An NPR blog confirms rise in enterovirus cases.

Enterovirus (also called EV-68) is on the rise. It causes severe respiratory infections and the CDC says it’s “evolving quickly.”

Seek medical attention if you notice symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing.

Read the full story CDC Warns of Fast-Spreading Enterovirus Afflicting Children.

5 apps to stop the summer slide.

Children look forward to summer activities and a break from homework. Unfortunately, those months spent away from school can lead to learning loss, often called “the summer slide.” Teachers recommend 5 fun apps to help keep kids engaged in learning over the break. Read FIVE Apps to STOP Summer Slide.

Chicago Tonight reports the benefits of the LAUNCH transition program.

Parents and their children come together with hospital staff to find out how the children can become independent as they reach adulthood.

These young adults are learning the importance of understanding their treatment plan, asking questions, and how to fill prescriptions, select doctors and make appointments.

The group format also gives them an opportunity to form relationships with other young adults.

Find out why this Urbana cafe was featured on WCIA’s “Angel’s Among US”

Piato Cafe in the Lincoln Square Mall is known for their food. Now they’re being recognized for their efforts to support local causes. Each month Piato hosts a $5 buffet and donates the proceeds. One month – their best ever – the proceeds were donated to a staff member. The team member’s son has autism and developmental delays. The donations helped her pay therapy and hospital bills. Read the full story or watch the video on WCIA.

Discover the many programs and events available for kids this Summer at Carbondale’s library.

The public library has a few reading programs for different age groups, story time with songs and crafts, animal science, an interactive play, matinee movies, and even reading with a therapy dog!

For the full schedule of events, visit Carbondale Public Library’s Children’s Program Schedule.

Children with special health care needs experience higher costs under a high-deductible plan than with conventional insurance.

High-deductible health plans seem like a good deal because they have lower premiums (the cost you pay to get the insurance). Beware the trade-off. The low up-front cost means when your child needs medical care, you’ll pay more out-of-pocket before your plan picks up any of the cost. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, “Because the ill pay more than the healthy under HDHPs, families with children with special health care needs bear an increased cost burden in this model.” Read the full article in the Journal of American Academy of Pediatrics.

So, what can you do if you have a high-deductible health plan? Call us at (800) 322-3722. Our care coordinators work closely with our Benefits Management Team to maximize the benefits of health plans and get your child the healthcare needed.

Researchers observe parents with their children, and their devices.

A recent broadcast on National Public Radio put an interesting twist on a commonly discussed topic – device distraction. We typically hear parents complain their kids are disengaged because they spend too much time on their smartphone, tablet, you name the gadget. A researcher observed parents out to dinner with their children, specifically looking for device usage. The observations may surprise you.

As a parent of a child with special needs, you may spend a lot of time online looking for information. We just might have exactly what you’re looking for. Even if we don’t, we’ll try to find the information. Give us a call at (800) 322-3722 or send a message through Contact Us.

Read the full article on NPR’s website.

Meet other families caring for people with spina bifida.

The Illinois Spina Bifida Association and Children’s Hospital of Illinois are launching a support group beginning Monday, April 14, 2014 from 4:00pm – 6:oopm. Food and refreshment are provided and children are welcome.

420 NE Glen Oak
Suite 201
Peoria, IL 61603

RSVP to (773) 444-0305 or info@i-sba.org.

Children learn how to ride a traditional two-wheel bicycle.

Many children who haven’t been able to ride a bike in the past have completed this program. In fact, 80% of participants successfully complete the program. Organizers say the new riders gain self-esteem and confidence and feel more included with their friends. This program serves the Bloomington area.

For additional information, contact (309) 686-1177 x5230 or twellenreiter@ci.easterseals.com.

Everyone is welcome to a warm meal.

Knox Prairie Community Kitchen and various sponsors bring free meals to Galesburg and surrounding communities.

April 10th & 24th
May 8th & 22nd
June 5th & 19th

Doors open at 5:15pm
Dinner served 5:30pm – 7:00pm

Central Congregational Church
60 Public Square
Galesburg, IL 61448

For additional information, call (309) 335-3544.