National Disability Institute’s Post

Get ready to challenge your perceptions! 🌈 In this manifesto, Ashley Shew, Associate Professor in the Department of Science Technology and Society, reshapes the narrative around disability and technology. 🚀 🌍 The future is undoubtedly disabled, and it's time to embrace it. Let's shift our perspective and see disabilities not as limitations, but as valuable skill sets shaping our world. 💡 Learn more about the book here: https://lnkd.in/e8XkBUm8

At MSDC, we don't just teach our people how to weed the garden (i.e., handle the bad stuff). We also teach them how to grow their garden (i.e., celebrate the good stuff). So, after a session of weeding the courtyard the other day, our Jobs Club folks learned about plants from the wonderful Martha from Flowers on Redwood. Learn more about how MSDC helps adults with disabilities flourish at https://loom.ly/_sJEiL8

To the new faces here: Hi! We’re ABLE NRC. Our mission is to educate, promote and support the positive impact ABLE can make on the lives of millions of Americans with disabilities and their families. Learn more about us and what we do at ablenrc.org. Image description: Light green square graphic with dark green text reading: About Us. The ABLE National Resource Center (ABLE NRC) is the leading, comprehensive source of objective, independent information about federal- and state-related ABLE programs and activities, including guidance on tax-advantaged ABLE savings accounts. There is a green information icon at the bottom of the graphic, and in the top right corner is the ABLE logo. 

I am sharing an article recently written on the transformative and welcoming nature of our work for PLWD and their connected communities at Adaptive Design through an online publication called Printmag-- https://lnkd.in/eGzDbHci.

As a firm believer in the power of #education to shape young minds and pave the way for future success, I'm continually inspired by the vital role that early childhood education plays in our society. From the moment children enter this world, they are like sponges, soaking up knowledge and experiences that will influence their development for years to come. One cornerstone of early childhood education that often goes overlooked is the invaluable contribution of children's museums. These vibrant spaces serve as interactive hubs where young learners can explore, discover, and ignite their curiosity in a hands-on environment! Whether it's experimenting in exhibits, delving into art activities, or engaging in imaginative play, children's museums like Port Discovery Children's Museum provide a stimulating and nurturing environment that fosters holistic development. Research consistently underscores the significance of early childhood experiences in shaping cognitive, social, and emotional skills that lay the groundwork for future academic and personal achievements. By investing in quality early childhood education programs and supporting initiatives like children's museums, we can empower our youngest learners to thrive and reach their full potential. Let's recognize and celebrate the pivotal role that early childhood education, including the invaluable contributions of children's museums, plays in shaping the trajectory of our future generations. Together, let's ensure that every child has access to enriching educational experiences that set them on a path toward lifelong learning and success. #EarlyChildhoodEducation #ChildrensMuseums #EducationMatters #FutureLeaders #InvestInOurChildren

Today we celebrate the World Children's Day. What better day to take a step back and shed light on The Red Pencil's slogan ? Since 1990, November 20th marks the adoption of the Declaration and the Convention on children's rights. This was a milestone for activists, bringing to worldwide awareness the many challenges faced by children. As the Red Pencil's slogan declares "When we rescue the child, we save the adult", childhood is an entry-point in life and a pivotal point for human beings. Childhood is a definite moment of self-building and the discovery of our interactions to the world. Thus, it is crucial for children to thrive, be protected, and have their needs met within healthy boundaries in order to be happy and grow into well-rounded adults. Through its playful and symbolic approach, art therapy is particularly suitable for children because drawing is the natural instinctive language of children. It encourages their personal expression and creativity, boosts their self-esteem, it helps developing their coping skills and promotes their resilience. Yet, not only children but every adult, from any age and any culture, has an inner child within we need to care for, and for whom art therapy can open up a subtle way to allow our inner child to speak about past experiences and to journey towards healing and the best version of ourselves. #WorldChildrensDay #Children #ArtTherapy

ABLE accounts have been a game changer in empowering people with disabilities by offering a means to achieve financial stability and independence with dignity. They allow for greater autonomy in managing expenses related to healthcare, education, housing, and other vital needs. Over the past 10 years, ABLE accounts have: - Enabled individuals with disabilities to build financial security - Reduced financial stress for families - Enhanced the quality of life for many by expanding access to resources and support As we celebrate this milestone, let’s continue to advocate for and support the expansion of ABLE accounts so that even more individuals can benefit from this incredible resource. Here’s to many more years of progress, empowerment, and financial inclusion for the special needs community! 💙 #ABLEaccounts #FinancialInclusion #SpecialNeedsPlanning #Empowerment #Celebration

Our CEO, Lianna Genovese, never misses an opportunity to create awareness for our community ♿️❤️ Learn more about our award-winning #assistivetechnology, Guided Hands, here: https://lnkd.in/gDpP8XXN #accessibility #innovation #startup #technology #disability #disabilityawareness

World Day for Assistive Technology Today (June 04), we are celebrating World Day for Assistive Technology, a day dedicated to recognizing the vital role that assistive technology (AT) plays in the lives of people with disabilities. Assistive Technology is more than just gadgets; it is about empowerment and inclusion. It ensures that everyone has access to education, employment, and community living. These technologies are not luxuries; they are necessities. Let us take a moment to appreciate those who tirelessly help people find the right tools for their needs. And let us also recognize the efforts of professional organizations who work to make AT more accessible to those who need it. Together, let us continue to support and advocate for assistive technology, making sure that everyone has the tools they need to thrive.

I am excited to share our research article, "Paving the Way to Active Living for People with Disabilities: Evaluating Park and Playground Accessibility and Usability in Delaware," was recently published in the Delaware Journal of Public Health! This paper discusses the environmental barriers Delawareans with disabilities face when accessing and using parks and playgrounds and highlights the need to create inclusive public spaces with equitable opportunities for physical activity. Thanks to Dr. Obrusnikova & Cora Firkin for the opportunity to be involved with such an interesting and important project! https://lnkd.in/e8gxHZAu