Happy February! Please consider adding a comment here or on our Facebook page in response to the questions at the bottom of this post.
In January, we worked on start-of-year preparations. Many of our friends made vision boards of things we’d like to focus on this year. We then moved onto creating an emergency information cheat sheet. The goal for this was to create independence for our clients on all levels. For those using a speaking device, we are working on adding in emergency information so that in the event a caregiver wasn’t available, they could successfully communicate any needs they would have. For those who are already more independent, we created a “cheat sheet” so that they could use it to fill out forms like job applications or answer questions at a doctor’s office.
Mid-January, coinciding with the change in semester, we made a few schedule changes to better meet the needs of our clients. The transition has been incredibly smooth and so beneficial to both staff and clients.
February afternoon clients have moved into banking and budgeting to help them plan for life on their own. They are also working on identifying the different types of relationships we have in our lives (family, coworkers, romantic, friends, etc) using Disney/Pixar shorts and discussions. Our morning clients have themed weeks that include short videos learning about the themes, crafts, and games.
OUT AND ABOUT IN THE COMMUNITY
This month’s shout out is to Kaukauna Coffee and Tea. Our clients went in January, and the staff was so accommodating and patient as we practiced polite interaction in a new setting. We will definitely be going again, and soon. Stop in and say thanks for us (we recommend getting a coffee too).
DID YOU KNOW? WHAT SHOULD WE KNOW?
This month, we are asking for your feedback. The Inclusion staff has been considering the expansion of our social media presence to push the idea of an inclusive community to a larger audience. One of our ideas is to demonstrate what to–or not to–do when interacting with an individual with disabilities.
For example, one of our clients told us he hates dealing with customers at his workplace because, instead of treating him like any other individual, they comment on how well he can do his job with only one hand. Bringing awareness to the idea that they’d like to be treated like everyone else rather than highlighting their abilities or disabilities is such an important message to create a welcoming community around our clients.
We plan on getting more feedback from our clients, but we would love your input as well. When interacting with your loved one, what things would you like people in the community to do more? What things would you like people to do less?
Enjoy sharing some productive feedback as much as one of our members enjoys watching the new bubble tube he helped fill!
