It’s a fresh new year, and there are lots of awesome things to do. It’s important for mental health to get outside and do good when you can–particularly if you’re a special needs parent or carer. Stephen’s Place is a home for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We’re located in Vancouver ‘The Couv’ Washington,… Read More

Sensory activities can encourage social, cognitive, physical, and linguistic development. For people with autism, ADD, ADHD, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities sensory can offer a lot of benefits. Sensory activities stimulate the brain, creating neural pathways and improving sensory processing systems, help improve social skills, have a calming effect, improve coordination, and improve motor… Read More

In the beginning, traditional Christmas tree ornaments consisted of dried cranberries, lollies, candles, and popcorn – the origins of which can be traced back to Estonia in the 15th century. We’ve evolved since then to really add some individuality to each person’s tree. And, now that we have Pinterest, we’re getting more fresh ideas every… Read More

Autism Empowerment Knowledge about the autism spectrum is a slow-moving train, but in recent years one couple has found a way to provide individuals with autism and Asperger syndrome a support group they can count on – Autism Empowerment.   Founded through a grassroots effort in 2011 by John and Karen Krejcha in Vancouver, Washington, they… Read More

Sensory activities can stimulate touch, smell, taste, movement, balance, sight and sound. They create opportunities for exploration and learning. In a group setting, sensory activities can help people bond as they share materials and ideas. Sensory activities can also have a calming effect. At Stephen’s Place, we provide opportunities for our residents to participate in… Read More

It’s a great time to plant spring-blooming bulbs. They can be planted in the ground or planted in pots. Aside from being great for movement and dexterity, an activity such as planting bulbs can help people learn about planting seasons, the different parts of a bulb, and growing flowers. It’s also really great to see… Read More

Beetlejuice in the Waiting Room Costume Every year, Anthony Alfano’s parents, Tony and Deanna, make an epic Halloween costume for Anthony and his wheelchair. They’ve been making him costumes since he was born. Over the years, Anthony has been Beetlejuice, Zoltar, Mini-Me, the Wheel of Fortune wheel, a Lincoln Memorial snow globe, and a Chicago… Read More

A lot remains to be done for the employment equality of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Despite some more recent changes being made, U.S. workers with disabilities actually decreased as a share of the labor market from the 1980s to 2015. Around 70% of people with intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities are unemployed. This isn’t… Read More