Tip of the Week: IEP Components – Staff Support

Parents have asked for suggestions about information to be included on an IEP created for a child with Prader-Willi syndrome. Previous tips have outlined Food Safety and Clinical and Behavioral components; below is a list of Staff Support suggestions to include in the IEP. Staff Support Must always be within “eyeshot” and/or “earshot” of staff Constant close monitoring during all parts of…

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Tip of the Week: Celebrating in your own way

With the holidays directly upon us, I know that the anxiety and feelings of being overwhelmed are high. Our kids feel our stress, react to a change in their routine, and struggle with maintaining appropriate behavior when they know that expectations are high. During this time, please do not forget to give yourself a break,…

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Tip of the week: Seasons changing

As the season begins to change, it can be a difficult time for children and adults with Prader-Willi syndrome when it comes to wearing the proper clothing. A combination of temperature dysregulation, sensory processing disorder, and an overall change to their morning routine that includes picking out different clothing can be extremely challenging. Try to…

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Tip of the week: Team communication

As the school year starts up, early communication with your child’s team is crucial. Establish regular communication and don’t wait until something becomes a problem before addressing it with the team. Be sure to set mutual goals and check on their progress at least monthly. Your child will have a much more successful year if…

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Tip of the Week: Bedtime

Individuals diagnosed with Prader-Willi syndrome struggle with getting a good night’s sleep. Here are some ways to help your child get the best sleep that they can: Pick a bedtime and stick to it. Regardless of vacations, holidays, or events, try to keep the same bedtime regardless. Allowing for special occasions will typically backfire and…

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Conference reflections: “One of the best things” for PWS caregivers

Latham Centers has a long history of leadership and professional development in the local, regional, and national Prader-Willi syndrome community. Specialized PWS conferences have proven remarkably insightful to staff at Latham; conferences are a catalyst for continued education and opportunities to connect with people from around the globe. Earlier this year, staff from both our…

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The Latham Cookbook: Co-author Patrice Carroll writes about the PWS journey

Patrice Carroll, co-author of Latham Centers’ new cookbook, is internationally recognized for her expertise in Prader-Willi syndrome. She has been working with individuals and families impacted by PWS since 1999, and her experiences helped shape the vision of Latham’s new book, “Living Healthy with Prader-Willi Syndrome: Cookbook and Nutrition Tips.” In the cookbook, Patrice writes…

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Tip of the Week: Pen Pal Program

Latham Centers is thrilled to introduce our international pen pal program. Many of our students come to us without ever having an appropriate peer group, but once they arrive, they start making friends almost immediately. Our students often report that prior to coming to Latham, they felt isolated and different from other children. Several of…

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Tip of the Week: Celebrating our students

Yesterday was a very special day for the students at Latham Centers. In this 30-second video taken after the close of our Year End Celebration, Jessica helped me express what an incredible year it has been:   “This is the very best day of the year for us, because we get to celebrate all of the…

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Tip of the Week: Kyphosis

Kyphosis is a curvature of the neck and spine and can occur in individuals with Prader-Willi syndrome due to poor muscle tone. Daily exercise to maintain back and neck muscles is essential to decreasing the likelihood of Kyphosis. Always consult with your child’s doctor if you see signs of weakening muscles or notice even the…

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