Back to School! Fall Listings 2007 (More Updates!!)

Welcome to the Autism in Connecticut Blog!

Due to the enormous growth in listings for the Autism in Connecticut Blog, we've made some changes that we hope will make this resource more helpful and easier to navigate. The blog is now broken down into THREE sections. The first section, Autism Announcements, continues to be a listing of annoucements of research projects, multi-date classes and workshops and other items of interest. The second section is a listing of support groups (both specifically for autism spectrum disorders and those that are cross disability). Rather than a separate posting of each date that the group meets on the calendar of events, this section of the blog will provide a listing for ongoing groups that meet regularly (i.e. the first Monday, the third Thursday, etc) each month. Individual meetings dates that are events or speakers will continue to be listed in addition on the calendar of events. The third section will remain the Calendar of Events with programs, workshops, legislative hearings, speakers, conferences, etc. So feel free to scroll down to the listing section that is of interest to you. Check out the links to other resources here in Connecticut. Remember, the Autism in Connecticut blog is a resource for parents and professionals to find out what is happening around the state with relevance to autism spectrum disorders and a place to post your information.

Send your information to autismblogger@sbcgloblal.net. Please include contact information!

Sponsored by the Autism Society of Connecticut.
Made possible by donations from YOU, our friends.

AUTISM ANNOUNCEMENTS
New Entries in Green
Please send all information to autismblogger@sbcglobal.net
Include contact information

Parent Assistor Training: Beginning on Thurs, Sept 6 for 11 consecutive Thursdays, the Learning Disabilities Association (LDA) will offer their Parent Assistor Training from 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at their facility in Hartford. Designed for persons who want to learn about the special education process, their legal rights and how to interpret evaluations conducted by districts. $250 for the complete program (LDA members) and $300 for non membes. For more information, or to register, contact LDA at 860-560-1711.

Check out the link to SERC, the State Education and Resource Center, listed on the sidebar. New listings for programs and topics on IDEA and Early Childhood and well as the Focus on Autism Initiative are now available. Many of these programs are open to families as well as professionals. Consider going with your child's teachers as a team.

KIDSTEPS Family and Children's Center announces fall classes including: Dance and Movement: A parent/child class for ages 4-8 on Tuesdays starting Sept. 25; More Talk to the Animals - A Parent/Child class on Wed mornings starting Sept 26 and a Social Skills Group for children ages 6-8 on Wed afternoons starting Wed. Sept 26. For more information, fees and registration, contact KIDSTEPS at 203-318-3692. All classes held at 51 Boston Post Road, Madison.

The Pilot House, Special Needs Community Resource Center in Fairfield, a non-profit providing programs for children with special needs announces programs and classes for the fall and winter including social skills groups for ages 3-5 and elementary school children, music/art classes, pottery bowling, story/craft hour. For more information, registration and membership information contact Doreen Caruso at 203-319-7452 or http://www.thepilothouse.org/.

Parent Members wanted for the Birth to Three Interagency Coordinating Council. Role is to assist and advise the DMR as the Lead Agency for the Birth to Three System; to provide insight and perspective as the parent of a child with special needs whose child has used the Birth to Three System. Contact Anna Gorski at anna.gorski@po.state.ct.us or 860-418-8716 for more information.

Wallingford Parks and Recreation announces Fall Adaptive Programs for Fall 2007. swimming, rock climbing, music and movement, art classes and more. Contact Kathy Rad, the Certified Recreational Specialist at kjrdz@snet.net or call 203-294-2120.

CT Parent Power is conducting a Parent Issue Survey to find out what our families really need. The top issues are then advocated for on the state level. They need your input. Go to http://www.ctparentpower.org/ to take the survey.

The Autism Project (part of the Kennedy Center), Trumbull announces fall and winter programs including Young Adult Social Activity Group (ages 18-21) and a Celebrate the Seasons Book Club for ages 9-12. Contact Stacy Hultgren at 203-332-4535 x247 for more information and registration.

The Autism Project (part of the Kennedy Center), Trumbull announces an Education Advocacy Training workshop series for parents. Six session workshop series for parents of school aged children. Begins Oct. 22 and runs Monday mornings from 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. through Dec. 3 at the Kennedey Center, 2440 Reservoir Ave., Trumbull. Fee. Call Stacy Hultgren at 203-332-4535 x247 for more information and registration materials.

Puzzled Sibs: a support group for brothers and sisters of siblings with autism. Meet monthly to discuss feelings, know we are not alone and have a good time. Open to ages 6-12. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at the South Windsor Community Center, 150 Nevers Road, South Windsor (across from South Windsor High School). Meeting dates are as follows: Aug 30, Sept 27, Oct 25, Nov 29 and Dec. 27. Contact Information: Melissa Dumont at 860-214-2903 or puzzled_sibs@cox.net.

Good$ense Money Smart Training Program for People with AS or ASD. Goodwill Industries announces its newest money management program. Small group or individual classes are offered in five weekly one hour sessions followed by Q&A. Focus on the basics of money management to educate and empower taking charge of your personal finances. Scholarships available. For more information contact Terri Allen at 203581-5340 or e-mail tallen@goodwillct.org.

Outside the Lines - Art Studio for kids. Kids with add, adhd, AS, ASD, MR., OCD, sensory, whatever. Classes begin Sept. 11. Outside the Lines - Toni Phillips, LCSW, 255 Fillow St, West Norwalk. 203-722-5823 or toniphill@sbcglobal.net

Research Project: Does your son/daughter have autism or an autism spectrum disorders? Was your child diagnosed within the last two years? Would you be willing to share your experiences? Research project looking at parent's experiences throughout the process leading to diagnosis and experiences in getting services. Interviews will be held at your convenience. Contact Dr. Dumont-Mathieu at 860-545-8944 for information and to sign up.

Family First is a non-profit early intervention program in lower Fairfield County which provides training to families of children 15 months to 5 years wo are experiencing delays in relating, communicating, sensory processing and play. Systematic interactive play techniques, using Dr. Stanley Greenspan's DIR/Floortime approach are taught to families using a home-based coaching model, as well as facilitated play groups and support services. Contact: Audrey Spellman at 203-956-5868 or familyplay@optonline.net.

Connect-Ability: A new initiative aimed at opening employment opportunities for people weith disabilites. Connects employers and able employees who have disabilities through a statewide education and media campaign, comprehenstive online resources at http://www.connect-ability.com/ and community based initiatives. For more information on the program and to use the services, go to http://www.connect-ability.com/ or call 1-866-844-1903.

Research Project: Parents of children (under the age of 8) with a diagnaosis of autism are invited to share their perspectives on the diagnostic process. This study is looking at the earliest signs of autism seen by parents in hopes of allowing for earlier diagnosis. Participation involves a one-hour long interview with the researchers and follow up if necessary. To participate and to learn more contact Rhiannon Edwards at 401-636-0161 or Rhiannon_e@hotmail.com.

Research Project: Looking for Families Coping with Autism. Do you have a child with autism aged 6-12? Study being conducted looking at how families with a school aged child with autism cope. Survey will be sent in the mail. $10 payment after survey is returnerd. Particular interest in recruiting families who will provide ethnic, racial, economic and religious diversity to the study. Affiliated with the Clinical Graduate Program of the Psychology Department at UMASS, Boston. For more information or to participate, contact Meg Manning at margaret.manning001@umb.edu or call 617-287-6318.

Research Project: Simons Baby-Sibs Project of Social Neuroscience in Infancy. Purpose is to examine the early development of basic social skills in infants, targeting children that are developing typically as well as children who are experiencing various developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders. Criteria: newborns with older siblings diagnosed with an ASD; or newborns with significant complications of pregnancy or birth; or newborns without significant complications during pregnancy or birth. For complete project information visit http://info.med.yale.edu/chldstdy/autism/babysibs or contact Daniela Blum at 203-785-6237 or daniela.blum@yale.edu.

Research Project: Early Social Cognition in Typically Developing Children and in Children with Autism and Related Disorders. Purpose is to examine the early development of basic social skills in young children. We will observe how children with various developmental delays and typical development look at people and perceive speech. Criteria: 10-24 month old children with developmental delays, including ASD; or 10-24 month old typically developing children. For complete project information visit http://info.med.yale.edu/chldstdy/autism/socialcognition/html or contact Suzanne Macari at 203-764-9178 or suzanne.macari@yale.edu.

AUTISM SUPPORT GROUPS AND MONTHLY PROGRAMS
Please send all information on ongoing groups to autismblogger@sbcglobal.net
Include contact information

Can't find a group near you? Interested in starting a group? Send a posting with your inquiry to autismblogger@sbcglobal.net and include contact information. Looking for a group? Check the inquiries and see if someone near you is interested in starting a group and contact them directly. If you need help in starting a group,contact the Autism Society of Connecticut at asconn@sbcglobal.net.

Many groups do not meet over the summer months. Please call ahead of time to check on summer dates and start ups for September.

Inquiries:

Social connection wanted. Looking for families/children in the Walllingford/Durham area. My son and I would like to make some friends who "get it". He is 11 and interests include NY Yankees (and baseball generally), Harry Potter and NASCAR. E-mail landscape27@comcast.net.

New Group Forming! Coventry area. For families and friends of children with special needs. First meeting, Wed. Sept. 26, 2007 at Camp Creaser, 150 Case Road, Coventry. 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Open house format, come when you can! Bring your own picnic supper. To RSVP or for more information, contact Eileen Schopper at 860-742-9602, eschopper1@sbcglobal.net or Beth Reel at 860-742-8410, bethreel@sbcglobal.net.

Ongoing Groups:

First Sunday of the month: Rhythms of Grace: monthly church services for children with special needs and their families/caregivers. Trinity Episcopal Church, Torrington from 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. All are welcome. Contact Rev. Audrey Scanlan at asclanan01@yahoo.com for more information.

First Monday of the month: Wilton Parent Advocacy Team (WPAT) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. For Wilton parents only. Forum for parents of children with special needs in Wilton who advocate to improve pograms within the school and community. At the Greens at Canondale, 435 Danbury Road, Wilton, RSVP to wiltonspedgroup@aol.com.

First Monday of the month: Fairfield County Autism Support Group. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Frenchtown Elementary School, 30 Frenchtown Road, Trumbull. Sponsored by ASRC. Call Lois Rosenwald at 203-265-7717 for more information.

New Group!First Monday of the month: Greater New Milford Area Parent Support/Resource Group for parents and caregivers raising children with special health care needs. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., The United Methodist Church, 68 Danbury Road, New Milford. Contact Alice Buttwell at 860-355-6025 or alicemmbb@aol.com or Monika Nugent, 860-355-1179, monikan@sbcglobal.net. Sponsored by the CT Family Support Network - Northwest Region.

Every Tuesday morning: Parent Chat: A shoreline support group for families with special needs children birth - eight. 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Kidsteps - SARAH, Inc., 51 Boston Post Road, Unit 9, Madison. Children invited! Call Marian Roy, Family Support coordinator - Group Facilitator for registration information at 203-318-3682.

First Tuesday of the month: Pizza moms in Darien! 7:30 p.m. Post Corner Pizza in Darien. www. geocities.com/nanette618/pizzamoms.html. Pizza moms is a group of moms who have children with special needs in the Fairfield County area. We get together informally and have pizza, salad and beer in Darien. Everyone is welcome. This is a place where moms can talk with other moms who are having similar experiences. If you are interested, contact Nanette Jordan at nanette618@yahoo.com.

Every Wednesday, Parent/Child Playgroup for ages 2-4, 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m., sponsored by Kidsteps, 51 Boston Post Road, Unit 9, Madison. Parent and child will have an opportunity to be involved in a variety of activities to increase large and small motor skills, experiment with a variety of materials and increase positive peer interactions. Parents share ideas and support activities. Facilitated by a special education teacher and counselor. Call Kidsteps at 203-318-3692 for more information.

First Thursday of the month: Families united Network - Northeast. A family support and advocacy group. 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. United Services,Wauregan. Call Families United at 860-537-6125 and ask for Lorna.

First Thursday of the month: Family Support and Networking Group for Parents Raising Children who have Disabilities. Sponsored by the Southwest Family Support Network and the Family Center at St. Vincent's Special Needs Services. 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at St Vincent's Special Needs Services Family Center, 95 Merritt Blvd., Trumbull. Pizza, conversation and networking. Contact Lisa Sheppard, lnshep@aol.com, 203-556-7317, SW Regional Coordinator, CT Family Support Network, or Donna Kennedy, dkennedy@stvincents.org, 203-386-2790.

Second Monday of the month: Parent Support Group for parents, grandparents and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders. 7:00 p .m. Manchester Memorial Hospital. Sponsored by the East of the River Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Call Carolyn Schwartz at 860-644-0524 or http://www.autismsocietyofct.org/ for more information.

Second Monday of the month: Parent Support Group. West Haven City Hall. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. For parents of special needs children. More information call Karen Muro at 203-937-3565 or e-mail KarenMMuro@aol.com.

Second Tuesday of the month: Wilton Parent Advocacy Team (WPAT). For Wilton parents only. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Forum for parents of children with special needs in Wilton who advocate to improve the programs within the schools and community. RSVP to wiltonspedgroup@aol.com.

Second Tuesday of the month: Parent Support Group for parents of children on the autism spectrum. 7:00 p.m. Small group with parents of children of all ages. Sponsored by Jewish Family Services, West Hartford. Contact Steven Broyde, PhD., LCSW, Child Clinic Director, JFC for more information at 860-236-1927 x16 or sbroyde@jfshartford.org.

Second Wednesday and Fourth Wednesday of the month: Parent Support Group for children diagnosed with an ASD. 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. At Westbrook Youth and Family Services. 1163 Boston Post Road, Westbrook. Call 860-399-9239 for more information.

Second Wednesday of the month: Parent Support Group. 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. For parents and caregivers of children with an ASD. Walnut Hill Commuity Church, Bethel. Sponsored by ASRC. Parent facilitator: Shannon Vanderheiden, 203-770-8669 (returns calls after 8:00 p.m.). Call Lois Rosenwald at 203-265-7717 for more information.

Second Thursday of the month: Families United Network, Thompson, A family support and advocacy group for families of children with behavioral, emotional or mental health challenges. 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Thompson Public Library. For more information, call Lorna at Families United for Children's Mental Health at 860-537-6125 or lornagrivois@sbcglobal.net, or Suzannet Witkowski at TEEG, 860-928-1569 or ARCHES@teegonline.org.

Second Friday of the month: Adult Asperger's Support Group. For Adults on the Spectrum. 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Meets at the CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center at 101 North Industrial Road, Wallingford. Call Dave Tipping at 203-484-2937 or e-mail NZ1J@juno.com for more information.

Second Saturday and Fourth Saturday of the month: Play for All! A playgroup for children of all abilities. Special needs play group giving parents an opportunity to talk, support and encourage each other, while allowing their children time to play and socialize. 10:30 a.m. 12:00 noon. Children's Programming Room, Lucy Robbins Wells Library, Newington. Sponsored by the Library and Newington UNICO. Call the library at 860-665-8720 for more information.

Third Monday of the month: Buiding Blocks Support Group. 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m . Multi-Purpose Room, Colchester Elementary School. A support group for parents or caregivers of children with social or emotional challenges aged birth - five. For more information contact: Dana at 860-434-4890x349 or Rachel at x311. Sponsored by Families United for Children's Mental Health and Building Blocks Social Emotional Wellness for Young Children.

Third Tuesday of the month: Parent Support Group for parents, grandparents and caregivers of children with an ASD. 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Groton Public Library. Call Danielle Greene at 860-445-9765 for more information.

Third Tuesday of the month: Tamale Tuesday. 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. SPED*NET, Special Education Network of New Canaan, Ltd., invites all parents and guardians of students who receive special education services in the New Canaan Public Schools to the Tequila Mockingbird restaurant on 6 Forest St., New Canaan. Please join us to share strategies on negotiating the special education maze. RSVP to Judi Anders at 203-801-0784 or e-mail judianders@sbcglobal.net.

Third Tuesday of the month: Autism Support Group. Enfield. New Group! 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Pearl Street Library Community Room. Call Kate Flaherty at 860-253-5144 or Jessica Houle at 860-272-0148 for more information.

Third Tuesday of the month: Manchester IEPs. A group of parents who meet monthly to discuss the ways to help and support our children to get the services they need to become successful in school and in life. For more information contact manchesterieps@cox.net.

Third Wednesday of the month: Pizza Moms, Greenwich! Held at Bella Nonna's in Cos Cob, 371 East Putnam Ave. http://www.geocities.com/nanette618/pizzamomsg.htmlwww.geocities.com/nenette618/pizzamomsg.html for more information. Pizza moms is a support group for moms who have children with special needs in the Fairfield County area. 7:00 p.m. We get together informally for food, drink and networking. Everyone is welcome. Please contact Philippa Orszulak at 203-531-6471 or angelmanmom@aol.com.

Third Wednesday of the month: Parent Support Group. 6:15 p.m. - 7:15 p.m. (parents of children 0-12) and 7:30 p.m . - 8:30 p.m. (parents of children 13+). Family Resource Center Annex, 110 High Street, Enfield. Contact Kate Flaherty at mailto:KFaherty@enfield.,org for more information.

Third Thursday of the month: Parent Support Group for parents and caregivers of a child with ASD. Preston Public Library. 6:30 p.m. Contact Joan Bachelder at abddjm@aol.com for more information.

Fourth Sunday of the month: Rhythms of Grace: monthly church services for children with special needs and their families/caregivers. Church of Our Saviour, Plainville. From 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. All are welcome. Contact Rev. Audrey Scanlan at ascanlan01@yahoo.com for more information.

Fourth Monday of the month: Parent Support Group for parents and caregivers of a child with ASD. 7:00 p.m. Sterling House Community Center, Main St., Stratford. Sponsored by the Stratford Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Contact Kim Wardlow at bischon03@yahoo.com for more information.

Last Tuesday of the month: Autism Parents Club. A group of parents (dad's too!) of children on the autism spectrum. Open to parents from all over CT. 7:30 p.m. at Francesco's Restaurant, Rte 7 in Wilton. For more information, contact Patti Sylvia at 203-761-0248 .

Last Tuesday of the month: Farmington Valley Asperger's Network. Parent support group for parents or extended family members or professionals working with a child with an ASD. Discussions and networking meetings. Lending Library. Farmington Senior/Community Center, 321 New Britain Ave, Unionville. FAVAN. Call Lee McFadden at 860-589-0097 or http://www.favan.org/.

Last Wednesday of the month: Families United Network - Plainfield. A family support and advocacy group. For families of children with behavioral, emotional or mental health challenges. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Holiday Inn Express, Plainfield. Exit 87 of I-395. For more information contact Lorna at Families United for Children's Mental Health at 860-537-6125 or lornagrivois@sbcglobal.net.

Last Wednesday of the month: New London Autism Parent Support Group. 6:30 p.m. at the Bennie Dover Jackson Middle School Library, New London. For more information call Kathryn at 860-444-3199 or Reginia at 860-271-3649.

Last Thursday of the month: Parent Support group for parents and caregivers of children with an ASD. 7:00 p.m. Unitarian Universalist Society, Boston Post Rd., Madison. Sponsored by the Shoreline Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Call 888-453-4975 or asconn@sbcglobal.net for more information.

AUTISM IN CONNECTICUT COMMUNITY CALENDAR
New Entries in Green
e-mail to autismblogger@sbcglobal.net

Thurs. Sept. 6, 2007: Budget Workshop 101. The state budget has been passed. What is the next step? Do you have questions about who gets what money, how the money is to be spent or how this budget will affect your community or agency? Come to a budget workshop from 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Room 2600 of the Legislative Office Building, 300 Capitol Ave, Hartford. Presented by Sue Keane, Senior Appropriations Commuttee Administrator. Sponsored by CT Parent Power. RSVP or for more information, contact Gwen Samuel at 203-953-5154 or gwen@ctparentpower.org.

Sat. Sept. 8, 2007: "Ready and Able: Taking Responsibility for Staying Safe: Putting it all together." A panel discussion with Local Officials and Breakout Sessions. 9:45 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. NEAT Marketeplace, 120 Holcomb St. Hartford. No fee. Call OPA at 860-297-4322 to register and for more information. Sponsored by the Office of Protection and Advocacy for Persons with Disabilities and the UCONN Center for Excellence in Disabilities in collaboration with the CT Council on Developmental Disabilities.

Sat. Sept. 8, 2007: Welcome Back Sib Shop and Teen Group. 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital. Please RSVP to 203-688-6880 or erin.spaulding@ynnh.org. NOTE: Date Changed to Sat. Sept. 15.

Tues. Sept. 11, 2007: Preparing for the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) Meeting. Presented by CPAC. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Central Park, Indoor Play Place, 74 Central Ave, (side entrance of Salvation Army), Waterbury. Sponsored by CT Family Support Network - Northeast Region and CT Lifespan Respite Coalition. To register, contact Alice Buttwell at 860-350-6025, alicemmbb@aol.com or Joy Liebeskind, 203-272-9058, SJSJL@cox.net.

Wed. Sept. 12, 2007: Emergency Preparedness and Planning for People with Disabilities. Presented by Cindy Stramandinoli. 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., LARC Conference Room, 314 Main Street, Torrington. For more informtion and to RSVP, contact Bill Knight, Northwest Regional Lead Organizer, 860-489-6494, lackerman01@snet.net, Alice Buttwell, 860-350-6025, alicemmbb@aol.com or Larry Robinson, 203-543-4774, robinsonlarry2005@yahoo.com. Sponsored by the Northwest Disability Advocacy Collaborative.

Thurs. Sept. 13, 2007: "Could it be Dyslexia?" A dyslexia information workshop. Learn the warning signs and what you can do to help your child succeed at school. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., John Dempsey Regional Center, 376 Pomfret Street, Putnam (DMR Satellite Office). Free. Hosted by the CT Family Support Network Northeast Region with support from the CTFSN-SE Region, ARCHES of TEEG, Families United for Children's Mental Health, U.C.P. of Eastern CT and the CT Behavioral Health Partnership. RSVP: Mona Tremblay at 860-928-6514 or monatremblay@sbcglobal.net or Ann Treault at 860-630-4033 or Ann.Treault@po.state.ct.us.

Thurs. Sept. 13, 2007: ADHD/ADD: Myths, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. With Dr. Richard Herklots, Board Certified Pediatrician. 6:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m., Plainfield Pediatric Center, 31 Dow Road, Plainfield. call 860-963-6384 for reservations and to RSVP.

Sat. Sept. 15, 2007: Welcome Back Sib Shop and Teen Group. 10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Yale-New Haven Children's Hospital. Please RSVP to 203-688-6880 or erin.spaulding@ynnh.org. NOTE: Date Changed to Sat. Sept. 15

Sunday, Sept. 16, 2007: Open auditions for the 7th Annual Duke Ellington's Jazz Nutcracker: in support of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Ages 6-12 10:00 a.m. Ages 13+ 12:oo noon. Park Street Studio, 2074 Park Street, Hartford. Call Darcie Froman at 860-944-8520 for more information.

Mon. Sept. 17, 2007: Autism Spectrum Disorders Through the Lifespan. With Suzanne Letso and Judith Palazzo. 7:00 p.m. Christ Chuch Parish House, 250 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich. Discussion of how the needs of individuals with autism change as they grow and how changing needs affect goals and objectives. Free. Sponsored by FAP. Call Brita Daranyi at 203-661-8510 or e-mail bridaranyi@aol.com for registration and more information.

Tues. Sept. 18, 2007: "PROMPT: A Therapeutic System to Facilitate Speech-Language and Cognitive Development" with Natalie Sinclair, M.S., C.C.C.-SLP. 7:30 p.m . IDEA Training Center Conference Room, 20 Washington Ave., North Haven. PROMPT is a multi-sensory therapeutic system used by Speech/Language therapists to faciliate speech-language and cognitive development. Based on the philosophy that considers all areas of the individual's developent, combining strategies to link the language and speech motor systems and utilizing tactile-kinesthetic prompts or cues to assist. Free, but seating is limited, call Sally Brocket at 203-234-7401. Sponsored by the South Central Region, Autism Society of Connecticut.

Wed. Sept. 19, 2007: Meet the Special Education Administration Brunch. Sponsored by the New Canaan Public Schools, Department of Special Ed, Cosponsored with Parent Advisory Committee and SPED*NET. At East School Cafeteria, New Canaan. Come meet Darlene Pianka, Director of Special Ed and the Special Ed coordinators. Find out what's happening in the district and the vision for the future. RSVP Judi Anders at 203-801-0794.

Thurs. Sept. 20, 2007: Pizza Parents Back To School Support Group. 6:30 p.m., Italian-American Social Club, 40 Hamre Lane, Branford. For more information, contact Tesha Imperati, South Central Regional Coordinator, CT Family Support Network, 203-710-3041 or teshaimp@comcast.net.

Fri. Sept. 21, 2007: D.R.E.A.M . - Experience the Dream - an arts evevnt celebrating the life and unique and uplifting work of artists Jarrod Law and Valerie Leri. Jarrod is an accomplished artist who records the shape of things and personalities he encounters with humor and penetrating vision. His autism, he says, gives him a very different view of the world. Valerie's use of color, shape and energetic brush stroke invites us to dream. Opening, Fri. Sept 21 at 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Cafe George, 300 George St. New Haven. Music, food. Free. The artwork will remain on view throughough September and October. A portion of the proceeds of the sale of art will benefit the Autism Society of Connecticut. For more information contact Dianne at 203-494-3348 or dpacl@optonline.net or http://www.autismsocietyofct.org/.

Fri. Sept. 21, 2007: "Why Do They Do That? Toward a Brain-Based Understanding of Autism". 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Presented by the Autism Spectrum Differences Institute of New England. Hiton Garden Inn, 555 Corporate Drive, Windsor, CT. Email asdi-ne@comcast.net for registration materials and information. There is a charge for this workshop.

Sat. Sept. 22 and Sun. Sept 23, 2007: Support Group Facilitator Training in Spanish. At the Super8 Motel and Conference Center, Manchester. 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. on Sat and 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. Free. Overnight stay and meals provided. Sponsored by NAMI-CT. For more information, or to register, contact Paloma Dee at 860-882-0236x27.

Mon. Sept. 24, 2007: "Why do we need an ADA Restoration Act? Is There Something Wrong with the ADA?" 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Newington Town Hall 131 Cedar Street (Route 175), Newington. Presenter: Melissa Marshall, Esq., Executive Director, Advocacy Unlimited and long-time ADA Consultant. U.S. Supreme Court rulings in recent years have revealed an alarming trend: the types of disabilities protected by the ADA have become more and more limited. The Court has ruled that many people with disabilities who use "mitigating" measures - such as medication and technology - are not disabled. For example, people with diabetes, heart conditions, psychiatric disabilities and cancer have had their ADA claims kicked out of court because, with improvements in medication, they are considered too functional to be disabled. Come learn how recent decisions may affect you and your family and what you can do to support the Restoration Act. Brought to you by the Disability Advocacy Collaborative, ADA Coalition of CT and Advocacy Unlimited.

Mon. Sept. 24, 2007: What to do when you disagree workshop. 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Waterbury WARC, 1929 East Main St., Waterbury. Presentation by CT Parent Advocacy Center. Focus is on positive communiation and continuum of conflict resolution optons. Participants will learn several strategies for promoting positive communications within a team, as well as identify ways to resolve special education disputes including mediation, due process and complaints. Sponsored by CT Family Support Network - Northwest Region. Part of parent support group meeting for the evening. Contact Alice Buttwell at alicemmbb@aol.com or 860-350-6015 for more informaiton.

Wed. Sept. 26, 2007: Ringing In On Autism: A Symposium for CT Educators and Administrators. 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. NEAT Marketplace, 20 Holcomb Ave, Hartford. Free. Keynote by Jim Calhoun. Sponsored by Oak Hill and Leadership Greater Hartford. Call 860-951-6161 x19 to register.

Wed. Sept. 26, 2007: Building Friendships. How you and your school can take an active role in helping your children make lasting friendships. 6:00 p.m. Holiday Inn Express, Plainfield. Sponsored by Families United of Northeast Connecticut. For more information, please call Sandy C0llins, Northeast Network Contact at Families United for Children's Mental Health, sandyjco@hotmail.com or 860-908-4287.

Wed. Sept. 27, 2007: Replays: Using Play to Enhance Emotional and Behavioral Development of Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Hilton Gardens, Windsor. Presented by Naomi Angoff Chedd, LMHC, Autism Resource Specialist and Karen Levine, PhD, Clinical Director, Autism and Developmental Disabilities Program CCAD, Medford, MA. Sponsored by SERC. Fee. CEU's available. Contact Karyn Champion at 860-632-1485 x225.

Thurs. Sept. 27, 2007: "Advanced Neurological and Nutritional Considerations in Autism" with Dr. George Curry. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. HARC, 900 Asylum Ave, Hartford. Dr. Currey is a practicing chiropractor who has specialized in family practice for over 25 years. He has advanced training in autism and pediatrics. Free. Child care available at cost. Sponsored by the Hartford Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Contact Beth Katten at 860-236-8374 to register and for more information.

Thurs. Sept. 27, 2007: Autism Spectrum Disorders Through the Lifespan with Suzanne Letso and Judith Palazzo, Center for Child Development, CCCD. 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. or 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. This presentation will discuss how the needs of individuals with autism change as they grow and how these changing needs can affect the goals and objectives we select as targets of our educational efforts in school, home, work and community settings. Registration required. Total Learning and Therapy Center, Trumbull, call 203-268-8852 or http://www.ttlc.org/.

Sun. Sept. 30, 2007: A Sukkot Holiday Program. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., at the Finkelstein's home, 132 Revonah Ave., Stamford. Sponsored by The Friendship Circle. RSVP to Malya or Devorah Leah at 203-329-0015#414 or mayla@FriendshipCT.com or Devora@FriendshipCT.com.

Wed. Oct. 3, 2007: Maverick Minds, LLC, A Cognitive Perspective on Understanding ADD/ADHD Kids. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. An educational workshop for parents to understand children with ADD/ADHD from a strength based perspective focusing on management strategies, compensatory skills, educational accomodations and children's potential. American Legion Hall, 60 County Street, Norwalk. Co-sponsored by NorwalkSEEKs.org and CACLD. For more information or to RSVP, contact info@norwalkseeks.org or 203-846-2501.

Thurs. Oct. 4 and Fri. Oct. 5: Introduction to Independent Typing as a Form of AAC of People with Communication Challenges. Two part workshop. 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Presented by Autism Spectrum Differences Institute of New England. Hilton Garden Inn, 555 Corporate Drive, Windsor, CT. There is a charge for this workshop. E-mail asdi-ne@comocast.net for registration materials and more information.

Tues. Oct. 9 and Thurs. Oct. 11, 2007: Autism Spectrum Disorders - a Two Part Workshop for parents and professionals. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., The Kennedy Center, 2440 Reservoir Ave., Trumbull. Introduction to the basic characteristics of ASDs. Sponsored by the Autism Project. Presented by the Autism Project. Contact Stacy Hultgren at 203-332-4535 x247 or shultgren@kennedyctr.org for more information and registration.

Wed. Oct. 10, 2007: JFS Ongoing Series on Autism: Fitting the Pieces of the Autism Puzzle Together: Exploring the Resources Available to Help Your Adolescent and Young Adult. 7:00 p.m. With panelists, Jane Theirfeld Brown, Director of Student Services, UCONN Law School; Kathryn Reddington, Autism Coordinator, State of Connecticut, DDS (formerly DMR); Anthony Reeck, MetDesk Specialist and Parent Advocate; Denis Geary, Executive Director Jewish Association of Communal Living; Janice Rothstein, Director of Clinical Programs, Jewish Family Services. Moderator: Bruce Putterman, Board member, ASCONN. At the Mandell JCC, 335 Bloomfield Ave. West Hartford. Reservations and more information, fgirard@jfshartford.org.

Sat. Oct. 13, 2007: CACLD Fall Conference. Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficits Through the Lifespan. Stamford Marriott Hotel. Contact CACLD at CACLD.org for more information and registration.

Wed. Oct 17, 2007: Inclusive Recreation with Kathy Radzunias, Therapeutic Rereation Specialist. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., HARC, 900 Asylum Ave., Hartford. Child care available at cost. Contact Beth Katten at 860-236-8374 for more information and to register. Sponsored by the Hartford Region, Autism Society of Connecticut.

Thurs. Oct. 18, 2007: Autism Orientation for Parents and Professionals. 7:00 p. m. - 9:00 p.m. Is your child newly diagnosed? Are you interested in learning more about autism and ASD's. One-session overview orientation to ASDs. Presented by the Autism Society of Connecticut, sponsored by Groton Department of Human Services and Youth and Family Services. 2 Fort Hill Road, Groton. Call 860-441-6760 or 888-453-4975 for more information and to register. Free but seating is limited.

Fri. Oct. 19, 2007 and Fri. Nov. 2, 2007: Practical Strategies for Supporting People with Labels of Autism in Inclusive Schools and Communities. 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Two part workshop. Presented by Autism Spectrum Differences Institute of New England. There is a charge for this workshop. Hilton Garden Inn, 555 Corporate Drive, Windsor, CT. E-mail asdi-ne@comcast.net for registration materials and information.

Tues. Oct. 23, 2007: ASD Unplugged! FOCUS Alternative Learnaing Center presents their panel of experts. Join a panel of young adults who will share their journey with ASD's. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Henry Carter Hill Library, Clinton. Sponsored by Clinton SEPTA. Free, but seating is limited, register by calling Lisa Heslin at 203-654-0354.

Tues. Oct. 23, 2007: What Every Parent Needs to Know About Transitioning Special Needs Students from High School to College. With Attorney, Lawrence Berliner, Attorney Howard Klebenoff, Social Worker, Claire Friedlander, and CPA Stephen Ehrens. At the JCC, Woodbridge. For registration and more information, contact Susan Skalka, Jewish Federation of New Haven at 203-287-2424. Also to be held on the shoreline on November 15.

Wed. Oct. 24, 2007: Superkids. Come learn about the Superkids programs for children and teens with social skills issues. Sponsored by the Westport SEPTA. Coleytown Middle School Cafeterial, 225 North Ave., Westport. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Contact Janis Fox, Programming Chair at 203-22-8485 or info@westportsepta.org.

Thurs. Oct. 25, 2007: Neuropsychology for the parent consumer. With Michael Cohen, PhD, from Neuropsychological & Diagnostic Services, Westport. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Workshop will focus on the techniques of neuropsychological assessment including the new NEPSY-II to promote awareness of the children who may benefit from such assessments. Also focusing on the role of such assessments in diagnosis. Waveny House, Waveny Park, New Canaan, CT. Sponsored by SPED*NET New Canaan. RSVP Victoria Munoz at 203-972-1163.

Sun. Oct. 28, 2007: Dragon's Wing Entertainment presents a "battle of the bands" to benefit the Autism Society of Connecticut. 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at Up or On the Rocks, corner Allyn Street and Union Street, Hartford. Rock/HardRock. Sponsored by Steve and Christina Mutch of Dragon's Wing Entertainment. Tickets $10 at the door. 21 and over. More information soon!

Sat. Nov. 3, 2007: Third Annual Autism Resource Fair. 12:00 noon - 4:00 p.m. Southern CT State University, 11 Wintergreen Ave, New Haven. Free. For more information contact ASRC at 203-265-7717.

Wed. Nov. 7, 2007: Advocacy 101. With Noreen O'Mahoney, S.D.A., C.S.W., Collaborative Advocacy Associates. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. In-depth presentation which details and explains the entire cycle of special education from pre-referral to monitoring and transition planning and what you must know about special education advocacy for your child's sake. American Legion Hall, 60 County Street, Norwalk. Sponsored by NorwalkSEEKS.org. Contact info@norwalkseeks.org or call 203-846-2501.

Thurs. Nov. 8, 2007: Disability Labels and Disclosure - When to tell? Who to tell? A workshop for Parents. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. The Kennedy Center, 2440 Reservoir Ave., Trumbull. Many parents are concerned abot the effects and stigmas of "labels" for their children with disabilities. This session will consist of a frank discussion about the purposes behind "labels" including discrimination protection, access to special education, and other advantages as well as disadvantages. It will ocus on what the realities are - who needs to know, who doesn't and why. Sponsored by the Autism Project. Call Stacy Hultgren at 203-332-4535 x247 or e-mail shultgren@kennedyctr.org for more information and to register.

Sat. Nov. 10, 2007: National Disability Ministry, Joni and Friends sponsors a "Through the Roof Workshop" focusing on Autism and the Church. Keynote presentation: Autism Orientation Workshop for Faith Based Communities, presented by the Autism Society of Connecticut. First Church of Christ, Wethersfield. For more information contact the church at 860-529-1575 or e-mail GreaterBoston@joniandfriends.org.