Indy Kids' Directory February 2014

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Please say “I found it in the IndyKids’Directory!” Thanks! 3

Ben and Annie’s Story

Allow me to introduce my precious seven year old twins, Ben and Annie! Both of my children are on the Autism Spectrum. They were diagnosed with autism at 2 1/2 years old. At the time, the diagnosis filled me with fear. When I heard autism I immediately thought of what I knew from movies and media. I found that so hard to connect to my sweet kiddos. Yet, I realized my children had challenges. They did not make eye contact, speak, interact socially, play

with toys, or seem to really connect with the world around them. I didn’t know

how to reach my own children, that broke my heart. Then, we found the VBCA. Right from the start we were welcomed into an atmosphere where we were not the “difficult” or “odd” family. The children were evaluated and began their ABA therapy. In the beginning, we were told some things we could expect for our children as they progressed in therapy. Hopeful, positive, “normal” things. I thought it was

wonderful, but my heart wasn’t sure it could really happen. Now, it is three and a half years later. My children can speak to me in simple sentences. They can express emotions, play with me, hug me, laugh with me, enjoy outings with me, play with imagination, and they are mostly potty trained. They have learned to do basic academics. Most of all, I am now a big part of my children’s worlds. I no longer look at the autism as something I need to “fix” or “heal”. Rather, it is simply just a part of who my children are. They are perfect little kiddos, unique in their own ways. Over the years the therapists and consultants have literally become as close to us as family. They love and enjoy my children as much as I do! I have learned, right along side my children, how to interact with them, help them, experience the world with them and help them overcome challenges. The VBCA unlocked my children so that we can experience all life has to offer together instead of side by side. I love my funny, energetic, free spirited daughter. I love my son who draws the most amazing pictures, loves to laugh, and loves to play. I am thankful for these special little ones God has entrusted to my husband and I. They are special in so many more ways than one!



Ages 3-12

Greetings from the All Pro Flag & Cheer family!! The NFL Flag season is just around the corner and APF is Indy’s premier youth recreational flag league. APF flag is a 5 on 5 coed youth flag football league that offers excitement and fun for children ages 3-12. Nowhere else in the city or state will your child get a great experience, organized operations, competitive play, and the opportunity to meet current and former NFL players as well as Super Bowl Champions.

In 2009 the seed was planted and over the last 4 years All Pro Flag has been able to give hundreds of kids the opportunity to enjoy learning the basics of flag football in a safe and fun environment. With ages ranging from 3-12, we've seen a variety of participants. This past fall we fielded our third consecutive all girls team, who not only won the older division title, but went on to play in the NFL Flag regional tournament of champions in Cincinnati. Up against the defending national champions, the girls finished in 2nd place but proved they had what it takes to go all the way. Our girls team featured some of the fastest girls in the country!!!

It's always an exciting time for the All Pro Flag Football family and we want you to join us. With local natives and Super Bowl Champions Rosevelt Colvin & Courtney Roby headlining the leagues, it's sure to be a blast for each and every child. With two locations and sessions in the spring and the fall, there is a great opportunity for kids across the city to get out and join the fun.

Registration is now open. The Spring session starts 4/19/14 and the Summer/Fall session 8/16/14. Be sure to like our page on Facebook or follow us on twitter and Instagram @allprofac.

For more information visit www.allprofac.com or call

317.721.1259 to register TODAY!!!

Rosevelt Colvinand Campers


MondayJim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu - 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060

CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free Chick Fil-A 3360 W. 86th St. The Pyramids Indy

TuesdayScotty’s Brewhouse 3905 E. 96th Street Indianapolis, IN & 1 Virginia Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204

CR Heroes 10570 E. 96th St. Fishers, IN 46037 - Cancun - 6714 E 82nd St, Indianapolis, INJim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu - 2301 Conner St. Noblesville, IN 46060

Massey’s Pizza Kids’ eat free w/ adult from pizza buffet - 172 Melody Ave., Greenwood, IN CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free

Chick-fil-A Southport Rd. Indy Kids eat free Tuesday Evenings Chick-fil-A 6020 E. 82nd Castleton Mall Kids’ Eat Free Tuesday’s 4 to 8

Chick-fil-A Noblesville Buy one Get one Free Tuesday 5-9Chick Fil A Carmel 14647 US 31 North Family Night each Tuesday from 5 till 8

Hellas Café 8501 Westfield Blvd IndyChampps Indy Northside 8711 N. River Crossing Blvd. 2 children eat free with 1 adult meal all day Tuesday

Bob Evans’ Family Night Free kids meal with each adult entrée purchase. Every Tuesday from 4- 9 91 Byrd Way, Greenwood in 46143

WednesdayCC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free

Michaelangelo’s 550 Westfield Rd, Noblesville, INJim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060

Chick-fil-A 3802 E. 82nd Indy at the Crossing Indy Kids’ Eat Free Wednesday’s 4 to 8Thursday

Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free

FridayJim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060

Chick-fil-A Avon 10791 East US Highway 36 Join UsFriday, Feb 7th from 5-7. It’s Valentine’s day!

CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free Saturday

Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060 Steak N Shake all Indianapolis locations

CC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free Sunday

Scotty’s Brewhouse 3905 E. 96th Street Indianapolis, IN & 1 Virginia Avenue, Indianapolis, IN 46204Jim Dandy Family Restaurant Kids’ 5 and under eat free from the kids menu 2301 Conner St, Noblesville, IN 46060

Steak N Shake all Indianapolis locationsCC Pizza all Indy locations 3 and under eat free

(Please call ahead to verify details)




Ethan is a kind, fun four year old that is always trying to make people laugh. When he started Brain Balance in the Spring of

2013 he was also frustrated, unfocused, and disconnected. In a few short weeks, Brain Balance has transformed our child. Under their gentle guidance, Brain Balance helped us unravel Ethan’s tangles. It was like walking on eggshells as any wrong move or word could completely set Ethan

off into a tantrum with no limitation. Now Ethan has the patience of a saint and his world is slowly opening up around

him. I’ve always known that Ethan loved me, but he had never (voluntary) hugged me or told me he loved me. He was just

disconnected and couldn’t. I’m happy to report that Ethan now (excitedly) delivers many hugs and those sweet words “I love you, mommy.” We have seen numerous improvements and with simple dietary changes and specific daily exercises have made Ethan accessible, focused, connected, and he continues to improve daily. We were attracted to Brain Balance because of their non-medical, drug-free approach to healing the disconnected parts of Ethan. Brain Balance was not interested in a diagnosis and there was never a doubt that they could help him. We are forever grateful to Brain Balance.

Ethan’s Story







Autism Spectrum Disorder now affects one in 88 children — and one in 54 boys — and its prevalence is growing.

ASD is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the United States. With an increased awareness of ASD and more diagnosis of it, more

parents are faced with the question, “What now?” The uncertainty of the unknown is replaced with overwhelming feelings of not knowing where to turn for help.

The Applied Behavior Center for Autism’s founder, Sherry Quinn, understands firsthand the emotional roller coaster of raising a child with autism. In 1995, Sherry learned that her 2-year-old son, Michael, had autism. At the time, autism was a rare diagnosis; in fact, Michael would later become the first child to be diagnosed with autism in his school district.

Determined to help her son, Sherry searched for information about autism and was drawn to the evidence-based treatment options that applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy offered. At the time, there were no ABA therapy centers in Indiana, so Sherry successfully lobbied with other parents for the passage of the Indiana Autism Mandate, which mandated health insurance coverage for individuals with autism spectrum disorders. Not long after, The Applied Behavior Center for Autism opened its doors. and her son became its first client.

So what is behavior analysis? Behavior analysis is a scientific approach to understanding how the environment influences behavior. The term “behavior” refers to all types of performance, not only inappropriate or undesirable actions. Speech, language, social, learning, daily living, leisure and vocational skills all are behaviors.

ABA focuses on using proven procedures to increase desired behaviors and decrease unwanted behaviors. These techniques can be used in structured settings (e.g., classrooms and therapy clinics) and

more natural settings (e.g., playgrounds and restaurants). ABA has been used successfully with people of all ages, with and without disabilities, in a variety of settings to promote independence, quality of life and happiness.

Joohee, mother of 5-year-old Adam who has ASD, testifies to the success of ABA therapy, which has made a positive change in her family’s life.

“From a child who was only able to identify objects, Adam is now speaking and using phrases like ‘You’re welcome,’ ‘Bless you mommy’ and ‘Are you OK?’ in appropriate settings, and those are just a few examples,” Joohee said. “He was also potty trained through The Applied Behavior Center’s potty training program, which was a huge feat.” Joohee said Adam is also adapting well to receiving haircuts thanks to the center’s hair cutting program. He would scream and cry during an entire hair cut prior to the program.

“I cannot give enough examples of how much our child has progressed through his therapy at The Applied Behavior Center. We are very pleased with the results of the ABA therapy and look forward to the progress that our child will yet make,” said Joohee.

Once a child receives the diagnosis of ASD, it’s important to get him or her into a therapy program, and ABA therapy has the best track record of scientifically demonstrating effective treatments. Through individualized plans for each child and tracking daily progress at The Applied Behavior Center, we see the quality of life improve not only for the child but for the whole family .

To learn more about how The Applied Behavior Center for Autism improves

language and social skills and decreases problem behaviors, contact

Jenny Lanham, Director of Business Development at 317-849-5437, ext. 112.

Overwhelmed to Answers by Janine Shapiro, SLP-CCC, BCBA

Janine Shapiro,SLP-CCC, BCBA


February Calendar of EventsSaturday, February 1Family Game Day at Southport Branch Library at 2630 E. Stop 11 Road, Indy. Families and children of all ages are invited to drop in any time to make new friends while playing board games or solving puzzles. Games and puzzles will be provided. www.imcpl.org/Saturday, February 1, 10:30 amPeanut Butter & Jam Series: African Dance & Storytelling at The Center for the Performing Arts, 355 W. City Center Dr., Carmel. Explore a multitude of musical genres alongside your children. The experience is 30 minutes of music, with 15 minutes for the families to touch and play with the musical instruments, including Q&A with the artists. The entire matinee experience is under 1 hour and is especially geared for youth ages 1-7. Today’s program: libada Dance Company, one of the region’s most popular children’s African dance troupes, presents African dance and culture. http://www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org.Thursday, February 6 – Sunday, February 9AKC Dog Show - Join the Central Indiana Kennel Club, Inc. and the Hoosier Kennel Club for an American Kennel Club dog show. Entrants for this event must be registered by January 22nd. All breeds will show each day. www.bringfido.com.Saturday, February 8 – Thursday, February 13Valentine’s Day Cabaret at Peewinkle’s Puppet Studio, 25 Henry St., Indy. Bring your sweethearts to this Valentine themed cabaret marionette show. Sweetheart the Clown will narrate the show...lots of fun and a grand finale! www.peewinklespuppets.com/puppets2.html.Sunday, February 9, 3:00 pm Hot Jazz for Cool Kids! at the Central Library at One Library Square, 40 E. St. Clair St., Indy. Children and families are invited to this outstanding series of free performances by Indy’s leading jazz musicians. This program, to be held in Central Library’s Clowes Auditorium, will feature the Latin jazz of Pavel and Direct Contact. Known for his pyrotechnics on the piano, 2013 Chicago Music Awards nominee Pavel will team up with Henri Mancini bass player Steve Dokken and Latin American music specialist Raul Pedro on percussion. www.imcpl.org/

Friday, February 14 – Saturday, February 1511th Annual Indiana Art Fair - The Indiana Art Fair returns to celebrate its eleventh year showcasing art made right here in the Hoosier state. Enjoy an array of fine arts and crafts by over 60 artists in the warmth of the museum. Whether you like contemporary or traditional, art that is wearable and functional, or pieces for display in your home, these amazing artists have what you are looking for. Not only will you be supporting talented local artists, but also your Indiana State Museum, as proceeds go to supporting both public and school programs. www.indianamuseum.org.Monday, February 17Presidents Day at The Children’s Museum - Discover Indiana’s presidential heritage with fun activities, historic facts, and a featured appearance by President Abraham Lincoln. www.childrenmuseum.org.Thursday, February 20Clowes 4 Kids: Charlotte’s Web - Wilbur is a pig with a problem! Unless he gets some help, he is sure to wind up as pork chops on someone’s dinner table! Thank goodness for his true friend Charlotte, a little gray spider, who devises a solution that just might save him. Enjoy this dramatic adaptation of the treasured tale by E. B. White that features a cast of madcap farm animals that exemplify bravery, selfless love, and the true meaning of friendship. A sure bet to capture the hearts and imaginations of children! www.cloweshall.org.Tuesday, February 25 – Sunday, March 2The Cat in the Hat at The Center for the Performing Arts - The Cat in the Hat is the perfect friend for a boring rainy afternoon. From games and mischief to Thing One and Thing Two, The Cat brings all sorts of trouble to this grey day— but will Sally and her brother be able to explain the mess to Mother? This Dr. Seuss classic leaps onto the stage with chaotic exuberance in this adaptation from the National Theatre in London. www.thecenterfortheperformingarts.org.If you would like your event included in

our monthly calendars, submit it by going to wwwIndyKidsDirectory.com.






Parenting is a huge responsibility and as a life coach I believe that

the bigger the job, the more you have to take care of you and model self-care. After all you are the CEO of your own company and this requires a variety of skills that you may typically minimize because they feel so ingrained and normal. If you were to list and categorize what you did on a daily basis you would recognize that your duties include organizational development, time management proficiency, and human resource abilities. Let’s not forget that you are always working on skills with your family that includes personal growth development, self esteem building, goal setting and conflict resolution. This is a tough career and you are the perfect person for the job! But as mentioned at the beginning of this article, sometimes the hardest part of parenting can often times be role modeling healthy behaviors that kids can learn from you. Why is this such a conundrum? Because life is so hectic you forget that you are the #1 source for teaching your kids how to feel, what to think and how to believe! You are doing so much for yourself that you may have forgotten how to model good self care.

Let me ask you.....Do you utilize self care? Do you find quiet time in your day to de-stress and relax? How about play? Do you spend time having fun with your kids and showing them that you can have fun with other adults in your life? Do you have a manageable schedule which includes rest and relaxation and laughter? Are you positive about yourself? Do you convey a sense of confidence that the kids can see and model as they grow older? In other words, how good are you at taking care of you? Parents are typically selfless when it comes to meeting needs.....they tend to put everyone first before themselves. How often at the end of a long tiring day do you pat yourself on the back and

tell yourself that you have done a fabulous job of childrearing and caretaking. I would venture to say that most of you would assess the day and worry about the things that didn’t feel “good enough.” But the truth of the matter is that you will feel better and have more success if you focus on what is going right in your family’s life as opposed to what is going wrong.

Homework AssignmentI would love to challenge you to

• write down 5 things about yourself thatyou feel positive and confident about that directly relates to your parenting.

• Repeat those statements or qualities toyourself at least once a day.

• Take a few deep breaths and as you dothis, breathe into the affirmations.

When you do this regularly, you take more time out for you which sends a message to the kids that your needs are important too and need to be respected. This daily exercise centers and grounds you and provides you an extra benefit in that it gives you more time to be proactive and plan for your family. So not only have you been a positive role model, but you have also allowed yourself more breathing room literally to manage the household.

So don’t cheat yourself from taking good care of you and teaching the kids how important your needs are in the context of being a part of the family. If you don’t...no one else will!

Carol Juergensen Sheets

Carol Juergensen Sheets LCSW PCC is a psychotherapist and personal life coach. She does motivational speaking and empowerment trainings locally and nationally. To find out more about her services--contact her at www.carolthecoach.com or call her at 317 218-3479.

Your Needs Are Important Too


See pg 8

See pg 12

See pg 4

See pg 23

See pg 17



Children with autism are less likely to misbehave intentionally than typically developing children of the same age. Their apparent bad behaviors are more likely to be related to circumstances that can be resolved by remaining calm and adjusting the environment.

1. Know your child. While many children with ASD have difficult behavior, few behave badly intentionally. What’s going on? Each child with autism is different. Knowing your child can help you determine if the behavior is a result of specific sensitivities that he/she exhibits. The more you know about your child’s sensory concerns the better you will be at anticipating problem settings and situations.2. Modify your expectations. As you consider your child’s skills and abilities, be sure your expectations are within his/her abilities. Asking a child who needs movement to sit still through a program or presentation is likely to result in problem behavior. Adjust your expectations so that your child is able to be compliant.3. Modify the environment. Safety is a key consideration and children with autism often have little regard for their own well-being. It is important that precautions be established to help your child function safely in the environment. For some children this may mean bolting shelves to the wall or installing locks on doors that are out of your child’s reach.4. Think about the possible causes of behavior. When your child with autism is over-sensitive or under-sensitive to sensory stimuli, poor behavior may relate to his/her attempts to satisfy the sensory needs.5. Eliminate over-whelming sensory input. By simply avoiding problem situations you can avoid the behaviors you want to avoid. If you know your child is sensitive to loud sounds and responds to louds situations by trying to run away, it makes

sense to avoid situations that will be loud. If you are unable to avoid the situation, provide your child with head phones to reduce the noise. Always allow your child the opportunity to tell you when they are done with a situation and need to go home. 6. Provide the opportunity for sensory input. Allowing your child time to do sensory tasks can help them control their behavior. If your child has a need for sensory input, giving him/her the opportunity to punch a pillow, jump up and down, wrap up in a blanket or any other sensory activity they prefer can provide your child with the opportunity to be calm.7. Enjoy your child’s successes. As with other children, your child with autism has specific skills and abilities that are unique. Celebrate the times when his/her unique skills provide the opportunity for him/her to shine. For a child who has been non-verbal to utter the first word, this is a reason to cheer!8. Don’t worry about other’s opinions. You know your child better than anyone else. While opinions may be shared by someone who claims to have your best interests at heart, remember what you know about your child. You are likely working with professionals who are providing therapies and instruction to your child. Listen to what they have to say and let the other opinions fall on deaf ears.

Remember to take time to enjoy favored activities with your child. It will create priceless memories for both of you.

Mica Adams Autism Consultation, LLCwww.autismconsultation.net866-968-3698

Tips for UndersTanding and Managing yoUr Child wiTh asd



Applied Behavior Center for Autism See pgs. 14, 15, 28www.appliedbehaviorcenter.orgLocations in Greenwood, Indy West, and FishersApplied Behavior Analysis (ABA) focuses on using proven procedures to increase desired behaviors and decrease unwanted behaviors.

Brain Balance See pg.9www.brainbalanceindy.com317.843.92009510 N. Meridian St., IndianapolisBrain Balance’s Program has changed the lives of kids suffering with ADHD, learning disorders and behavioral issues. Our Program provides lasting results because we don’t just work with your child’s strengths or compensate for a weakness, we tackle the issue head on, by addressing the root cause at the most fundamental level. We integrate cognitive, sensory-motor and nutritional training into a highly effective, drug-free program that targets your child’s specific challenges.

Children’s Dentistry of Indianapolis See pg. 7www.indychildrensdentist.com317.580.91999240 N. Meridian St., Suite 120, IndianapolisInfants, Children, Teens, Special Needs Children.

Kids Abilities See pg. 12www.kidsabilities.com317-851-8419Kids Abilities is a pediatric therapy clinicthat provides high quality services for kids.

Mika L. Adams See pgs. 24Autism Consultation, LLC866.968.3698 I develop strategies to help families with children on the autism spectrum. The strategies address the following areas of concern; academic, behavioral, social, and sensory problems.

The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism See pgs. 2, 3www.vbca.org317- 848- 47749830 Bauer Drive Indpls., IN 46280The Verbal Behavior Center for Autism provides year- round services offering one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis therapy to children with autism ages 2 - 12. All programs are overseen by Board Certified Behavioral Consultants who together have a combined 45 years of experience. Tour our center, call us or view our website today!

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Indy Kids' Directory February 2014