 |
NETWORK |
|
| Special Education Parent Teacher Organizaton Network | ||
|
|
NETWORK |
|
| Special Education Parent Teacher Organizaton Network | ||
Forum |
Area Events
(Please submit new listings to: SPEDDAD "AT" optonline "DOT" net) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
January 25 SEPTO Network Presents... YOUR CHILD:
Successful
Advocac Milford Does your child have a disability? Then come and learn about how to be an effective advocate for your child, best practices and available services. Also, you will gain insight into your child’s legal and educational rights with three experts from the field of special education advocacy. Guest Speakers: Tiffany Katz, Special Education Teacher/Advocate; Amy Vatner, Special Education Attorney; Jacqueline D. Jewett, MS Ed January 31, 2012 Transitions 7 – 8:30 pm Guest Speaker: Dr. Jim Loomis Held at: Sponsored by: FEBRUARY 2012 February 9 “I’m No Mother Teresa: Who Is?” 7 PM Trumbull Presented by Kim Stagliano, Author and Managing Editor for www.Ageofautism.com. Join the author for an evening of laughter and camaraderie as she shares the lighter side of raising three girls with autism. Kim will also touch on the serious note of safety and bullying as the mom of a special needs children who have experienced both. This free seminar is being held at Total Learning and Therapy Center in Trumbull, CT Please call 203-268-8852 to reserve seating as space is limited. Check http://tltc.org for more info. February 29 SEPTO Network Presents... 7 pm - 9 pm Milford MARCH 2012 March 28 SEPTO Network Presents... 7 pm - 9 pm Milford APRIL 2012 April 25 SEPTO Network Presents... 7 pm - 9 pm Milford MAY 2012 May 30 SEPTO Network Presents... 7 pm - 9 pm Milford JUNE 2012 JULY 2012 AUGUST 2012 ============================================================= ============================================================= ARCHIVES............. SEPTEMBER
2009 The 203-332-4535 www.kennedyctr.org Autism Project: Fall 2009 Programs The Autism Project supports children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families through specially designed programs, opportunities for inclusion, information and referral, support groups, workshops and trainings and new services for unaddressed needs. Support Groups for Parents/Guardians ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities - Become Part of Our Community 9:30 to 11:00 am September 8 Westport Listen to Moms Share Their Personal Success Stories Held at the Westport Public Library Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities is a member of the Connecticut SEPTA Council. Disorganized Kids: "Late, Lost, & Unprepared" - Practical Strategies for Parents on Executive Function Skills. September 24 9:30 am - 11:30 am Ridgefield # 1
of a THREE Session Series.
What you need to know for a successful school year for your child with special needs. September 30 7pm - 9 pm Milford Our guest speaker for the evening is - In her private practice as a special education advocate, Julie travels throughout You can visit Julie on her website, “Your Special Child” (www.yourspecialchild.com). Refreshments will be served! Evening’s Schedule (For Parent Confidentiality): 7:00 – 8:00 pm Open Door Session 8:00 – 9:00 pm Parents Only For more information, please contact: Susan St. Pierre, President SEPTA Network susan.stpierre@snet.net 203-713-6206 OCTOBER 2009 Early
Childhood Inclusion
Dan Habib will be the keynote speaker. <>The forum will be held at: <>The Marriott Hotel, <> http://www.uconnucedd.org/what%27s_new/dan%20habib%20event%2010-02-09.pdf Register Now ! POWERFEST 2009: "Preparation for Adult Life" - Future Generations. Statewide Inclusive Youth Transition Festival October 3 10:00 am -6:00 pm Bridgeport Target
Audience: Youth 14-24
9:30 am - 11:30 am Ridgefield # 2 of a THREE Session Series.. Facilitated by Ruthann N. Short, MSW, LCSW. Held at the Program fee $150.00 (for all 3 SESSIONS) Advance registration Required at maverickmindllc@aol.com or 203-431-3234. www.maverickmindsllc.com. Getting the Right Program Using the IEP Process. October 14 6:30 - 8:45pm Dinner served. 6:30 – 7 pm Presentation begins: 7 pm Presented
by special
education attorneys Anne
Eason, Esq., Nora
Belanger, Esq. and special education advocate Gerri
Fleming. The
presenters are in the
trenches every day representing students with disabilities who need
meaningful
access to the general education curriculum. Extensive
handouts. (Weeks Seminar Room third floor) Sponsored by WE BELONG - Inclusion in CEUs granted. For more info, contact Eva Greenwald at (203) 554-4462, or evagreenwald@sbcglobal.net or check http://www.spednet.org/we_belong/. The
Positive
Behavior
SupportsOctober 14 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Held at the RSPV to CPAC at 800-445-2722. www.cpacinc.org. E-mail: cpac@cpacinc.org. October 21 10am - 3pm Three speakers! - Scott MacDonald will speak about legislative issues and things that can be accomplished through Congressman Himes office, - Stan Kosloski on the new - Carol Kana on self-advocacy and reverse disability etiquette. $15 includes lunch. Held at the Norwalk Inn. Contact Carol Kana at pkana@snet.net for more info. Sponsored by the Southwest Advocacy Network. Part of the Connecticut Disability Advocacy Collaborative, www.ct-dac.org. The mission of this group is "to enhance the effectiveness of disability activism in Please RSVP by October 12. - The way to stimulate: conversation, thinking and responsibility! October 21 6:30 - 8:30 pm Declarative language is a teaching tool that can be used with individuals with language disabilities, from toddlers to high schoolers! Learn how to formulate language within daily life so your child practices problems solve and conversing throughout the day. Presenter: Nancy Schwartz, Ph.D. Dr. Schwartz has 30 years of experience working with children with language problems and in particular, with children who are on the Autistic Spectrum and/or have Speech Apraxia. She is currently the clinical director of The Communication Clinic of Connecticut, which services children with speech and language difficulties between the ages of one year and 21 years. For more info on the clinic, go to http://www.cc-of-ct.com Held at Refreshments served, no admission fees. Sponsored by SPED*NET, Special Education Network of New Canaan, Ltd. RSVP to Denise Buckenheimer at Denise@spednet.org. For more info on SPED*NET New Canaan, check out www.spednet.org Children with Neurobehavioral Disorders. October 21 10:00am and 7:00pm Drug-free Approach helps Children with ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Dyslexia, and Spectrum Disorders Dr. Mark Goldenberg director of Brain Balance Achievement Center of Norwalk discusses the groundbreaking Brain Balance Program™ which benefits children with Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorders, Dyslexia, Tourette Syndrome, OCD, and Spectrum Disorders. Dr. Goldenberg is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist specializing in the treatment of learning challenges and has lectured and published extensively on the subject of brain dysfunction. Brain Held at RSVP to 203-847- 3000, mgoldenberg@brainbalancecenters.com, www.brainbalancecenters.com. Please call to reserve seating. Truths
&
Myths Maverick
Minds Ruthann N. Short, MSW,
LCSW, www.maverickmindsllc.com,
will host. Inclusion,
Services, Assistive Technology, Evaluations, Behavior, Social, Legal Rights. Special
Education
Lawyers, Held
at the Ridgefield Community
Center (also known as the historic Lounsbury House) SEPTA NETWORK“Got An ANGRY Kid?”October 28 7pm - 9 pm Milford <> - In
private
practice for the past 20 years, Dr.
Gibson created a parent training
program (P.A.C.T.)
for the parents of the seriously
out of control child. His program does well in helping
to keep these children out of
residential placement. - He
has
also published a
book: -
Please
feel free to take a
look at Dr. Gibson’s website for greater detail
about the
work he has
done. (www.DrAGibson.com) Refreshments will be served! Learning Disabilities and Attention Deficits Through the Lifespan - 39th Fall Conference. October 31 Stamford Now including our Post-Secondary Conference Workshops. Marriott Understanding, Evaluating, and Treating Learning Difficulties October 29 7 pm Learn developmental-neuropsychological aspects of dyslexia, and disorders affecting math. written expression and nonverbal learning. Find ways to support your child at home and at school. The presenter is Tim Heitzman, PhD, - Developmental Neuropsychologist at Held at Please call 203-268-8852. NOVEMBER 2009 Using Neuro-psychological Evaluations -How to use them to identify your child’s needs and goals, and what a school must do to meet those goals. November 4 7:00 to 9:00pm Norwalk Scott Bezsylko, Executive Director of Winston Prep Schools (Norwalk & NYC), will speak to ways of articulating these goals, in writing, for use in both a private and public school setting and will make suggestions as to how to monitor progress. Held at Norwalk City Hall, Co-sponsored by NorwalkSEEKS and Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities. It is free and open to the public. Questions at info@norwalkseeks.org or (203) 846-2501. Parenting the Anxious Child November 5 7 - 8 pm How can parents recognize anxieties that affect their child's happiness and well being? What can they do to help their child overcome them? A clinically-trained child research scientist answers this important two-part question by describing various anxiety-caused behavior patterns and advising parents on ways to help their child within the context of both family and school environments. Speaker: Michael Crowley, Ph.D., - Associate Research Scientist, Register online at www.greenhosp.org or call (203) 863-3627 or toll-free (888) 357-2409 November 7th (Saturday)
ASRC Morning
Workshops,
Southern CT State University Michael J. Adanti Student Center, 3rd Floor
345 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT
06515
ASRC
is proud to offer three morning
workshops that will take place prior to the start of the
Resource Fair. For participation in a workshop, registration
is required!
There will be a modest
fee of $10 to reserve your spot and space is limited.
Topic: SOCIAL SECURITY FUNDAMENTALS Presenter: David Hampton Bio: Mr. Hampton worked for 26 years, as a claims representative for the Social Security Administration. During his years with the agency he processed thousands of disability claims; his knowledge in this area is extensive. In 2008 he started Professional Secure Assistance, LLC. As an advocate/representative for individuals, companies and organizations he has won for his clients in excess of $350,000.00, just in the short time PSA has been operating. Target Group: Families Time: 10 – 11:30 am Purpose: This workshop has been designed to maximize your understanding of SSA disability. He will cover basic rules to disability benefits and any problems that may arise.
Topic:
GETTING STARTED PLANNING
FOR YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE
Presenter: Jim Lyman Bio: Jim is the father of an eighteen year old young man with autism and is one of the architects of the vocational program for adults with autism called Growing Possibilities at the Pinchback Rose Farm in Guilford, CT. Jim is a resident of Madison, CT and an agent with Farm Family Insurance and works with families on developing long term financial plans. Target Group: Families Time: 10 – 11:30 am Purpose: One thing is certain, when your child reaches 21, their educational program will end and they will start the biggest part of their life. Children with autism will most likely need financial support during the course of their lives. For a parent with an ASD child this is a very uncomfortable discussion because of the emotional issues regarding their child, and their personal finances. Jim has lived this first hand; he understands financial planning is a process that develops as you reach different points in your life. This will be an open discussion that will cover: □ Understanding where you currently are emotionally and financially and how it relates to developing a plan □ Why you need to get started today □ How to get started □ Setting up basic coverage on a limited budget □ Creating your financial team Topic: TRANSITION FROM HIGH SCHOOL
Presenter: Carol Barans Bio: Carol Barans has recently joined the staff of the ASRC to coordinate our new division of transition planning services. Carol has over 30 years of experience in the public schools in Connecticut as a special education teacher and administrator. As such, she was instrumental in developing and supervising a community based independent living program for 18-21 year old youth, an extracurricular social skills club at the secondary level, as well as individualized education and transition plans for many different students. She has also worked in the field of young adult services developing vocational and independent living opportunities for young adults with autism spectrum diagnoses. In addition, she is a parent of a son on the autism spectrum. Target Group: Families and teens/young adults Time: 10 – 11:30 am Purpose: This will be a workshop to begin to prepare you for this most important transition. This is information that families need to make this a successful transition, and unfortunately they often only receive it after the fact. If you have not attended a good workshop on transition yet, get to this one!
AND Autism
Spectrum Resource Fair
Michael J. Adanti Student Center 345 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06515
Sponsored by the CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center and the Department of Education Division of Special Education at Southern CT State University. <>
Don’t Miss This Wonderful Opportunity! Exhibitors from: Advocacy Groups Financial Resources Adult Resources & Agencies Large Bookstore Alternative Therapy Recreation Programs Camps Schools Community Providers Social Skills Resources Consultants State Agencies
For more
information:
ASRC Wallingford,
CT 06492
CT Down Syndrome Annual Convention. November 7, 8 am - 4 pm Keynote
speaker is the Emmy Award winning
writer for Sesame
Street and author of “Welcome to Holland”, Emily Perl Kingsley along
with her
son, Jason and friend Mitchell Levitz. Vendor
booths including “Specs4Us”,
Super Duper catalog, Usborne Books at Home, Discovery Toys, Woodbine
House, and
many more! Non-profit booths with information about their
organizations and
CDSC affiliated booths including The Buddy Walk, The Holland Committee
and CT
DADS. Workshops
for birth to three, school aged,
adults, and self advocates! Some
workshops include a new/ expecting parent round table & support,
medical
issues in children & infants by Dr. Robert Greenstein, an update on
the PJ
settlement and much more!
- It's never too early… November 9 6:30 to 8:45pm, - It's never too early to begin thinking about preparing a student for the transition from public school to adult life. Dinner served: 6:30 - 7 pm Presentation begins: 7 pm This presentation will focus on the basic steps that should be considered for every student entering this next phase of his or her education. Extensive handouts Presenter: Margaret ( Muncie Kardos is an educational consultant who has worked in the area of transition planning for over 10 years. She has presented on this topic at both the state and national level. Currently she is working on completing her doctorate in this area. Held at the Westport Public Library, Weeks Seminar Room third floor. Sponsored by WE BELONG - Inclusion in CEUs granted. For more info, contact Eva Greenwald at (203) 554-4462, or evagreenwald@sbcglobal.net or check http://www.spednet.org/we_belong/. The Directions can be found by calling the library at (203) 291-4840 or check their website at www.westportlibrary.org
9:30 am - 11:30 am Ridgefield # 3 of a THREE Session Series. Facilitated by Ruthann N. Short, MSW, LCSW. Held at the Program fee $150.00 dollars.(for all 3 SESSIONS) Advance registration Required at maverickmindllc@aol.com or 203-431-3234. www.maverickmindsllc.com. Staying One Step Ahead of Your Special Needs Child - A Parenting Workshop. November 17 7:30 pm. Stamford An empowering workshop for parents who want to know how to help their child succeed in school and in life. For additional information, contact Claire Friedlander at 203-921-4161 or e-mail at cdfriedlan@aol.com No charge. Held at the JCC of Stamford iat Their phone number is 203-322-7900. December 2 SEPTA Network THE
KENNDY CENTER, INC.’S PARTNERS
PROGRAM WHERE:
7:00 – 8:00
Open Door Session 8:00 – 9:00
Parents Only Please join us to discuss how Partners can be a bridge between high school and adult life. Refreshments
will be served! FEBRUARY 2010 Helping Children Deal With Stress and Anxiety. February 23 6:30 p.m. Ridgefield What is anxiety? How does it affect our children? What can we as parents do to protect our children and help them flourish in an anxious world. The Presenter is Psychologist Dr. Elizabeth Engelberg. This FREE workshop is held at the offices of Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge: Registration is not required but seating is limited. Please call 203-438-4848, or email drroseann@hotmail.com to reserve a spot. How
Students with Intellectual Disabilities Norwalk-based Literacy Consultant Sheryl Knapp will explore the relationship between intellectual ability and reading ability, identifying those facets of reading which are impacted by the ID diagnosis – and, equally as importantly, those which are not. Also discussed will be those programs which create “functional readers” as opposed to research-based methodologies which systematically teach critical literacy skills. Coffee and bagels. Held at the Waveny House in ponsored by SPED*NET, Special Education Network of New Canaan, Ltd. RSVP to Anne Eason at anne@spednet.org MARCH 2010 LET’S
TALK! CACLD
Presents… how to maximize your child’s potential. March
2 - Know Your Child:
What do the
tests say
about your child? Presenter:
Rena Schine, Ph.D.,
School Psychologist/Advocate. This
program is free, but registration is required. The
Special Needs/ ADHD
Parent Survival Guide. The
essential parent guide to not only
understanding Learning Disabilities, ASD, ADHD and their common
pitfalls, but
also what to do about it! Parents
will gain insight into how to deal
with
negative home and school behaviors and address their many educational
needs. Learn
how
to manage common issues from
preschool to adulthood. Dr. Roseann
Capanna-Hodge will present this
very useful workshop. This
FREE
workshop is held at the offices of Registration
is not required but seating is
limited. - Strategies for Children with ADHD & LD. March 3 7:30 to 9:00 pm. Westport As parents know, there’s more to meeting the needs of children with learning disabilities and ADHD than finding appropriate support for learning issues. Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities will present a program on helping children who may suffer as much from emotional distress, including anxiety and depression as from their struggle in school. The
presenter,
Dr. Ken Magrath, is a licensed psychologist providing
testing and evaluation of children with learning issues in Westport
Public
Library McManus Room (co-sponsored by the Westport Public Library) Please register for this free program at Info@SmartKidswithLD.org or call (203) 226-6831. - Improving Executive Function Skills for Students with Learning Disabilities and AD/HD. March 8 10:30 am - 12:30 pm <>Wilton Peg Dawson, Ed.D., psychologist with the Center for Learning and Attention Disorders, As a child development specialist, Dr. Dawson has found that youngsters who are ’smart but scattered’ lack or lag behind in executive skills, which are crucial in tasks like getting organized, staying focused and controlling emotions. Learn what executive function skills are, how they matter, and how we as parents and teachers can help our kids who are struggling become independent academic and social problem solvers. Dr. Dawson is past president of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP), recipient of NASP’s 2006 Lifetime Achievement Award, and co-author of Smart But Scattered: The Revolutionary ‘Executive Skills’ Approach to Helping Kids Reach Their Potential.(2009), Smarts: Are We Hardwired for Success? (2007) and Executive Skills in Children and Adolescents (2004). Held at the Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton, Please RSVP: 203-762-3950 or visit www.wiltonlibrary.org/events. For additional information, please contact (203) 563-9994 or info@spednetwilton.org. <> SEPTA NETWORK PRESENTS... LIFE
COACHING FOR PARENTS WEDNESDAY - MARCH 10 WHO:
Dr. Leonaura Rhodes WHERE:
Dr.
Rhodes is a medial doctor from If
you’re feeling like you have no life of your own, feeling anxious and
just plain fed up and if you would like help rebuilding a life for
yourself, please join us for a free 2 hour “Introduction to Life Coaching for Special
Parents”
FOR
MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: 2010 Regional Conference on Learning
Differences. For K-12 Parents and Educators. This information packed two day conference will be led by Educational Specialists at Attendees will have a choice of full day seminars on two of the following topics: - Universal Design for Learning, - ADHD / Executive Functions Skills, - Language Based Learning Disabilities. Held at The For more information, please contact: Peter Newman, Director, Greenwich Education and Prep, LLC. 203-661-1609 Thirteen Elements that Influence Behavior (and What Should be in a Good IEP) March 16 10 am - Noon Wilton Michael
Weiss, Ph.D.,
Consulting Developmental Psychologist, Adjunct Professor at Fairfield
University, returns, by popular demand, to present an in-depth look at
factors
that influence children’s behavioral growth and development. He
will
discuss
these factors in a context of elements that should be reflected in a
child’s
Individual Education Plan (IEP). The
over-arching point of this discussion is
that an integrated set of services, therapies and approaches to
education,
along with a thoughtful set of behavioral strategies, is what promotes
a
child’s self-control and ability to relate to others well. This
discussion
will
be framed around children with diverse diagnoses ranging from AD/HD to
Autism Spectrum Disorders. Held
at
The
Greens at Cannondale, Sponsored
by
SPED*NET Wilton. GETTING
AND KEEPING An Appropriate Educational Program in Challenging Economic
Times The
economic environment has created an even
larger gap between what parents feel
is an appropriate education and what school districts are willing to
provide. Even when there is a reasonable IEP, there are often
concerns
about implementation, progress reporting, staff training and program
supervision. We
will
discuss easy steps to managing the
parent/ school
district relationship to optimize the chances of your child receiving
the
appropriate program to which he is entitled. Held
at
the
Waveny House in
INCLUSION
TEAMING® WEDNESDAY
- MARCH 31, 2010
She
is the developer of Inclusion
Teaming®, a program
that gives students with social skill difference AND students with
social skill advantage an opportunity they cannot experience elsewhere.
Come
find out what Inclusion Teaming®
is all about. Listen to Catherine and her team (including student
advisors) describe how the program can benefit your child. FOR MORE INFORMATION
PLEASE CONTACT:
SEPTA Network susan.stpierre@snet.net 203-640-8017 APRIL 2010 An
Evening with Sally
Shaywitz Dr.
Shaywitz is
the author of Free. Sponsored
by
SPED*NET, Special
Education Network of Held
at Check www.spednet.org for
more info.
A:
EVERYONE !
Please
join us to learn how to manage children with ADHD’s behavior more
effectively!
SEPTA Network susan.stpierre@snet.net 203-640-8017
MAY 2010 The College Coaching Project Supporting Students with Special Needs to Be Successful in College. May 3 10:00 a.m. to noon Wilton Lynda Geller, Ph.D., is the Director
of the Institute for Cognitive Diversity
at Many
students
who did well within the structure of high school find themselves unable
to
create their own structures to cope with the academic, social,
emotional,
self-management and career choice aspects of college living. Impaired
executive
function can create problems in the full array of life skills necessary
for
college success, yet specific interventions are seldom available or
understood. Executive functions — the wide range of abilities
including
planning, organizing, goal setting, flexible thinking, emotional
regulation,
time management and self-monitoring — are particularly challenging for
students
with AD/HD, learning disabilities or autism spectrum conditions,
despite their
often excellent intellect and academic potential. Coaching
is a
service
uniquely suited to the need for flexible support in various areas of
life,
especially those associated with executive function tasks, and can help
students create a structure in new and unfamiliar settings where
expectations
are different from those in high school. Dr.
Geller will
discuss the
particular challenges college presents, the differences in finding and
utilizing support between high school and college, and how the coaching
model
can help students develop the skills necessary for college and life
success. Held
at
The
Greens at Cannondale, Sponsored
by
SPED*NET Wilton and for Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities. May 19 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Wilton How
will my child
with learning disabilities get into college – and how do we find the
right
college fit? Educational
consultant Marcia Rubinstien, MA, CEP,
nationally
recognized for her expertise in college advising and her work with
students
with learning challenges, will discuss when to start preparing for the
college
application process, the various levels of support available at a wide
range of
colleges and how to handle the disclosure of a student’s learning
issues. Most
importantly, she will emphasize that finding the right school for a
child with
learning differences is much more than finding a good school with a
seemingly
good support system, and will explain how to match a school to your
child’s
interests, abilities and needs. A
panel
discussion, including two parents
who
have been through the process, will follow. Ms. Rubinstien, an
educational
consultant based in West Hartford, CT, specializes in working with
students
with learning issues, and is former Chair of the Committee on Learning
Disabilities of the Independent Educational Consultants Association, a
Contributing Editor to the Smart Kids with Learning Disabilities
newsletter,
and the author of Raising NLD Superstars: What Families with Nonverbal
Learning
Disabilities Need to Know about Nurturing Confident, Competent Kids
(2005). Held
at
the Co-sponsored
by SPED*NET
Wilton, Please
RSVP: 203-762-3950 or visit www.wiltonlibrary.org/events.
JUNE 2010 JULY 2010 AUGUST 2010 August 7 - 8 Purpose of Conference: •To give siblings of children and adults with disabilities an opportunity to exchange information regarding their experiences and to learn more about specific disabilities, trends and current research findings about these disabilities. •To give people with disabilities an opportunity to share their feelings about being an integral part of their family and their interaction with their siblings and parents. •To give professionals an opportunity to hear experts in the field of family dynamics and experience workshops presented by siblings. •To give parents an opportunity to focus on their children who are not disabled. •To give partners of adults with disabilities an opportunity to focus on the impact the disability has had upon their relationships. Check http://www.siblingconference.org
for more info. Held at
the
Hyatt
Regency Hotel.
Camp Healing Hearts 1 - 4 p.m. Stamford Breakthru Fitness, 48 Union Street This is a highly structured camp open to kids and teens with disabilities. Fee: $250 per week. There will be two age groups: 8 - 14 and 15 - 21. Space is limited. Typical teens will be volunteering to make the camp integrated. You may sign up for as many weeks as you want. To receive an application or to inquire about volunteering, contact Kim at breaktrhufitness@aol.com or call Kim at Healing Hearts Therapy Center, 203 708 0076. Abilis Youth is providing consulting services to make this camp possible!s been increasing understanding of the role of movement differences in the lives of individuals with the label of autism. August
11 2
pm August 11 The "Brain Balance Program." 7pm - 9pm Norwalk. Dr. Mark Goldenberg; Executive Director of Brain Balance Achievement Center of Norwalk will discuss the groundbreaking Brain Balance Program™, which benefits children with Learning Disabilities, Attention Deficit Disorders, Dyslexia, Tourette’s Syndrome, OCD and Spectrum Disorders. Dr. Goldenberg is a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist specializing in the treatment of learning challenges and has lectured and published extensively on the subject of brain dysfunction. Is your child affected? According to the CDC, ADHD affects an estimated 4.4 million children in the United States and Autism occurs at a rate of 1 in 150 children born. Over the last 25 years we have been witness to the epidemic rise in the diagnosis of ADHD, Dyslexia, PDD, Asperger’s and autism in our children. Traditional approaches for helping these children are ever increasingly insufficient. Brain Balance has created a unique non-medical “hemispheric based” program. This program was originated through research that has come to reveal that these disorders can often be related to a fundamental imbalance of electrical activity between the two hemispheres (sides) of the brain. Hundreds of children with the aforementioned afflictions have completed our individualized program with proven results. Come learn why Brain Balance provides hope for children and why we are the “new” way of thinking! Call us today to reserve your seat: 203.847.3000 Free Seminar held at Norwalk Inn & Conference Center, 99 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT 06851. August 25 Social Thinking Across the Home & the School Day. 7:00 – 9:00 p.m Wilton Guest Speaker: Stephanie Madrigal, MA, CCC-SLP Before one can develop social skills, there must be social thinking, an intelligence that integrates information across home, work and community settings. Successful social thinkers consider the perspectives, points of view, emotions, thoughts, beliefs, prior knowledge and intentions of others. This is an intuitive process for most of us, whereby we develop our communication skills as we grow, steadily observing and acquiring information and learning how to respond to people and situations around us. However, those with AD/HD, autism spectrum disorders, non-verbal learning disabilities and other social and communication challenges struggle with this process. Stephanie Madrigal, MA, CCC-SLP, has worked as part of a clinical team with Michelle Garcia Winner and Social Thinking for over seven years. The author of the popular Superflex superhero curriculum, Ms. Madrigal creates and develops therapeutic and educational products related to training students from age five to adulthood with social learning disabilities and social-cognitive deficits. Ms. Madrigal will be presenting for staff development during the day and for parents this evening, . Held at the Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton. Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton, Wilton Public Schools and Wilton Library. Registration highly recommended: rsvp@spednetwilton.org or 203-761-0680. . SEPTEMBER 2010 September 28 Staying “In Tune” with Your Child. 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Wilton "Arts for Healing" serves the special needs population of children and young adults living with communication disorders, empowering them to break through barriers that isolate them and create a channel for self expression through the arts. This panel discussion will help parents understand the importance of the arts, facilitated play and aquatics in fostering emotional development in children. It is through a child’s self-awareness and confidence that academic and social learning become most effective, personal growth is fostered, and potential is ultimately reached. The panel discussion will be facilitated by psychologist and author Jules Spotts, Ph.D., who maintains an independent psychotherapy practice in New Canaan, CT and is a consulting psychologist at the Waterside School and The Children’s School in Stamford, CT. The panelists include: Billy Ayers, Masters in special education, musical theater workshop coordinator specializing in improvisational musical theater for children and adults with special needs; Mary Newcomb, art therapist and award-winning artist whose personal interests include acting and writing; Karen Nisenson, M.M., M.A., MT-BC, founder/director of Arts for Healing, certified music therapist and adjunct faculty member in Music Therapy at NYU; Audrey Spellman, certified special educator and consultant specializing in early intervention, with advanced training in DIR®/ Floortime, an approach to “play” based on developmental and individual differences and relationship building; and Ailene Tisser, MA, PT, pediatric physical therapist who developed Tharafins, LLC, an innovative aquatic therapy program using the interactive play techniques of Floortime in the water therapy. Held at the Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road Co-sponsored by Arts for Healing, SPED*NET Wilton and Wilton Library. Registration suggested: please call 203-762-3950 or visit www.wiltonlibrary.org. September 29 SEPTA Network - OPEN HOUSE GOOD PEOPLE, GOOD CONVERSATION 7 pm - 9 pm Milford OCTOBER October 6, 2010 An Introduction to Social Stories 6:30-8:30 pm West Haven Presenter will speak at 7:00 p.m. We will end promptly at 8:30 p.m. - This will provide an opportunity to mingle with newfound friends and pick up our children from the child care. Purpose of our meeting is to get together to share ideas, tips, knowledge and most of all to be supportive of each other. Light refreshments will be served. (Donations are also welcome) Child care can be provided with PRIOR RESERVATION - ONLY! It is Mandatory to register your child by Wednesday, September 31st. If you choose to take advantage of this service, please call 203-937-3760 or email Janet Booth at boothjeb@yahoo.com - This will ensure there is enough room and adequate childcare providers. Sponsored by: Autism Family Support Group Children with Autism Symposium 7:00 p.m. West Hartford Parents, caregivers and educators can learn
more
about autism, support and resources available at an informative and
interactive symposium on Children with Autism, featuring a
distinguished panel.
The panel includes: Ann Milanese, MD Medical Director, Specialty Developmental Pediatrics, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center; John Levine, MD, PhD, St. Francis Hospital; Dan Weiner, M.A. LPC, LLC, Clinical Psychotherapist; Jacqueline Berkowitz, MS, Child and Family Therapist, Jewish Family Services and Bruce Putterman, Moderator. The symposium on Children with Autism will focus on topics such as navigating and integrating the maze of providers, schools, resources and support available to people living with autism and their families, utilizing therapies to manage behaviors and symptoms, and helping individuals and families affected by autism maintain a positive outlook about their journey through autism. A question and answer session will also be featured. “As a parent of a child with autism, I know that the journey through autism can be challenging, but can also be very rewarding and joyful, offering great hope,” said Bruce Putterman. “ The discussion on Wednesday, October 6 will help navigate some of the challenges and set people living with autism on the path to reaching their fullest potential.” The event is a result of the commitment of the Mandell JCC Family Room Parenting Center and Jewish Family Services to provide programs for the community. The cost is $5 per person and free for Mandell JCC members. Held at the Mandell JCC, Zachs Campus, 335 Bloomfield Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06117 Sponsored by the Mandell JCC’s Family Room Parenting Center and Jewish Family Services, the event is open to the public. For more information, please contact Jane Pasternak Family Room Parenting Center Director 860.231.6342 jpasternak@mandellj fax 860.233.0802
October 6 Brain
Balance Program™
October 13 CT FEAT and Chapel Haven present a "Chapel Haven Open House". 5:30-7:30pm New Haven - Do you wonder what your child will be capable of doing when he/she is a young adult? - Do you want to learn what programs are out there to teach daily living and life skills? - Will your child have what it takes to live independently or semi-independently? - Do you know how to navigate the system to get what you need for your young adult? If your child is in middle school or older come hear about the options and what you can be doing now and in the future to secure their future. Come tour Chapel Haven campus, observe some life skills instruction, and a Q &A with Chapel Haven staff. Dinner and a tour of the facilities are included. Start planning for your child’s future now with this wonderful event! Held at the Chapel Haven Campus: 1040 Whalley Ave., New Haven, CT RSVP with the number attending to ctfeat1@ctfeat.org RSVP’s Mandatory! October 13 SEPTA Network Presents... Friendship Under The Microscope - Understanding Our Children's Perspectives and Helping Them Connect. WHERE:
DATE:
Wednesday, October 13, 2010 TIME:
7:00
p.m. During
this talk, the concept of friendship
during different stages of
development will be discussed, followed by ways to motivate our
children
to want to master these steps. She is a psychotherapist and registered board certified art therapist, with over 25 years’ experience treating both children and adults. Barbara has also co-authored both Knowing Yourself, Knowing Others: Activities that Teach Social Sense, and The Social Success Workbook. Light
refreshments will be served. NOTE: For Parent Confidentiality: 7:00 – 8:00: Open Door Session 8:00 – 9:00: Parents Only FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE
CONTACT:
Susan St. Pierre, President - SEPTA Network susan.stpierre@snet.net 203-640-8017
October 13 Tourette’s Syndrome Support Group 6:30 - 7:30 pm Derby We felt that this would be a great way to bring people from the area together to share and discuss the different ways that they have learned to deal with theirs or a loved one's Tourette’s This group is not limited to just children and teens. We would like to welcome anyone that is affected by TS, whether it is parents, children or spouses, and their families. We can share ideas and resources and offer support. This is a very informal gathering, and we want all to feel comfortable and welcome. Our meetings are from 6:30pm - 7:30pm at: Derby Public Library, If you would like to receive further updates in regards to meetings, please let me know what the best way is to contact you. For more information please feel free to Karen Thompson, at or 203-734-6211.October 15 – 16 Career
Development and Transition
Regional
ConferenceThis is the first time that a national organization has held a transition conference in New England, and Please review the program and join us for one day or both days - Saturday is focused on parents and students although anyone is welcome. There are many national speakers talking about issues relevant to students with disabilities – either on an IEP or even helpful for 504 students. Topics such as: · Preparing students with disabilities for college · Transition assessments · Disclosing your Disability · Employability training · Developing the Summary of Performance · Getting Families involved in Transition Planning · Developing annual goals to meet transition requirements · Services for specific disabilities (e.g., autism, ID, ED, mental illness) · Self-Advocacy/Self-Determination · Matching transition assessment with career options · Assistive Technology · Post-school outcomes · RTI and transition planning · Legal Issues and Transition · What does Health have to do with Transition? · Transition and TRANSPORTATION · Standards-based IEPs and Transition · Working with Latino youth in transition · Transition and mentoring programs Don’t miss out on this Once in a Lifetime Opportunity. You might not be able to travel out of state, but you might be able to get to Mystic, CT. Payment due by October 14th. Go to www.dcdt.org Patricia L. Anderson, Ph.D. CT State Department of Education 860/713-6923 patricia.anderson@ct.gov http://www.sde.ct.gov October 16 LEARNING DISABILITIES AND ATTENTION DEFICITS THROUGH THE LIFESPAN 40th Annual Fall Conference for CACLD. Stamford Keynote Speaker — Sarah Ward, M.S., CCC/SLP. Center for Executive Function Skill Development, Lincoln, MA. Workshops, Bookstore, Exhibits. Held at the Stamford Marriott. October 21, Disorganized Kids: A Strategic Parent Coaching Workshop 10 to noon. New Canaan Maverick Minds, Ruthann N. Short, MSW, LCSW This Strategic Parent Coaching Workshop will provide practical strategies on executive function skills for disorganized kids. The workshop will address executive functions, dual diagnosis, strategy development, and self-regulation. Parents will leave with practical information, resources, specific and proven strategies, and a better understanding of the struggles disorganized kids face daily. The goal of the Strategic Parent Coaching Workshop is to help parents build their children’s executive and self-management skills to compensate. It takes knowledge, patience, and practice to build and support the development of children’s executive skills. Held at the Waveny House in Waveny Park New Canaan. RSVP to Anne Eason at attorneyeason@gmail.com. October 25, 2010 Constructing a "Functional Developmental Analysis" (FDA) of Your Children's Behavior 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wilton Michael J. Weiss, Ph.D. will help participants construct an overview of their child's way of presenting in the world - far exceeding the conventional use of a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) - with a "Functional Developmental Analysis" checklist. This analysis will highlight how a child's behavior may tip off what their medical, therapeutic and educational needs may be. Held at the Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton. Registration highly recommended: Email: rsvp@spednetwilton.org OR Call: 203-563-9994. Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton, www.spednetwilton.org and Wilton Library, www.wiltonlibrary.org October 27 SEPTA Network Presents... An ADD/ADHA Child's Success - What's Journaling Got to Do With It? WHERE:
DATE:
Wednesday, October 27, 2010 Our guest speaker is Kerin Bellak-Adams. She is a repsected certified coach specializing in AD/HD. Ms. Bellack-Adams is an associate member of the Am. Psychoanalystic Assoc. as an Educator, and is on the borad of the Bergen County (NJ) C.H.A.D.D. Chapter. Kerin is a graduate of Hofstra University with coaching schools such as the AM. Coaching School. Her father, Leoplold Bellak, was a psychiatrist and pioneer in Adult ADD, and she shares his drive and passion to help others with AD/HD issues. She is the founder of www.ReachBeyondADD.com, and is the author of a new workbook: AD/HD Success! Solutions to Boosting Self Esteem - The Diary Method (Ages 7-17). October 28 Get Ready for Kindergarten: Academic, Social/Emotional, Motor, Visual and Speech/Language Skills. 7:00 PM Trumbull Identify the skills needed for easy transitioning into kindergarten and experiencing success in a large group setting. Panel of presenters includes Meg Reilly, Director of Trinity Parish Nursery School, Dr. Randy Schulman, Stefanie Seanor, OTR/L, and Maybette Waldron, CCC-SLP. Held at Total Learning & Therapy Center, 5893 Main St., Trumbull, CT 06611 Seminar is free but registration is required to reserve seating. Please call the TLTC office at 203-258-8852. http://www.tltc.org October 28 Managing Anxiety in Young Children 7-8pm Greenwich Michael Crowley, PhD, Associate Research Scientist and Associate Director, Developmental Electrophysiology Laboratory, Yale Child Study Center. Occasional anxiety is part of the human condition, but anxiety may also be linked to specific mental and behavioral difficulties. Symptoms can emerge even in very young children, often appearing as overly clingy behavior at home and panic or tantrums when separated from parents. Anxiety may also interfere with household activities and family functioning. Learn about the warning signs parents and teachers should look for, so they can intervene and help prevent complications. Early treatment can help prevent missed opportunities for friendships, failure to reach social and academic potential, and feelings of low self-esteem. Held at The Greenwich Hospital Registration required. Please call 203-863-3627 or 888-357-2409 Or register online. FREE. Sponsored by The Yale Child Study Center. OCTOBER 31 - SUNDAY PUMPKIN FEST 1pm -7 PM Georgetown BOUNCE HOUSE COSTUME JUDGING VENDORS WE ARE TRYING TO HAVE 200 CARVED PUMPKINS TO SHOW SUPPORT FOR BREAST CANCER AWARNESS MONTH. Held at: GILBERT AND FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: GLORIA BASS AT 203-856-1408 November 6 Autism Spectrum Resource Fair 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. Stamford Free admission! Well over 1,000 parents and professionals expected to attend. Sponsored by both ASCONN and ASRC. Held at the University of Connecticut, Stamford Campus, 1 University Place, Stamford, CT. ASCONN and the CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center Don't miss this wonderful opportunity! See exhibitors from: *Family Advocacy Groups *Alternative Therapies *Camps *Community Providers *Consultants *Financial Resources *Recreational Programs *Schools *Social Skills Resources *State Agencies Visit the Bookstore! 100's of titles from leading experts, parents and authors from the spectrum including the newly released HBO Emmy Award winning bio-pic DVD "Temple Grandin" starring Claire Danes. Morning Workshops 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. $15.00 per workshop Register Now! Call ASRC at 203-265-7717 Transition from High School Presented by: Carol Barans, M.Ed, 092 Target Audience: families of teens/young adults and advocates This workshop will begin to prepare you for this most important transition. This is information that families need to make a successful transition and often times families don't receive this information until it is too late. If you have not attended a good transition workshop here is your opportunity. Autism 101 for Parents of Newly Diagnosed Children and Teens Presented by: Sara Reed and Kim Newgass Target Audience: parents and families new to the diagnosis or seeking to review the basics Information for understanding the diagnosis and the variety of options to consider are presented in parent-friendly format with lots of real-life illustrations and practical take home tips. Presented by veteran parent/professional s topics covered
include:
characteristics and behaviors associated with ASD, educational, medical and therapeutic interventions; teaching, social and behavioral strategies, planning for the future, utilizing support services. Great for all who need to get a handle on the basics! Planning for Your Child's Future Presented by: Kevin McAvoy, CFP & Michael Lynch, CFP, ChCF, CLU, CASL Target Audience: Parents and families To do away with your worrying. To help you plan for your child's future, as early as possible so it does not become overwhelming. At age 21, educational programs stop and the biggest part of life begins. You need to be prepared. Even though you may feel this will be an uncomfortable discussion because of the emotional issues, it is a conversation you will have to start. Topics include: understanding the planning process; understanding the emotional, legal and financial issues; creating a team of family members to make decisions; when to start planning; considerations in becoming a caregiver. For more info, contact Lois Rosenfeld at CT Autism Spectrum Resources at 203-265-7717 www.ct-asrc.org or contact Sara Reed at the Autism Society of Connecticut at 800-453-4975 www.asconn.org. NOVEMBER 2010
Bedtime Battles - Dealing with your child’s sleep issues <>9:30 - 11:30am (Session 1) <>6:30 - 8:30pm (Session 2) Madison Instructor: Barb Baycroft Is bedtime a battle? Does your child get up constantly in the middle of the night? Do you spend hours returning your child back to bed? Are you losing sleep over your child’s sleeping (or non-sleeping) habits? You are NOT alone! Come join us in structured activities and group discussions to help you find strategies that work for your family as you deal with your child’s sleep issues. Fee: $10 per session Held at: KIDSTEPS, 51 Boston Post Rd., Madison CTContact Info: <>Kathy Fadel - Family Services Coordinator Family and Children's Center Sarah Inc., KIDSTEPS kidsteps-fcc@sarah-inc.org (203) 318-3692 x2 November 9 Disorganized Kids:A Strategic Parent Coaching Workshop
The Strategic Parent Coaching Workshop will help parents build their Disorganized Kid’s executive skills, along with self-management skills to compensate. <> 10 AM – 12 PM Ridgefield Cost: $50 This Program Is Brought to You By: Maverick Minds, LLC Executive Function and AD/HD Coaching Ruthann N. Short, MSW, LCSW maverickmindsllc@aol.com and Sensational Kids Mary Plotzker, M.Ed., Academic Coach mplotzker@yahoo.com Held at: The Ridgefield Community Center Click Here for Online Registration and More Information November 9
What to do when the School says "NO". 7:00 - 9:00 pm. Darien Special Education Attorney Nora Belanger will lead a workshop helping parents overcome the obstacles often encountered in receiving services for children with learning disabilities and related disorders. She will empower parents to assert their rights to a free and appropriate public education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act - and to become a partner with the school district in designing an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), ensuring its implementation, and effectively tracking a child's progress. Nora Belanger, Esq. is a special education and disability rights attorney in Norwalk, Connecticut, who has presented both nationally and internationally on special education law and parents' rights. Held at the Darien Library, 1441 Post Road, Darien, CT. To register for this free program: Email Programs@SmartKidswithLD.org or call 203-226-6831. www.SmartKidswithLD.org IDEA, 504, PPT, IEP, IEE – What Does It All Mean? (Part 1) 6:30 - 8:30 pm Newtown Intended Audience: For parents who seek a better understanding of their child’s educational rights. You will learn practical skills to plan, prepare, organize, and advocate for quality special education services for your child. From Emotions to Advocacy, The Special Education Survival Guide by Wrightslaw will be used as a guide. Presenters: Attorneys Gerry McMahon and Mary Dale Lancaster. Ms. McMahon represents parents of children with special needs. Ms. Lancaster works as an advocate on behalf of parents of children with special needs. Cost: FREE Attendees should bring a copy of the Wrightslaw book From Emotions to Advocacy, The Special Education Survival Guide with them. The book will available for purchase, if needed. Held at: C.H. Booth Library, 25 Main Street, Newtown CT, Tel. (203) 426-4533, in the Meeting Room. RSVP: Please e-mail Fran Ficocelli at ldact@ldact.org Presented by LDA of CT November 9 Proposed Revisions to the Special Education Regulations Hearing 4pm - 8:30pm Trumbull Additional Hearing Date and Extended Deadline for Comments on the Proposed Revisions to the Special Education Regulations Held at: CES, 40 Lindeman Drive, Trumbull November 9 (and Every Other Week) Parents Helping Parents Support Group 6:00-7:30pm North Haven Please
RSVP to Amber Robinson @ 203.200.8971 Behavioral Management, LLC Supported
by Clifford Beers Child Guidance
Clinic’s
collaborative and the Department of Children and Families November 10 Tourette Syndrome Family Support Group 6:30- 7:30 pm Derby This will be a very informal gathering to share information and discuss the different ways that we cope and deal with this disorder. Children are welcome. For more information call Karen at 203-734-6211 email: k.thompson06@yahoo.com Held at the Derby Public Library November 10 Developing
the IEP
*Spanish translation will be provided.
Held
at the Norwalk City Hall -
Community Room
**Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center
is a statewide nonprofi t organization off ering information and
support to parents of children ages birth to 26 with any disability or
chronic illness.** Kennedy Center's Autism Project - Monthly Parent Connections Lunch Meeting 12:00 to 1:00PM Trumbull <>  Come spend time with parents who can
relate
and understand your parenting
experiences.
Held
at: Rose Abréu-Sánchez Phone: (203) 332-4535 Ext.247 Email: November 15 Get Ready to Read! - a Free Early Literacy Workshop 9:00 am -12:00 noon* Norwalk Participants in this workshop will: · learn about the Get Ready to Read! program and its easy-to-use screening tool that identifies four-year-olds' progress indeveloping early literacy skills; · learn about important early literacy skills; · learn how to administer and score the Get Ready to Read! screening tool; · learn how to interpret the Get Ready to Read! screening tool and use the results to plan individual and group activities; · get practical learning experiences and activities to support children's overall development of early literacy skills; · get tips on how to engage families; · receive the Get Ready to Read! Manual, and other resources. * light breakfast included Held at the Norwalk Inn and Conference Center, 99 East Avenue, Norwalk, CT
(203)838-5010 Email: cacld@optonline.net November 15th Understanding an Effective Individualized Education Program (IEP) - How to Know if Your Child is Making Progress [Steps to Success Toolkit Training] 7 pm to 8:30 pm Milford This will be an interactive training where
you will learn to usethe toolkit. Registration is required and space is limited. November 15,
2010
<>Introducing Valley Special Education PTA Shelton A place to come outside of the structured walls to share ideas, stories and skills to help our “Special Kids” Come to a Question and Answer session of getting this “Valley SEPTA” started.. Keynote Speaker – Kevin Daly, President - Connecticut SEPTA Council - Support Held at: Special Events Room Shelton, CT Natalie DiDente (203) 305- 2468 November 16 “A Mock PPT” 7:00 pm Berlin The Berlin Special Education Teacher Association (SEPTA) presents “A Mock PPT” moderated by Kevin Daly, President of the Connecticut Special Education Parent Teacher Association. The mock PPT will feature a panel of parents who will role play a PPT meeting about a student with ADHD. Free information on PPT’s and special education will be available. There is no charge for this presentation. Held at: the Berlin High School Media Center, 139 Patterson Way, Berlin, CT November 16 ADHD/LD Parent Survival Guide 7 p.m Southbury Guest Speaker: Roseann Capanna-Hodge, Ed.D., LPC, LLC
Southbury-Middlebury SEPTA www.region15septa.org or contact jacquelinemc@charter.net or jenweitz@sbcglobal.net . November 16 Farmington SEPTA presents Assistive Technology 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Unionville (Farmington) Guest Speaker: Nicole Feeney of New England Assistive Technology (NEAT) She is an Assistive Technology Specialist who provides professional development, training, technical assistance, and consultation on the continuum of assistive technology devices and services to families, educators, therapists, clinicians, and healthcare professionals. Nicole provides AT consultations and evaluations to people with disabilities of all ages and offers AT demonstrations to promote community awareness. This presentation will provide an overview of Assistive Technology tools beneficial in supporting students who struggle in the typical classroom. We will explore tools that can help build a foundation and create opportunity to be successful in many skills; listening, math, organization and memory, reading, and writing. These tools can increase a student’s self reliance and give them a sense of independence. Participants will view some of the most current and emerging technology tools including computer hardware, software, and electronic devices. The NEAT Center at Oak Hill brings people with temporary or permanent disabilities, their families and the professionals who work with them together with the equipment and servicesthey need to live, learn and work. NEAT enriches lives by enhancing independence and qualityof life for people with disabilities including visual impairments. It sets the standard in providinginnovative solutions, program excellence, services and advocacy for people with disabilities. Held at the Farmington Community Center 321 New Britain Ave., Unionville November 17 THE INTEL READER (Bring your Children!) 7:00 p.m. - 9 pm Milford Guest Speaker: Susan Dimmick, PhD, - Intel Reader Champion, Intel Corporation
The
Intel Reader is a mobile
handheld
device designed to increase
independence for people
who have learning disabilities such as
dyslexia, or for people with low vision, blindness or anyone who struggles with
reading standard print. Its
unique
design combines a high-resolution camera
with the power of an Intel Atom processor to take a photo of printed text and
read it aloud to the user. When
it
is
used together with the Intel Portable
Capture Station, large amounts of text - such as a chapter or a book -
can be
easily captured for reading later. With
the Intel Reader, users have convenient and flexible access to a
variety of
printed materials, helping to
increase their freedom, enjoyment and confidence
in their daily lives, and to improve
their
productivity and efficiency at
school and work. Light
refreshments will be served. NOTE: For Parent Confidentiality: 7 pm – 8 pm: Open Door - Public Meeting 8 pm - 9 pm: Closed Door - "Parents Only" (Click on the "Directions" Tab at top left of page) FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Susan St. Pierre, President - SEPTA Network susan.stpierre@snet.net 203-640-8017 November 17 IDEA, 504, PPT, IEP, IEE – What Does It All Mean? - Part 2 (see Nov. 9th - Part 1) 6:30 - 8:30 pm Newtown November 17, 2010 Sucess SEPTA Presents Dr. Michael Powers 6:30 PM Willington Dr. Powers is a Pediatric Psychologist, and the Director of The Center for Children with Special Needs. He is an expert in the diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment of individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities. He is the author of the new book, Asperger Syndrome and Your Child (HarperCollins), and is also the editor of the award-winning book Children with Autism: A Parents’ Guide, (Second Edition, Woodbine House). Dr. Powers is the author of numerous articles and book chapters on autism, and he has presented extensively throughout the United States and abroad. Dr. Powers holds an appointment as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychology at the Yale Child Study Center, Yale University. He is a member of the Professional Advisory Board of the Asperger Syndrome Coalition of the United States and former member of the Board of Directors of the Autism Society of America. Childcare provided with reservation only. Held at: Willington Public Library - 7 Ruby Road, Willington, CT RSVP to successsepta@gmail.com or contact President Cathy Britschock 860-429-8333 or Treasurer Sharon Corr 860-477-0339 There is no charge for this event and all are welcome! Finger foods or desserts are greatly appreciated November 22 Bullying in the Classroom and the Chat Room: - Ensuring that Every Student is Safe to Learn 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Hartford A conversation with young people affected by bullying, state policy leaders, and local stakeholders who have experienced success in tackling the problem. Keynote speaker: Kevin Jennings - Assistant Deputy Secretary and Director, Office of Safe & Drug-Free Schools U.S. Department of Education Washington, D.C. Mr. Jennings heads the federal office responsible for bullying and school safety issues. He led the design of the new federal Safe and Supportive Schools grant program and convened the Department of Education’s first-ever bullying summit in 2010. Held at the Legislative Office Building (Room 2-C), 300 Capitol Avenue, Hartford Sponsored by The Governor’s Prevention Partnership and the Connecticut Commission on Children This event is free, but space is limited! Register today online at www.cga.ct.gov/coc Questions? Call 860-240-0290 or 860-523-8042, ext. 34 November 30 The Structure of Social Instruction and Supporting Friendships: Part 1 - Creating Social Stories & Video Social Stories 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wilton Michael J. Weiss, Ph.D. will discuss therapeutic uses of Social Stories and “Video Social Stories” and offer guidelines for creating them. Possible topics will be discussed as a group, and Dr. Weiss will teach participants how to construct helpful social stories for their children. Bring an “issue” of concern (for example, playing with others nicely; listening/interrupting; getting frustrated; being a good winner/ loser; asking for help), along with your laptop, Microsoft Powerpoint, and, if you have one, a video camera to hook up to your computer. Leave with a personal social story tailor-made for your particular child and with the know-how to make more. Held at the Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton. Registration highly recommended: rsvp@spednetwilton.org or 203-563-9994. Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton, www.spednetwilton.org, and Wilton Library, www.wiltonlibrary.org. DECEMBER 2010 December
8
State and federal benefits - What might my child with a disability be eligible for and how do I apply? 6:30 PM Fairfield Representatives from Social Security Administration, Bureau of Rehabilitation and Department of Developmental Services will review what they offer and their eligibility criteria. Held at: Fairfield Warde High School, 755 Melville Avenue, Fairfield, CT 06825. RSVP to Chris Librandi at CLIBRANDI@fairfield.k12.ct.us. December 13, 2010 INSIDE THE CHRO's COMPLAINT PROCESS. 5 - 7pm. Bridgeport CHRO = State of Connecticut, Commission on Human Rights & Opportunities. Please join the Executive Director of the CHRO,Robert Brothers, Jr., Public Hearing Referees, the Manager of the Southwest Region, Tanya Hughes & CHRO Attorneys and Investigators for an INFORMATIONAL SESSION. Discussion Topics: Discrimination, · Protected Classes, · Intake, · Investigation, · The Law, · The Public Hearing Process. DISCRIMINATION is unfair treatment or denial of normal privileges to persons because they belong to a protected class. Discrimination is a failure to treat all persons equally where no reasonable distinction can be found between those favored and those not favored. Have you ever been discriminated against? Do you want to understand the CHRO's process? Do you want to meet representatives from CHRO's investigative and legal staff? Discrimination is Illegal. The CHRO enforces anti-discrimination laws in Employment, Housing, Credit and Places of Public Accommodation such as schools, stores, etc. ADMISSION IS FREE. Held at Burroughs-Saden Library, 925 Broad Street, Bridgeport, CT. RSVP cheryl.sharp@ct.gov. For more information contact Cheryl Sharp at (860) 541-3450. December 20 (snow date Wednesday, December 22, 2010) Developing a "Behavior Support Plan" 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wilton Michael J. Weiss, Ph.D. will discuss the formal construction of behavioral strategies that can be useful in supporting a behaviorally challenged child along with proactive strategies that influence behavior. Participants will leave with tailored lists of information relevant to using behavioral techniques with their child such as “interest inventories,” reinforcement strategies and forms of time-out strategies that may be influential with your child. Many of these strategies will flow from the development of a “Functional Developmental Analysis (FDA)” discussed in the prior October, 25th session. Held
at the Wilton Library, 137 Old
Ridgefield Road, Wilton. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ JANUARY 2011 Autism
Study.
Sacred Heart University
- Masters of
Occupational Therapy Students
Will
sibling imitation increase social
play behaviors in children with autism?
Previous research has shown that adult
imitation of children with autism improves their interaction and
responsiveness.
Sacred
Heart University Graduate students are conducting a research study to
examine whether sibling imitation is also a beneficial treatment for
children with autism.
Participants needed: Children
with autism between the ages of 3 and 5 with a typical sibling between
the ages of 4 and 11
Free
toys!!
If you are
interested or have any questions, please contact the SHU graduate
student researchers @ Siblingimitationstudy@gmail.com
Picture Schedules 6:30-8:30 pm West Haven Guest Speakers: Meaghan Damato, Speech Pathologist and Jennifer Gonzalez, Special Educator Picture schedules are a powerful tool empowering our children with autism with a form of communication. There will be a hands on workshop also provided. Come prepared with your ideas and needs. Our meetings we will end promptly at 8:30 p.m. this will provide an opportunity to mingle with newfound friends and pick up our children from the child care. Light refreshments will be served. Donations are also welcome Child care will be provided, however it is Mandatory to register your child by Friday, December 31st. If you choose to take advantage of this service please call 203-937-3760 or email Janet Booth at awetism10@yahoo.com. It is extremely important to register your child/children for the childcare, to ensure there is enough room and adequate childcare providers. Sponsored by: Autism Family Support Group Held at: Johnson Community Center, Noble Street, West Haven January 5, 2011 Family Focus Partnership - Social Skills Planning Meeting Danbury Yale Child Study Center and they will be presenting to Parents and Providers on this subject at our February 2nd meeting. However, in order to make this presentation as effective as possible we need to know more of what Parents and Providers would be hoping for. A light lunch will be provided. Held at: Education Connection (building next to CITGO - Parking at rear with entrance to parking and Education Connection at the opposite end of the building to CITGO) Please RSVP to Juleen Flanigan, MSW at flanigan@educationconnection.org or 203-791-1904 (ext. 169) www.educationconnection.org January 12 Straford SEPTA presents - Successful Potty Training 7 pm- 8:30 pm Stratford Guest speaker Ashley Hickey has been potty training children with Autism Spectrum Disorders since 2001. Ashley has potty trained more than 100 children, both typically developing and with Autism Spectrum Disorders. She uses effective research based methods, including positive reinforcement. www.successfulpottytraining.net Doors open at 6:30 pm Held at: Johnson House of Stratford Academy Media Center / Library 719 Birdseye Street, Stratford CT 06615 January 18 Transition: The Journey to Adulthood and Beyond 6:30pm - 8:30pm Waterbury Chris Librandi, Transition Specialist with Fairfield Public Schools will discuss: -What is a transition plan? -How is a transition plan developed for your child? -What can a parent do to help with the transition process? Cost: Free Held at: Holiday Inn – Waterbury 3580 East Main Street, Waterbury, CT Reservations Requested. - Please RSVP to ctfeat1@ctfeat.org or 860-571-3888 with number of guests attending* * NOTE: THESE MEETINGS ARE FOR PARENTS AND FAMILY MEMBERS ONLY. Unfortunately, there is no child-care available. January 19 Aspergers Students Speaking on: Reaching for What You Need 5:30-6:45 Westport Students are panelists from the Focus Alternative Learning Center in Canton CT. Some of the panelists were present at Governor Rell’s signing of the Autism bills in 2008. The Director of Focus, Donna Swanson, was honored by Joe Lieberman as one of CT’s Best. The Program is Free - Light Supper will be Provided - Reservations are Required - and You must be Accompanied by Child with a Spectrum Diagnosis. Make Your Reservation at 203 254 0100 or at info@inclusionteaming.org. Sponsored by:INCLUSION TEAMING - www.inclusionteaming.org, Westport non-profit, offering training on Communication Diversity to groups of students with Typical and Atypical Skills is providing the program. INCLUSION TEAMING is currently offering a 16-week course on “Spectrum Differences.” The course begins January 5th . Held at 1465 Post Road East, Westport, CT. January 19 Social Skills Development for Children with Learning Differences - Making and Keeping Freindships 7:00 to 9:00pm Norwalk TODD KELLOGG, MA, LMFT is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice at Positive Family Behavior, LLC in Trumbull (toddkellogg@positivefamilybehavior.com). He specializes in providing structural family and behavioral therapy to resolve challenging behaviors in children both at home and at school, to build partners between home and school and to increase parenting skills. Mr. Kellogg also worked at the Greenwich Autism Program (GAP). While at GAP, he developed a series of social skills groups for children with Aspergers and high-functioning Autism. The forum will take place at Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Ave., Community Room, Norwalk Sponsored by Norwalk Public Schools-www.portal.norwalkps.org. Questions? (203) 854-4126. The forum is free and open to the public. January 19 SUCCESS SEPTA! Practical Strategies for Sensory Solutions 6:30 pm Willington (Near Storrs) Guest Speakers: Marie Mancini, OTR L and Melissa Broxton OTR L, Owners of Advanced Therapy Solutions in Wethersfield The workshop will provide an overview of Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), how it impacts children at home and at school. Practical solutions, strategies and tips will be provided to help parents and/or caregivers manage everyday situations. A question and answer session will follow. Optional: Parents are invited to submit a question that relates to a sensory or OT-related topic. It can be a question or the sharing of a technique that has worked for your family. Finger foods, Children welcome! Held at: Willington Public Library, Community Room (lower level) 7 Ruby Rd, Willington Contact successsepta@gmail.com or call with any questions: President Cathy Britschock 860 429-8333 or Treasurer Sharon Corr 860 477-0339 1/19/2011 Educational Series for Caregivers of Individuals with Autism New advances in the diagnosis and treatment of autism 7:00 PM West Hartford Guest Speaker: Michael D. Powers, Psy. D. Held at: Board Room of the Jewish Family Services of Greater Hartford 333 Bloomfield Ave., Suite A West Hartford, CT 06117
Offered by the Center for Children with Special Needs
January 24 GRASP Older Teens & Young Adults on the Autism Spectrum Support Group Topic: FAMILIES 7 to 9 pm Fairfield GRASP stands for the Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership. It is the largest organization in the world of adults and teens diagnosed along the autism spectrum, mostly with Asperger Syndrome. GRASP's mission is to improve the lives of adults and teens on the autism spectrum through community outreach, peer supports, education, and advocacy. The Executive Director of GRASP, Michael John Carley will be facilitating this group. For additional information and registration please go to www.GRASP.org There you will need to hit the subscribe button at the top of the page, then fill out the form and select the ‘Bridgeport CT’ group from the list of available groups to join. There is no charge to attend, however, we do require that you register through this website if you would like to attend. The GRASP (Global & Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership) meetings are held at: Fairfield Public Library, 1080 Post Road, Fairfield, CT Sponsored by: Indvidual Development & Education for Autism (IDEA), Inc. a non-profit located in Bridgeport, whose mission is to promote and assure maximum independence and quality of life for adults with autism spectrum conditions. January 24 Last Day to Sign Up! Families are their child’s best advocates but they need to be prepared to act on behalf of their child in productive ways. This includes understanding the nature of their child’s disability, school district policies and procedures, basic principles of IDEA and what is considered to be best practice for children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). This
is a unique opportunity to receive
the knowledge and skills needed to advocate successfully for your child. This is a series designed specifically for
parents, guardians or advocates. Before
making the decision to participate
in this training series, please keep in mind that we ask that you make
a full
commitment. It is important that you
attend most, if not all of the sessions, in order to fully benefit from
the
training. The training sessions will be held: - Thursday mornings - 9:30 am to 12:30 pm - The Connecticut Autism Spectrum Resource Center, Inc. It
will start February 3, 2011 and run through April 14, 2011. If
you would like to attend the series, please fill out the registration
form and
return it to the January
24th. There
is
limited space so first come first served. For additional information, please contact Lois Rosenwald at: (203) 265-7717 January
25
HIGH RISK TO HIGH POTENTIAL - Transition Issues For High School and College Students with ADHD. 10 - noon New Canaan About
the speaker:
Robert M. Tudisco is a practicing
attorney, freelance writer
and an adult diagnosed with AD/HD.
He is currently the Executive Director of the Edge Foundation and is a past member of the National Board of Directors of Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (CHADD). He is a current member, and immediate past chair of CHADD's Public Policy Committee. Robert is also a former Vice President of the Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA). Since his diagnosis, he has researched and written extensively on the subject of practical coping mechanisms and systems for adults with AD/HD. He is a frequent resource for the media about AD/HD and disability advocacy and the over representation of individuals with AD/HD and co-occurring conditions in the juvenile/criminal justice systems compared to that in the general population. He has been published in ATTENTION!® Magazine and regularly contributes as a columnist on adult, parenting and legal issues in addition to sitting on its Editorial Advisory Board. He is also the expert legal columnist for ADDitude Magazine. Robert received his Juris Doctor at the Fordham University School of Law in 1989. He subsequently served four years as an Assistant District Attorney in Bronx County. For the last twenty years he has practiced criminal and civil litigation as a practicing attorney in New York. Since his diagnosis, he has dedicated a growing portion of his practice as an advocate for special needs children, adolescents and adults in the area of legal, administrative and educational issues. He also lectures at conferences throughout the country and speaks at special education PTA meetings. He also accepts engagements as a keynote and motivational speaker for parenting and student groups. Robert is an avid runner and six time marathon finisher. He lives with his wife and young son in Eastchester, New York. He welcomes comments and questions at rtudisco@edgefoundation.org. Held at the Waveny House in Waveny Park New Canaan. For directions, check http://www.newcanaan.info/content/9492/9224/675/1531.aspx. Bagels and coffee served. Sponsored by SPED*NET New Canaan. Please RSVP to Anne Treimanis (Eason) at attorneytreimanis@gmail.com. January 25 “Dyslexia and ADHD” 7 - 8:30pm Glastonbury Guest Speaker: Les Held at the Glastonbufy High School Library. January 26 SEPTA Network - MEETING CANCELLED 7 pm - 9 pm Milford January
26
Parent Survival Strategies: Using Behavioral Techniques at Home and in the Community. 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Wilton Parents of children with challenging behavior face daunting challenges on many levels, as they try to function as both caregivers and teachers. The emotional toll often serves as a road-block to a parent's ability to feel successful in these roles. Advice from professionals may seem too cumbersome to readily follow; strategies effective in educational settings may appear too complicated to implement in the context of family life. This presentation will focus on implementing evidence-based strategies specifically designed for parents of children with challenging behaviors, no matter what their diagnoses. Suzanne Letso, M.A., BCBA, and Judith Palazzo, M.S., BCBA, parent-professionals who have dealt with these challenges in their roles as caregivers and teachers, will discuss and demonstrate learn user-friendly techniques to help participants deal with a variety of challenging situations. Ms. Letso is co-founder and CEO of the CT Center for Child Development, Inc. (CCCD), a private, non-profit, state-approved special education setting providing services and support to individuals with autism and their families. Among other things, it operates a private ABA school program, Outreach Program, Community Education Initiative, recreation programs, respite services and diagnostic center and conducts school start-up consultations. Ms. Palazzo is the Director of Behavior Analysis for CCCD, responsible for over-seeing all aspects of student program development and staff training as it pertains to applied behavior analysis. Joining CCCD in 1999, Ms. Palazzo helped develop its Outreach Program, for which she served as director for three years. Through CCCD, she has provided consultations to schools and agencies which are starting up new programs and improving existing services for people with autism. A founding member of the CT chapter of the Association for Behavior Analysis, Ms. Palazzo served for two years on its Executive Council. In 2000, she published "Daniel's Mom," an article in Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, which depicts her own personal struggles with her son's challenging behavior. Ms. Palazzo has lectured about autism and ABA at local, national and international conferences and has worked in the field of autism treatment since 1990, providing services for children in public and private schools and in home and community settings. Held at the Wilton Library, 137 Old Ridgefield Road, Wilton. Registration highly recommended: rsvp@spednetwilton.org or 203-563-9994. Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton, www.spednetwilton.org, and Wilton Library, www.wiltonlibrary.org. February 2 Autism Family Support Group 6:30 - 8:30 pm is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Behavior Analyst Consultant, specializing in functional behavior analysis and intervention for challenging behavior with children and adults. The evening's program will begin at 7:00 p.m. We will end promptly at 8:30 p.m. This will provide an opportunity to mingle with newfound friends, and pick up our children from the child care. Purpose of our meeting is to get together to share ideas, tips, knowledge and most of all to be supportive of each other. Light refreshments will be served. Donations are also welcome. Child care will be provided, however it is Mandatory to register your child by Wednesday, January 26th. If you choose to take advantage of this service please call 203-937-3760 or email Janet Booth at awetism10@yahoo.com. It is extremely important to register your child/children for the children, to ensure there is enough room and adequate childcare providers. Held at: February
4
Learn to Play Attention® . 10:00 a.m. to noon. Wilton Douglas De Massa, D.C., M.S., a Chiropractic Physician and the creator of Neuron-Do®, a brain-based martial art, will discuss and demonstrate sophisticated software that teaches you how to pay attention by controlling the computer with your mind alone. This is the same type of software that has been used by N.A.S.A. and the U.S. Air Force but was developed by an educator for children with attentional issues. Focusing on children with learning disabilities, ADD/ADHD and autism spectrum disorders, Dr. De Massa will explain how right and left hemisphere brain function and sensory motor integration relate to learning and development. He will also discuss how integrating the software program with his brain-based martial art Neuron-Do® can improve attention, endurance, short-term memory skills, impulse control, time-on-task, visual tracking, balance, coordination and self-confidence. Dr. De Massa has a Bachelor's Degree in Sports Biology, a Master's Degree in Human Nutrition and a post-doctoral qualification in the treatment of ADD/HD, Learning Disabilities, and Behavioral Disorders. He is a Fourth Degree Black Belt and the creator of Neuron-Do®, Dr. De Massa is also an adjunct professor at the University of Bridgeport College of Chiropractic for Maternal and Child Health and a Board Eligible Chiropractic Neurologist. He teaches general Neuron-Do® classes at the Wilton Family Y, the Greenwich YMCA and at his office in Norwalk, CT, where he works with students one-on-one and in groups. Held at The Greens at Cannondale, 435 Danbury Road, Wilton. Registration highly recommended: rsvp@spednetwilton.org or 203-563-9994. Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton and the Wilton Family Y. February 8, 2011 Stratford Autism Parent Support Group - Monthly Meeting 7:00 - 8:30 Stratford Our informal monthly meeting, held on the second Tuesday of each month, are where we share ideas, resources, etc. Held at: The Sterling House Community Center, Main Street, Stratford. February 9 Stratford SEPTA presents Dentistry for children with Special Needs 7 pm- 8:30 pm Stratford Guest Speaker: Mary Ritter, DMD * of Commerce Park Dental *Voted one of Connecticut Magazine’s Top Dentist of 2010! Doors open at 6:30 pm Held at: Johnson House of Stratford Academy Media Center / Library 719 Birdseye Street, Stratford CT 06615 February 16 SEPTA Network presents... “A BRAIN BASED APPROACH FOR CHILDREN STRUGGLING WITH ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, & Related Disorders” 7 pm - 9 pm Milford Guest Speaker: Mark Goldenberg, DC, DABCN, FACFN Exec. Director, This lecture is for parents and educators of children ages 4 – 17 who are struggling with academic, behavioral, emotional or sensory issues. Dr. Goldenberg will present the neurology behind development and neurobehavioral disorders such, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Autism, OCD and related disorders. The presentation will review the neurological basis for these conditions and how a non medical brain based approach can improve outcomes at home and school. Refreshments will be served!
NOTE: For Parent Confidentiality: 7 pm – 8 pm: Open Door - Public Meeting 8 pm - 9 pm: Closed Door - "Parents Only" Held at: FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Susan St. Pierre, President - SEPTA Network susan.stpierre@snet.net 203-640-8017 February
16
Thirteen Elements that Influence Behavior (and What Should be in a Good IEP). 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Norwalk Michael Weiss, Ph.D., Consulting Developmental Psychologist, Adjunct Professor at Fairfield University and Director of Applied Developmental Analysis, LLC, www.michaelweissphd.com, is hosting a series of instructional seminars and workshops addressing the needs of children with special needs -- from AD/HD and learning disabilities to Asperger's Syndrome and autism spectrum disorders, focusing on the "core spheres" of differences in communication and social interactions and the narrow ranges of actions and interests. Participants will learn the basics of how to formally evaluate their children's needs, how to develop therapeutic and educational strategies across the spheres of difficulties, how to make, modify or coordinate materials that are suited to their particular children and what commercially available programs and materials are available and appropriate. Michael Weiss, Ph.D. will present an in-depth look at factors that influence children's behavioral growth and development. He will discuss these factors in a context of elements that should be reflected in a child's Individual Education Plan (IEP). The over-arching point of this discussion is that an integrated set of services, therapies and approaches to education, along with a thoughtful set of behavioral strategies, is what promotes a child's self-control and ability to relate well to others. This discussion will be framed around children with diverse diagnoses, ranging from AD/HD to autism spectrum disorders. Held at Norwalk City Hall, 125 East Avenue, Community Room, Norwalk. Registration highly recommended: rsvp@spednetwilton.org or 203-563-9994. Co-sponsored by SPED*NET Wilton, www.spednetwilton.org and Norwalk Public Schools, www.portal.norwalkps.org. February 23 Understanding Diversity in Communications -
Never Too Early To Start |
