Forwarded message from: Kimberley Sialtsis <[log in to unmask]> Hello! I found your list through a web directory and wondered if the following information would be of interest to your subscribers. If so, could you please forward it on to the list? Thank you. Yours sincerely, Kim Sialtsis Post Polio Coordinator & Coordinator, Adult Conductive Education Research Project http://www.dimes.on.ca/programs/programs.html Join the PoliOntario discussion groups & our monthly chats - http://www.egroups.com/list/PoliOntario/info.html What is Conductive Education? Conductive Education is an educational system designed to teach children and adults with motor disorders to function independently and self-sufficiently. It approaches the dysfunctional elements of disabilities as learning problems. Conductive Education enables participants to achieve a higher level of self-sufficiency, self-reliance and most importantly self-esteem. Highlights Conductive Education is neither a therapy nor a cure. It is a form of special education which teaches problem solving techniques to help with daily activities such as: ? standing ? sitting ? rolling over in bed ? picking up objects ? drinking from a cup ? walking History Conductive Education was developed in Hungary over 50 years ago and has been spreading to other countries over the past 20 years. However, it remains relatively unknown in North America. Ontario March of Dimes has been involved in Conductive Education since 1992, promoting it through public education and the piloting of short programs for adults and children. About the Program In 1995, Ontario March of Dimes piloted its first Adult Conductive Education research project. The results were very impressive with participants showing marked physical gains above those attained through traditional therapies. Virtually all participants reported that their greatest gain was in their self-esteem as they learned that they were capable of more than they had ever imagined. This summer, Ontario March of Dimes will once again be piloting an Adult Conductive Education program. This second research project will be offered in three sessions for stroke survivors, adults with Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis and acquired brain injuries. Who Teaches the Classes? Each session will have a Senior and Junior Conductor leading the group. Intensive professional training to become a conductor takes over four years. Although Conductive Education is not based in music or music therapy, the Conductors are very similar to a conductor in a band or orchestra, leading and guiding the participants to success. Conductors take responsibility for the physical, intellectual and personal development of the adults with whom they work. The conductor creates an environment which encourages learning and problem solving. Conductors do not take over or do anything for the participants that they cannot do themselves but instead guide them to their maximum potential. What Is the Cost? Thanks to funding from Ontario March of Dimes, the Stroke Recovery Association of Ontario and the New Ontario Trillium Foundation, the program will be offered free of charge. Donations to the Conductive Education Program will help to ensure that we can continue to provide this service to others. All donations are tax receiptable. Who Can Participate? Stroke survivors and adults with Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis or acquired brain injuries. When are the sessions? Each session lasts three weeks. Classes are five days a week (Monday to Friday) for 1 to 2 hours per day. Each session will have 3 groups of 4 to 6 adults. SUMMER 1999 SCHEDULE Session 1 - August 2 - 20 Session 2 - August 23 - September 10 Session 3 - September 13 - October 1 How do I apply? Contact Kimberley Sialtsis: 1-800-263-3463 ext. 240 416-425-3463 ext. 240 416-425-1920 FAX [log in to unmask] Session will be held at: Ontario March of Dimes 10 Overlea Blvd. (Don Mills and the Don Valley Parkway) Toronto, Ontario M4H 1A4 www.dimes.on.ca ? Conveniently located just north of downtown Toronto - off the DVP ? Ample free parking ? Fully accessible building Kim Sialtsis Post Polio Coordinator & Coordinator, Adult Conductive Education Research Project http://www.dimes.on.ca/programs/programs.html Join the PoliOntario discussion groups & our monthly chats - http://www.egroups.com/list/PoliOntario/info.html =========================================================================== Barbara Patterson [log in to unmask] HSC 2J22 905-525-9140, ext. 22403 School of Nursing ===========================================================================