The Washington University NF Center launches its first ever NF Family Day

On June 3rd, the Missouri Botanical Garden opened its doors for the Washington University NF Center Family Day. This was our first ever event, and it was an overwhelming success! From a scavenger hunt and splash pad to potting a plant and painting, the NF Center Family Day included therapy experiences for all ages. In […]

Dr. Angela Hirbe and collaborators publish a three-dimensional MPNST culture system to test therapeutic combinations

The laboratory of Dr. Angela Hirbe, along with collaborators in the Largaespada and Wood labs at the University of Minnesota, the Pratilas lab at Johns Hopkins University, and the Gosline lab have just published a novel three-dimensional MPNST culture system to test novel therapeutic combinations. They hope this system will allow for high throughput testing of […]

Tantrums vs. Sensory Meltdowns

Tantrums and sensory meltdowns may sound similar, but they are vastly different. Knowing the difference between the two can help you decide how to intervene when your child is having an emotional behavior/outburst.

“Touching” on another Sensory System

One of the most common tactile challenges for children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), is known as tactile defensiveness.  

Thanksgiving for Picky Eaters

For many people, Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, focus on what they are thankful for, and eat some amazing food. However, for children with food aversions, Thanksgiving dinner can be challenging.

Does Your Child Struggle in School?

What if there was a way to help your children overcome those academic difficulties? Actually, THERE IS! The Federal government has mandated public school systems have a program in place to assist children with academic challenges. This program, known as the Individualized Education Program (IEP), stems from the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA).

Let Us Eat

Mealtimes in any household with children can be challenging. Trying to get the right food on the table, at the right time, while balancing tired and hungry kiddos can turn into total chaos very quickly. Factor in a child who is picky about what or how they eat and all bets are off. Get whatever […]

Feet are Neat!

Feet are incredibly important – they are literally the foundation for everything we do. And of course, no one is perfect, so many of our feet require a little help to be the foundations we need in order for us to function at our best.

Sensing Your Senses

If we can identify our children’s sensory needs, we may be able to help them have better days, better sleep, and even better behavior.