It is now recommended that all children who use ADHD medications schedule an ECG and cardiovascular check up; stirring alarm among parents whose children are more at risk for a cardiac event if they have an undiagnosed heart problem and use stimulant medications like ritalin, adderall, or concerta.

Children with developmental disabilities and physical challenges have shown that they can perform beautifully and express themselves through dance and theater wherever they have opportunities to show their talents and develop their skills.

Adaptive classes for students with IEPs may be helpful, effective, and enjoyable places. But it is better for all to grow up included with mainstream peers, who also benefit from their presence and the accommodations they bring to classrooms and playgrounds - and eventually to all their adult lives.

Children deserve immediate help and long term support when they are traumatized by current events or have suffered abuse, loss, health issues or injury. Acknowledging traumatic events in a child's life is the responsibility of family members and other adults who may also have been affected.

Every child deserves accessible playgrounds and naturally integrated play areas in their classrooms or schools. Families of children with disabilities find that local playgrounds and school play areas can be made accessible with a bit of community effort, at reasonable cost, with benefits for all.

Children with physical disabilities should have accessible playgrounds in their communities and schools. We find great designs in accessible playgrounds and play areas in communities of all sizes, and we can also learn from the shortcomings we find in our own neighborhoods and local schools

Children and teens with disabilities should have access to technology that can provide alternative communication platforms and educational support and inspiration. A quarter century of research has shown the benefits and accommodations tech hardware and software offers people with disabilities.

An unexpected opportunity to be a gladiator advocate at a candy store found me unprepared to respond when a store employee singled out my son for humiliation. Stunned and confused, I said nothing. Identifying as an ambassador rather than an activist left my son vulnerable as a customer. Never again.

One year after hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast, disability advocacy organizations for children, families and individuals are more aware, still working to help those affected and to prepare all communities

Book Review: Spirit, Courage, and Resolve - A Special Olympic Athlete´s Road to Gold, by Tom Lambke, and I Just Am, by Bryan Lambke