The Brain Skills Behind Focus Are Still Growing

Focus isn’t fixed. It’s made. Slowly, across thousands of moments where a child’s brain learns to pause, hold, shift. Executive function — the architecture behind planning, regulation, working memory — it doesn’t flip on like a switch. It grows through rhythm, story, and turn-taking. There’s strong evidence that executive function skills develop throughout childhood, especially when sensory engagement is consistent — not perfect, but present.

Support Your Child Without Overhauling Your Life

Adding “music therapy” to a parent’s to-do list can feel… impossible. But the point isn’t to overhaul. It’s to start where you already are. Songs during the commute. Sound games at dinner. A speaker in the bathroom while getting ready for school. Small entries matter. Rhythm doesn’t ask for commitment — it asks for return. And no matter how busy your schedule is, those returns are possible, even joyful, when they don’t feel like work.

Rhythm Helps Attention Settle Into Place

Rhythm doesn’t demand. It invites. Children with ADHD often find that rules feel jagged, while rhythm feels… doable. Structured beats give form to scattered attention, offering the body something to hold before the mind can catch up. And that, neurologically, matters. The brain needs time + pattern to develop. Harvard research highlights how executive function affects planning and focus — and shows that skills like impulse control don’t emerge through willpower alone. They arrive through repetition that feels real.

Emotional Regulation Comes Through the Body First

You don’t talk a child down from a meltdown. You reach them — usually before the words come. In music therapy, the reaching happens through tone, breath, mirrored phrasing. Predictable songs with slight variation. The body relaxes because it knows what’s next. That’s emotional regulation, but built through sound. The science is clear: childhood self‑regulation builds emotional resilience most effectively when it engages the nervous system first — long before it becomes a lesson.

Music Therapy Fits Between Medical and Everyday Support

Parents are often told they have two choices: medicate or struggle. But that’s not the whole map. Some of the most effective tools live in the quiet middle — where rhythm meets brainwork, and nobody’s being tested or timed. Music therapy doesn’t replace clinical care. It complements it. And it does so without asking children to be still in order to be seen. 

Cognitive Growth Happens Through Musical Engagement

Children don’t always need to sit still to learn. In fact, they often learn more when they move — especially when movement has rhythm. Drumming, clapping, repeating sound patterns: these aren’t distractions. They’re neural tools. Patterns reinforce timing. Timing reinforces recall. Recall supports every single part of learning. And long-term studies confirm that active music training enhances cognitive growth, even in non-musical domains like problem-solving and sustained attention.

A Safe Way to Learn and Express

It’s not just about sound — it’s about what the sound gives back. Music therapy offers safe, low-stakes space for trying, failing, returning. Children track their own participation in ways they can’t always verbalize. A soft drumbeat becomes “I finished something.” A turn in a rhythm game becomes “I stayed with it.” These moments are no matter how busy your schedule is subtle — but they build identity. In fact, music helps kids form internal confidence before external praise even shows up.

There’s no single fix for ADHD. There’s rhythm, though. And music. And the slow learning of what your child can stay with — not because they’re forced to, but because they want to. Music therapy helps attention take root in the body before it’s asked to show up on command. Focus follows rhythm. Regulation follows connection. And sometimes, the most progress happens not through discipline or data, but in the pause between beats — when the child knows they’re still held.

Where Can Southwest Florida Families Start?

There is no single fix for ADHD. There is rhythm, connection, and the slow discovery of what helps your child feel steady enough to try.

Families in Collier and Lee Counties can also look for local activities that include music, movement, art, and sensory-friendly support. The goal is not to force performance. The goal is to give your child more ways to participate.

For more local support, explore the SWFL Special Needs Resource Guide.

Music therapy for ADHD helps attention take root in the body before it is asked to show up on command. Focus follows rhythm. Regulation follows connection. And sometimes, progress happens in the pause between beats, when a child knows they are still held.

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What does hotel inclusion actually look like for families?

Compass Hotel Naples is one of the few local properties intentionally working to create a more inclusive experience for families. The hotel has earned Autism Double Checked certification, and that matters because it signals preparation, not just good intentions.

But for me, the most important part was this: the support did not feel performative. It did not feel like anyone was trying to prove something. It felt natural, calm, and built into the experience.

That is what many families are looking for when they travel. Not special treatment. Not a spotlight. Just a place where their child can move through the environment in their own way without everything becoming a moment.

Why does staff training matter so much?

When a hotel invests in autism-specific training, it changes more than policy. It can change the tone of a stay from the moment a family arrives.

Training matters because families often notice right away whether a space feels flexible, patient, and prepared. They can tell when a team understands that communication may look different, that sensory needs may shape a child’s behavior, and that comfort does not always look the same from one guest to the next.

That kind of preparation gives families room to exhale. It helps parents spend less energy explaining and managing, and more energy simply being present with their children.

How did that support show up during our stay?

What stood out to me most was how subtle it all felt. My son sat in the lobby, taking in the environment in his own way. No one rushed him. No one drew attention to it. No one made it feel unusual.

You notice that immediately as a parent. You notice when a space allows your child to exist as they are. You notice when no one is pressuring, correcting, or turning your family into a problem to solve.

That kind of ease is difficult to manufacture. It has to be built into the culture of a place. And during our stay, it was present in a way that let us settle in instead of stay on alert.

What made the pool feel different for our family?

At the pool, something happened that does not happen everywhere. What can sometimes be the hardest part of a hotel stay became the best part for one of my sons.

He was relaxed, smiling, and completely in the moment. My other son found comfort nearby in a totally different way, drawn to the fire feature and content to experience the space on his own terms. Both of them were able to be themselves, side by side, without either experience needing to be corrected.

I got in the water with my son, and for a moment we were not navigating, managing, or anticipating. We were just a family enjoying the moment. That may sound simple, but for many families, it is not a small thing.

Why do these small moments matter so much?

Because they are not really small. They are the whole point.

Families who live with sensory differences, communication differences, or anxiety around new environments often arrive carrying more than luggage. Parents are scanning, planning, adjusting, and trying to stay ahead of the next hard moment. So when a place feels prepared before you even arrive, the shift is enormous.

Inclusion is not just about access. It is about what access makes possible.

• More comfort for children moving through a new space
• Less pressure on parents to explain every need
• More opportunities for siblings to enjoy the same outing
• More room for a family to relax together instead of just cope

That is what stayed with me after this visit. Not one dramatic moment, but a series of small, steady experiences that made our family feel more comfortable and more able to enjoy being there.

Why is inclusive travel still hard to find?

Finding places that work well for families can still be a challenge, especially for families navigating autism or sensory needs. Many destinations may mean well, but families often do not know what a place will actually feel like until they get there.

That uncertainty can make even a short hotel stay feel risky. Will staff understand? Will the environment feel manageable? Will your child be given space? Will you spend the whole time trying to make your family fit the setting instead of enjoying it?

That is why efforts like this matter. They reduce guesswork. They help families feel considered before check-in, not only after something goes wrong.

What can parents look for when choosing an autism-friendly hotel?

If you are planning a local getaway, it helps to look past broad promises and pay attention to how a property supports families in real life.

• Ask whether staff have autism-specific or sensory-awareness training
• Look for signs that inclusion is part of the guest experience, not an afterthought
• Notice whether the property seems calm, flexible, and family-friendly
• Choose places that help your family feel welcome without needing constant explanation

What does Compass Hotel Naples get right?

What Compass Hotel is doing well is thinking about inclusion before families even arrive. That matters more than any single amenity. It means the experience is shaped by awareness, preparation, and consistency rather than depending on a family to advocate for every need in the moment.

For our family, that made the stay feel less like work and more like rest. We got to just be a family. And honestly, that is what so many parents are hoping for when they book a night away.

If your family is looking for more local support, Neapolitan Family also offers resources on sensory-friendly experiences for kids in Southwest Florida, the SWFL Special Needs Resource Guide, and more special needs articles for Southwest Florida families.

Why does this story matter beyond one hotel?

Because families remember how a place made them feel. They remember whether their child was given space. They remember whether they were able to relax, even briefly. They remember whether the experience felt like hospitality or like survival in a new setting.

Compass Hotel is helping move that experience in a better direction. Not by making grand promises, but by creating an environment where inclusion feels visible in practice.

And for families like mine, that can mean everything.

Special Autism Double Rate for Southwest Florida Families

Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Naples has introduced a new promotion. The Autism Double‑Checked Comfort Stay offers up to 20% off accommodations for families traveling with loved ones on the autism spectrum. The offer is available year‑round, based on availability. Learn more here.

Learn more

Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach and Compass Naples Achieve Autism Certification for Inclusive Travel

The post How Compass Hotel Naples Is Creating a More Inclusive Stay for Families appeared first on SWFL Family.

This partnership brings new tools and support to families across Southwest Florida, including those in Collier and Lee Counties. The newest feature is a Calm & Comfort kit that any guest can request during a visit to CMON.

What is the new sensory-friendly Calm & Comfort Kit?

Through this expanded partnership, CMON and Golisano Children’s Hospital are working together to make museum visits more accessible and welcoming. Their shared goal is to support children’s well-being, accessibility, and meaningful engagement in a busy, hands-on environment.

A key part of this effort is the Calm & Comfort kit, now available at CMON. These kits are designed specifically for children with autism and other physical, neurological, and sensory processing differences, but they are available to any guest who requests one.

By bringing hospital expertise into a playful community setting, the partnership helps families experience sensory-friendly museum experiences in Naples, not just in medical spaces. It is another way families in Collier and Lee Counties can feel supported as they enjoy time together.

Where and how can my child use a Calm & Comfort kit?

The Calm & Comfort kits are now available at CMON and can be requested by any guest. When you arrive, you can ask a staff member for a kit so your child has extra support from the beginning of your visit.

Your child can use the items anywhere in the museum as they move through exhibits and activities. The goal is to help children manage sensory input, self-regulate, and feel safe and supported while they explore.

This partnership builds on Golisano Children’s Hospital’s work in sensory-friendly certifications and specialized programs. Those same inclusive principles are now reaching families in community spaces where children learn, play, and grow.

What is inside the Calm & Comfort kits for my child?

Each Calm & Comfort kit contains thoughtfully selected, sensory-friendly tools. Every item is geared toward one or more of the eight sensory systems and is designed to help children self-regulate and feel calmer during their visit.

Items in the Calm & Comfort kits include:

• Texture timer
• My feelings mirror
• Tactile hex
• Light fidget spinner
• Soft oral wristlet
• Therapy brush
• Scented stickers
• Pop tube
• Resistance band

These tools can give your child something safe to hold, squeeze, look at, or move with when the museum feels exciting or overwhelming. The goal is to support your child’s comfort without taking away from the fun of exploring.

Who are these sensory-friendly tools designed to support?

The Calm & Comfort kits are designed for children with autism and other physical, neurological, and sensory processing differences. However, they are available to any child who might benefit from extra sensory support during a museum visit.

CMON leaders see this as a meaningful step toward welcoming more families and removing barriers to play. “This partnership allows us to better support the diverse sensory needs of the children and families we serve,” said Jonathan Foerster, Chief Executive Officer at CMON. “By offering these Calm & Comfort kits, we’re helping remove barriers and ensuring CMON is a welcoming place where all children can explore, learn, and play comfortably.”

Golisano Children’s Hospital shares the same commitment to inclusive environments. “At Golisano Children’s Hospital, we are deeply committed to creating inclusive, supportive environments for children, within our hospital walls and across the places where children learn, play, and grow,” said Alyssa Kasiewicz, the VP and Chief Nurse & Operations Executive for Children’s Services at Lee Health. “Our sensory-friendly certifications and specialized programs reflect that commitment, and this expanded partnership with the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples allows us to extend those principles into the community. Together, we want families to feel welcomed, understood, and supported wherever in our spaces.”

How does CMON support playful learning for my child?

CMON is Southwest Florida’s first museum dedicated to children and families learning through play. The museum offers immersive, hands-on exhibit galleries where visitors can explore, imagine, and discover together.

Your child can journey through the swamps of the Everglades, climb a towering banyan tree, and experiment with interactive water play. They can become a weather forecaster, farmer, chef, fisherman, or artist while exploring the sounds, sights, and forces of nature.

Throughout the day, special activities encourage children to try something new and stay engaged. CMON also offers educational programs, classes, camps, and special events that build creativity, curiosity, and early learning. Later this year, the museum will open a new Early Learning Center, expanding its impact for young learners across Collier and Lee Counties.

Explore upcoming programs and events at cmon.org and look for opportunities that match your child’s interests and needs.

How can I plan our visit and stay connected?

To learn more about CMON, you can visit cmon.org or call 239-260-1604 for details about hours, tickets, and programs. You can also follow CMON on Facebook and Instagram at @childrensmuseumofnaples to see updates on exhibits and family events.

Families across Southwest Florida, including Collier and Lee Counties, can benefit from both the playful exhibits at CMON and the expertise of Golisano Children’s Hospital. Together, they are working to make a sensory-friendly museum experience easier and more welcoming for every child.

The post Support for Sensory-Friendly Experiences for Kids in SWFL appeared first on SWFL Family.

That’s where Certified Autism Center dental practices come in. Through specialized training and intentional changes to the environment, these teams learn how to support neurodiverse children, adapt care to each child’s needs, and communicate in clear, comforting ways. The goal is simple: a dental visit that feels respectful, inclusive, and manageable for every family in Southwest Florida.

Why does sensory-friendly dental care matter for neurodiverse kids?

Dental offices are full of sights, sounds, and sensations that most adults barely notice—but many autistic and sensory-sensitive children feel them intensely. The hum of a handpiece, the brightness of overhead lights, the smell of materials, or the gentle vibration of a small instrument can still feel like “too much.”

Autism and sensory differences are common. Worldwide, about one in 100 children are diagnosed with autism, and diagnoses continue to rise. As more families in Collier and Lee Counties seek care, it’s essential that routine services, including dentistry, are accessible without fear or dread.

Simple, thoughtful adjustments can make a big difference for kids who experience the world differently. Many autism-friendly dental practices work to:

• Offer quieter tools when possible to reduce overwhelming sounds.
• Dim overhead lights or provide sunglasses to soften bright light.
• Move at a slower pace so children can process each step.
• Let kids see, touch, and explore instruments before they are used in the mouth.
• Create calmer spaces with fewer visual distractions in the room.

When a child feels more comfortable and prepared, the visit usually goes more smoothly for everyone. Families are also more likely to keep up with regular checkups, which is key during childhood, when early habits and early treatment shape long-term oral health. If you’re new to dental care, you can also explore general kids’ dental care tips to understand what to expect over time.

What can you expect from a Certified Autism Center dentist?

A dental practice with the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation has completed specialized training through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This evidence-based training is developed with input from autistic self-advocates, parents and caregivers, and clinical experts.

Dental teams learn about sensory processing differences, communication styles, and how neurodiverse children may show stress or discomfort in ways that are easy to miss. They also commit to ongoing education, so they stay current on best practices rather than treating autism training as a one-time checklist item.

Training often covers practical skills such as:

• Understanding sensory processing and communication differences in autistic and sensory-sensitive kids.
• Reducing overstimulation in the clinic, from lighting and sound to pace and visual clutter.
• Using clear, supportive communication strategies before, during, and after procedures.
• Recognizing and responding to behavioral cues that signal stress or the need for a break.
• Adapting the structure and timing of appointments to the child’s comfort level.

For families, this means a team that is prepared to meet children where they are. Some children benefit from visual guides or social stories that walk them through each step. Others may need a quieter room, fewer people in the operatory, or extra time just to explore the chair and tools before any exam begins.

An autism-friendly dentist in Collier and Lee Counties will work with you to find what helps your child feel acknowledged and supported. This individualized approach can ease anxiety not only for kids, but also for caregivers who have experienced difficult medical or dental visits in the past. And because oral health affects overall well-being and school success, partnering with a skilled pediatric dentist—like those highlighted in our story on how dental care boosts kids’ confidence—can support your child in many areas of life.

How is Southwest Florida expanding autism-friendly dental care?

Here in Southwest Florida, Healthcare Network’s pediatric dental team recently completed CAC training and earned the Certified Autism Center designation. This step shows a commitment to designing care environments where neurodiverse children—and really, all children—can feel safe, respected, and understood during dental visits.

When care is designed around autistic and sensory-sensitive children, everyone benefits. A calmer, more predictable experience helps first-time patients, children with developmental differences, and kids who are simply unsure about the dentist. Families who have faced stressful visits in the past may feel real relief knowing that more practices are pursuing autism-specific training and adapting their environments accordingly.

For organizations, becoming a Certified Autism Center signals a long-term promise to inclusion and accessibility. This can help build trust across Collier and Lee Counties, especially for families of children with special needs who are already navigating many appointments and services. You can also connect with local programs through resources like Neapolitan Family’s Special Needs Resource Guide and other special needs parenting articles.

How can you find autism-friendly dental care for your child?

If you think your child would benefit from an autism-friendly dentist in Collier and Lee Counties, you can start by looking for dental practices that hold the Certified Autism Center designation. IBCCES maintains information about CAC programs and what the certification means for families at ibcces.org.

Locally, you can also explore pediatric dental options through Healthcare Network’s Certified Autism Center team. To learn more or to schedule a pediatric dental appointment, visit HealthcareNetwork.org.

As more dental teams invest in autism-focused education and sensory-friendly environments, the hope is that dental appointments become not just manageable, but truly comfortable and empowering. Every child deserves a dental experience that feels safe, encouraging, and tailored to who they are—and families in Collier and Lee Counties now have more options than ever to make that possible.

The post What an Autism-Friendly Dentist and Certified Autism Center Means for Kids in Collier and Lee Counties appeared first on SWFL Family.

Adolescence is a pivotal time when teens begin to seek independence, even as the brain—particularly areas governing impulse control and decision-making—is still developing. For teens with additional needs, this transition can present unique challenges. One powerful way to support their growth is by developing executive functioning skills in teens with additional needs through consistent chores and structured responsibilities.

Foundation for success

Executive functioning skills include time management, task initiation and completion, emotional regulation, and flexible thinking. These skills are foundational for success in school, work, and relationships. Research shows that structured routines and responsibilities significantly enhance the development of these capabilities.

For children and teens with additional needs, emotional regulation is especially critical. When expectations are clear and routines are predictable, their nervous systems can relax. This reduces the anxiety that often accompanies transitions, surprises, or unfamiliar situations. Knowing what to anticipate creates a sense of psychological safety, which is essential for growth and learning.

The summer transition

I recently heard from a mom seeking advice on how to manage her teen boys during summer. She shared that her 14-year-old wants to ride his e-bike to the local plaza or hang out with friends, which feels worrisome, while her 16-year-old son wants to fish all day. Both boys are at that tricky age—too old for traditional summer camps and too young for many activities alone, especially while parents work.
This is a common experience for many parents. Summer often brings a shift in routines and freedom, prompting the questions: How much independence should we allow? How can we keep teens engaged, safe, and growing during these unstructured months?

An opportunity

Rather than viewing summer as a challenge, parents can see it as the perfect opportunity to connect differently with their teens. This season creates space to learn where your child is developmentally and emotionally, and to build a new rhythm together.

Creating purposeful routines that include chores and responsibilities helps teens develop executive functioning skills while giving them room to enjoy their interests. Balancing structure with freedom teaches accountability and decision-making within a safe framework.

Why chores matter

Assigning chores does more than keep a household running—it builds life skills and a sense of accountability. A predictable routine with tasks like yard work, household duties, meal prep, or caring for younger siblings teaches teens to manage time and prioritize responsibilities. This healthy rhythm encourages delayed gratification and self-regulation.

For children with sensory, attention, or developmental challenges, even small, achievable chores can reinforce a sense of competence and reduce learned helplessness. Responsibilities should be matched to each child’s ability and supported with encouragement and structure.

Creating a balanced routine

Striking a balance between responsibilities and leisure supports emotional well-being. For instance, mornings can focus on chores, while afternoons allow space for activities like fishing, biking, or socializing. Using visual schedules, calendars, or timers can reduce friction and help teens—especially those with executive function or memory challenges—stay on track.

A sense of purpose

Introducing paid or project-based work builds confidence and motivation. Small business ventures, home improvement tasks, or organizing jobs create meaningful experiences that teach responsibility, foster independence, and develop a sense of purpose.

Regulation and predictability

Predictability is calming, especially for neurodivergent teens. When they know what is expected and when transitions will occur, emotional regulation becomes easier. Introducing plans in advance, using visual aids, and giving choices within clear boundaries all help reduce resistance and build trust.
Integrating sensory breaks, mindfulness tools, and physical outlets into daily structure supports regulation and helps prevent emotional overload.

Communication and safety

Ongoing conversations about relationships, safety, and self-trust are essential during this phase of development. Teens need guidance navigating social pressures and making responsible choices. Collaborative problem-solving, rather than top-down directives, helps teens feel seen and understood.

Conclusion

Parenting teens—especially those with additional needs—calls for patience, clarity, and purpose. Establishing structured routines and meaningful responsibilities offers a powerful way to develop executive functioning skills, promote independence, and support emotional growth. Summer provides a unique window to deepen connection, build life skills, and guide your teen toward a confident, well-regulated future.

The post Developing Executive Functioning Skills in Teens with Additional Needs: How Summer Routines Build Growth and Independence appeared first on SWFL Family.

“I’ve wanted to do something like [the teddy bear toss] since I was in sixth grade, and I was finally able to do it this year,” Devyn said.

Devyn took her idea to the Oakridge administration and impressed Assistant Principal Nicole Spencer with her initiative and leadership skills. “Devyn had everything ready before she presented [to the administration]. It was like she was presenting a business plan. She had everything down to the day and time she wanted to do it. She has that natural leadership ability. When she comes up with an idea, she sets the goal and gives herself a timeline and then executes it. It is very impressive.”

During the event, students stood on the school’s second floor balcony and tossed the stuffed animals onto a tarp below. The children in the MC program then selected one from those collected. There were so many stuffed animals that the school donated some to other MC programs and to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office.

The teddy bear toss is just one in a long list of efforts Devyn has undertaken to support children with special needs at her school. She designed a t-shirt featuring the MC student’s handprints inside an Oakridge Bulldog’s pawprint, and ensured that every child in the MC program received a shirt. Devyn volunteers as a buddy for MC students during field day, carnival day, school dances, and field trips. She is part of the Best Buddies program at her school that pairs students in general education classes with those in MC classes.

Devyn said she first became interested in helping the students with special needs when she was in sixth grade, but there were not as many opportunities available.

“I would just see them at lunch and say ‘Hi’,” Devyn described.

This year, as a member of National Junior Honor Society, she was able to recruit other NJHS students to help her plan and execute activities to do with the children in the MC classes.

“I always wanted to do something for them,” Devyn said. “I like the experience and it feels good helping other people. It is really fun to be around them.”

“It means a lot to the kids,” said Leslie Sevy, MC teacher at Oakridge. “Anytime I [tell the class Devyn] is coming, they get excited. It is amazing that she loves to do this. She often will reach out to me and ask when is the next time she can be with the kids. This is a passion for her and I know she will do this in high school next year. And I know she will continue this even beyond high school.”

Devyn has a long list of accomplishments at Oakridge Middle School. She is on the Academic World Quest team, debate team, Student Government, and NJHS. She also plays tennis and is part of a theater group.

“She is very impressive with everything she is involved in,” Spencer said. “It is amazing.”

The post Naples Student Organizes Teddy Bear Toss to Support Children with Special Needs appeared first on SWFL Family.

The Autism Double-Checked Certification program provides specialized training for hospitality professionals, equipping them to understand better and meet the needs of guests on the autism spectrum. Staff at both resorts completed a two-part training focused on communication techniques, sensory sensitivity awareness, and personalized guest support.

With this training, team members are prepared to:

• Offer extra time, patience, and clear explanations when needed
• Provide step-by-step instructions and visual aids for guests who benefit from additional guidance
• Identify and accommodate sensory sensitivities by adjusting lighting, sound, or offering quieter spaces
• Demonstrate empathy and proactive assistance throughout the guest experience

Families can also access detailed Visitor Guides on the Autism Double-Checked website, which include sensory-friendly planning tools, safety tips, and resort-specific resources to help ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay.

This certification is part of Margaritaville’s ongoing effort to make travel more inclusive—not just during Autism Acceptance Month but all year long.

About Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach

Located right on the Gulf, this vibrant resort features 254 guest rooms, a beachside Fins Up! Beach Club, six restaurants and bars including JWB Grill and 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, a full-service spa, and expansive event spaces. Owned and operated by TPI Hospitality, it’s a tropical escape designed for relaxation and fun.

About Compass Hotel by Margaritaville Naples

Compass Naples offers laid-back luxury with a coastal twist. This all-suite hotel provides complimentary breakfast, a lobby bar, a relaxing outdoor pool, and easy access to Naples attractions, making it ideal for families and leisure travelers alike.

To learn more about the Autism Double-Checked Certification or to plan your visit, check out the official sites for Margaritaville Beach Resort Fort Myers Beach and Compass Hotel Naples.

The post Margaritaville Fort Myers Beach and Compass Naples Achieve Autism Certification for Inclusive Travel appeared first on SWFL Family.

She recently used her own money to buy the children in the modified curriculum class a present. Then she went to their classroom to show them how to put together the doll puzzle she purchased. On Fridays, she eats lunch with the class, helping them open their fruit packages and talking to them about their day. Other times she gives up recess to go into their classroom and assist them with their work.

Carol Myles wanted to spread the joy she gets when helping these children, so she created Smiles for Miles at the school. She recruited other students in her class and enticed them to give up some of their recess time to be with the children in the modified curriculum (MC) classes. Now she is planning to expand their time with them by adding activities such as crafts or games before school once a week.

“You see special needs kids and you just bring joy to them and play with them on the playground, maybe help them draw or write,” Carol Myles explained.

The youngster became interested in helping others when she was in kindergarten.

“When I was in kindergarten a kid [from MC] got mixed up in my class and in our line, and everybody else started laughing. I asked him whose class he was in, but I could not understand him, so I got a teacher and they helped him,” she described. “I knew he didn’t feel comfortable, so I wanted to help him.”

Ever since then, she had been wanting to find other ways to help these children and this year, she started Smiles for Miles.

“I was so excited and I was very proud of Carol Myles for spreading her happiness and joy and spreading our culture that includes everybody,” said Katie Carney, guidance counselor at Sea Gate. “It is amazing to think that a third grader recognizes that too.”

Carol Myles creates projects for her club to do each month. One month they made posters, and in February they made Valentine’s Day goodie bags. Other times they come up with games to play. She recently designed t-shirts bearing the Smiles for Miles logo that she created for club members to wear. She even roped her family into helping. Her father is running a golf tournament that will fund a special event for the children, which Carol Myles hopes will be a trip to Chuck E. Cheese or a bounce house party during non-school hours.

On a recent Friday afternoon, a kindergarten student in the modified curriculum program rushed over to give Carol Myles a hug. Soon, some of the other students joined in, hugging the third grader and giving her big smiles.

“It makes me feel super happy that I’ve made a change,” Carol Myles said. “I want the other kids to learn that they are just like us, but they have different personalities and meaning in this world.”

The post Third Grader Spreads Joy to Special Needs Kids at Sea Gate Elementary appeared first on SWFL Family.

At five feet three inches tall, this tween athlete doesn’t look 12 years old and, as a homeschooled student with multiple weekly therapy appointments in addition to her daily ice skating and dancing schedule, she isn’t living the typical life of a fifth grader. We met Daniella at Hertz Arena in Estero, where she practices skating up to five days per week, to have our cover photographer Monica Alvarez capture her glide, spin, and jump on the ice after one of her private sessions with her coach. Daniella’s serenity and confidence on the ice were inspiring, as her cheeks glowed from the hard work and cold air.

Krista explained that her daughter requires accommodations on the ice for autism and sensory processing disorder. Some accommodations include asking the audience not to clap during a performance, dimming the lights and lowering the music volume, and increasing time between skating tests and programs. Recently, after a few injuries and frequent illnesses forced Daniella to take a break from the ice and her other hobby of dancing, she was also diagnosed with a rare disease called Common Variable Immunodeficiency (CVID). CVID is a group of genetic diseases where the immune cells don’t make antibodies, making individuals more susceptible to recurrent and severe infections. In addition to physical therapy for her injuries, she now needs to travel to Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital in Hollywood, Florida, for immunotherapy.

We talked to Daniella about her journey.

The post Southwest Florida Tween Proves That Adaptive Ice Skating Has No Limits appeared first on SWFL Family.

Brain Forest Adventure Camp

The Child Provider Specialists Brainforest Adventure Camp is a summer program filled with fun activities, including different weekly themes, field trips, art and science, and enrichment for reading, writing, math, social skills, and executive function skill development. Visit www.childproviderspecialists.org or call 954-577-3396 for more information.

Camp Able

St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Marco Island offers children with special needs an overnight camp in July (They also provide a day camp option.) All meals are included, and dormitory-style accommodations are available. Visit www.campable.org or call 239-394-7242.

The City of Naples

The City of Naples offers a summer camp option for children with special needs at River Park. For more information, visit www.naplesgov.com/parksrec call 239-213-3037.

Collier County Parks and Recreation

Collier County Parks and Rec offers inclusion opportunities and summer camps specifically designed for children with special needs. For more information, visit the office at North Collier Regional Park or www.collierparks.com.

Easterseals

Summer adaptive camps will be available on select weeks for ages 15 and up. Weekend inclusive camps will be available select weekends for ages 5 and up. Programming in these camps will include cooking, 3D printing, digital and physical crafting, gaming, explore Naples outings, and musical therapy. Contact Catrina at csanchez@fl.easterseals.com or (239)403-0366. Visit www.easterseals.com/florida for more information.

All Inclusive at Lee County Parks & Recreation

Lee County Parks & Recreation encourages all individuals to participate in the leisure and recreational opportunities of their choice. We welcome people with disabilities into all of our parks, recreation programs and facilities. Comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination of programs, services and activities for individuals with disabilities.

Special Needs/Inclusion programs are being offered throughout the year for individuals with various disabilities. Programs such as Summer Camp, Spring Break Camp, and Fun Days are for school-age participants. The Social Club and Variety are for adults with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities. There are always inclusion opportunities in the various community recreation facilities as well.  For more information visit www.leegov.com/parks/programs/special-needs.

Lighthouse of Collier – Center for Vision and Blindness

This non-profit organization offers a summer camp program for children ages 6-13 who are blind and visually impaired. During each week of the camp, the students take part in at least one outing, providing them with opportunities to integrate within the community and practice independent travel techniques. The two weeks then culminate with a final “closing ceremony” to which family members are all invited, and students can present everything they’ve learned throughout the camp. Visit www.lighthouseofcollier.org/summer-camp for more information.

Naples Performing Arts Center

NPAC is a one-stop shop for the performing arts. They offer dance classes for ages 2 and up, private lessons for vocal, instrumental and acting students, and musical theater opportunities for students 6 and up. The I’m a STAR program is one-of-a-kind where anyone with any mental or physical challenges can join and learn to sing, dance, and act. For more information, visit naplesperformingartscenter.com or call 239-325-8789.

Naples Therapeutic Riding Center 

Naples Therapeutic Riding Center’s Summer Horsemanship Camp is offered as a weekly inclusion camp during the months of June and July. The camp experience is designed to accommodate children with additional needs and typically developing children.

The Horsemanship Camps are supervised by a PATH Int’l Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor. The camp to counselor ratio is approximately 1:1. Campers range in age from four to sixteen years old and are placed in the most appropriate groups based on their age. Visit www.naplestherapeuticridingcenter.org for more information.

The Naples Players

The Inclusive Improve sessions and theatre camps at TNP are for ages 8-12 and another for ages 12+. Designed and taught by professional therapists and teachers, each class is tailored to individuals to ensure proper accommodation, enjoyable classes, and meaningful exercises. This class is designed for students who are on the autism spectrum, have sensory processing disorder, or any other type of neuro-divergency. Students will learn valuable skills like teamwork, patience, sensory awareness, and communication through emotion-oriented, confidence-building theatre games. Visit naplesplayers.org/inclusive-classes for more information.

Summer Programs with Accommodations

Many summer camps make accommodations for children with special needs on a case-by-case basis. For example, at the Greater Naples YMCA, “We do not currently have a camp specifically for children with special needs,” said summer camp coordinator Katie Nelson. “Although we do have children in our traditional day camp who have autism, ADHD, ADD, and other unique needs. My advice to parents is that they reach out to the camp director before they register to see if the camp would be a good fit.” Contact Nelson at 239-571-9023.

The Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples is another such camp. “Since C’mon has a commitment to have access for all, we are open to a case-by-case evaluation,” said Beth Housewert, director of play and learning. ”We do not have specifically designed camps for students with special needs, but have staff who specialize in accessibility and instruction for children with special needs.”

MORE RESOURCES

Browse our Summer Camp Directory

Check out the 2024 Neapolitan Family Summer Camp Guide

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym Parent’s Night Out. Drop off the kids and enjoy a night out.

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