April is Autism Awareness Month! - We start early!
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 announcements 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!
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AUTISM ANNOUNCEMENTS
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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.
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 www.haircutathome.com.
Research Study: Looking for parents of children under the age of 10 with a diagnosis of autism. Parents will be invited to share their perspective on the diagnostic process while having a child diaganosed with autism. This study is looking at the earliest signs of autism seen by parents in the hopes of allowing for earlier diagnosis and thus, earlier intervention opportunitites. Participation will involve a one hour interview and follow up questions, if necessary. Contact Rhiannon Ducey at 860-877-9716 or Rhiannon_e@hotmail.com or more information.
The Friendship Circle is an organization that serves the Jewish community in Fairfield County. Friendship Circle, through the ongoing commitment of teenage volunteers, extends a helping hand to children with special needs and their families, involvig them in a full range of social and Jewish experiences including weekly home visits. Contact Mrs. Malya Shmotkin at 203-329-0015 x 414 or www.FrienshipCT.com for more information.
The Autism Society of Connecticut is now accepting applications for the 2008 Mini-Grant Program. Providing direct financial assistance to families to purchase safety and security items. Information and applications available at www.asconn.org.
Child Care Available. Contact Jillian Turgeon at turgeonj@sacredheart.edu. Somers and Windsor areas. Weekends through May. Daily May through August. Student. contact for more information.
Social Skills Group Forming: At Creative Interventions, LLC, 11 Winter Village Road, Granby. Call Christine Levine at 860-413-9538. Seeking high-functioning children on the Autism Spectrum in the following age groups: 3-4; 5-6; 7-10: middle school and high school.
The Connecticut Tech Act Project in partnership with Southern CT State University's Center for Adaptive Technology has a new program: Computer Assistive Technology Loan Program. The goal of this program is to help CT School Systems have access to loans of laptop computers with adaptive software for students with disabilities. Loans can run as long as 6 weeks and can be used for evaluations; temporary replacement; trial software before purchase. For more information and specific software availability contact the CT Tech Act Program at 860-424-4881 or the Center for Adaptive Technology at 203-392-5799. CTtechact.com or cat.southernct.edu.
Research Study: Examining friendships for children with Asperger's Disorder. Recruiting children between the ages of 8-12 with a diagnosis of AS. The children will be asked to fill out a questionnaire to see how they view friendships. For more information go to www.geocities.com/angelayeung.
Research Study: Looking for families interested in helping researchers understand the genetic causes of ASD. Sponsored by the Simons Foundation, Yale Child Study Center is one of 11 clinical centers around the US recruiting families. Looking for families with one child aged 5 or older with ASD or suspected ASD; one or more children aged 4 or older without ASD and both biological parents must be willing to participate. Interviews, questionnaire and blood draws will be required. Contact Monika Lau, at 203-785-3488 or monika.lau@yale.edu for more information.
Speech and Language Consultants, LLC, Center for Communication, Behavior, Sensory Development, Literacy and Technology announces new programs in speech and language, social skills, summer camp. Go to www.speechandlanguageconsultants.org. Bridgeport and Norwalk locations.
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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: 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 www.asconn.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 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 Monday of the month: Friends of Autistic People. Presentations, informal conversation, refreshments. Christ Church Parish House, 250 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich. Contact Brita Daranyi at 203-661-8510 or bdiranyi@aol.com.
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 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. Plainfield Town Hall, 8 Community Ave., Plainfield. 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: 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.
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 arrangement 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 arrangement, 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.
Last Thursday of the month: Parent Support Group for parents of children with an ASD. Preston Library, Preston, CT. Call the library at 860-886-1010 for times and more information.
Last Thursday of the month: Puzzled Sibs - a support group for brothers and sisters of siblings with autism. Discuss feelings, know we are not alone and have a good time. Open to ages 6-13. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. South Windsor Community Center, 150 Nevers Road, South Windsor (across from South Windsor High School). Contact Melissa Dumont at 860-214-2903 or puzzled_sibs@cox.net.
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Mon. Mar. 24, 2008: CT Family Support Network - Northwest Parent Support Group presents Elizabeth C. Brown, Director of Government Relations, CT Commission on Children. Providing an updates on bills related to children with special health care needs, the role of the CT Commission on Children and her work. 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Waterbury WARC, 1929 East Main St., Waterbury. For more information contact Alice Buttwell at alicemmbb@aol.com or 860=350-6025.
Tues. Mar. 25, 2008: Autism Research at UCONN: Early Detection and Risk in Siblings. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., HARC, 900 Asylum Ave., Hartford. With Dr. Marianne Barton, Associate Clinical Professor, Psychology Department, UCONN. Sponsored by the Hartford Region of the Autism Society of Connecticut. Free. Child care available. Seating is limited, please contact Beth Katten at 860-236-8374 or bethkatten@yahoo.com.
Tues. Mar. 25, 2008: Controversies Around Antidepressent Use in Children and Adolescents. 5:00 p.m . - 8:00 p.m. Greenwich Hospital. With Dr. Andres Martin, director of the Children's Psychiatric Inpatient Services at Yale-New Haven Hospital. Starting with an overview of the debate about the black box warning on antidepressents, he will move on to an interactive discussion of how parents and families can constructively approach the safe and comprehensive treatment of their children when psychiatric medications are indicated. For more information contact Debbie Hilibrand, Chair, Executive Council, Yale Child Study Center at ticklesly@aol.com.
Tues. Mar. 25, 2008: FAVAN presents "The Spectrum Unplugged", a panel of young people who are first hand experts on ASD and related disorders. They will talk about their experiences and how ASD impacted their lives at home, school and in the community. 7:00 p.m. Farmington Community Center. For more information go to www.favan.org or call Lee McFadden at 860-589-0097.
Tues. Mar. 25, 2008: Connections Between Brothers and Sisters of Individuals with Disabilities: Strategies to Support Reslience. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Birch Grove Media Center, South Windsor. With Judy Itzkowitz, Educational Consultant. The nature of this important relationship between siblings when a brother or sister has a disability will be the focus of this interactive presentation. Siblings' common concerns, needs and experiences will be highlighted with an emphasis on the benefits and gifts that siblings report arising from this relationship. Strategies to facilitate and strengthen this relationship will be explored. Sponsored by the South Windsor SEPTA.
Wed. Mar. 26, 2008: Teaching Your Child Social Skills with Lynn Guilmette. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Coleytown Middle School Cafeteria, 255 North Ave., Westport. Sponsored by the Westport SEPTA. Ms. Guilmette is a Behavioral Educational Consultant specializing in the Autism Spectrum and has worked with children on the spectrum for over 25 years. She is Co-Director of Clinical Services for Behavioral Development and Educational Services in Norwalk. Her modifications and strategies are innovative and exciting and a must for anyone working with ASD children and teens. Free. For more information contact Janis Fox, Programming Chair at 203-222-8485 or e-mail info@westsportsepta.org.
Wed. Mar. 26, 2008: Superkids! Learn about the social skills programs and trainings available through Superkids. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., First Congregational Church of Derby, 137 Derby Ave., Derby. Sponsored by NorthStar. Contact Cathy Adamczyk at 860-869-6021 for more information and to register.
Thurs. Mar. 27, 2008: Person Centered Planning. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Waveny House, Waveny Park, New Canaan. Sponsored by SPED*NET New Canaan. Speakers are Linda Spenard, Vice Principal at Saxe Middle School and Kathleen Hoefer, reading teacher at Saxe. Person centered planning is a planning process that focuses on realizing the visions of individuals with disabilities and their families through collaborative partnerships among the individual, family members, friends, professionals and community members. There are many different ways to conduct person centered planning. These include MAPS, Circle of Friends and PATH. Please RSVP too Victoria Munoz at 203-972-1163. More information at www.spednet.org.
Thurs. Mar. 27, 2008: Thoughtful Response to Agitation, Escalation and Meltdowns in Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Greenwich Library Cole Auditorium, Greenwich, CT. With Rebecca Klaw, M.S., M.Ed. Since 1988 Ms. Klaw has worked as a consultant, trainer and advocate for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. This lecture describes a way of understanding individuals with ASDs and using that understanding to guide both proactive and if necessary, reactive responses to escalating agitation. Seating is limited. Please RSVP to 914-934-5138 or e-mail westchesterfairfield@autismspeaks.org.
Thurs. Mar. 27, 2008: New Parent Group! Sponsored by Pilot House, support group led by Laurel Carey, a developmental psychologist. Laurel teaches medical students and family practice residents with particular emphasis in the recognition and management of behavioral problems in children and adolescence. She has lead parent support groups for years. 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Fairfield Woods Middle School Cafeterial, Fairfield. Contact info@pilothouse.org or Doreen Caruso at 203-610-3877 for more information.
Thurs. Mar. 27, 2008: Promoting School Success in Spanish! Session I: Understanding Special Education. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Access Agency, 1315 Main St., Willimantic. Learn about referral to and eligibility for special education, understanding the IEP and PPT process, a parent's role in the process. Sponsored by DDS, the CT State Department of Education, the CT Parent Advocacy Center, SERC and the ARC of CT. Call 860-632-1485 x256 for registration information.
Sat. March 29, 2008: Parent University Graduate School of Parentology featuring Attorney General Richard Blumenthal. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Newtown Middle School, 11 Queen St., Newtown. Parent University provides a unique opportunity for parents, grandparents, guardians, teachers and other caregivers to spend an enjoyable and informative meeting becoming educated and empowered nurturers of children of all ages and stages of development. This informal workshop will provide helpful insight into the most pressing issues that affect child rearing in today's society. Current research indicates that parental involvement and developing close connections with our children are powerful protective factors when raising them in this world. Free. Child care. For more information www.newtownparentconnection.org.
Sun. March 30, 2008: Autism Awareness at the Sound Tigers! 4:00 p.m., Arena at Harbor Yard, Bridgeport. Join us for Autism Awareness as the Sound Tigers take on the Hartford Wolf Pack for an exciting ice hockey game. Download a ticket form from www.asconn.org or call the Sound Tigers at 203-334-4625 x316.
Mon. Mar. 31, 2008: Families as Partners Training - Understanding Special Education 101. Mar. 31, April 2, April 7, and April 9. 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. ARC Youth Division, 132 East Putnam Ave., Cos Cob. Sponsored by ARC and supported by A.J. Pappanikou Center for Developmental Disablities and SPED*NET New Canaan. Funded by the State of CT, Children's Trust Fund. This workshop will cater to birth to five families and the professionals that support them. Topics include family/school collaboration, understanding the changes in the reauthorized special education law, appropriate evaluations, providing special education and services across general education settings, curriculum modifications, effective advocacy, people first language, person-centered planning and how to write useful and legally correct IEP's. Free. CEU's available. Must attend all four sessions. Contact Luis Velazquez, Director of ARC Family Resources at velazquez@arcgreenwich.org or 203-629-1880 x 328.
Tues. April 1, 2008: Promoting School Success in Spanish! Session I: Understanding Special Education. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., New Britain Public Library Community Room, 20 High Street, New Britain. Learn about referral to and eligibility for special education, understanding the IEP and PPT process, a parent's role in the process. Sponsored by DDS, the CT State Department of Education, the CT Parent Advocacy Center, SERC and the ARC of CT. Call 860-632-1485 x256 for registration information.
Tues. April 1, 2008: Woodbury/Bethlehem SEPTA presents: Ruth Eren, Ed.D. and Barbara Cook, CCC, MS, SLP "Tips for Participating in Your Child's Planning and Placements Team (PPT) Meeting. 7:00 p.m., Nonnewaug High School Auditorium, 5 Minortown Rd, Woodbury. What is a PPT and what are some effective strategies and skills that can promote your participation? Q&A. For more information contact Diane Stockwell at 203-263-3335 or septa@ctreg14.org.
Wed. April 2, 2008: Autism Awareness at the Capitol. 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon, Room 310, State Capitol Building, Hartford. Parking available in the Legislative Office Building (LOB) parking garage. Join families, legislators and advocacy groups as we spread autism awareness to our legislators at the Capitol. Breakfast and press conference. Information on autism legislation. Call your legislator and tell them to meet you at this breakfast. Contact information available at www.asconn.org (go to "advocacy" page). We need to let our legislators know how many people are affected by ASD's and what our families need in the way of services and supports. For more information call 888-453-4975.
Wed. April 2, 2008: What to do when you disagree? 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Lawrence and Memorial Hospital, Montauk Ave, New London. Sponsored by the CT Family Support Network - Southeast. A presentation by the CT Parent Advocacy Center. Focus of the training is on positive communication and the contiuum of conflict resolution options. Participants will learn several strategies for promoting positive communication within a team and will identify ways to resolve special education disputes including mediation, due process and complaints. Free. For more information or to register contact April Dipollina at 860-444-6607 or dipollina@sbcglobal.net.
Thurs. April 3, 2008: Autism Orientation Workshop for Parents and Professionals. 7:00 p.m. CCMC Satellite Office, 310 Western Boulevard, Glastonbury, CT. Presented by ASCONN. Free, but seating is limited, please call 888-453-4975 or e-mail asconn@sbcglobal.net.
Thurs. April 3, 2008: Strategies for Parents of Children with ADD. Presented by Paula Levy, M.A. LMFT. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Learn strategies for helping your child with ADD. Discussion of practical and sensible ways to help your child better manage behavior and to strengthen self-esteem. Free. The Center for Change, LLC, 40 Cross Street, Suite 240, Norwalk. For more information contact Paula Levy at 203-761-9587.
Thurs. April 3, 2008: Silent Suffering: The Long Term Effects of Bullying on Children and Their Families. 7:00 p.m. Hosted by the Christian Heritage School, Trumbull. Presented by David Weitzman, M.Ed., LCSW. Free. Contact Total Learning and Therapy Center at 203-268-8852 to reserve your spot.
Thurs. April 3, 2008: Promoting School Success in Spanish! Session II: How to Include My Child with Special Needs in the Classroom and School. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Access Agency, 1315 Main Street, Willimantic, CT. Learn about: dealing with your fears as a parent; supplementary aides and services; settlement agreement: how special education law protects your family; strategies for effective communication; steps to take when you disagree. Sponsored by DDS, the CT State Department of Education, the CT Parent Advocacy Center, SERC and the ARC of CT. Call 860-632-1485 x256 for registration information.
Fri. April 4, 2008: It's So Much Work to be Your Friend: Helping the Child with Learning Disabilities Find Social Success. 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. With Rick Lavoie. Western CT State University, Westside Campus Center, Danbury. Sponsored by Education Connections. For more information and registration contact Education Connections at 860-567-0863.
Sat. April 5, 2008: Autism Awareness Day at the Trumbull Mall! Joins us from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. as we bring autism awareness to the Trumbull Mall. Information, face painting, discovery toys, special "Orientation for Peer Groups" presentation. Sponsored by ASCONN in cooperation with the Westfield Malls. Call 888-453-4975 0r e-mail asconn@sbcglobal.net for more information. www.asconn.org.
Sat. April 5, 2008: Autism Awareness Day at Barnes and Noble, Manchester. Story Hour starts at 10:30 a.m. We'll be reading children's books about autism. At 1:00 author, Susan Kelley Delaine, a CT native, will be available to sign her book, "Balancing the Bowl", a food allergy cookbook inspired by her son who has severe food allergies and autism. Information and neworking. Presented by ASCONN and B&N. Barnes & Noble at The Shoppes at Buckland Hills, 270 Buckland Hills Drive, Manchester. Call ASCONN at 888-453-4975 or B&N at 860-648-1008 with further questions.
Sun. April 6, 2008: Autism Awareness Day at Barnes and Noble, Stamford. Story hour at 1:30. We'll be reading children's books about autism. Special presentation of ASCONN's unique "Orientation for Peer Groups". Barnes and Noble, Stamford Town Center, Stamford.
Mon. April 7, Tues, April 8 and Wed. April 9, 2008. Kathie Snow is Coming to CT. Co-sponsored by STAR, Lighting the Way and SPED*NET New Canaan. Supported by the CT Down Sydrome Congress and New Canaan Public Schools. Mon. Apr 7. Evening at Saxe Middle School, 468 South St., New Canaan. $10. Disability is Natural and Other Revolutionary Common Sense. Kathie's "signature" presentation - new attitudes and perceptions, gifts and abilities. 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Tues. April 8 and Wed. April 9: full day at Chatham Manor, 493 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk. Choose one day only. 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Disability is Natural and Other Revolutionary Common Sense; Best Hopes, Worst Fears; This workshop is for general and special education teachers, administrators, therapists, related service providers, families and direct service providers that work with individuals with developmental disabilities. For more information and registration materials go to www.spednet.org/conferences.htm or www.disabilityisnatural.com.
Tues. April 8, 2008: Promoting School Success in Spanish! Session II: How to Include My Child with Special Needs in the Classroom and School. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., New Britain Public Library Community Room, 20 High Street, New Britain. Learn about: dealing with your fears as a parent; supplementary aides and services; settlement agreement: how special education law protects your family; strategies for effective communication; steps to take when you disagree. Sponsored by DDS, the CT State Department of Education, the CT Parent Advocacy Center, SERC and the ARC of CT. Call 860-632-1485 x256 for registration information.
Wed. April 9, 2008: Educational Options for Students with Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficits. 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. A conference for families, professionals and high school students with LD/ADD/ADHD. Keynote: Arlyn Roffman, PhD., Professor of Special Ed., Lesley Unversity. She is the founding director of the Threshold Program. Author of "Guiding Teens with Learning Disabilities: Navigating the Transition from High School to Adulthood and Meeting the Challenge of Learning Disabilities in Adulthood". Sponsored by CACLD. For more information go to www.CALCD.org.
Thurs. April 10, 2008: An evening with John Elder Robison. Author of "Look Me In the Eye: My Life with Asperger's Syndrome". 6:30 p.m. Moran Middle School, 141 Hope Hill Road, Wallingford, CT. Sponsored by High Roads Student Learning Center and ASCONN. Free, but seating is limited, please register by e-mail at crevill@highroadschool.com.
Sat. April 12, 2008: Autism Awareness Day at the Milford Mall! Joins us from 12:00 noon - 6:00 p.m. as we bring autism awareness to the Milford Mall. Information, face painting, discovery toys, special "Orientation for Peer Groups" presentation. Sponsored by ASCONN in cooperation with the Westfield Malls. Call 888-453-4975 0r e-mail asconn@sbcglobal.net for more information. www.asconn.org.
Sat. April 12, 2008: Medical Homes. Presented by Tesha Imperiati, CT Family Support Network and Christina Jackson and Diane Britz of Coordinating Council for Children in Crisis. 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Dixwell-Yale Community Learning Center, 101 Ashmun Street, New Haven. For more information, contact Tesha at teshaimp@comcast.net.
Fri. April 18, 2008: The Road to Secondary Education: What Parents Need to Know to Prepare Students with Asperger's Syndrome, Autism and Related Conditions. 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Harkness Auditorium, 300 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT. Sponsored by the Yale University School of Medicine and the Yale Child Study Center. Speakers include Ami Klin, PhD., Jane Thierfeld-Brown, PhD, Fred Volkmar, Ph.D., Lois Rosenwald of CT ASRC. Fee. For information and registration materials go to www.autism.fm or e-mail Tammy.Babitz@yale.edu.
Sat. April 19, 2008: Autism Awareness at Barnes & Noble, North Haven. 12:00 noon. Story Reading, information and networking. Barnes & Noble, Universal Drive, North Haven, CT
Sat. April 19, 2008: Innovative Strategies to Support Children and Teens with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Classroom. 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center, 101 North Plains Industrial Road, Wallingford. For School personnel and families. With Lynne Guilmette, M.Ed. CEU's available. Limited space available for more information contact CT-ASRC at 203-265-7717.
Sat. April 19, 2008: Autism Awareness Day at the Meriden Mall! Joins us from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. as we bring autism awareness to the Meriden Mall. Information, face painting, discovery toys, special "Orientation for Peer Groups" presentation. Sponsored by ASCONN in cooperation with the Westfield Malls. Call 888-453-4975 0r e-mail asconn@sbcglobal.net for more information. www.asconn.org.
Wed. April 23, 2008: Maverick Minds: A Cognitive Perspective on Understanding ADD/ADHD Kids. 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. The Ridgefield Community Center, Ridgefield. An education program from a cognitive perspective to understand children with ADD/ADHD, executive function and self-regulation. It takes knowledge of the process to obtain an appropriate educational/treatment program for ADD/ADHD kids. It will address educational/behavioral management strategies to improve academic/behavioral performance. Advanced registration is suggested. Contact RuthAnn Short, MSW, LCSW, Director of brainstorming, LLC., 383 Main St., Ridgefield. Telephone 203-431-3234.
Sat. April 26, 2008: 18th Annual Statewide Conference on Autism: Behavior Management from Toddler to Adulthood. 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Hartford Marriott Downtown, Hartford. Presented by the Autism Society of Connecticut. Speakers include: Dr. Jim Ball; Keri Dunn Buron, author of "The Incredible 5-Point Scale" and our "Speakers from the Spectrum" include Ruth Elaine Hane, B.S., ASA Board Member, Valerie Paradiz, PhD and her son, Elijah Wapner who you may have seen on MTV's 'True Life'. The focus of their panel presentation will be "The Dual Diagnosis: Autism and Adolescence". Full day conference, exhibitors, bookstore. CEU's available. Registration materials and more information available at www.asconn.org.
Sat. April 26 and Sat. May 10, 2008: Families as Partners Training - Understanding Special Education. 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. UCONN Stamford Campus, Washington Blvd and West Broad Street, Stamford. SPANISH and english. Child care available. Pre-registration required. CEU's available. For more information (english) contact Jeanne B. Peloso, SCOPES President at jbpeloso@optonline.net or Jaime Michaels at Jmichaels@ci.stamford.ct.us. For more information (spanish), contact Maria Engborg, Greenwich ARC at engborgm@optonline.net or Adriana Ospina at adrianaopsina@optonline.net.
Mon. April 28, 2008: PECS Basic Training 2-Day Workshop. 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. both days. This intense two day training is designed to teach participants to approriately implement the Picture Exchange Communication System. Register and more information at www.pecs.com.
Mon. April 28, 2008: Surviving Autism: Navigating the System. 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Greenwich Hospital. With Karen Bailey, MSW, clinical social worker at Yale Child Study Center and director of the Center's Social work program. She will discuss treatment and educational planning for young children with autism spectrum disorders. She will review and integrate diagnostic features, educational guidelines, special educational law and advocacy skills. For more information and to RSVP contact Debbie Hilibrand, Chair, Executive Council, Yale Child Study Center at ticklesly@aol.com.
Tues. April 29. 2008: FAVAN presents Kristen Powers on the sensory diet. Kristen will be speaking about what a sensory diet is and how it can be incorporated into a child's daytime routine. 7:00 p.m. Farmington Community Center. For more information, go to www.favan.org or call Lee McFadden at 860-589-0097.
Tues. April 29, 2008: "Embracing Autism: Sometimes it's easy. Sometime's it's not!".
7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Jewish Family Services, 333 Bloomfield Ave, West Hartford, CT. Authors and parents of children with autism, Kim Stagliano and Cammie McGovern will read from the book "Embracing Autism". Free, but seating is limited, contact Beth Katten at 860-236-8374 or bethkatten@yahoo.com.
Wed. April 30, 2008: The CT Association for Infant Mental Health Fifth Annual Meeting and Workshop: Taking Care of Children's Sensory Needs: The Role of Sensory Integration in Infant Mental Health. 8:15 a.m. - 12:00 noon, The Lyceum, 227 Lawrence Street, Hartford. Information and registration materials available at www.ct-aihm.org.
Thursday, May 1, 2008: 16th Annual Conference on Serving Youth and Adults with Learning Disabilities. Marriot Hotel, Farmington, CT. Hosted by CREC. This conference will bring together a wide representation of experts and professionals, along with family and friends of individuals with disabilities to discuss current strategies and knowledge on the broad spectrum of learning disabilities. CEU's available. Go to www.crec.org for more information.
Thurs. May 1, 2008: Strategies for Collaboration with your Child's Team. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. The Greens at Canondale, Wilton. With Eve Kessler, Esq. and Noreen O'Mahoney, CSW., SDA. Completing the journey through SPED*NET Wilton's Web Guide to Special Serivices, in a workshop environment, by sharing tips for parents that focus on getting started in the special education process, having your child evaluated, preparing for the PPT meeting, navigating the PPT meeting, following up and discussing strategies. Please RSVP to info@spednedwilton.org or 203-761-0680.
Thurs. May 15, 2008: Into the Light: Children with Disabilities and the Legal System. Presented by Nora J. Baladerian, PhD. 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Four Points by Sheraton, 275 Research Parkway, Meriden. Presented by the Governor's Task Force on Justice for Abused Children. Children with disabilities are particularly vulnerable to abuse. This seminar will increase understanding of children with developmental disabilities; heighten awareness of the vulnerability of the population; identify the specific needs of children with disabilities; help ensure equal access to investigative services; teach how to assist children with developmental disabilities and their caregivers through the legal system; examine how some behaviors on the part of children with disabilities may lead to their involvement with the juvenile justice system. For more information contact the Office of the Child Advocate at 860-566-2251.
posted by Autism Society of Connecticut at
11:53 AM
