University of Iowa Health Care Center for Disabilities and Development

08/08/2026

Ever wonder what happens during an autism evaluation?

This is a typical room where we may complete an evaluation. While it might look like we’re just playing, there’s so much more happening.

During an evaluation, we observe how your child plays, interacts, communicates, and responds to different activities. Sometimes we’re simply watching your child’s natural play, other times we’re playing alongside them, and sometimes we’ll guide them through specific tasks designed to better understand their strengths and needs.

We also spend time talking with parents because you know your child best. Learning about how your child communicates, plays, and navigates everyday life at home and in the community is an important part of the evaluation process.

Every observation and conversation helps us build a complete picture so we can provide thoughtful, individualized recommendations for your family.

08/06/2026

When a young patient accidentally left behind their beloved stuffed elephant, Ellie, during a visit to CDD, our Clinical Operations Team knew they wanted to make the reunion extra special.

Ellie didn't just wait to be picked up; she went on an adventure! She participated in a wide range of activities: playing on the playground, working on puzzles, eating snacks, helping the staff, and making new friends. The Clinical Operations Team created a photo book telling Ellie's story from her point of view. They also packed coloring pages and snacks for Ellie and her human to enjoy together once they were reunited.

The goal was simple: to help one little girl know her best friend was safe, cared for, and having fun until it was time to come home. We're happy to share that Ellie arrived home to one very excited little girl.

Moments like these remind us that compassion goes beyond clinical care; it's found in the small acts of kindness that help families feel supported every step of the way.

08/03/2026

Mandy Hatten, Individual Placement and Support (IPS) State Trainer and Fidelity Reviewer, recently served as a keynote panelist at the National APSE (Association
of People Supporting Employment First) Conference in Dallas, Texas. With other national experts in disability employment, Mandy participated in a discussion on
the evolution of Supported Employment and the growth of additional models, including Customized Employment (CE) and Individual Placement and Support (IPS). The panel explored how these approaches share common values while
offering unique strategies to support individuals in achieving competitive integrated employment, while also exploring the challenges and barriers the field
is experiencing.
Drawing on her expertise as an IPS subject matter expert and her direct experience across IPS, Customized Employment, and traditional Supported Employment, Mandy shared insights into the strengths of each model and
emphasized the importance of collaboration and person-centered practices in expanding employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

07/30/2026

This is a great event! Come touch a truck on August 1st at Kirkwood!

It's finally here!

This Saturday the Kirkwood Parking lot will be filled with all kinds of trucks, tractors, transportation vehicles, equipment, cars, and machinery. Everyone will get the chance to see everything up close and talk to the drivers behind the wheel. We hope everyone will join us for this full-filled day!

There will also be food, music, activities and so much more!
Free will donations will be collected to support The Arc of East Central Iowa.

Touch -A- Truck
Saturday, August 1st from 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM (*10:00 - 11:00 | Sensory Hour - No lights or sirens will be used) at Kirkwood Community College (North Parking Lot of Linn Hall)

Presented By: The Arc of East Central Iowa
Event Sponsors: Hudson Insurance Group, Transamerica, UFG Insurance, Van Meter
Media Sponsor: Don Hummer Trucking
Location Sponsor: Kirkwood Community College

07/29/2026

The Center for Disabilities and Development (CDD) at University of Iowa
Stead Family Children’s Hospital offers educational evaluations to help
you and your child’s school support your child’s learning.

The educational services appointment will take 3 hours. During that time,
our specialist works with your child to understand how they learn best. They
help find your child’s strengths and areas where extra help may be needed.
Appointments are available for students ages 7-21.

Our educational specialists can help with:
- Learning disabilities that affect reading, writing, and math (such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, and dyscalculia*)
- Learning and attention difficulties
- Developmental disabilities

What we do to help your child:
- Review information from your child’s school and
Area Education Agency (AEA).
- Contact your child’s school by phone or email as needed.
- Give tests and use other methods to better understand and diagnose your child’s reading, math, and writing skills.
- Our goal is to give you a written report with results, diagnoses, and helpful suggestions for home and school within 2 weeks.

How much does it cost:
If you have any questions about estimates (how much it may cost),
you can also contact UI Health Care Financial and Billing Assistance at:
- Phone: 319-384-6275 or 866-452-8506 (toll free)
- Email: [email protected]

07/28/2026

We join so many others in remembering Mike Hoenig and celebrating his remarkable life.

Since joining the Center for Disabilities and Development in 1993, Mike was an unwavering advocate who made a lasting impact on the disability community. He dedicated his time, voice, and heart to improving the lives of others, working tirelessly to advance disability rights and create opportunities for people with disabilities across the state of Iowa.

Mike shared his humor, kindness, and energy with everyone he met. His passion, wisdom, and unwavering commitment touched countless lives, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who carry his work forward.

Mike's presence, kindness, and commitment will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Our heartfelt condolences are with Mike's family, friends, colleagues, and all whose lives he touched.

Celebrate the life of Michael Hoenig, leave a kind word or memory and get funeral service information care of Weerts Funeral Home.

07/26/2026

Celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

On July 26, 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush, marking a historic step toward equal rights and opportunities for people with disabilities.

The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability and helps ensure equal access to employment, public accommodations, transportation, government services, telecommunications, and more. More than 30 years later, it continues to guide efforts to improve accessibility and remove barriers.

At CDD, we recognize the importance of accessibility and the role it plays in helping people access services, information, and opportunities. We remain committed to supporting accessibility in our work and communities.

Want to learn more about the ADA and accessibility?

- ADA National Network: https://adata.org/learn-about-ada/
- University of Iowa – Understanding Accessibility: https://accessibility.uiowa.edu/about/understanding-accessibility

07/25/2026

Every LEGO kit tells a story.

Thanks to the generosity of Brayden, a gentleman from the Quad Cities, CDD has been able to share LEGO kits with many of the individuals and families we serve. After learning more about autism, Brayden was inspired to donate an incredible collection of kits to help bring joy, creativity, and connection to others.

If you receive one of these special LEGO kits during your visit, be sure to scan the QR code on the front of the box. You’ll learn more about Brayden’s inspiring story and have the opportunity to send him a thank-you message for his kindness.

Small acts of generosity can make a lasting impact. Thank you, Brayden, for helping build brighter days—one LEGO kit at a time.

07/24/2026

International Self-Care Day, celebrated every year on July 24, emphasizes the importance of self-care as a cornerstone of health, encouraging individuals to prioritize their mental, physical, and emotional well-being daily, 24/7. Today, dedicate time to a personal self-care activity, whether it's reading a book, exercising, meditating, spending time in nature.
Comment down below your favorite self-care activity!

07/21/2026

Please join us in congratulating Ali McCue, M.A., CCC-SLP, on her new role as Behavioral Health Manager at the Center for Disabilities and Development!

Effective July 20, 2026, Ali will lead CDD's Psychology, Educational Consultant, and Day Treatment Program teams. Her passion for autism and behavioral health began as an ILEND trainee in 2012 and has grown through roles in schools, Early Intervention, private practice, ABA centers, and specialty autism programs.

Most recently, as Autism Center Clinic Coordinator, Ali led initiatives to improve access to autism assessments, streamline referral processes, and expand education and community partnerships. She also recently completed the Executive Leadership Academy, further strengthening the collaborative leadership skills she'll bring to this role.

Please join us in welcoming Ali to her new position! We look forward to the positive impact she'll have on our patients, families, staff, and community partners.