New Listings for a New Year - 2008!

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@sbcglobal.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

Social Skills Scholarship Program. The Autism Society of Connecticut announces a new scholarship program for girls ages 10-18 to participate in social skills groups and programming. Girls must be between 10-18 years of age and have a diagnosis of Asperger's or High Functioning Autism/PDD. The program must take place in one of the shoreline towns. Funds are also available to support the creation of such programs. Contact ASCONN at 888-453-4975 or asconn@sbcglobal.net for information and application materials.

The CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center announces a VIP Respite Program for children with ASD ages 5-11. held at ASRC in Wallingford every other Saturday from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Take a break and leave your child in good hands. Space is limited, must be a member of ASRC to participate, fee. Contact Pat Coppola at 203-265-7717 or Jessie at jessica.bradshaw@yale.edu for information and registration.

Understanding Autism: A series of six workshops on Autism: A Way of Being. A collaborative effort of LEARN, Three Rivers Community College, CT Parent Advocacy Center, Norwich Public Schools, Norwich and New London School Readiness. Nov 13: "Exploring the Autism Spectrum: Strategies and Intevention"; Jan 8: Working with Young Children on the Spectrum in Inclusive Settings"; Feb. 12: "Parents as Parents: Home/School Connections"; Mar. 11: Quality Assessment to Determine Progress for Children with ASD: How to Capture and Communicate Growth and Barriers"; Apr. 8: "Impact on Autism Spectrum Disorder: Addressing the Social and Emotional Needs of Young Children". All programs are free. You do not need to attend all 6. To register visit http://www.learn.k12.ct.us/ or call LEARN at 860-434-4800. All programs are held from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Rose Senior Center in Norwich.

The Frankin Group, LLC, Jonathan Swift, PhD., announces the formation of social skills groups for students with Asperger's Syndrome in MIddle and High School. Goals: Learning basic social skills and improving self esteem. New Sessions starting soon in Madison at 75 Wall St., Madison. Contact Dr. Swift at 203-245-0638.

Behavior Strategies in the Home and Community. A two-part workshop designed to help families learn to find the causes of behavior, create structure, create flexible thinking, teach skills and manage stress and anxiety in children with ASD. Mon. Feb. 25 and Mon. March 3, 2008, 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at The Kennedy Center, 39 Lindemann Dr., Trumbull. Presented by The Autism Project at The Kennedy Center. The workshop will be presented by Stacy Hultgren and Nicole Rivera. No fee for parents/caregivers, $60 for professionals/school staff. Space is limited, registration is required. Contact The Autism Project at The Kennedy Center for registration and information at 203-332-4535 or http://www.thekennedycenterinc.org/.

For Psychologists and Social Workers: How to Work More Effecctively With Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorders. With James Loomis, PhD. A three-part series for community and school-based psychologists and social workers who want to expand their work with individuals with ASD. Commitment to all three sessions required. Session Dates: Sat. Jan, 26, 2008; Sat. Feb, 23, 2008 and Sat. April 5, 2008. Fee. For registration materials (space is limited), contact ASRC at 203-265-7717 or http://www.ct-asrc.org/. Sponsored by ASRC.

KidSteps announces its winter offering of parent/child workshops including Infant Massage; Baby Sign: Enhancing Communication for Infants, Toddlers and Pre-School Children; Drumming Dance and Movement; Social Skills Groups for children 6-8 years old and for children 9-11 years old; Group Guitar; Sibshops for siblings of differently abled children (ages 7-12); and a series of mother-daughter workshops on relationships, peer relations, sexuality, communication and decision making. Also workshops for parents/caregivers including sign language; Response to Intervention; Effective Parenting; Understanding ADHD. Ongoing programs includ a lunchtime series of lectures, a weekly parent chat, private parent coaching and a mom's night out. For information and registration contact Marian Roy, 203-318-3692 or mroy@sarah-inc.org. All programs held at the Family and Children's Center, 51 Boston Post Rd., Unit 9, Madison.

CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center announces its 2008 Advocacy Training Series for parents to help them learn and navigate the world of special education. 9 Sessions beginning Tues. Feb 12 from 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon at ASRC, 101 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford. For information, fees and registration contact Lois Rosenwald at 203-265-7717.

Adaptive Recreation: Westport Parks and Recreation announces Adaptive Recreation for Spring and Summer. Call 203-341-5090 or visit http://www.westportrecreation.com/ for more information.

Haircuts at Home! Geraldine McKeon provides Haircuts at Home for children with special needs. She will travel anywhere in Connecticut! Call 203-901-2216 or check her out at http://www.haircutathome.com/.

Sibling Support Groups: ASRC announces the formation of 2 social support groups for typically developing siblings of children and teens with ASD. The ages of the groups will be determined based on compatibility of the members and where interest is expressed. One for girls and one for boys. Held bi-weekly on Saturday mornings at ASRC in Wallingford. Please contact ASRC at 203-265-7717 or http://www.ct-asrc.org/.

The CT Council on Developmental Disabilities has announced their 2008 intiatives. Go to http://www.ctccd.org/ for more information.

Kellcom6 Consulting announces "HomeMakeover: Autism Edition" a support service designed to help families enhance their home environment through the use of audio-visual technology incluindg personzlied visual aides, audio, videography support, home environment consult. For information about the products and services offered, bundles and costs, please contact Dan Comeau at 860-208-8754 or kellcom6@aol.com.

Families Needed: Recruiting an adoptive family for an 11 year old boy diagnosed with autism. He is in need of a patient and loving family that is familiar with the diagnosis and willing to work with service providers. He is an energetic and caring boy who gets along well with his peers and loves to read. He thrives in a structured environment. Please contact Pam Williams, permanency social worker at Community Residences, Inc. at 860-621-7600 x237 or pwilliams@criinc.org if you can help or know of a family that might be willing.

Connecticut Foundation for Dental Outreach is proud to introduce the Connecticut Mission of Mercy (CTMOM) a large scale, multi-chair dental clinic that travels around the state annual to underserved areas. the concept is simple: create a multi-day dental clinic in a large facility and open the clinic door to the community. Dental services will be provided to annyone (children, adults and the elderly) who is without dental insurance and in a low income situation. This year, come on April 12, 2008 from 5:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Sunday April 13 from 5:00 a.m. - noon. at the former Tolland High School, 1 Eagle Hill Drive, Tolland. For more information to to www.csda.com/ctmom/ctmom1.html.

Research Project: Recruiting two more families to participate in a study at UCONN on the utilization of therapies by families of children with autism. The purpose of the study is to learn more about the factors that influence the use and non-use of therapeutic interventions for a child with autism. To be eligible, families must have a child between 3-18 who has received a diagnosis of classic autism and is currently utilizing special education resources in their local district. There will be an inperson interview lasting about 90 minutes at a time and place of convenience. Please contact Rebecca Stetz at UCONN at 908-675-0186 or 860-486-1995 or rebecca.stetz@huskymail.uconn.edu.

Research Project: Arts for Healing is currently accepting participants for a research study in conjunction with Mt. Sinai Medical School that includes children between the ages of 3 and 12 on the autism spectrum. The study involves 1/2 hour weekly therapy using the Integrated Music and Art Therapy (IMAT) model. Study participants receive a reduction in therapy fees for their participation. Located in New Canaan. For more information, contact Arts for Healing at 203-972-2982, http://www.artsforhealing.org/.

Research Project: Evaluting the possible effectiveness of a new vitamin/mineral supplement in reducing the symptoms of autism. A 12-week national study open to children and adults aged 3-60 with a certified diagnosis of ASD and no use of vitamin or mineral supplements in the last 2 months. For information and more details go to http://autism.asu.edu/. Researchers: James Adams, PhD, Professor of School of Materials at ASU and Sharon McDonough-Means, M.D., Developmental Pediatrician.

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.

While every attempt is made to keep the list up to date, group meeting dates and times may vary. Please call ahead of time to check.

Inquiries:

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.

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.

First Thursday of the month: Families United for Children's Mental Health. Support rup, share support, education, advocacy and refresments. Faith Christian Assembly, 46 Grandview Dr. Middletown. A monthly support group for families of children with emotional, behavioral or mental health needs and challenges. Sponsored by Families United, a statewide support, education and advocacy group, run by and for families of children and youth with emotional, behavioral or mental health challenges. For more information contact Lorna at Families United at 860-537-6125 x101 or lgrivois@familiesunited.org.

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 Tuesday of the month: Helping Hands Support Group for Parents of Children with Mental Health Needs. Offering education, coping strategies, networking, support and resources. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. South United Methodist Church (Education Wing), 1226 Main St (corner Main and Hartford), Manchester. Affiliated with NAMI-CT, East of the River Community Collaborative and Route 2 Community Collaborative. Contact Karen at 860-882-7354 or Cheryl at 860-882-7353 for more information. Childcare available with prior registration.

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 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 Suzanne 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: Building 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 Monday of the month: Parent Support Group - Bloomfield. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at 1st Congregational Church, Bloomfield. Contact Sheila Harris at 860-297-4358. Sponsored by AFCAMP (African American Caribbean American Parents) and PEETA (Parent Empowerment Through Education Training and Advocacy).

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: 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 Tuesday of the month: NOTE THE NEW DATE: 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.

Third Wednesday of the month: Pizza Moms, Greenwich! Held at Bella Nonna's in Cos Cob, 371 East Putnam Ave. www.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 Faherty at mailto:KFaherty@enfield.org for more information. Contact Kate for information and location changes!

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.

Third Friday of the month: Parent Support Group - Hartford. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. HARC, 900 Asylum Ave., Hartford. Contact Sheila Harris at 860-297-4358. Sponsored by AFCAMP (African American Caribbean American Parents) and PEETA (Parent Empowerment Through Education Training and Advocacy).

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.

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.

Last Thursday of the month: Kinship Coffee Chats. 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Guilford Youth and Family Services, Guilford, CT. Are you a grandparent or other relative caregiver caring for kin children? Program open to all towns. Kinship care refers to temporary or permanent arragement in which a relative (such as a grandparent, aunt or uncle) or any non-relative adult who has a relationship or bond with a child is caring for that child in place of its parents. Kinship care includes relationships established through an informal arragement, legal custody or guardianship o rder, foster care placement or kinship adoption. Call Guilford Youth and Family Services for more information at 203-453-8047.

Additional groups in Danbury, Glastonbury, Southbury/Middlebury, Watertown, Cheshire and Wallingford. Sponsored by CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center. Contact Lois Rosenwald at 203-265-7717 for information, membership requirements, dates and times of meetings.

AUTISM IN CONNECTICUT COMMUNITY CALENDAR
New Entries in Green
E-mail to autismblogger@sbcglobal.net
include contact information

Tues. Jan. 15, 2008: Parent Resource Support Group for Parents Raising Children from birth to beyond with developmental delays and special health care needs. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Central Park Indoor Play Place, 74 Central Ave (side entrance), Waterbury. Topic: Learn about Title 5 and Title 19 Health Care Coverage with Joy Liebekind, Family to Family Health Information Network Supervisor will talk about what you need to know and how it can help. Sponsored by the CT Family Support Network North West Region and the CT Lifespan Respite Coalition. For more information or to register, contact Alice Buttwell at 860-350-6025, alicemmbb@aol.com or Joy Liiebeskind 203-272-9058, SJSJL@cox.net.

Wed. Jan. 16, 2008: Is your child making the transition from Birth to 3 to preschool? Parents, please join us for an informal conversation with providers, school personnel and parents who have been through the process. 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Danbury Children First Office, 83 West St., Danbury. Presented by the Greater Danbury Child and Family Network. Please call Caroline LaFluer at 203-797-8088 to register and for more information.

Thurs. Jan 17, 2008: Smart Kids with LD presents: "LD 101" with Julie McCombes-Tolis, PhD., Associate Professor of Special Education and Reading, SCSU. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Darien Community Association (also known as Meadowlands), 274 Middlesex Rd., Darien. Is your child struggling in school? Discuss the school problems caused by learning disabilities, including difficulty sounding out words and remembering the order of the days of the week, or letter of the alphabet; spelling, memorization or writing. Middle-school kids may have trouble completing assignments, paying attention or organizing and managing time. Or perhaps your child is clueless about making friends or adapting to change. Dr. McCombes-Tolis will discuss the fundamentals of reading, writing and nonverbal learning disabilities and what parents need to know in identifying and addressing these issues in school.

Thurs. Jan. 17, 2008: "Building a Better Understanding of Sensory Integration Dysfunction" by the Talcott Centers. 6:30 p.m., Italian-American Club, 40 Hamre Lane, Branford. Sponsored by the CT Family Support Network - South Central Region. Contact Tesha Imperati for information and registration at 203-234-3983 or teshaimp@comcast.net.

Sat. Jan. 19, 2008: Hartford Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut Post-Holiday Dinner Party (rescheduled from December). 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Dakota's Restaurant, Rte 44, Avon, CT. Please RSVP to Beth Katten at 860-236-8374 or bethkatten@yahoo.com. Space is limited, please call to regsiter and to inquire about childcare.

Tues. Jan 22, 2008: RDI and Family Life. With Laura DeAngelo, RDI Consultant-in-Training and parent of a child with ASD. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. HARC, 900 Asylum Ave., Hartford. Laura will be talking about how RDI teaches parents to work with their child at home, in their everyday life and to remediate the core deficits of autism. Sponsored by the Hartford Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Childcare provided at a nominal fee. Contact Beth Katten at 860-236-8374 or bethkatten@yahoo.com for more information and to register.

Wed. Jan. 23, 2008: January meeting of NorthStar Parent Support Group. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., First Congregational Church, 137 Derby Ave., Derby. Contact Cathy Adamczyk for more information at 860-869-6021 or cathya@netplx.net.

Thurs. Jan. 24, 2008: Developing the Individualized Education Program. A workshop presented by CPAC. 7:00 p.m.- 8:30 p.m., St Vincent's Special Needs Services, Trumbull. Sponsored by St. Vincent's Special Needs Services and the CT Family Support Network. Registration requested. Contact Donna Kennedy at dkennedy@stvincents.org or Lisa Sheppard at 203-556-7317, lnshep@aol.com.

Sat. Jan. 26, 2008: Greewich ARC and Boys and Girls Clubs of Stamford present a SIBSHOP for children ages 6-12 years. 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club, 347 Stillwater Ave., Stamford. SIBSHOPS is a time to celebrate siblings who have a brother or sister with special needs. Come for a fun afternoon of games, cooking and crafts. Fee. Registration required, contact Monica at 203-629-1880 x336 or e-mail smyth@archgreenwich.org.

Sun. Jan. 27, 2008: Stamford JCC and Greenwich ARC present a TEEN SIBSHOP. 2:00 p.m. 4:00 p.m., JCC Stamford, 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford. Teen sibshops are an opportunity to network with other teens who share your life's challenges and joy. Wear your sneakers! Fee. Register and more information by calling Monica at 203-629-1880 x 336 or e-mail smyth@archgreenwich.org.

Mon. Jan. 28, 2008: CT Family Support Network - Northwest, presents a workshop on No Child Left Behind, "Schools & Families: Better Together" with Jennifer Carroll, CT Family Support Network Statewide Coordinator. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Waterbury WARC, 1029 East Main St., Waterbury. This 2-hour workshop is designed to provide family members with the information they need about the school system and the significant components of NCLB. Participants will focus on four aspects of NCLB - Parent Involvement, School Choice, Supplemental Educational Services and School/District Report Cards. Part of the monthly meeting of the CTFSN-NW. For information and registration, contact Alice Buttwell at 860-350-6025 or alicemmbb@aol.com.

Mon. Jan. 28, 2008: Informational Meeting on the FAP Farm Project. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Christ Church Parish House (upstairs), 248 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich. Sponsored by Friends of Autistic People, contact Brita Daranyi at 203-661-8510 or bridaranyi@aol.com.

Tues. Jan. 29, 2008: "Autism Spectrum Disorders: Diagnosis vs. Child", with Andrew Vogl and Marisa Valdiserra from The Vogl Center. 7:30 p.m., IDEA Training Center, 20 Washington Ave., North Haven. Presented by the South Central Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Sometimes the child becomes lost within the diagnostic label. Parents and school staff want methods of teaching and reaching the individual on the spectrum that facilitate the development of the whole person, cognitively and socially. There is increasing interest in programs that reach beyond academics to establish a relationship and connection with the child so that he will have the desire to accept new ideas and expand his world. For more information and registration contact Sally Brockett at 203-234-7401.

Tues. Jan. 29, 2008: A Plan of Action to Accomplish Your Child's Goals, Part I. Eve Kessler, Esq and Noree O-Mahoney, CSW, SDA will continue the journey through SPED*NET Wilton's Web Guide to Special Services. Walking you through the PPT meeting, evaluations, eligibility, development of the IEP, writing goals and objectives, placement, related services and more. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. The Greens at Canondale, Wilton. Please RSVP to info@specialedwilton.org or 203-761-0680.

Wed. Jan. 30, 2008: Maverick Minds: A Cognitive Perspective on Understanding ADD/ADHD with Ruthann Short. Sponsored by the Westport SETPTA. Coleytown Middle School Cafeteria, 225 North Ave., Westport. 7:00 pm. - 9:00 p.m. For more information contact Janis Fox, Programming Chair at 203-222-8245 or info@westportsepta.org.

Wed. Jan. 30, 2008: Non-Verbal Learning Disabilities. Presented by Scott Bezsylko, Executive Director, Winston Preparatory School, Norwalk. Scott currently is Executive Director of Winston Prep's NYC and Norwalk campuses while overseeing each program's leadership and staff and ensuring it delivery of "education for the individual" - a model for socially and emotioanllay informed middle and high school learning disabled students. He is also co-director of the Nonverbal/Social and Emotional Disorders Case Study Project and Center for Social Emotional Education Summer Insitute Faculty Member. At Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Ave. Norwalk. Co-Sponsored by Norwalk SEEKS.org and CACLD. For more information and to RSVP, contact info@norwalkseeks.org or 203-846-2501.

Thurs. Jan. 31, 2008: The 10 Essential Things That Every Parent Should Know About Effective Advocacy. With Julie Swanson, Educational Advocate. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Waveny House, Waveny Park, New Canaan. Sponsored by SPED*NET New Canaan. RSVP to Denise Buckenheimer at 203-972-5871.

Thurs. Jan. 31, 2008: Surviving Autism. With Fred Volkmar, M.D., Director, Yale Child Study Center. 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Greenwich Hospital, Greenwich. Sponsored by Yale Child Study Center and Greenwich Hospital. Free. For more information and registration call 203-863-3627, 888-357-2409 or www.greenhosp.org/news_specialevents_0108_autismdiagnosis.asp.

Mon. Feb. 4, 2008: The CT Family Support Network - Northwest Region presents Nancy Dyer, Education Liaison, Department of Disability Services-West Region speaking on IEP Forms - a page by page review and assistance. (Please bring a copy of your child's current IEP to follow along). Part of the CTFSN-NW Parent Resource/Support Group Meeting. 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. The United Methodist Church, 68 Danbury Road, New Milford. For information, please contact Alice Buttwell at 860-350-6025, alicemmbb@aol.com or Monika Nugent at 860-355-1179, monika.n@sbcglobal.net.

Wed. Feb. 6, 2008: Autism: Current State of the Art. A free community lecture by Dr. Margaret Bauman, Chief Medical Officer of the Autism Treatment Network, Director, LADDERS Program and Associates Professor of Neurology, Harvard University Medical School. 6:30 p.m., Westport Women's Club, 44 Imperial Ave., Westport. Sponsored by Hall-Brooke Behavioral Health Services, The Friends of HallBrooke and Giant Steps School., Inc. To register or for more information call 203-221-8885 or visit http://www.hallbrooke.org/.

Thurs. Feb. 7, 2008: "The Ten Essentials of Balance and Harmony . . . for parents of children with special needs" with Joan Celbri, Ed.M., CLC, special needs life coach. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., John Dempsey Center, 376 Pomfret St., Putnam. Sponsored by the CT Family Support Network-Northeast. This workshop centers around the question: How do you create balance and harmony in your life, while trying to meet all the demands of parenting a child with special needs? In the Ten Essentials Workshop, Joan shares a life coach's approach to living a managable, balanced life as a parent of a child with special needs. Joan's step by step strategies will help you simplify your life and create room for what matters most. We'll talk about how to keep sight of ourseves, even amidst all we do. For information and registration contact Mona Tremblay at 860-928-6514 or monatremblay@sbcglobal.net or Ann Treteault at 860-630-4033 or ann.tetreault@ct.gov. For more information on Joan Celebri go to http://www.specialneedsparentcoach.com/.

Fri. Feb 8, 2008: "How to Stay Safe" for Young and Older adults with ASD. Presented by Dennis Debbault. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., ASRC, 101 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford. Sponsored by ASRC and the DDS, Division of Autism Spectrum Services. Fee. For more information and registration, please contact ASRC at 203-265-7717 or http://www.ct-asrc.org/.

Sat. Feb. 9, 2008: Autism and Safety Issues - What Parents, Caregivers, Community Providers and School Personnel Need to Know. With Dennis Debbault. 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Central CT State University Campus, New Britain, CT. Snow Date: Sat. May 17. Fee. For registration materials (deadline Jan. 21, 2008, contact ASRC at 203-265-7717 or http://www.ct-asrc.org/. Sponsored by ASRC, the CT ASD Pilot Program and Central CT State University.

Thurs. Feb. 14, 2008: Marriage with Children with Special Needs - Keeping Connected as a Couple. Presented by LMFT Paula Levy, MA. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. The Center for Change, LLC, 40 Cross Street, Suite 240, Norwalk. Learn how to balance your children's needs with your needs as a couple. Discussion of chidlren and the way they alter the structure of a marriage. Tips on how to strengthen relationship, avoid problems and move past difficulties. For more information, contact Paula Levy at 203-761-9587.

Thurs. Feb. 14, 2008: A Plan of Action to Accomplish Your Child's Goals, Part II. With Eve Kessler, Esq. and Noreen O'Mahoney. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon, The Greens at Canondale, Wilton. RSVP to info@spednedwilton.org or 203-761-0680.

Tues. Feb. 26, 2008: Surviving Autism: Predictors of Outcomes. With Ami Klin, PhD, Director, Autism Program, Yale Child Study Center. 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Greenwich Library. Registration required, space is limited. Contact http://www.greenhosp.org/.

Wed. Feb. 27, 2008: Dr. Cornelia Gallo will speak about medical approaches to help children with ADD/ADHD, Autism and other conditions that may impact on a child's ability to learn. Sponsored by Westport SETPA. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Coleytown Middle School Cafeterial, 225 North Ave., Westport. For more information contact Janis Fox, Programming Chair at 203-222-8485 or e-mail info@westportsepta.org.

Fri. Feb., 29, 2008: "IEP Goals 101: A Guide for Monitoring Student Learning". A workshop by the CT Parent Advocacy Center. 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Guilford Community Center, 32 Church St., Guilford. Sponsored by the Guilford PTA - Special Education Committee. This training will teach participants how to identify and use key information to incorporate into the present levels of academic and functional performance. Participants will also learn how to create measurable goals and objectives. For information or to register, contact Jennifer Ryan at 203-988-5496 or jpryan33@comcast.net. Workshop is open to the public.

Sat. Mar. 1, 2008: Guidebook for Life: Living and Growing with a Child Diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome, PDD-NOS, NLD or High Functioning Autism. 8:30 a..m. - 4:00 p.m., The Crystal Room, St Joseph College, 1678 Asylum Ave., West Hartford. Seminar presented by Daniel Weiner, M.A., LPC and Jackie Alexaner, M.A., LPC, NCC. Learning that your child has been diagnosed with an ASD is an overwhelming reality to face. However, knowing what to do once you've received that diagnosis poses a whole other set of unknown challenges. Presenting clinical insights, share step by step strategiiges and answer questions regarding your child. For information, registration and fees, contact Daniel Weiner at 860-677-0028, dan-weiner@sbcglobal.net or Jackie Alexander at 860-408-1595, mjalex1@cox.net.

Wed. Mar. 5, 2008: "Environmental Toxins: They're Everywhere - What's a Mother to Do?" with Lynn Williamson, R.N. 7:30 p.m., IDEA Training Center, 20 Washington Ave., North Haven. Sponsored by the South Central Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Genetics load the gun, but environmental toxins pull the trigger. This seminar is designed to teach parents and practitioners about toxins in our Air, Water, Soil, Food, Home and Cleaning and Personal Care products and what we can do to minimize their impact on the gentically vulnerable. Free, but registration is required, contact Sally Brockett at 203-234-7401.

Thurs. Mar. 6, 2008: How Do I Know if My Child is Making Progress? A workshop presented by the CT Parent Advocacy Center. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., John Dempsey Center, 376 Pomfret St., Putnam. Sponsored by the CT Family Support Network - Northeast. This workshop will introduce participants to the importance of reviewing data provided by the school to determine whether or not a child is making progress. Participants will learn how to use the IEP and other tools to determine what data should be collected and how to utilize it to ensure that a child is making continual progress. Registration required. For information and to register, contact Mona Tremblay at 860-928-6514, monatremblay@sbcglobal.net or Ann Tetreault at 860-630-4033 or ann.treault@ct.gov.

Thurs. Mar. 6, 2008: Following Through to Ensure Implementation. Eve Kessler, Esq. and Noreen O'Mahoney, CSW, SDA. continue their presentation of information from SPED*NET Wilton's Web Guide to Special Services. Will discuss reviewing and revising the IEP, procedural safeguards and the complaint process. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. The Greens at Canondale, Wilton. Please RSVP to info@spednetwilton.org or call 203-761-0680.

Sat. Mar. 8, 2008: 2nd Annual "Childhood Conversations: Are you on the right track?" a daylong series of workshops for parents and caregivers. 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Crowne Plaza - Downtown Hartford, Hartford, CT. Workhops, vendors and exhibitors. Sponsored by Windsor Early Childhood Council, Windsor Family Resource Centers, Windor Social Services/Street Smart, The Alliance for Bloomfield's Children, CT Parent Information and Resource Center and CT Parents as Teachers. Information and Registration contact kanthony@windsorct.org or 860-687-2000X284.

Sat. Mar. 8, 2008: Self Advocacy Training for Young and Older Adults on the Spectrum. Part Two of Two. With Zosia Zaks, author "Life and Love". 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m ., ASRC, 101 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford. Sponsored by ASRC and the DDS - Division of Autism Spectrum Services. Fee. For more information and registration call ASRC at 203-265-7717 or http://www.asrc-ct.org/.

Sat. Mar. 22, 2008: Sexuality Training for Young and Older Adults on the Spectrum. With Lisa Mitchell of the Cody Center, NY. 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon, at ASRC, 101 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford. Sponsored by ASRC and the DDS- Division of Autism Spectrum Services. Fee. For more information and registration call ASRC at 203-265-7717 or http://www.ct-asrc.org/.