The Empowered Parent July 2011 : 2
2 | Page Letter from the Executive Director Landria Seals Green, M.A., CCC-SLP Executive Director Dear Empowered Parents, Here is a question: “What will you do to continue the spirit of Independence Day beyond July 4 th ?” Many people use the word INDEPENDENCE as symbolically as celebratory fireworks; a beautiful concept to be displayed, shared in; an emotionally engaging moment, out of reach, only to disappear leaving us to go back to our regular lives after the firework sensation is over. For me, Independence is not a farfetched concept or a lofty goal. I remember being an undergrad and my advisor stating “please don‟t tell me you want to help people in becoming an SLP”. I boldly stated “Yes I want to help pe ople and I want to be an SLP” without being asked I wrote an essay on the power of the word help, this later became my personal statement for graduate school. My point is, the weight of words is often based upon the heart of the person who utilizes and speaks them. Independence is an action word that should ignite everyone to help facilitate this reachable goal and unspoken dream. Independence requires an Individualized Plan customized for each person as each person’s path, while similar, is their own. Independence means that the treatment plan of the therapist and work in therapy is focused on the learner no longer needing the services; goals with an end date to achieve. I often say to learners, I don‟t want you in therapy forever…it is my goal that we know each other for a finite period of time…I need to make you better, Independent. I hear SLC Therapists saying this in team clinic meetings, collaborations, and when speaking to parent. Independence has a pulse that moves among like minded people. As I gather with my family each year to celebrate Independence Day and other summer holidays, I often reflect on my ancestors who fought for my independence and the life lessons they still teach me as I work with many professionals, learners and their families: 1. Not everyone who speaks Independence, truly wants it. This is what they stand to lose should true independence be reached. Independence requires listening, watching, planning, implementation, and flexibility toward the goal of freedom. Each step toward independence should be celebrated. Not celebrating can make you weary. Independence is hard work and requires commitment. In the words of Tamina Stuber, BCBA, if you‟re not sweating. .you‟re not working hard enough. (towards Independence that is… ) Brittany Coleman, Editor Contributors Dionnea Seals Tamina Stuber, M.A. Debbie Simpson IN THIS ISSUE Gluten Free Crownie Delight Recipe, page 3 Dynamic Moms, page 4 The Transition: From School to Summer Break, page 5 The top 30 apps for under $50, page 6 Adam’s Gluten Free Surprise, page 7 Community News and Places to go, page 8 2. 3. 4. Enjoy and Be Empowered, Landria Seals Green, M.A, CCC-SLP
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