DIALOGUE A Quarterly Publication of the Regional Center of Orange County VOLUME 38 NO. 3 • SUMMER 2024
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Catherine Mak and Maverick Im SINCE THE CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE AMENDED THE LANTERMAN ACT TO ALLOW REGIONAL CENTERS ACROSS THE STATE TO FUND SOCIAL AND RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS for those we serve, thousands of children and adults with developmental disabilities are experiencing a multitude of benefits from participation in these programs. Here are just two wonderful examples. Catherine Mak A five-year-old with cerebral palsy, Catherine has been taking swimming lessons at Waterworks Aquatics Irvine since October 2023 and karate lessons at Tustin’s Karate for All since November. Initially, her parents were interested in these programs to help address Catherine’s sensory challenges, make her safe around water, and improve her strength and balance, as she tends to be weaker on one side. Her mother, Alyssa, noted the classes have definitely helped in all these areas, and yielded some unexpected benefits as well. She is sleeping better and is not distracted as easily. For example, Catherine is a strong-willed child and had always been a very picky eater, so it was often difficult for Alyssa to get her to try new and healthy foods. Now that she’s taking part in regular exercise that spurs her appetite while building her physical fitness, Catherine has been a lot more open to trying new foods. Her mom also said she is sleeping better and is not distracted as easily, as she’s had to focus to learn her karate sequences.
Catherine has experienced many benefits from swimming lessons and other social recreation programs. Cont. on Page 7
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