News & Resources
Recent Podcasts
CURIKO – Filling the Spaces in Between
Community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities is and always will be a driving force for DDA. However, here in 2024, some new players and organizations are emerging to fill the spaces in between to help broaden horizons and cultivate relationships for people of all abilities. Say hello to CURIKO.
The Life That’s Chosen Me – From Russia with Love
Making personal sacrifices for your partner’s career is one thing, creating a home in several countries while at the same time caring for a severely disabled child is another. We caught up with Rachelle Rosolofo-Czerwinski to talk about her new memoir, The Life That’s Chosen Me – From Russia With Love.
Recent Posts
International Women’s Day and the Role of Caregivers
March is Women’s History Month, which coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8th. DDA has a rich history involving women. The association was started by a young woman in 1952 and many of the innovations the association brought to the mainstream were started by, you guessed It, women.
The Essential Need for Straws: City of Vancouver Wants the Feds to Change Single-Use Plastic Rules
In December 2023, the federal government brought into force its country-wide ban on single-use plastics which includes plastic straws. That has been a huge issue for many people in the disability community who use flexible plastic straws every day to drink.
Pink Shirt Day: Inclusivity and Standing Up for People with Developmental Disabilities
Pink Shirt Day, celebrated in many places on the last Wednesday of February, is a powerful symbol of our commitment to fostering kindness, acceptance, and standing up against bullying.
AssistiveTech
Assistive Technology Review: CalmPalm
The CalmPalm device is a self-soothing and self-regulatory tool designed to help individuals who experience anxiety and related insomnia. The CalmPalm uses micro electro stimulation pulses to trigger acupuncture points associated with calming the ‘fight or flight’ response.
Assistive Technology Review – Skull Candy Headphones
Skullcandy’s Hesh ANC Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones are advertised as providing quality audio with an exceptional noise cancelling experience at a significantly lower cost than other similar products on the market.
Assistive Technology Tech Review: Blots Silicone Stress Balls
Blots are unique in the way Speks has primarily advertised a sensory tool to a mainstream, neurotypical audience. Sensory supports can be a useful resource for anyone – we all have sensory systems and sensory needs!