There Is No Them, Only Us
When I founded Additional Needs, Inc. (ANI), it was because of what my family was going through—what so many families are still going through today. I saw firsthand the challenges, the struggles, and the deep love that binds us all together. And I realized something: We are not separate. There is no “us and them.” […]
Reprogramming the Mind for the Present: The Power of Lifelong Learning and Open-Mindedness
Reprogramming the Mind for the Present: The Power of Lifelong Learning and Open-Mindedness Our brains were wired over 200,000 years ago for survival. In a world filled with immediate dangers—predators lurking in the shadows, scarce food supplies, and unpredictable environments—our ancestors depended on their instincts to react swiftly to threats. The fight-or-flight response kept them […]
What If Today Were Your Last? Shaping Your Mindset for a Fulfilling Life
What If Today Were Your Last? Shaping Your Mindset for a Fulfilling Life Imagine waking up and realizing that today is your last day on Earth. Would you spend it replaying the frustrations, disappointments, and stress that weigh you down? Or would you choose to embrace every moment with gratitude, focusing on the beauty of […]
Navigating the Mental Health Journey: A Father’s Perspective
As I sit down to share my journey as a father of a child with additional needs, I’m immediately struck by the depth of emotions that accompany such an experience. My son, a resilient soul who has faced challenges with unwavering strength, was born with Down syndrome, childhood apraxia, and bravely underwent open-heart surgery at […]
Enhancing Emergency Care for Children with Additional Needs: The STARS Program
In moments of crisis, every second counts, especially for children with medical complexities. Parents of such children often live with the constant fear of emergencies and the uncertainty of whether emergency medical services (EMS) will have the necessary information and training to provide timely and effective care. However, hope shines through in the form of […]
The Trap of Being Hard on Ourselves.
Dear Friend, As I sit down to write this letter, I find myself reflecting on the countless times I’ve witnessed individuals, including those who’ve attained remarkable success, continuing to be hard on themselves despite their achievements. It’s a pattern that’s become all too familiar, one that I’ve observed in the pages of books, the frames […]
Setting the Stage for Success: The Importance of Children Learning Good Sleep Habits
As parents and caregivers, we often prioritize various aspects of our children’s development, from academic achievement to physical health. However, one crucial component that is sometimes overlooked is the establishment of good sleep habits. Yet, research consistently shows that cultivating healthy sleep routines in childhood lays the foundation for numerous benefits that extend well into […]