervous or overwhelmed by Trick or Treating.

For some kids, Halloween is the best holiday of the year — candy, anyone? For others, it’s a night of complete sensory overload. From itchy costumes to strange new sounds, this spooky October evening can be a nightmare for kids with sensory processing concerns or even for kids who just get overwhelmed easily.

We thought it would be fun to take our popular Sensory Motor Scavenger Hunt and twist it up…Halloween style!
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Whether your kiddo just needs a little distraction from the scary chainsaw house in the cul-de-sac or she needs a way to take it all in from a distance, we think this Halloween scavenger hunt will fit the bill.


Original source: https://theinspiredtreehouse.com/sensory-halloween-scavenger-hunt/

12 Things To Listen For In Your Next ARD Meeting

9/22/2018

 
by Bonnie Landau | Advocacy, IEP, Infographic, Special Ed Law

The IEP Team is suppose to help support your child, but sometimes their approach can be misleading. Knowing the law is key when advocating for your child. In my book, Special Ed Mom Survival Guide, I spend considerable time helping you learn about the law and how to apply it. In attending many IEP meetings as a special education advocate, I realized that the schools don’t quote the law when the deny services. Their information is hidden in messages that sound legitimate.
Here are 12 phrases I often hear that are really the IEP Team’s way of skirting around their obligation to provide services.

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Have you heard our AMAZING news?!

4/16/2018

 
Have you heard that we are EXEMPT from the mandated Superior/COFK program?!

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Siblings of children with special needs

4/10/2018

 
Siblings of children with special needs have their own challenges.  People who grow up with a sibling with special needs are often equipped with amazing qualities like patience, kindness, empathy for others, and loyalty, all amazing traits for anyone to have. Here are some terrific books to check out if you love a sibling of a child with special needs.
                                                                                    *Click on the desired book cover for more information*

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What is Occupational Therapy for kids?

4/2/2018

 
​April is Occupational Therapy month!  We want to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for our amazing occupational therapists and commend them for all they do! We also think this is a wonderful time to explain…  What is Occupational Therapy?

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April is Autism Acceptance Month!

4/1/2018

 
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the Autism (aka ASD) is combined array (aka spectrum) of neurotypes. These neurotypes are natural variations. Autism itself does not require treatment, as it is not a sickness. But oftentimes Autistic individuals have co-occurring issues that decrease their ability to fully and effectively communicate their wants and needs or participate in acts of daily living. Autistics, just like neurotypicals, can range from non-speaking to speak eloquently and possess an extensive vocabulary. Knowing the characteristics of Autism  is the first step to early identification and self empowerment.  

Some characteristics of Autistic children are:


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2018 Inclusive Summer Camp Programs

3/25/2018

 
Well, friends...it's about that time of year...to start planning for the summer months!  We all know what that means...SUMMER CAMPS! It's often a challenge to find reliable and vetted summer programs for our special little ones...fortunately for us, our friends at AISD did the leg work for us! Click the photo below to download your copy.  As always, if you have ANY questions feel free to email, call, or visit with me.
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Talking to Children about the Bombings

3/20/2018

 
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All of us at TCOB are heartbroken to hear of the ongoing events in Austin (and Schertz) with the explosive devices.  We have a safety protocol that was established prior to these events and we will continue to honor those safeguards.  There is no direct threat to our facility; however, we ask our families and our community to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.  Please report any suspicious activity or packages/items to authorities immediately by calling 911.  As these events continue to occur it is important that we educate our children and also find ways to talk to them about what is happening while not traumatizing them and making them fearful to step outside of their home.  Our friends at The National Child Traumatic Stress Network published the following (unedited) document on how to talk to children about bombings.  We though it was a good time to share with our families and those beyond our walls.  Sending love to all those victimized.                                               


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Easter Basket Contest! Guess how many jelly beans!

3/20/2018

 
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​​Guess how many jelly beans are in the jar and WIN this awesome Easter basket! The person that gets closest to the actual number will WIN!

We will announce the winner on our Facebook page 03/27/2018. 

This basket is packed full of classic books, sidewalk chalk, bunny popper ball, Easter straw, bubbles, egg dye kit, and much more (NO CANDY)! To enter: Like us on FB, Share the post, and post your guess on the original post!

What are you waiting for???...Get guessing!

Dr. Seuss Day/ Read Across America Day

3/2/2018

 
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National Trisomy Awareness Month: what is Trisomy?

3/1/2018

 
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March is Trisomy awareness month, so it’s a perfect time to explain “what is trisomy?” Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46 chromosomes total.  Trisomy is a genetic disorder in which an individual has an extra chromosome (partial or whole). Early identification is important in order to best evaluate, treat, and monitor for any possible developmental deficits or possible medical complications.  Educating others of trisomy is important to not only provide a better understanding of the syndromes but to reinforce the notion that early intervention is vital for academic and social success.

Most common Trisomy disorders:

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All About Me! (FREE download)

8/10/2017

 
Don't we all want to give a synopsis of our kiddos for their teacher/s at the beginning of the school year? Basically give them a resume of likes/dislikes/what works and doesn't? Well, you are NOT alone! We made this handy PDF to fill in the blanks and even add a photo of your child.  When you meet the teacher/s, aides, therapists, or even babysitters just hand them this "All About Me" page so they are sure to know all about your kiddo.  Download is available for FREE, just click the Download File button below and start filling in the blanks!
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tcob_all_about_me_2017.pdf
File Size: 474 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Water Bead Fun!!!

5/4/2017

 
Meet the newest addition to my therapy room… WATER BEADS! They are squishy, bouncy, and great for playful learning. There are so many ways to use water beads in order to develop speech and language. I created a sensory bin with my water beads and I wanted to share my ideas with you!

1. Place your child’s favorite toys in the sensory bin to target requesting, spatial concepts, following directions, identifying, answering questions, and labeling. “Can you find the cow? Where does a cow live? What does a cow say? Can you put the cow at the bottom?”
 
2. It is so easy to target articulation goals with a sensory bin. Place laminated flashcards inside and have children say the word using their “good sounds” when they find it. This is much more fun than sitting at a table and doing boring homework. :-)

3. Let your child explore! Teach verbs (digging, pouring, mixing), adjectives (slimy, bouncy, squishy, wet), colors, and sizes. Use kitchen utensils for pretend play. Get creative and have fun!

I purchased a package of water beads on Amazon, a container from Dollar Tree, and used flashcards and toys we have around the clinic. This is an inexpensive project that can make targeting speech and language goals more fun and engaging. I hope you enjoy the water beads as much as I do!

Meagan Milligan, B.S., SLP-A

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    Amy Grant is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, Certified Autism Specialist and Clinic Director of Therapy Center of Buda.

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WHAT OUR PARENTS SAY 

I am so happy with the care my daughter gets here. Everyone is helpful and patient. Amy took extra time 
with me and my wife to explain exactly what was happening with my daughter and explain how therapy was going to help. I love that she involves us in the sessions and we have seen major improvements. I would recommend this clinic to anyone!
-Paul S.
I can't say enough about how much my son has progressed and continues to progress in their care. The love and compassion, professional atmosphere, and top notch therapists make this place the best in central Texas. We are forever grateful to Amy Grant, Miss Angeli, Suzie and Brandi.


- Amy P.
Photos used under Creative Commons from stevendepolo, stevendepolo, stevendepolo