It can be difficult for families to find fitness classes oriented toward individuals with different abilities, whether neurodivergence or physical. However, an emerging fitness category is designed for those who need adaptive and inclusive therapy.

On this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette sits down with guest Karen Hurley, a physical therapist and strength and condition specialist with more than 20 years of experience. Karen received a bachelor’s degree in educational studies from Brown University, where she was a varsity athlete and captain of the women’s gymnastics team. She then received a master's degree in physical therapy from Boston University. Karen has worked in various settings and spent the past eight years as a districtwide physical therapist for a local school district. Karen is the founder and president of A.I.M. Therapy located in Needham, Massachusetts, which offers adaptive inclusive movement therapy, including CrossFit and functional fitness sessions for kids, teens, and adults with autism, ADHD, processing challenges, and anxiety.

Annette and Karen explore Karen’s background as a physical therapist, creating connections with students, and how that ultimately led to her establishing her business, A.I.M. Therapy. You’ll also hear what makes CrossFit an inclusive and adaptable activity, who she works with, and what Unified Sports is. Karen explains how the goals of her business have changed since founding it, what makes A.I.M. unique, and why CrossFit benefits neurodiverse athletes. Finally, she outlines how A.I.M. meets clients where they’re at, her encouragement for someone hesitant to attend these classes, and what you can do to get started with adaptive and inclusive therapy in your community.

Adaptive and inclusive therapy can tremendously impact communities where it’s offered. Karen Hurley is excited to share the difference it can make for individuals with different abilities.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Karen Hurley’s background working as a physical therapist with students, creating meaningful connections with them, and how that led to teaching CrossFit
• CrossFit as a scalable, inclusive, and adaptable activity
• Why Karen works primarily with individuals with disabilities and how it led her to open her own business
• An explanation of Unified Sports and the Special Olympics
• How the goals of Karen’s business have changed over time because of the importance of community
• A.I.M. (Adaptive Inclusive Movement) Therapy and what makes it unique from other adaptive and inclusive classes
• A typical day at A.I.M. Therapy
• What differentiates adaptive and inclusive CrossFit from traditional physical therapy
• CrossFit’s variability and how that benefits athletes with neurodiversity
• Relative high intensity scaled to meet you where you’re at, which is functional fitness
• The encouragement Karen gives to those who are hesitant to attend her classes
• Her advice for those who would like to start their own adaptive and inclusive therapy in their communities

Resources from this Episode

• adaptiveaimtherapy.com

• www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093139387607

• www.instagram.com/aim_therapy

• www.linkedin.com/in/karen-hurley-9141b41a2

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We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Navigating the complexities of the special needs community is fraught with challenges, and the current workforce crisis in the disability sector is a cliff we're all facing together. Annette has seen firsthand how the pandemic has eroded the support program landscape as a special needs mom, attorney, and author. It's time we discuss the dire statistics and what they mean for our loved ones. The scarcity of direct support professionals (DSPs) is at a critical point.

In this episode of Parenting Impossible, we're pulling back the curtain on the harsh realities service providers are grappling with, from program cuts to the tough competition for attracting dedicated workers. Yet, amidst the stark outlook, there's a glimmer of hope on the horizon.

Annette is excited to share the recent settlement poised to relieve SSI beneficiaries and the proactive steps the Social Security Administration is taking to rectify overpayment issues. But let's not lose sight of the impending expiry of federal funding that could spell a reduction in community-based services. It's a heartfelt plea for awareness and action—we must bolster the ranks of DSPs and ensure the support structures our community relies on don't crumble. Your involvement is critical, and by sharing your thoughts and spreading the word, you can help ignite the changes we so desperately need.

Join me in this crucial conversation, and let's pave the way toward a more supportive future for those with special needs.

In this episode, you will hear:

• The critical workforce crisis in the disability sector post-pandemic
• Some personal insights from Annette
• An examination of the direct support professional (DSP) shortage and service program cutbacks
• Recent settlements benefiting SSI beneficiaries and SSA's resolution of overpayment issues
• The implications of expiring federal funding from the American Rescue Plan on community-based services
• The need for legislative action to stabilize the DSP workforce and ensure sustainable disability support

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

As the clock struck midnight, marking the start of a new year, Annette found herself immersed in a flood of memories and significant events.

On this episode of Parenting Impossible, carrying the weight of sorrow from the loss of her beloved daughter Elizabeth but strengthened by ten years of affection and the development of the Special Needs Law Group, Annette extends an invitation to you to partake in a personal journey of transformation and the intricate process of decision-making that defines our lives. Annette shares a cherished story from her childhood, in which setting a butterfly free symbolized the infinite potential of wishes. This experience profoundly shaped her perception of influence and purpose in her life and career.

Annette communicates her hope for the coming year—a desire for empowerment and the capability to navigate the often stormy seas of social support systems. Eager to improve this process, she is excited to announce the launch of new group coaching programs designed to offer a guiding light of support, consultation, and advice beyond the scope of traditional legal services. You will sense this podcast's renewed vigor, infused with the energy to spark change and foster connections through these shared coaching experiences.

Annette welcomes everyone to join her as they confront the challenges and celebrate the victories in creating significant legacies for themselves and those they advocate for in the disability community.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Reflections on a decade of personal milestones: the loss of Annette’s daughter Elizabeth, her marriage, and the growth of the Special Needs Law Group
• The importance of transformation and the power of choices in personal and professional life
• A heartfelt letter from one of Annette’s clients and the profound impact of the Special Needs Law Group on the lives of those in the disability community
• Annette’s New Year's wish for empowerment and enabling individuals to navigate social support systems and take control of their futures
• New group coaching programs offering support, consultation, and guidance to those seeking to create a secure and fulfilling plan for their lives

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

• Sign up for the Special Needs Advocacy and Planning Masterclass AND Coaching Program: enroll.specialneedsfamilyservices.com/p/individuals-family-caregivers-cohort-group-coaching

***

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

Sometimes, it’s essential to step back and assess the path we're on - that's exactly what I did this year. After years of fighting the impacts of a global crisis on both my personal and professional life, I made the radical decision to take a sabbatical year. A year to disconnect from “extracurriculars” and focus on my business, my team, and myself. A year to reflect on what truly brings me joy, and rediscover the activities and people I truly missed. 

Join me as I recount the unanticipated benefits of this self-imposed sabbatical. Listen to how I navigated the process of refocusing my energy, honing my business, and fostering team cohesion. I'll share how this radical change led to the acquisition of new skills and realizations about my membership community. As I look back at the past year, I'll discuss my plans to gradually reintroduce aspects of my life, emphasizing only those that truly bring me joy. I'll also share my plans to revamp this podcast and my community outreach. This episode is a must-listen if you've ever considered a sabbatical or a reset in your life.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Why I decided to take a sabbatical year to refocus on my business, team, and personal growth.
• The impacts of the global crisis on my personal and professional life led me to the decision of a sabbatical year.
• Exploring new hobbies and skills, such as baking bread and playing golf.
• How I decided to revamp my podcast and community outreach based on the insights I gained during my sabbatical.

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

Ever felt the pangs of frustration trying to navigate public spaces with a disability or care for someone who does?  This frustration fueled the journey of an extraordinary parent advocating for change, Jayme Betts who serves as the Massachusetts Chapter Leader of the Changing Spaces Campaign.  She shares an illuminating exploration of her mission to make public spaces more accessible for people with disabilities, inspired by her own experiences with her daughter, Sophia, who has Soto Syndrome. Jayme’s story is one of determination and resilience, as she used her personal struggle to fuel her advocacy for universally accessible changing tables. With the lack of adequate facilities, she was compelled to start a chapter of Changing Spaces in Massachusetts, a national organization dedicated to enhancing accessibility in public areas. She shares her experience with the transformative impact of using a universal changing table for the first time, adding a powerful, personalized perspective that only a parent facing these challenges could offer. Additionally, we delved into a potential solution that Jayme has championed – height-adjustable, secured changing tables with a significant support capacity. This innovation, which is set to be included in the International Building Code for 2024, could revolutionize the lives of individuals with disabilities. Jayme gives listeners a glimpse into her world of advocacy as she recounts her experience testifying before a joint committee, providing a firsthand understanding of the battles and triumphs on the road to making public spaces more accessible. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who seeks to understand more about the need for inclusivity and accessibility in our everyday spaces. Learn more about the Changing Spaces Campaign in Massachusetts: Website: https://www.changingspacescampaign.com/machapter Link Tree with Resources: https://linktr.ee/changing_spaces_ma Instagram: https://instagram.com/changing_spaces_ma Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089054724819

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

What's one of the biggest issues most special needs families worry about?  Housing.   This episode unlocks the complexities of the intricate world of housing for those with some form of intellectual or developmental disability or (IDD) with the help of special guest, Pam Blanton, founder and CEO of Partners4Housing.   Tune in to discover how Partners4Housing is changing the lives of families in Washington state by empowering families to create housing solutions that meet the unique needs of their loved ones with IDD and create a real solution for the future. Hear about Partners4Housing's unique roommate matching pool and shared living development services, and also dive into the challenges and strategies of a family-driven housing model. The figure of the caregiver stands central to our discussion as we unpack the various aspects of caregiver supports available and the importance of making the right choice. Housing issues can often feel daunting, but we've got you covered with discussions on Medicaid waivers and housing vouchers, serving up practical solutions for families in need. To cap it all off, we take a deep look into shared living for families and how to navigate through the legalities of setting up a home for a loved one with special needs. From landlord-tenant law to caregiver agreements and household budgets, we've got it all covered. And don't miss out on learning about our Circle of Care on Mighty Networks - a refreshing platform for our disability community to connect, learn, and share experiences. This episode holds key insights for anyone looking to understand better the housing landscape for adults with disabilities, so sit back, relax and let's get the conversation started.

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

What happens when a mother’s fierce love for her special needs child intertwines with her passion for photography? Magic! Join us on this heartwarming journey with Marcie Randall, a dedicated mother, and an exceptional photographer, as she turns her struggles and triumphs navigating the healthcare system for her medically fragile son into a beacon of hope for other families. Marcie's inspiring story combines advocacy, photography, and parenting in a way that's as enlightening as it is moving. Can capturing the moment make a difference? Absolutely! Marcie, through her business - Sunschein Photography, is on a mission to showcase the unique beauty of families with special needs. She generously shares her journey from being a parent and an advocate to becoming a photographer. We’ll explore the challenges of getting that perfect shot, and Marcie will reveal some of her secrets to preparing for a successful photo session. But more than tips and tricks, Marcie emphasizes the invaluable significance of family photos, especially for families like ours. We wrap up our conversation on a high note, appreciating Marcie's commitment to capturing authentic reflections of families with special needs and fostering a sense of belonging and understanding. So, sit back and join us for this enlightening chat as we delve into the world of special needs through the lens of a camera and see the beauty and resilience it reveals. Connect with Marcie Randall: sunscheinphotography.com facebook.com/sunscheinphotography www.instagram.com/marcie_sunschein_photography

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

Could you imagine being a mom and an Assistive Technology Specialist, honeycombing through multiple strategies to craft tools that best support your special needs child? Well, meet Cheryl Farley. A passionate mother and a specialist who's spent years perfecting this very craft. She's graced us with her story, detailing the educational journey of her son, Liam, and the unique challenges they faced in his smaller classroom setting. Listen in as she shares the creative routes they took to find job opportunities for Liam, and the delicate balance they needed to maintain - allowing him to tackle challenges head-on, yet knowing when to pause and reassess. Now, ever wondered how to navigate through disability resources and support confidently? Cheryl explains her journey working directly with Annette Hines through the SNAP (Special Needs Advocacy and Planning) masterclass and coaching program. She walks us through her experience in applying for SSI for Liam, and setting up a Circle of Care - a support system beyond the immediate family. Hear from Cheryl herself how the online application process can be tackled, and the importance of having a strong Circle of Care. This isn't just about learning the ropes, it's about gaining confidence, building relationships, and ultimately finding balance in a sometimes turbulent sea. Don't miss a moment of this enlightening conversation with Cheryl. It's a testament to the strength of love, persistence, and creativity in the face of adversity. Learn more about the SNAP course on a previous episode, "Designing a Disability Support Plan for Independent Living." Check out the Special Needs Academy SNAP masterclass online, which is applicable for anyone with special needs transitioning their services or caregivers: https://enroll.specialneedsfamilyservices.com/p/advocacy-planning-masterclass If you have questions about the course or coaching programs, we invite you to schedule a call with our team here: calendly.com/imartinez-31/specialneedsacademy

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

The intensity of grief can feel like an insurmountable mountain. A profound loss, the passing of Host Annette Hines' beloved daughter, Elizabeth, led her down a path of unimaginable pain, reshaping her identity as a mother and her life. Through the waves of grief, Annette discovered a lifeline in a local grief group, offering a haven where she could share, cry, and heal. This episode serves as an open invitation to join in Annette's journey of remembrance, honoring suicide prevention month, and emphasizing how simple acts of kindness can make a world of difference. We all have a role to play in suicide prevention. It's about staying connected, ensuring safety, and assisting those in need. Annette shares her personal experiences with suicide, depression, and the transformation that followed Elizabeth's death. She also discusses the importance of getting involved at the local level and recommends resources available at 988lifeline.org. As we journey through this heart-wrenching topic, we hope to inspire listeners to be vigilant about suicide prevention, supporting those who are struggling, and honoring those we've lost. In the end, it comes down to kindness, compassion, and the courage to reach out to those in need. Crisis Resources:

• If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 immediately.
• If you are uncomfortable talking on the phone, you can chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org. 
• Learn the warning signs of suicide.  

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

Are you ready to uncover the mysteries of Sensory Processing Disorder? We're elated to have certified occupational therapist assistants, Rachel Harrington and Jessica Hill, founders of Harkla Co in Boise, ID, on our show today. These remarkable women have recently become Certified Primitive Reflex Clinical Specialists, demonstrating their relentless pursuit of knowledge in the field of primitive reflexes. They're here to share insightful perspectives on what it means to be a COTA (Certified Occupational Therapist Assistant) and the significance of a synchronized treatment team. Pull up a chair as Rachel and Jessica shed light on the intricate process of how our bodies and brains decipher eight senses, and the challenges that surface when this process hits a snag, a condition known as sensory processing disorder. They've got practical tips in their arsenal to recognize and manage this issue. As the conversation flows into the realm of sensory diets and advocacy, Rachel and Jessica offer invaluable suggestions for parents and educators to create an environment that nurtures learning for children grappling with sensory processing disorder. Wrapping it all up, we delve into the crucial topic of supporting children with sensory needs. Our guests emphasize the need for open, clear communication between parents, educators, and professionals to ensure successful execution of sensory diet plans. They share wisdom on connecting with your child and setting an exemplary standard in emotional regulation. They prompt listeners to embark on this journey with a sensory checklist, a tool that aids in comprehending a child's sensory preferences. Remember, it's about taking one step at a time. So why wait? Tune in and make use of the treasure trove of resources available at Harkla. Connect with Rachel and Jessica at Harkla: Website: harkla.co Facebook: @harklaproducts Instagram: @harkla_family @allthingssensorypodcast YouTube: @HarklaFamily 

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.

Have you ever wondered about the unique life experiences of siblings of special needs children? We promise to enlighten you on this rarely discussed topic, as we welcome two individuals who've lived this reality -- Hillary Dunn Stanisz, a senior attorney at the Disability Law Center in Boston, and Alexandria Nadworny, a special needs financial planning specialist. Through a candid conversation, they share their personal journeys growing up alongside a special needs sibling, deciphering the balance of their own needs with those of their sibling, and the importance of a robust support network.  This is a re-release of one of our earliest episodes. Our dialogue evolves to discuss the unique dynamics that exist within a family having a child with special needs. Hillary and Alex delve into their childhood memories, talking about their siblings' pervasive medical challenges and the emotional impact it had on them. They shed light on how open communication within the family unit is pivotal and explain how they often had to play multiple roles, including the unexpected one of a quasi-parent. Wrapping up our conversation, we share some practical advice for parents to ensure their typically developing children also have positive experiences. Focusing on tailored approaches, addressing potential feelings of jealousy, and promoting healthy relationships outside the family, we offer a comprehensive guide to managing these unique situations. Hillary and Alex reveal their fears of predeceasing a sibling with special needs and the hurdles of long-distance caregiving, while striving to maintain a balance with their personal lives. Come, join us for a heartfelt conversation on this compelling and unique subject. You can find https://www.masiblingsupport.org/

Have you been searching for a law firm that understands the unique challenges of your family? We can help you at Special Needs Law Group put legal planning in place to protect you and your loved ones now and in the future. Book a free call today with our team or contact us via our website: specialneeds-law.com/contact.