Julie Billiart Schools has helped my child become a better version of himself. The teachers and therapists at JB really know and understand how to reach children who learn differently. 
JB Parent
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Welcome to Julie Billiart Schools, a family of K-8 coeducational, catholic schools for children with learning and social differences.
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Wednesday, August 05, 2020
As Memorial Day approaches and marks the official start to Summer, here are a few safety (and sanity) tips for parents and families of children with autism, sensory processing disorders or other special needs.
- If your child resorts to fight or flight mode when they feel overwhelmed or experience high levels of anxiety, it’s always a good idea to share this information with friends, family members, neighbors and especially local authorities.
- A simple visit to your Sheriff's Department or police department to provide them with a photo of your child, contact information and details about what dangers your child is drawn to (water, animals, high places) can provide you with added comfort and peace of mind.
- Some parents create a special T-shirt, identification bracelet, or dog-tag-type necklace with vital information for their vulnerable children. Several choices are available, so tailor it to your child.
- To keep preparation for outings, parades and picnics a little less hectic, always have a bag packed, ready to go, with sunscreen, hats, blanket, bug spray, medications, camera, extra undies/diapers, wet wipes, snacks, bubbles and an umbrella.
- Depending on what type of event or activity is on the day’s schedule, there may be some waiting involved (for the parade to start, in line for their turn or even in traffic) which allows time for unexpected behaviors to occur. Pick up a new little toy or something appropriate to amuse your child until the waiting is over.
- When taking the family to a parade, consider possible seating locations carefully, if your special child needs a shady or quieter area, you may want to “stake your claim” early with lawn chairs, rope, or a couple of old blankets. You may even consider splitting up the family’s arrival times.
- If the family decides to divide up at an event or location, have a pre-arranged meeting place if anyone should get lost. This is also convenient for reconvening after the event or activity concludes.
- Breaking up a marathon day of activities into small portions of quiet time, or even going home, might be wise to help ensure everyone is lasting through the parade, family BBQ and fireworks.
- Even seemingly simple “sparklers” can burn the hands children (and adults) of all abilities. Swapping sparklers for glow sticks provides safe, inexpensive fun.
- Everyone will be pretty wiped out, so don’t plan anything that next day or two if possible. You all need a quiet, simple day with fairly normal routines.
- After it’s all over, evaluate the day and jot down some adjustments for next year, building even more family memories and holiday traditions.
- Keep smilin’ and carry on! With a little extra prep and consideration, your summer time activities will become more enjoyable and less stressful.
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Julie Billiart Schools has helped my child become a better version of himself. The teachers and therapists at JB really know and understand how to reach children who learn differently.
JB Parent
Julie Billiart Schools gave us hope after our daughter was diagnosed with a learning disability. At JB, she thrived in the small classes, received necessary therapies, and developed the self-confidence to ask for help when she needed it.
JB Parent
My kids love everything about JB and look forward to going to school every day and seeing their friends and teachers. JB is truly a one of a kind school enriching young lives everyday.
JB Parent
They have all the resources necessary, specialized to the individual learning of each child, and the heart that goes with it. I don't think we would have stayed in Ohio if it wasn't for JB!
JB Parent
All of the teachers and staff at JB are patient and willing to take the extra time to make sure we, as parents, understand and are comfortable.
JB Parent
I don’t think I will ever be able to put into words how grateful I am that you saw my daughter for all that she is today and all that she is yet to become.
Tammie Sommer