University of Iowa Health Care Center for Disabilities and Development

06/23/2026

Learning disabilities are not a measure of intelligence—they are simply different ways of learning. By fostering understanding, patience, and inclusion, we can help every individual reach their full potential. Let's raise awareness, celebrate strengths, and create environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

06/22/2026

Today marks the 27th anniversary of the landmark Olmstead Decision, a civil rights milestone that affirmed the right of people with disabilities to live, work, and participate in their communities rather than being unnecessarily segregated in institutions.

The work of ensuring community living opportunities continues, and you can help make a difference.

The Olmstead Consumer Task Force is currently seeking new voting members who are passionate about advancing community integration and disability rights in Iowa. Voting members commit to:
• Attending at least six meetings per year
• Participating in one committee
• Sharing their experiences, perspectives, and ideas

By serving on the Task Force, you can help shape policies, provide input on the Iowa Olmstead Plan, identify barriers to community living, and advocate for meaningful changes that impact people with disabilities across the state.

Your voice and lived experience can help create stronger communities and expand opportunities for others.

Interested in learning more or applying? Fill out this form: https://www.olmsteadrealchoicesia.org/new-member-application/

06/20/2026

When an emergency is unfolding, every piece of information is critical. With that in mind, the Iowa City Police and Fire Departments are now offering free emergency awareness decals for community members. These decals, designed to be placed in vehicle or residential windows, alert first responders that an occupant of the vehicle or home is:

-Disabled
-Diabetic
-Deaf
-Autistic
-Epileptic or with a seizure disorder
-Diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or dementia

This information allows first responders to adapt to special circumstances in an emergency situation with the goal of fostering better communication and positive outcomes.

How do I get one?
Emergency awareness decals can be picked up at the Iowa City Police Department, 410 E. Washington St.

Where should they be placed?
It is recommended that decals be placed in the rear window of a vehicle or near the primary entrance of a residence to alert first responders.

06/19/2026

We're excited to welcome Emily to the CDD team as our newest Education Consultant!

Emily brings a unique blend of experience in psychology, special education, healthcare, and teaching. In her role, she'll work closely with learners and their families to assess academic skills, explain assessment results, and provide recommendations that support success both at school and at home.

What inspires Emily most? Helping individuals thrive by identifying the supports and accommodations that allow them to reach their full potential. She is passionate about meeting people where they are and working collaboratively to help them succeed.

"I believe that all individuals can bloom given the appropriate supports and accommodations."

Outside of work, Emily is an avid crocheter (currently tackling a Pokémon afghan!), enjoys spending time in her garden, and loves being with her family and pets.

Please join us in giving Emily a warm welcome to the CDD team!

06/18/2026

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Here are a few tips that may help caregivers along the way:

• Establish a consistent daily routine to reduce confusion and anxiety.
• Plan activities
• Use simple, clear communication and allow extra time for responses.
• Focus on abilities rather than limitations.
• Provide choices.
• Take care of your own health and well-being—caregivers need support, too.
• Connect with support groups, respite services, and community resources when you need help.

Remember: You don't have to do it alone. Seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Learn more about Alzheimer's disease at the Alzheimer's Association Website: https://www.alz.org/

06/18/2026

A free sensory friendly movie will be available on Saturday!

🍿𝐈𝐨𝐰𝐚 𝐂𝐢𝐭𝐲 - 𝐃𝐨𝐧'𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐠𝐞𝐭!🍿

Join us this 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝐉𝐮𝐧𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝐭𝐡, 𝐚𝐭 𝟏𝟎:𝟑𝟎 𝐀𝐌 for our next Sensory-Friendly movie with our friends at FilmScene . Enjoy this month's movie, 𝑱𝒂𝒎𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒕 𝑷𝒆𝒂𝒄𝒉, with lights up, sounds low, and room to move around when needed!

Reserve your 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 tickets today 👉 https://icfilmscene.org/film/autism-society-of-iowa-screening-james-and-the-giant-peach/

06/17/2026

Seeking Participants! PEERS® Social Skills Program for Adolescents

The Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relational Skills (PEERS®) is an evidence-based social skills intervention designed for adolescents ages 14–18 who are interested in developing friendships and strengthening social relationships. This program may be appropriate for teens who experience challenges with social communication and would benefit from learning practical strategies for navigating everyday social situations.

Through structured lessons, role-playing activities, and guided practice, participants will learn skills for starting and joining conversations, identifying common interests, using humor appropriately, handling teasing and bullying, resolving disagreements, communicating electronically, organizing get-togethers, changing a reputation, and being a good sport.

Parents or caregivers attend concurrent sessions and learn strategies to support their teen in applying newly acquired social skills outside of the program. Parent or caregiver participation is required.

PEERS® is offered through the Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD), part of University of Iowa Health Care Stead Family Children's Hospital, providing specialized services and support for children, adolescents, and families across Iowa.

Program Dates: August 27, 2026 – December 3, 2026
Schedule: Thursdays, 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

To learn more or determine whether PEERS® is a good fit for your teen, contact us at 319-356-6900 or speak with your teen's pediatric or family medicine clinician.

06/12/2026

Celebrating 39 Years of Dedication!

After 39 years at CDD, we're celebrating an incredible career and wishing a happy retirement to one of our own, Brenda Brenneman.

As a secretary for CDD, Brenda has witnessed many changes over the years - including the transition from University Hospital School to the Center for Disabilities and Development as we know it today.

When asked what has been most rewarding, her answer was simple: the people. The colleagues she has worked alongside and the families she has had the privilege of meeting each day have made her career truly meaningful.

One memorable part of her work has been helping families feel welcomed and supported during their first visit. Many parents arrive feeling anxious, as navigating Iowa City can be stressful. Being a calm, reassuring presence and helping families find their way has made a lasting impact.

In retirement, she and her husband, Lance, are looking forward to new adventures, including a bicycling trip to the San Juan Islands this August and a trip to Italy in 2027. Most importantly, she's excited to spend more time with her grandchildren, ages 6, 4, and 9 months.

Thank you for your years of compassion, dedication, and service. Wishing you all the best in this exciting next chapter!

06/11/2026

Today is National CNA Day! Whether you've just started out as a CNA or have been one for years, we appreciate everything you do! Take time today to thank a CNA for the care they provide and all of their hard work!

06/08/2026

World Brain Tumor Day | June 8

Today, on World Brain Tumor Day, we recognize the individuals and families affected by brain tumors and honor their strength, resilience, and experiences.

A brain tumor occurs when abnormal cells grow in or around the brain. Brain tumors can affect people of all ages and may impact thinking, movement, communication, vision, and other aspects of daily life. While each person's experience is unique, many individuals face significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

World Brain Tumor Day is an opportunity to raise awareness, promote understanding, support research efforts, and recognize the importance of accessible healthcare, rehabilitation services, and community support.

Join us in learning more, supporting those affected, and helping create a more informed and compassionate community.