It's Autumn in Connecticut
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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Your Voice Matters. This is your chance to have input on what types of training teachers and districts needs in order to better serve our kids. Under Special Act 08-5 passed last year, a study group has been convened to solicit information and make a proposal to the legislature about teacher training around autism spectrum disorders. As part of the effort, there will be a series of "facilitated discussions" held around the state where parents, teachers, administrators, persons on the spectrum and other interested parties can make their voices heard and express their opinions. Can't get to one of these sessions? There will also be an on-line survey during the month of October. So, come on out to a meeting, ask your child's teachers to come too. For more information contact Jacqueline Kelleher at CSDE 860-713-6918, jacqueline.kelleher@ct.gov or Karyn Champion at SERC 860-63-1485 x225, champion@ctserc.org. Dates and locations:
EASTCONN, 376 Hartford Turnpike (Rte 6), Hampton, CT
October 9, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
CREC, 111 Charter Oak Ave, Hartford (concurrent session in Spanish)
October 16, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
CES, 25 Oakview Drive, Trumbull
October 23, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Educational Connections, 355 Goshen Rd, Litchfield
October 29, 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Rensselaer at Hartford, 275 Windsor St, Hartford
Sibling Support Group for Girls: CT-ASRC is starting a sibling support group for girls who have a brother or sister on the spectrum. Faciliated by Julie Wolf, PhD, the age range of the group will be determined by expression of interest. To be held bi-weekly on Saturday mornings from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at ASRC in Wallingford. Contact ASRC for information at 203-265-7717 or www.ct-asrc.org.
Needs Assessment Survey: Creative Living Community of CT (CLCC) is gathering information on the housing needs for adults with ASD in CT. The project will quantify the numbers of adults with ASD in CT, describe their current living situtations, determine the numbers at risk for homelessness or indigency, identify the major factors preventing adults with ASD from finding and getting affordable and adequate housing. To participate in this survey go to www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=N2RhW_2fHKay6vwIK8Qaw9gg_3d_3d. For more information as well as surveys in spanish contact Maryanna Cevan, Project Coordinator at 860-521-6221 or mkc2618@yahoo.com.
Groton Parks and Recreation offers adaptive programs including sign language, cooking for fun, public transit 101, yoga, social groups, theatre and much more. Contact Eileen Cicchese, CTRS, Groton Parks and Recreation, at 860-536-5691.
Having trouble paying your fuel bills? Check to see if you qualify for fuel aid here. If you have a family member with a disability you may qualify for "non shut off" meaning that the utility cannot shut off your power or gas during the winter season. Check with your local utility about flagging your account for non shut off and what is required to obtain this status.
New social skills program in South Windsor. Run by Jamie Kleinman, PhD, the group is for children diagnosed with an ASD, between the ages of 8-18 who can function independently in a small group setting. Contact Dr. Kleinman at 860-288-4317, e-mail info@jamiekleinman.com or www.jamiekleinman.com.
Parenting Workshops in Killingly: Hosted by Killingly Family Resources: include "Happy Bedtimes for Health Kids" Oct 8; "Healthy Young Children: Nutrition and Fitness" Oct 15, all at 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Goodyear Early Childhood Center, 22 Williamsville Road, Rogers, CT. Contact Cara Blackington at 860-779-6772 or e-mail cblackington@killinglyschools.org.
New Resource for After School Programs: The Connecticut After School Network offers training and professional development for school staff and program directors in working with students with disabilities in after school settings. Go to www.ctafterschoolnetwork.org or call 203-483-9757 for more information.
Elementary Social Activity Group for students aged 10-12 whose social, communication and behavioral skills require direction and support, but not intensive behavior intervention. The group provides opportunities to lean social skills through age appropriate activities facilitated by staff and volunteers. In-house and community settings. Provided by The Kennedy Center Autism Project. First and Third Thursdays beginning Oct. 2 through Dec. 18. 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Project Triumph, 30 Lindemann Dr., Trumbull. Fee. To register and for more information contact Emma Genster at 203-332-4535 x 223 or egenster@kennedyctr.org.
PreSchool Pals for preschool children with and without autism. Children will learn social skills through play and have opportunities to develop relationships with typical peers. Parents are welcome to stay and also network, but are not required to! Provided by The Kennedy Center Autism Project. Every Friday, starting Oct. 3 through Oct. 31. 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., The Kennedy Center Play Room, 2440 Reservoir Ave, Trumbull. Fee. Contact Emma Genster at 203-332-4535 x223 for more information and to register.
Southern CT Storm Special Hockey. Giving children aged 5 and up with disabilities who are physically able a chance to play ice hockey. Practices and games managed by experienced adult volunteer coaches and local youth hockey players as assistants. Season runs from Sept through March each Sunday at Wonderland Ice Rink, Bridgeport. For more information contact them at 203-966-9851 or dmcquilkin@specialhockey.org or www.ctstormhockey.org.
KIDSTEPS Family and Children's Center has new programs for the fall and winter, including Girls Night Out/A Circle of Friends. Located at KidSteps Family and Children's Center, 51 Boston Post Road, Madison. Contact Marion Roy at 203-318-3682, e-mail mroy@sarah-inc.org. or www.sarah-inc.org.
ASRC Advocacy Training Series: Starts Feb.4 and runs through April 15. Will be held at ASRC in Wallingford on Wednesday mornings from 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Fee. Register by Jan. 12. Contact ASRC at 203-265-7717 or www.ct-asrc.org.
What You Need to Know About Special Education: seminars provided by the Learning Disabilities Association designed to help you learn what you need to know in order to better advocate for your child. Classes held in Hartford. 12 Friday sessions from 9:30 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Call 860-560-1711.
Becoming an Effective Advocate. A series of workshops for parents and community based agency professionals seeking to develop or improve their advocacy skills. Presented by CACLD, CT Association for Children and Adults with LD. At CACLD, Conference Room 8C, First Floor, 25 Van Zant St., Norwakl. Registration and more information at 203-838-5010 e-mail CACLD@optonline.net.
New groups at Therapy Works in Old Lyme including "mommy and me", "terrific toddlers sensory motor group" and a parent/family stress group. Contact Shelley at 860-434-5524. All classes held at TherapyWorks, 19 Halls Rd., Suite 204, Old Lyme.
Social Skills Groups in Waterford. Run by Jonathan Dean, LMFT, Connections Counseling and Wellness Center, 163 Boston Post Road, Waterford. Contact Jonathan at 860-444-8774 x 107 or jondean13@yahoo.com.
Martial Arts. Master Alain German runs a Martial Arts School in Montville with programs for children on the spectrum. Contact him at 860-848-7827 or germankarate@att.net.
New resource for off-site and clinic based occupational, speech and language therapy services. Advanced Therapy Solutions, 465 Silas Deane Highway, Wethersfield. Insurance Accepted. Call 860-7221-9903 or advancetherapysol@att.net, www.advancetherapysolutionsct.com.
Yale Child Study Center announces the opening of the Yale Academic Skills Clinic to work with children from pre-k through college age who are experiencing or are at risk for academic difficulties. Including children with learning disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, speech and language difficulties. Evaluation and psychoeducational reporting. Contact Cheri Stahl, clinical coordinator at 203-785-4239 to find out more about the program including the cost and fees.
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.
Bilingual Autism Resource Guide now available! Directory of the best web resource available in Spanish with site descriptions in both English and Spanish. www.asdatoz.com.
GRASP en Espanol! The majority of the GRASP (Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership) is now available in Spanish! www.grasp.org/spanish.
Research Projects:
Dr. Deborah Fein at UCONN is conducting the first NIH-funded study to document recovery from autism. The study is looking for children who have lost their diagnosis of an ASD (or who may lose it in the future). Also looking for children who currently have an ASD diganosis between the ages of 8-17 who are able to read at a third grade level. Looking to learn more about factors that may predict outcomes in order to better inform treatment possibilities. Study involves two home visits (or at the lab in Storrs), where the child is given a battery of tests on language, memory, executive functioning, reasoning, etc. $100 stipend for your participation and receipt of a neuropsychological report on the test findings. Parent interviews also required. Additional MRI study also involved for additional stipend if you are interested. Contact Molly Helt at mollyhelt@aol.com or 860-456-2077.
Yale Child Study Center: Study of Speech Treatment for Preschool Children with ASD Who Do Not Talk Yet. Purpose is to contrast two different treatment programs, one that uses very structured discrete trial methods and one that is more naturalistic to find the characteristics of individual chilren that show us which program will work better for each. Random assignment to the program. 12 week program, plus parent training. Child must have an ASD diagnosis, be between 2-6 years of age, using fewer than 10 spontaneous words and be able to come to Yale 3 times a week for 12 weeks. For more information and to sign up contact Elizabeth Schoen, M.S. CCC-SLP at 203-737-1267 or elizabeth.schoen@yale.edu or Moira Lewis, M.S., CCC-SLP, 203-764-7490 or moira.lewis@yale.edu.
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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:
Support group forming for wives of husbands with Asperger's Syndrome. Contact Lois Rosenwald at ASRC at 203-265-7717 or lois.asrc@sbcglobl.net
New group forming for teen aged girls and adult women on the autism spectrum. Contact nzlj@juno.com for more information.
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 Wednesday of the month: Parent Support Group. 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Fairfield Woods Middle School, Fairfield, Sponsored by The Pilot House and facilitated by Laurel Carey, Psychologist. Call The Pilot House at 203-610-3877 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. The Community Health Center's Family Wellness Center, 635 Main St., Middletown. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. 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. Contact Chris at Families United at 860-537-6125.
First Thursday of the month: CT Family Support Network, Northeast Parent's Group. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., John Dempsey Regional Center, 376 Pomfret St, Putnam. Light refreshments, no childcare. Meetings include family support, resource materials and handouts, trainings to assist families, and our target audience is all families with children having any disability; birth through the lifespan. New families always welcome. Contact Mona Tremblay at 860-928-6514 or advocatefor2@yahoo.com or Ann Tetreault at 860-630-4033 or Ann.Tetreault@ct.gov.
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. Contact Jean Bajorek at 860-645-1940 or Bajorek2@cox.net 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 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.
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 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. - 7:30 p.m. Alcorn Family Resource Center Annex, 110 High Street, Enfield. Contact Kate Faherty at KFaherty@enfield.org or 860-253-5144 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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Thurs. Oct. 2, 2008: Health Financing Resources for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs. A one day training workshop. 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., presented by the CT Family to Family Health Information Network. Topics include: Medicaid, waivers, Title V, Social Security and Rehab Services, insurance. Meriden Comfort Inn & Suites., 900 East Main St., Meriden. For registration and more information contact Joy Liebeskind, Project Coordinator, FAVOR, at 860-563-2323.
Thurs. Oct. 2, 2008: Strategies and Accomodations for Learning and/or Attention Difficulties. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Workshop presented by the CT Parent Advocacy Center at the John Dempsey Center, 376 Pomfret St., Putnam. Participants will become familiar with strategies, ideas and tools that can help children with learning disabilities or attention disorders succeed at home and in the regular education classroom. Learn how to contribute to the development of the IEP and how modifications and accomodations can support a childn in the general education curriculum. Sponsored by the CT Family Support Network - Northeast. For information and RSVP, contact Mona Tremblay, Regional Coordinator, CT Family Support Network - Northeast at 860-928-6514 or monatremblay@sbcglobal.net or Ann Tetreault, Educational Liaison, Department of Developmental Services at 860-630-4033 or ann.tetreault@ct.gov.
Fri. Oct. 3, 2008: Practical Strategies for Supporting People with Labels of Autism in Inclusive Schcools and Communities. Part One (Part Two to be held on Fri. Oct 10). 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 555 Corporate Drive, Windsor. Presented by Autism Spectrum Differences Institute of New England, Inc. Learn about best practices across a variety of dimensions including movement, anxiety, communication and sensory suports and accomodations. For more information and registration materials, contact ASDI at 860-257-9911 or asdi-ne@comcast.net and www.autismdifferences.org.
Mon. Oct. 6, 2008: Parent to Parent Luncheon. 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Players Club, Newfield Ave, Stamford. Sponsored by SCOPES (Stamford Coalition of Parents of Exceptional Children). More information and RSVP, email Ida Lupinacci at iml3@sbcglobal.net or Jeanne Peloso at jbpeloso@optonline.net.
Wed. Oct. 8, 2008: "Empowering Parents for the Road Ahead". 10:00 a.m. - 12:oo p.m., what parents should know about their basic rights in special education presented by Atty. Lawrence Berliner, principal Klebenoff & Alfano, P.C. Fairfield Public Library, Boston Post Road, Fairfield. Sponsored by The Pilot House, contact Doreen Caruso at dcaruso@thepilothouse.org or 203-610-3877 for more information and registration.
Fri. Oct. 10, 2008: Practical Strategies for Supporting People with Labels of Autism in Inclusive Schools and Communities. Part Two (Must attend Part One on Oct 3 to participate in part two). 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 555 Corporate Drive, Windsor. Presented by Autism Spectrum Differences Institute of New England, Inc. Participants will be able to analyze individual behaviors in terms of movement, anxiety, communication and sensory differences and develop appropriate social supports, visuals and other positive behavioral approaches. For more information and registration materials, contact ASDI at 860-257-9911 or asdi-ne@comcast.net and www.autismdifferences.org.
Tues. Oct. 14, 2008: Getting the Right Program Using the IEP Process. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Stamford Government Center, 888 Washington Blvd., Stamford. Speakers are special education attorneys Anne Eason and Nora Belanger with special ed advocate Gerri Fleming. Sponsored by SCOPES (Stamford Coalition of Parents of Exceptional Children). More information and RSVP, Ida Lupinacci at iml3@sbcglobal.net or Jeanne Peloso at jbpeloso@optonline.net.
Wed. Oct. 15, 2008: Meet the Trumbull Special Education Administrative Team. 7:00 p.m., Long Hill Administration Building, 6254 Main St., Trumbull. Sponsored by Trumbull Parents of Students with Learning Differences and the Trumbull Public Schools. Come meet the director of special education as well as the team. Contact Jennifer Brennan at jjb14@sbcglobal.net.
Wed. Oct. 15, 2008: Open House at FOCUS Alternative Learning Center, 126 Dowd St, Canton. Information at www.focusalternative.org.
Wed. Oct. 15, 2008: Greater Hartford Region - Autism Society of Connecticut presents Chris Tracy, mentor and respite care provider and Cammie McGovern, founder of an after school program for children with special needs. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., HARC, 900 Asylum Ave, Hartford. Chris Tracy has worked for the past 7 years as a personal mentor for children with disabilities helping with academics, life skils at home and in the community, activities and exercise as well as providing basic companionship and positive role modeling. Cammie McGovern is the author of Eye Contact, a mystery about a nine-year old boy with autism who is the only witness to the murder of his classmates. She has also written about life with autism. She is the founder of Whole Children, a resource center that runs after school classes and programs for children with special needs. Please RSVP to Melissa Dumont at MDumont312@cox.net or 860-214-2903.
Thurs. Oct. 16, 2008: Resource Fair. 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Clarion Inn & Suites (formerly Best Western), East Windsor. Sponsored by Allied Rehabilitation Centers, Enfield. More information at 860-741-3701 x 200.
Thurs. Oct. 16, 2008: The Hows, Whys and Whens of Inclusion. With Ruth Eren, Ed.D., Professor, Southern CT State University and expert in ASD and Barbara Cook, MS-SLP, speech language pathologist and consultant focusing on program development for children with ASD. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. The Greens at Canondale, 435 Danbury Rd, Wilton. Sponsored by SPED*NET, Wilton. RSVP to Pam at 203-563-9994.
Mon. Oct. 20, 2008: Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports: What Parents Need to Know. 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., West Haven City Hall, Meeting Room A. Workshop presented by the CT Parent Advocacy Center. Families will be introduced to a new way of thinking about their child's behaviors and about the need to advocate for behavioral supports. Provides an overview of functional behavioral assessments and positive behavior interventions. Sponsored by the West Haven Local System of Care, Parent Support Group for Parents of Special Needs Children. Free. For more information and to RSVP, contact CPAC at 800-445-2722 or cpac@cpacinc.org.
Tues. Oct. 21, 2008: IEP Goals 101: A Guide to Monitoring Student Learning. 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Community Room, Guilford Police Station, 400 Church St (Route 77), Guilford. Workshop presented by the CT Parent Advocacy Center. Learn how to identify and use key information to incorporate into the present level of academic and functional performance areas of the IEP. Learn now to create measureable goals and objectives. Sponsored by the Guilford PTA Special Education Committee. Free. For information or to RSVP contact CPAC at 800-445-2722 or cpac@cpacinc.org.
Wed. Oct. 22, 2008: Nora Belanger, Special Education Attorney - Interactive Round Table Discussion. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Variety of topics including School-Performed Evaluations, Independent Educational Evaluations, Least Restrictive Environment, Positive Behavior Strategies and the like. Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Ave, Norwalk., 3rd Floor, Room 333. Co-sponsored by NorwalkSEEKS and Connecticut Association of Children and Adults with LD (CACLD). More information at info@norwalkSEEKS.org or 203-846-2501.
Thurs. Oct. 23, 2008: "How to Use Positive Behavior Support Plans: An Overview for Caregivers and Casemanagers" 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Keeney Center, 200 Main St., Wethersfield. For family caregivers, case managers and direct support staff. Presented by Joan Beasley, PhD. Training is designed to provide a basic knowledge of positive behavior support plans in order to follow then, use them effectively, assess their accuracy and assist in behavior plan development as part of a support team. Sponsored by DDS. Call 860-418-6050 for more information and registration materials.
Thurs. Oct. 23, 2008: ASD Unplugged: Come Spend an Evening with the Creatively Wired and Socially Challenged. Meet the panel of experts from the FOCUS Alternative Learning Center as they discuss their lives with ASD, what works and what doesn't. 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., First Congregational Church, 137 Derby Ave., Ansonia. Presented by NorthStar. Information contact Cathy Adamcyk at cathya@ntplx.net.
Fri. Oct 24 and Sat. Oct. 25, 2008: Signing on the Spectrum: Meeting the Needs of Deaf Children with Autism. Two-day program providing educators, therapists, professionals, families and others with valuable information regarding the education, care and support of deaf children with autism. Presented by The Learning Center for the Deaf, MA. More information, conference agenda and registration at www.regonline.com/tlc. In the Natick/Framingham, MA area (20 miles west of Boston).
Sat., Oct. 25, 2008: Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficits Throughout the Lifespan. CACLD (CT Association of Children and Adults with LD) Annual Conference. Keynote speaker, Larry Silver, M.D., author of "The Misunderstood Child' and clinical professsor of psychiatry at Georgetown University Medical Center. Workshops, exhibits, bookstore. More information and registration materials at www.CACLD.org.
Sat. Oct. 25, 2008: Special Education - What is it? Understanding Special Education (USE). 9:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. At Ability Beyond Disability, 4 Berkshire Drive, Bethel. One-day seminar sponsored by WeCAHR. Contact Linda Rietschel at WeCAHR for registration information at 203-792-3540.
Tues. Oct. 28, 2008: Demystifying the College Selection Process for Students with LD. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., with Marcia Rubinstein, MA, CEP, Educationl Advisor and parents panelists. Westport Public Library, Arhold Bernhard Plaza, Westport. Register for these free workshops at info@SmartKidswithLD.org or 203-226-6831.
Tues. Oct. 28, 2008: Understanding Challenging Behavior in Young Children. 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Westbrook Youth and Family Services, 1163 Boston Post Road, Westbrook. Workshop presented by the CT Parent Advocacy Center. Workshop will help participants change the way they view and react to their child's challenging behavior. Learn what behavior is communication, how to use positive behavior supports to encourage the development of new communication skills and practical tips for success. Sponsored by the Westbrook Early Learning Links. Free. Childcare available. Q&A afterwards. For more information and to RSVP caontact Mary Jo Noonan, Project Coordinator at 860-399-3417.
Wed. Oct. 29, 2008: We Belong: Inclusion in Fairfield County presents Dr. Michael Weiss (Giant Steps) on "Social Skills and Making Friendships". 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Co-Sponsored with the Westport SEPTA. Coleytown Middle School, North Ave., Westport. RSVP and more information to Eva Grenwald at evagreenwald@sbcglobal.net.
Thurs. Oct. 30, 2008: The Use of Positive Behavior Supports Within the Community. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon, Waveny House, Waveny Park, New Canaan. With Todd Kellogg, LMFT who specializes in providing structural family and behavior therapy to resolve challenging behaviors in children both at home and in school, to build a partnerships between home and school, to increase parenting skills and work on relationship issues within families that have members with special needs. Sponsored by SPED*NET, New Canaan. For information and registration and to RSVP, call Judi Anders at 203-801-0794. More information on Todd Kellogg at www.positivefamilybehavior.com.
Wed. Nov. 5, 2008: Maverick Minds: A Cognitive Perspective on Understanding ADD/ADHD Kids: An Educational program from a Cognitive Perspective to Understand Children with ADD/ADHD, Executive Function and Self-Regulation. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., The Ridgefield Community Center, 316 Main St., Ridgefield. Presented by Ruthann Short, MSW, LCSW. Co-Sponsored by SPED*NOR Ridgefield. Contact Sheryl Knapp at SKnapp@LiteracyAdvocates.com or Ruthann Short at maverickmindsllc@aol.com.
Wed. Nov. 12, 2008: Neuro-Psychological Evalutions. 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Ave., Norwalk, Room 101. With Scott Bezsylko, Executive Director, Winston Prep Schools, NYC and Norwalk. Discussion and explanation of a neuro-psychological evaluation and its implications regarding your child's learning profile, IEP educational plan and setting/placement. Co-sponsored by NorwalkSEEKS and Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities. Free. Information at info@norwalkSEEKS.org or 203-846-2501.
Thurs. Nov. 13, 2008: "Thinking Beyond One Day at a Time" - making a difference for your child's future. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Fairfield Public Library, Boston Post Road, Fairfield. Presented by Stephen A. Ehrens, CPA and Financial Advisor and Atty. Greta Solomon, Principal, Cohen & Wolf, P.C. Sponsored by The Pilot House. Contact Doreen Caruso at dcaruso@thepilothouse.org or 203-610-3877 for more information and registration.
Fri. Nov. 14, 2008: Using AAC for People with ASD-related Communication Challenges, Part One (Part Two will be held on Fri, Nov. 21). 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 555 Corporate Drive, Windsor. Presented by Autism Spectrum Differences Institute of New England, Inc. Participants will identify skills needed to introduce a range of AAC methods, includin typing, to achieve independence for people with ASD labels and communication challenges, and will recognize the opportunities and limitations of AAAC as an adjunct to oral language. For more information and registration materials, contact ASDI at 860-257-9911 or asdi-ne@comcast.net and www.autismdifferences.org.
Sat. Nov. 15, 2008: Life After High School - A Day to Explore Transition. 8:15 a.m. Central CT State University Institute of Technology & Business Development Conference Center, 185 Main St., New Britain. Keynote speaker: Stephen Shore. Workshops and presentations on "How to Achieve Independence in our ASD Children and Adults", "Higher Education", and "School to Work". Bookstore. CEU's available. Sponsored by CT Autism Resource Center, Inc., The Bureau of Rehabilitation Services, Central CT State University and the Department of Developmental Services, Division of Autism Spectrum Services. For more information and registration materials, contact ASRC at 203-265-7717 or www.ct-asrc.org.
Mon. Nov. 17, 2008: Accountability after the PPT: How to Achieve IEP Compliance. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. With Jennifer Laviano, Esq., special education attorney. The Greens at Canondale, 435 Danbury Rd, Wilton. Sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton. RSVP and more information call Pam at 203-563-9994.
Tues. Nov. 18, 2008: Effective Reading Instruction. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. With Sheryl Knapp, Literacy Consultant. At Temple Shalom, 300 East Putnam Ave., Greenwich. Register for this free workshop at SmartKidsWithLD.org or call 203-22-6831.
Fri. Nov. 21 2008: Using AAC for People with ASD-related Communication Challenges, Part Two (Attendance at Part One on Fri. Nov 14 prerequisite to attening part two). 8:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn, 555 Corporate Drive, Windsor. Presented by Autism Spectrum Differences Institute of New England, Inc. Participants will develop beginning competencies to introduce high and low tech devices with maximum probability of the communicator achieving independence. For more information and registration materials, contact ASDI at 860-257-9911 or asdi-ne@comcast.net and www.autismdifferences.org.
Sat. Nov. 22, 2008: "It's Hard to Be Your Friend" with Rick Lavoie. The Pilot House in Fairfield presents Rick Lavoie speaking about the relationship between learning disabilities and social incompetence. 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Fairfield Ludlow High Auditorium, 785 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield. Register by Nov. 14. Contact Doreen Caruso at 203-610-3877 or dcaruso@thepilothouse.org for registration and more information.
Mon. Dec. 1, 2008 (snow date: Mon. Dec. 8): Biomedical Updates: What's New on the Horizon in Alternative Interventions. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. With Dr. Nancy O'Hara a specialist in treating children with disabilities including ASD. Dicussion of therapies and the research behind them, including neurofeedback, detoxification, neuroinflammation, oxytocin and immunoglobin therapy. The Greens at Canondale, 435 Danbury Rd., Wilton. Sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton. RSVP to Pam at 203-563-9994.
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