SPECIAL CAMP FAIR ON SATURDAY, Jan. 26, 2008

Parents and caregivers of children and teens with disabilities can plan ahead for summer with the wealth of information offered at the 23rd annual free Special Camp Fair on Saturday, January 26, 2008 from 11 AM to 3 PM. at the Church of St. Paul the Apostle, (Entrance to Fair on Columbus Ave. near W. 60th St.) NYC .

The Fair is presented by Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc., (212) 677-4650. www.resourcesnyc.org

Representatives from 70 New York City day camps and sleepaway camps in the northeast will be on hand to help parents and professionals plan productive summer experiences for children with disabilities. The Fair will also feature information on travel programs, remedial education programs, volunteer and job opportunities and early childhood programs. Spanish and sign language interpreters will be available.

Visitors to the Fair will receive a free copy of the Camps 2008 Guide.

The Camps 2008 Guide (publication date January 2008) is also available by sending a check for $25 plus $8.00 postage and handling to Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc., Dept. PR1, 116 E. 16th St., 5th Floor, New York, NY 10003.

Medicaid Waiver: Manhattan Consumer Council

The Manhattan Consumer Council

For family members of persons with any developmental disability of any age... For consumers with developmental disabilities...

Join with other parents, siblings, grandparents, and consumers from all neighborhoods in Manhattan to build a better life for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Developmental disabilities include mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, learning disabilities, and neurological impairments.

Come and Be Empowered:

Learn about the many services that can help your family
Help us advise the state and city about needed services
Network with other family members and consumers
Advocate with us for more and better services

Everything you ever wanted to know about the Waiver!

Everybody's talking about it! But many people aren't really sure what the waiver is or how it can help their family member. Lois Gillman, director of community services of the local Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, will explain what the waiver is, what services are available through the waiver, and how you can get them. Lois will unravel the mystery of waiver and answer all your questions!

Join us at our next meeting:
December 6, 2007
75 Morton Street
New York, New York 10014
10 AM to Noon

In case of bad weather call 212-273-6376 after 8:30 AM to see if the meeting is cancelled.

For further information, call Margaret Puddington, chairperson, at 212-799-2042

Turning 5 Orientations for 2008

The NYC Department of Education is holding orientation fairs for parents of children with disabilities who will be turning 5 this year and attending kindergarten in 2008-09. Schedule available at http://schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/2BCCCF14-9EAE-4506-BD3E-42E9789BCE99/27492/FinalizedTurning5OrientationFairSchedule2007.pdf

If you attend, please send me a report, or use the comments to do so.

Special Needs School Fair at the JCC and Workshops Too

All events at the JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Avenue, www.jccmanhattan.org

2007 Special Needs School Fair

The School Fair will provide a convenient and accessible forum for the special needs community to explore and become informed about the wide range of special needs schools located in Manhattan. You will have the opportunity to meet with special needs nursery and elementary school representatives to learn more about what their schools have to offer.

Wed, Nov 28
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM

The Evaluation Process:Everything You Always Wanted to Know

If you are concerned about your child's development or have been advised to seek an evaluation, then this program should be an invaluable resource. Facilitated by Dr. Marilyn C. Agin, MD, FAAP, MA, CCC/SLP, neuro-developmental pediatrician and author. Dr. Agin will discuss how to begin, the professionals you will need, what will be expected of your child, the assessment tools used, what the results mean, who gets the results and how will they be used to help your child.

Thu, Oct 25
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
$20.00 - Member
$25.00 - Non-Member
HSREVP00F8

Due Process Impartial Hearings: Doing Your Own

Regina Skyer, noted attorney and child advocate, has designed this six-week course to teach and empower parents of special needs children to do their own impartial hearing. This class will cover an overview of relevant laws and regulations, how to write a hearing request, what to disclose, who to subpoena and how to prepare witnesses. A mock hearing with an opportunity to play dual roles and an overview of the decision and appeal process will also be part of the curriculum. Limited to 12.

6 times on Thursdays
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Nov 1 - Dec 13
Except: Nov 22
$180.00 - Member
$240.00 - Non-Member
HSRDPI00F8

Sunday Movie Matinees: Autism Every Day

Autism Every Day Autism Every Day takes its audience inside the lives of eight families struggling to raise children with autism, a neurobiological disorder that now affects 1 in every 150 children. It is an unvarnished portrayal of the unrelenting, 24-hour-a-day challenges faced by these families and thousands like them as they confront the heartbreak of autism with uncompromising hope and unconditional love. The documentary film, produced by Autism Speaks, premiered at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival.

Sun, Nov 4
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
HSRSMM00F8

Other Special Needs Parenting Workshops this Fall
Learning Differences Don't Have to Be Disabilities:A Conversation with Dana Buchman and Leda Molly
Holistic Neurology:Everything You Always Wanted to Know
Sibling Relationships:When One Is Different

Autism the Musical at Mead Film Festival, also Praying with Lior

Autism: The Musical
Tricia Regan. 2006. 93 min. (US)

This joyous, unsentimental portrait of Elaine Hall and the children of the Miracle Project provides a glimpse into the lives of five families as they struggle with the ups and downs of raising a child with autism. The film follows the children over the course of one year and features a dedicated woman who believes that through a musical, these children will discover the world outside themselves.

Saturday, November 10
5:45 pm, Program F4
Co-presenter: Autism Speaks and Tribeca Film Festival
Discussion with director

Praying with Lior
Ilana Trachtman. 2007. 87 min. (US) NY Premiere

This film introduces Lior Liebling, also called the “little rebbe.” Lior has Down syndrome and has spent his entire life praying with utter abandon. Is he a “spiritual genius,” as many around him say, or simply the vessel that contains everyone’s unfulfilled wishes and expectations? As Lior approaches his bar mitzvah, different characters provide a window into life spent “praying with Lior.” The film challenges the way people with disabilities are perceived and received by faith communities.

Sunday, November 11
5:15 pm, Program F16
Co-presenter: The Center for Religion and Media at New York University
Discussion with director

For tickets and locations, www.amnh.org/mead

Eden II/Genesis Parent & Professional Workshops

EDEN II/GENESIS PROGRAMS FALL 2007 WORKSHOPS

EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKSHOPS
November 5, 6, & 8

FALL AUTISM WORKSHOPS
November 13, 15, & 16

Four Points by Sheraton, 33 South Service Road, Plainview, NY



Utilizing scientifically validated treatment procedures, Eden II/Genesis Programs has been a leader in the effective intervention and education of individuals with autism over the past 30 years. In an effort to disseminate sound information about autism spectrum disorders and provide training and support, Eden II/Genesis Programs will offer the following fall workshops.

For more workshop information or to receive a workshop brochure, please contact
Marissa Bennett 516.937.1397 Ext. 217 or mbennett@eden2.org
The workshop brochure can be viewed and downloaded online at www.eden2.org

EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKSHOPS

These early childhood workshops are designed to assist in the development of effective treatment programs for young children affected by autism spectrum disorders and are targeted to professionals and parents seeking information for children in the early intervention through preschool age range.

1. USING TECHNOLOGY TO INCREASE SOCIAL AND LANGUAGE SKILLS FOR YOUNG LEARNERS WITH AUTISM
Dana Battaglia, MA, CCC-SLP

This workshop will provide information on a variety of computer, video-, and audio-based instructional methods that can be used to teach skills to children with autism. Specifically, the use of PowerPoint lessons to improve social skills, vocabulary skills, language skills reviewed. The use of video technology will be discussed in relation to teaching language concepts to individuals with autism. In addition, strategies for script usage, fading and generalization will be discussed.

Monday, November 5, 2007
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton, Plainview
Fee: $75


2. STRATEGIES FOR PROMOTING VOCALIZATIONS AND SPEECH AS WELL AS ENHANCING INTELLIGIBILITY IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Joanne Gerenser, PhD, CCC-SLP

The development of speech is often a significant challenge for many learners with autism. In fact, 30-50 % of children with autism may not develop functional speech. For many, direct instruction is often necessary to establish a vocal and verbal repertoire. This workshop will provide an overview of the challenges often present in acquiring speech in young learners with autism. Strategies for promoting vocal and verbal skills in children with little or no speech will be presented. Programming to enhance speech intelligibility, fluency as well as intonation and volume will also be addressed.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton, Plainview
Fee: $75


3. BEHAVIORAL BASED STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVING INSTRUCTION FOR YOUNG LEARNERS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS
Mary McDonald, PhD, BCBA

This workshop will provide participants with information regarding the use of strategies based in the principles of applied behavior analysis to improve outcomes in young learners with ASD. Sample topics will include the use of behavioral momentum, exclusion training and using multiple exemplars and general case strategy.

Thursday, November 8, 2007
4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton, Plainview
Fee: $75

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
A certificate of attendance will be given to all registrants.
ASHA CEUs will be offered for workshops 1 & 2


FALL AUTISM WORSKHOPS

These workshops are designed to offer training in the understanding and implementation of applied behavior analysis (ABA) procedures for individuals across the autism spectrum. These workshops are open to professionals and parents and workshop content is suitable for intervention with individuals of all ages and functioning levels across the autism spectrum.


1. PROMOTING LEARNING: INCORPORATING TECHNOLOGY INTO THE CLASSROOM
Dana Battaglia, MA, CCC-SLP

This workshop will provide information on a variety of computer, video-, and audio-based instructional methods that can be used to teach skills to children with autism in an academic setting. Specifically, the use of PowerPoint lessons to improve vocabulary and language skills will be reviewed. The use of video technology will be discussed in relation to teaching language concepts. Audio scripts will be presented to demonstrate acquisition of language in the context of play. Direct relevance to the Learning Standards will be discussed. Curriculum samples will be provided and will assist attendees with future curriculum development.

Tuesday, November 13, 2007
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton, Plainview
Fee: $100

2. CONDUCTING A FUNCTIONAL BEHAVIOR ASSESSMENT (FBA)
Frank Cicero, PhD, BCBA

Children with autism will frequently exhibit a range of challenging behavior. The first step in designing an effective treatment for challenging behavior is to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA). It is from the information gathered through an FBA that you can determine why the individual engages in challenging behavior. A function-based treatment program can then be developed. In this workshop, the speaker will present the audience with the theory behind conducting an FBA. The audience will then be presented with a number of methods for conducting an FBA and will learn how to interpret the data gathered from an FBA. The workshop will conclude with information on how to transform your information from your FBA into an effective treatment.

Thursday, November 15, 2007
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton, Plainview
Fee: $100


3. DEVELOPING SOCIAL SKILLS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS: FROM ASSESSMENT TO INTERVENTION
Mary McDonald, PhD, BCBA

This session will focus on assessment strategies and tools that can be used to assist educators or parents in their goal planning in the area of socialization for students with ASD. Social behavior (verbal and non-verbal) will be discussed. Specific tools will be reviewed as they pertain to the assessment process. Developing a comprehensive assessment through Individualized student assessment will be discussed as it relates to both standardized and non-standardized tools. There will be further discussion on developing intervention in the area of social skills as it pertains to the individual student.

Friday, November 16, 2007
9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Four Points by Sheraton, Plainview
Fee: $100

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
A certificate of attendance will be given to all registrants.
ASHA CEUs will be offered for workshops 1 & 3

WORKSHOP FACULTY

Dana Battaglia, MA, CCC-SLP
Ms. Battaglia received her Bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from C.W. Post/Long Island University, and her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from St. John’s University in Queens, New York. She is a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist and Teacher of the Speech and Hearing Handicapped in New York State. Ms. Battaglia holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). She has conducted presentations on autism and speech-language related topics at the local, state and national levels. She has worked in a variety of public and private settings including Early Intervention. Ms. Battaglia is the Clinical Coordinator of Outreach Services at the Eden II/Genesis School and is pursuing her Doctorate degree at the City University of New York in Speech and Hearing Sciences. In addition, she is an adjunct instructor at Hofstra University.

Frank Cicero, PhD, BCBA
Dr. Cicero is currently the Director of Psychological Services for Eden II Programs. He is a certified school psychologist receiving his Masters degree from the City University of New York Graduate Center and recently completed his doctorate. Dr. Cicero has presented at local and national conferences on a variety of topics related to applied behavior analysis, autism and school psychology. He also has published in the area of toilet training and developmental disabilities. Dr. Cicero also serves as the membership chairperson for the New York State Association for Behavior Analysis.

Joanne Gerenser, PhD, CCC-SLP
Dr. Gerenser is the Executive Director of the Eden II Programs. She received her Master’s Degree at the Ohio State University and her PhD in Speech and Hearing Science at the City University of New York Graduate Center. Dr. Gerenser is a past-president of the New York State Association for Behavior Analysis and a member of the Scientific Advisory Council for the Organization for Autism Research. She is the Vice President of the Board of the Interagency Council for Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities. Dr. Gerenser is an adjunct Associate Professor at Brooklyn College as well as Penn State University. She has authored several book chapters and articles on speech language disorders in autism and developmental disabilities. Dr. Gerenser serves as an associate editor for the Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis-Speech Language Pathology.

Mary E. McDonald, PhD, BCBA
Dr. McDonald is currently the Director of Outreach for Eden II Programs providing training and consultation to various programs and school districts. She has over 17 years experience working with children with autism utilizing the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. She completed her PhD in Learning Theory at the CUNY Graduate Center and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Dr. McDonald served as the Director of The Genesis School from its inception in 1995 to 2007. Dr. McDonald has also worked in early intervention programs providing supervision, training and consultation for almost 10 years. She participates on a number of advisory boards and committees that serve individuals with autism. Dr. McDonald is currently an Assistant Professor in the Special Education Department at Hofstra University.

REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Fees are nonrefundable, unless cancellation notification is provided at least 48 hours prior to workshop.

Make checks payable to Eden II Programs, and mail registration form and fee to:
Eden II/Genesis Programs
270 Washington Avenue, Plainview, NY 11803
Attention: Marissa Bennett

For More Information: Phone: 516-937-1397 X217 mbennett@eden2.org

REGISTRATION FORM:

Name:

Title:

Affiliation:

Address:

City: State: Zip:

Phone: Email:

Please check workshops attending:

EARLY CHILDHOOD WORKSHOPS
$75.00 Per Workshop

___ 1. Using Technology To Increase Social and Language Skills for Young Learners with Autism

___ 2. Strategies for Promoting Vocalizations and Speech as well as Enhancing Intelligibility in Children with Autism

___ 3. Behavioral Based Strategies for Improving Instruction for Young Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders

FALL AUTISM WORKSHOPS
$100 Per Workshop

___ 1. Promoting Learning: Incorporating Technology Into the Classroom

___ 2. Conducting A Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)

___ 3. Developing Social Skills for Individuals with ASD: From Assessment to Intervention


Directions to Four Points by Sheraton Plainview, 333 South Service Road, Plainview, NY 11803

Traveling from the East:
Take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) to Round Swamp Road (Exit 48). Proceed down the exit ramp to traffic light. Turn left onto Round Swamp Road and proceed through traffic light. Once you pass the Mobil Gas Station, make a right into the Race Palace parking lot. Proceed 50 yards to the Hotel Entrance.
Traveling from the West
Take the Long Island Expressway (I-495) to Round Swamp Road (Exit 48). Proceed down the exit ramp (merge into the right lane). The hotel entrance will be on the right.

YAI Autism Conference: Fred Volkmar, 11/1

YAI presents A Full-Day Conference

Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and other Related Conditions: Diagnosis, Assessment and Treatment

Featuring:
Dr. Fred Volkmar
Irving B. Harris Professor and Director,
Yale Child Study Center

Overview and Objectives:
This day long workshop synthesizes current research and practice on the diagnosis, assessment, treatment, and evaluation of autism spectrum disorders and related conditions.

Participants will:
Learn to distinguish diagnostic issues for various ASDs, and the relationship between core strengths and weaknesses as revealed during assessment.
Understand the implications for learning, social-communication skills, and behavioral issues will be discussed relative to treatment.
Acquire current knowledge regarding the most up-to-date research and its implications for treatment.

Date: Thursday, November 1, 2007
8:15 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.

Location: McGraw Hill Auditorium
1221 Avenue of the Americas, NYC (Entrance on 49th Street, close to 6th Ave.)
Take the escalator to the Auditorium on the 2nd Floor.
Closest subway access: B,D,F,V lines to "47-50 Sts Rockefeller Center"

Fee: $175 (includes continental breakfast) No refunds after October 22nd. $95 for Parents, according to a post on insideschools.org's forums.

Please register early as space is limited. For more information, contact Aimee Hoffner at ahoffner@yai.org or 212-273-6255.

For more details and online registration:
http://yai.convio.net/site/Calendar/351318775?view=Detail&id=1581

DD Council Family Resource Fairs

Each borough's Develomental Disability Council holds a family resource fair, with expo tables for agencies and trainings for parents and professionals. If you aren't plugged into needed services, this is a great place to start. If you are entering a new phase of services, this is a good place to get a sense of what is out there.

Friday, November 2 -- 9:00 a.m. -3:00 p.m.
Queens Family Support Conference and Resource Fair
Sheraton La Guardia East Hotel 135-20 39th Avenue, Flushing
More info: http://www.qcdd.org

Thursday, November 8 -- 9:30 to 2 PM
Brooklyn Family Support Conference and Resource Fair
Borough Hall, Brooklyn

Thursday, November 29 -- 10 AM to 2 PM
Manhattan Family Support Conference and Resource Fair
St. Paul the Apostle, Amsterdam Avenue between 59th & 60th Streets

These events are free to families, and some offer a cash raffle. A great place to find out about waiver and non-waiver recreation, respite, and family reimbursement services.

Autism, Bullying & Classroom Strategies in Long Island

AHA Presents Two-Day Conference on Autism, Bullying and Classroom Strategies

AHA (Asperger Syndrome and High Functioning Autism Association) will present its 17th annual fall conference, Issues in Education for School Age Children on the Autism Spectrum, on Monday and Tuesday, October 22 and 23, 2007 at Eastern Suffolk BOCES in Holbrook. Nationally known speakers will provide attendees – educators, parents, and related professionals – with current and effective strategies for the appropriate education of the higher functioning student with autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorders and other related conditions.

On Day One, keynote Dennis Debbaudt, author and Law Enforcement Trainer, will talk about Proactive Strategic Plans for Schools (ICE -In Case of Emergency); Rebekah Heinrichs, author of “Perfect Targets: Asperger Syndrome and Bullying” will focus on Bullying Interventions and Strategies.

Day Two features Lynda Geller, Ph.D., Clinical Director of the Asperger Institute at NYU Child Study Center, presenting What Do ASD Students Need in a School Program, followed by another terrific annual Teen Panel. The conference wraps up with education specialists Dorothy Siegel, M.P.A. and Juliet Williams, Psy.D., presenting on Effective Strategies for Your Classroom.

Brochures are online at: www.ahaNY.org, information at: info@ahaNY.org or by calling 516.470.0360. Members receive discounted fees for all conferences. We also accept school Purchase Orders.

Deadline for pre-registration is 10/15. Walk-in fee’s available. Registration includes a continental breakfast, boxed lunch and all conference materials.

Complete program for download at http://www.ahany.org/documents/FallconfBrochure2007_000.pdf

FECA White Plains Conference: Carol Gray and Dan Olmstead

"STEPPING INTO THE FUTURE" CONFERENCE
New Insights Into the Research, Education and Treatment of Autism
Friday, November 9, 2007

Register online or download complete brochure at: http://www.fecainc.org/news_feca_events_conference.htm

Carol Gray is the Director of The Gray Centerfor Social Learning and Understanding in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She has completedover 22 years of employment with Jenison Public Schools in Jenison, Michigan, initially as a teacher with students with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and in recent years as a consultant to students with ASD in inclusive educational programs. In 1991, Carol developed Social Stories™ and Comic Strip Conversations strategies that are used worldwide with children, adolescents, and adults with autism spectrum disorders (ASD). She has publisheds everal resources on topics related to children and adults with ASD, including articles on bullying, death and dying, and how to teach social understanding. She is the recipient of the Barbara Lipinski Award for her international contribution to the education and welfare of people with ASD.

Dan Olmsted is an investigative reporter and senior editor for United Press International (UPI), and wrote “The Age of Autism” Report Series. His columns on health and medicine appeared regularly in the Washington Times and were syndicated nationally from UPI’s Washington D.C. bureau.

Parent Ed at SNACK: 11/2 and 12/7

SNACK's Parent Education Series continues with a follow up to last semester's Parent Education Session about Integrative Approaches and reprises Amy Davies Lackey on Surviving the Holiday Season.

Friday, November 2nd, 6-8pm

A Parent's Perspective-A Follow-up to "Integrative Approaches for Children with Developmental Disabilities"
SNACK parent, Dave Sandler will speak about his experiences with integrative approaches and help you to understand what you, as a parent, may expect.

Friday, December 7th, 6-8pm

Tips for Surviving the Holidays
Dr. Amy Davies Lackey will present holiday tips for parents during SNACK's Annual Holiday Party.

Both sessions run, from 6pm-8pm at SNACK @ Go Fish, 220 E. 86th St. between 2nd and 3rd Ave. Light refreshments will be served.

The admission for this session is $25 per family.

If you require childcare, admission is $40 per family.

We only will be able to accommodate ten children for childcare on a first come-first served basis and must receive an RSVP for childcare by Monday, October 22nd for the November 2 event.

Please register soon to info@snacknyc.com or 212-439-9996! We look forward to seeing you there!

Mt. Sinai/Seaver Center Autism Conference

Advances in Autism Conference: NEW INSIGHTS IN THE DIAGNOSIS, NEUROBIOLOGY, GENETICS, AND TREATMENT OF AUTISM

Temple Grandin and Daniel Tammet are speaking at this conference.

Complete program and registration form at: http://www.mssm.edu/psychiatry/autism/pdf/brochure.pdf

With an increasing number of autism diagnoses and a rapidly aging young adult
population with autism, there is a need to increase the sophistication of the
diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of autism and autism spectrum disorders
and share this information with psychiatrists, neurologists, other health care
professionals, and consumers/family members.

The expected outcome, as a result of this activity, would be a general update and
enhancement of knowledge related to the accurate recognition, diagnosis, and
treatment of autism and Asperger’s Disorder. With this knowledge, physicians,
health care professionals, and teachers can better serve the autistic population
and ultimately provide optimal services to their patients with autism and
Asperger’s Disorder. For families that attend, this conference will inform them of
the current trends in diagnosis, research, and treatment and provide
options/resources they might otherwise not have had access to.

Our conference is a one-day event held at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. It
includes a series of lectures and workshops given by accomplished professionals
in the field of autism. The purpose of the conference is to advance knowledge of
the practicing psychiatrist, neurologist, healthcare professional, and
consumers/family members as to the accurate recognition, diagnosis, and
treatment of autism and Asperger’s Disorder.

AHRC Family Day Conference: Meri Krassner

Facing the Challenges and Discovering the Opportunities:
Having a Family Member with an Intellectual or Other Developmental Disability
Saturday, October 27, 2007 -- 10:00-1:30pm
NEW LOCATION
St. Francis College, 182 Remsen Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Download program and registration form at http://www.ahrcnyc.org/pdf/familyday07.pdf

Meri Krassner was our Family Day keynote speaker in 2002. We have asked her to return to give us an update on the challenges and opportunities she has faced. When you hear her speak you will understand why we have asked her for an encore!
Meri Krassner is the mother of Rachel, now 23, who graduated from college last year, and Daniel, now 19, a student at the Manhattan Occupational Training Center Annex. Daniel is an individual with multiple handicaps and intellectual disabilities. He was born full-term, weighing 9 pounds, but within the first few months of life it became clear that he had many medical problems and he began receiving Early Intervention services at 4 months.
Ms. Krassner became an active advocate when Daniel was a preschooler and has continued in that role. She will speak about her experiences from the time she discovered that Daniel had a disability up until the current time, her feelings and those of other family members, the difficulties she has experienced, as well as the joys, and the people and the resources she found available in the community.

Resources For Children Workshops, Fall 07 & Spring 08

Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc.
Fall 2007 – Spring 2008 FREE Workshops:

What’s Out There and How to Get It …
Workshops for families and professionals seeking programs and services for New York City children, youth and young adults with disabilities. Refreshments served. We regret that no child care is available.

In the Bronx: At the Jewish Child Care Association, 555 Bergen Avenue, Bronx, 10455
1 Advocacy Skills for Parents, November 7, 2007, 10 am – 1pm
2 Transition from School to Adult Life, December 5, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
3 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, February 6, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
4 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, March 5, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
5 Community Resources, April 9, 2008, 10 am – 12 pm

At the FRIENDS Program at Visiting Nurse Service of New York, 489-493 East 153rd Street, 2nd Floor, Bronx, 10455
6 Transition from School to Adult Life, November 9, 2007, 10 am – 1pm
7 Turning 5: Transition to School Age, December 7, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
8 Transition from School to Adult Life, February 29, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
9 Turning 5: Transition to School Age, March 7, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
10 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, April 4, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
11 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, May 2, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
12 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, June 6, 2008, 10 am – 1pm
13 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, June 20, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm

In Brooklyn: At the Brooklyn Heights Public Library, 280 Cadman Plaza W., Brooklyn, 11201
14 Transition from School to Adult Life, Oct 24, 2007, 10 – 1 pm
15 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, October 31, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
16 Advocacy Skills for Parents, November 14, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
17 Community Resources, December 12, 2007, 10 am – 12 pm
18 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, January 16, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
19 Turning 5: Transition to School Age, January 23, 2008, 10 am – 1pm

At the Central Library Grand Army Plaza, Flatbush Avenue/Eastern Parkway, 11238
20 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, October 30, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
21 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, November 27, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
22 Transition from School to Adult Life, December 18, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
23 Transition from School to Adult Life, January 29, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
24 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, February 26, 2008, 10 am – 1pm
25 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, March 20, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
26 Turning 5: Transition to School Age, April 15, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm

In Manhattan: At the Andrew Heiskell Braille & Talking Book Library, 40 West 20th Street, NYC, 10011
27 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, November 13, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
28 Transition from School to Adult Life, November 20, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
29 Advocacy Skills for Parents, November 27, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
30 Community Resources, December 4, 2007, 10 am – 12 pm
31 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, December 18, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm

At the West Harlem Head Start, 121 West 128th Street, NYC, 10027
32 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, March 12, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
33 Community Resources, March 19, 2008, 10 am – 12 pm
34 Turning 5: Transition to School Age, March 26, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm

At Resources for Children with Special Needs,116 E. 16th St., 5th Fl., NYC, 10003
35 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, November 15, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
36 Turning 5: Transition to School Age, January 15, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
37 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, February 13, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
38 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, March 13, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
39 Community Resources, March 27, 2008, 6 pm – 8 pm
40 Transition from School to Adult Life, April 2, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
41 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, April 10, 2008, 6 pm – 8 pm

In Queens: At the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, 11432
42 Community Resources, January 3, 2008, 10 am – 12 pm
43 Advocacy Skills for Parents, January 10, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
44 Transition from School to Adult Life, January 17, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
45 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, January 24, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
46 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, February 7, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm

On Staten Island: At the Joan and Alan Bernikow Jewish Community Center of Staten Island, 1466 Manor Road, SI, 10314
47 Getting Appropriate Educational Services, December 11, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm
48 Early Childhood Services: Birth to 5, January 8, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
49 Transition from School to Adult Life, February 12, 2008, 10 am – 1 pm
50 Advocacy Skills for Parents, March 18, 2008, 10 am – 1pm
51 Community Resources, April 15, 2008, 10 am – 12 pm

Registration Form (we will confirm your registration)

Name_________________________________________________________

Address_______________________________________________Apt_____

City_____________State______Zip__

Daytime Phone__________________________

Fax____________________________

Email__________________________

Parent____ Professional____


Please circle the number(s) of the workshop(s) you would like to attend:

2007 – 2008 Free Community Workshops

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51

A B C D E F

To register, please print clearly and MAIL or FAX to:
Gary Shulman, M.S.Ed.
Resources for Children w/ Special Needs, Inc.
116 East 16th Street, 5th Floor
New York, NY 10003
FAX: (212) 254-4070

For more information, email or call:
Gary Shulman, M.S.Ed. at (212) 677–4650 gshulman@resourcesnyc.org

EI and CPSE Transition Trainings for NYC Parents

RCSN is part of the NYC Training Collaborative on Early Intervention (NYCTC), coordinated by the InterAgency Council, www.iacny.org. Specially designed 3-hour training sessions for parents and families of children birth to 3, with developmental delays or disabilities, are presented with support from the NY State Department of Health’s Early Intervention Program. For additional information, contact RCSN’s Early Childhood specialist, Nina Lublin, at (212) 677- 4650, ext. 24, or nina@resourcesnyc.org.
To register, circle the letter(s) of the workshop(s) you want to attend on the attached registration form and fax the form to (212) 254-4070, mail to RCSN, Inc., 116 East 16th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10003 or visit www.iacny.org/early_intervention.htm.
Check RCSN or IAC Web sites for updated information to the Fall 2007/Spring 2008 Early Intervention workshop schedule.

A. September 19, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm at Eden II, 94 Wright Avenue, Staten Island, NY 10303
“Family Information Session – Overview of Early Intervention/Understanding Service Coordination”

B. October 2, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm at West Harlem Head Start, 121 West 128th Street, New York, NY 10027
“Family Information Session – Transition from Early Intervention”

C. October 3, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm at Guild for Exceptional Children, 260 68th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11220
“Family Information Session – Overview of Early Intervention/Understanding Service Coordination”

D. November 7, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm at Guild for Exceptional Children, 260 68th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11220
“Family Information Session – Transition from Early Intervention”

E. December 6, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm at RCSN, Inc., 116 East 16th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10003
“Family Information Session – Overview of Early Intervention/Understanding Service Coordination”

F. December 11, 2007, 10 am – 1 pm at United Cerebral Palsy, 1770 Stillwell Avenue, Bronx, NY 10469
“Family Information Session – Transition from Early Intervention”

Camp Fair 2008: Jan 26

RESOURCES FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS, INC.
PRESENTS
SPECIAL CAMP FAIR 2008
Summer Programs for Children with Disabilities

FREE ADMISSION !!!!!
When?: Saturday, January 26, 2008 11 AM- 3 PM

Where?: Church of St. Paul the Apostle 405 West 59th Street
(Entrance to Fair on Columbus Avenue near West 60th Street) Manhattan

Sign Language provided

Meet the camp directors
Get a free copy Camps 2008
No child care provided but children are invited to attend

For more information call:

Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc.
Gary Shulman, MS.Ed.
212-677-4650

www.resourcesnyc.org
www.resourcesnycdatabase.org (searchable website)

Cooke Center Open House Announcement

For some spectrum kids in the city, the Cooke Center programs have been a good place to move on to when a behavioral school was no longer needed and inclusion is a key objective. If that is where you are or where you may be headed, take a look and let us know what you thought.
_______________________________________________________

COOKE CENTER ELEMENTARY AND MIDDLE SCHOOL OPEN HOUSES!
Friday, November 2nd, 9:00 – 11:00am
&
Friday, December 7th, 9:00 – 11:00am
Cooke Center School @ Blessed Sacrament
147 West 70th Street
New York, NY 10023
(Between Broadway and Columbus)
Take the 1,2, or 3 train to 72nd Street. Walk two blocks south, then make a left.

COOKE CENTER ACADEMY HIGH SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE!

Friday, January 18th, 9:00 – 11:00am

Cooke Center Academy High School
60 MacDougal Street
New York, NY 10012
(Between Houston and Prince Sts.)
Take the 1 train to Houston Street. Walk one block south to King Street. Make a left, then walk two blocks east to MacDougal Street.

Learn About Our Program, Visit Our Classrooms, And Meet Our Staff!
RSVP to Our Director of Admissions, Billy English
212-477-1297 or benglish@cookecenter.org.
www.cookecenter.org

MyTime Opening and Brooklyn Parent Support Group

My Time Inc.
Parent Support Center for parents of children diagnosed with developmental disabilities providing a non-judgmental, supportive environment for parents, grandparents, and advocates caring for an individual with special needs or disabilities.


PARENT SUPPORT GROUP

Thursday October 11, 2007
7:00 pm
1312 East 84 Street(between Ave N &M)
Brooklyn, NY
Contact Lucina Clarke@718 314 4724(c)
718 763 5426(h)


This is the place to meet, share ideas, support and advocate for your children
The group will meet in Canarsie, Brooklyn, NY monthly.

Grand Opening

PARENT SUPPORT CENTER.
My Time, Inc. as a not-for-profit Parent Support Center for parents of children diagnosed with developmental disabilities and Autism.

Hours of Operation
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:00am-3:00pm
Wednesday: 10:00-3:00pm
Thursdays: 10:00am- 3:00pm
5:00pm – 8:00pm
Friday: Closed
Place: 1312 East 84 Street
Ground floor.
Contact: Lucina Clarke
718 314 4724/718 763 5426

A place where parents, grandparents, caregivers of a child with a disability can find solace, free expression, relaxation, parent training, workshops and that well deserved break. Come meet other parents connect and network.


Directions: By bus: Take the B17 (Remsen Ave /Seaview Ave) to Ave M. Walk down to east 84 Street. 1312 is Between Ave M and N.
By Car: Take Remsen Ave to Ave N, make a right , drive straight down to E. 84 Street make a right, house is on the left, closer to Ave M.
Belt parkway to Exit 13 (Rockaway Parkway) make a right onto Rockaway parkway to Ave N. make a left on Avenue N. Drive down Ave N to E. 84 Street; make a right onto E. 84
By Train: Take the L train to Rockaway Parkway station (last stop in Brooklyn). Take the B17 (E.80 Street bus) to Ave L and E. 84 Street. Walk down one block to Ave M. House is between M & N
Other buses: B6, B 82 to East 84 Street or make connection/transfer to B 17 at Remsen Ave and follow directions above.
B103 from downtown Brooklyn to AveM and East 85 Street. Walk one block down to East 84 Street

Hunter College Parent Series: Sensory and Behavioral Approaches Seminar

CENTER FOR AUTISM AND RELATED DISABILTIES (CARD) at Hunter College
in collaboration with
Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc.
and the
Early Childhood Direction Center/Manhattan New York- Presbyterian Hospital

Presents a seminar for families and professionals

Meeting the Needs of Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Their Families in Everyday Life: Sensory and Behavioral Perspectives

Saturday, December 1, 2007 9:00 AM- 1:00 PM
Room 714 West, Hunter College
(SW corner of E. 68th Street and Lexington Avenue)

Moderator: Professor Shirley Cohen, Director, CARD at Hunter College and author of the book Targeting Autism.

Presenters
Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L, pediatric occupational therapist and co-author of the book Raising A Sensory Smart Child

Jamie Bleiweiss, M.A., behavior specialist, consultant for the ASD Nest program, and advanced doctoral student at Stony Brook University

Angela Mouzakitis, M.S. Ed., BCBA, faculty member, Graduate Programs in Special Education at Queens College, consultant for the Intensive Kindergarten, and advanced doctoral student at The Graduate Center of CUNY

Admission is free. To reserve a place, register in advance by leaving an
e-mail message with your name and phone number at: hcard@hunter.cuny.edu or (if you do not have access to e-mail) by calling (212) 772-4822 before Tuesday, November 27, 2007.

Coffee and sign-in at 9:00. Presentation begins promptly at 9:30.

11/8 Social Skills Panel for Adolescence

Resources for Children with Special Needs, Inc.
Invites Educators, Advocates and Parents to a Panel Discussion

Becoming a Player, Part II: Enhancing Social Skills of Adolescents on the Autism Spectrum

Thursday, November 8, 2007 from 5 - 7:30 p.m.
5:00 Coffee Reception with Panelists • 5:30 Panel
Credit Suisse, 11 Madison Avenue at 24th Street,
Auditorium Level 2B

Advance Registration $25 ● At the Door $30 (Space Permitting)

Dr. Jed Baker, a clinical psychologist and Director of the Social Skills Training Project, supervises social skills training for students in the Milburn Public Schools and is a consultant and trainer on social skills throughout the country. Dr. Baker has published four award-winning books on social skills training. In addition, his work to reduce bullying of students with autism in the public schools was recently featured on ABC World News and Nightline.

Dr. Lynda Geller is the Clinical Director of the Asperger Institute at the NYU Child Study Center. Prior to joining NYU, Dr. Geller served for 22 years on the Medical School faculties of Georgetown University and Stony Brook University, where she specialized in the evaluation and treatment of children and adults with autism spectrum disorders and other related disabilities, developing social skills programs, educational consultation services, and resource center family supports. She is the founding Executive Director of the Asperger Foundation International.

Rachel Pollock is a parent of an 18-year-old young man with an autism spectrum disorder and is General Counsel and Deputy Director for Planning and Program Development at Job Path, where she oversees both an employment program and a pilot program for young adults with autism spectrum disorders that includes a social skills group and support for individuals as they work, attend college, engage in volunteer work, and plan for independent living.

Moderator: Dr. Shirley Cohen is a Professor in the Department of Special Education at Hunter College. where she has served as Interim Dean of the Hunter College School of Education. She is the author of the book Targeting Autism and will serve as the director of the Hunter College Autism Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD), part of a new network of such centers in New York State. She has directed city, state and foundation grants on autism spectrum disorders.

To register: Mail or fax the form below with your registration fee to:

Panel, Resources for Children with Special Needs
116 East 16th Street, 5th Floor, NY, NY 10003
(212) 677-4650 ● FAX (212) 254-4070
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

November 8th Panel Registration Form


Name____________________________________________

Address_________________________________________
________________________________________________

Daytime phone_____________________email_________


Number of people attending_____

□ Check made out to Resources for Children
enclosed $_____________

□ Credit Card

□ Visa □ MasterCard □ American Express □ Diners Club

Card account number__________________________________
Expiration date________ Card Code________________

Signature___________________________________________
Charge amount $_________________



Resources for Children with Special Needs is a citywide information, referral, advocacy and training center serving children birth-26, their parents, and the professionals who work on their behalf. Visit us at www.resourcesnyc.org Visit our searchable Database on the Web™ at www.resourcesnycdatabase.org

LI Conference on Autism and Aging

AGING WITH AUTISM: DEFINING THE FUTURE Conference
Conference flyer available as a PDF at www.eden2.org

Thursday, November 29, 2007 and Friday November 30, 2007

Huntington Hilton, Long Island
598 Broadhollow Road, Melville, NY

8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Join Developmental Disabilities Institute (DDI), Eden II Programs, and Nassau-Suffolk Services for Autism (NSSA) for a collaborative groundbreaking two-day conference on Long Island that will aim to educate, and enlighten us all to the intrinsic issues of a population growing older with autism.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO RECEIVE A CONFERENCE BROCHURE,
CONTACT 631-462-0386 OR definingthefuture@nssa.net
___________________________________

AGING WITH AUTISM: DEFINING THE FUTURE agenda

Thursday, November 29, 2007 – Day 1

7:45 a.m.-8:45 a.m. Check In & Registration – Continental Breakfast

9:00 a.m.-9:15 a.m. Welcome and Opening Remarks

9:15 a.m.-9:45 a.m. KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: AUTISM SPEAKS: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
MARK ROITHMAYR

9:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m. KEYNOTE PANEL: Part 1-DEFINING THE CHALLENGES: SERVICING ADULTS NOW AND IN THE FUTURE

The Rising Prevalence Of Autism And Its Impact On The Adult Lives Of Individuals With ASD
ERIC LONDON, MD
The prevalence of autism, with attention to both the numbers and the methods which may be affecting the numbers, will be reviewed and will address the question of whether the numbers will continue to rise. Regardless of whether or not there is a real rise in the numbers of autistic individuals or whether there is an apparent rise due to methods, definitions, etc., this phenomena is presenting society with a new predicament. Just a decade ago, there was a huge influx of diagnosed autistic individuals and there has been a response from the educational system (although school services are still woefully lacking in many locations). The effect on the sector which provides adult services may have even greater challenges. School is only about 20% of one’s life while adulthood may be closer to 75%. As this cohort accumulates, the numbers of individuals needing services will continue to rise. Creative paradigms must be instituted and there is time pressure to create these programs.

Identifying and Meeting the Unique Needs of Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders
LINDA MEYER, PhD, MPA
For adults with autism spectrum disorders who have graduated from school programs, their entitlement for learning has ended, but their need for ongoing skill acquisition and opportunities to practice those skills across environments has not. Most adults with ASDs require highly specialized, intensive supports to be successful in the communities where they live, work, and play. Few adults on the autism spectrum have an appropriate day or residential program. Even fewer individuals or their families/guardians will have a choice in the types of service(s) they will receive. This presentation will discuss the intricate, diverse, and distinct constellation of needs of adults with autism spectrum disorders and the components of effective programs and supports.

Meeting The Needs Of Adults With Autism: Past, Present, And Future
COMMISSIONER DIANA JONES RITTER, OMRDD
10:45 a.m.-11:00 a.m. COFFEE BREAK

11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. KEYNOTE PANEL: Part 2- FACING THE CHALLENGES: SERVICING ADULTS NOW AND IN THE FUTURE
JOANNE GERENSER, PETER PIERRI, CORY POLSHANSKY
NICOLE WEIDENBAUM - MODERATOR
12:00 p.m.-1:15 p.m. LUNCH
1:15 p.m.-2:45 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSION 1

Behavioral And Psychiatric Disorders In Adults With Pervasive Developmental Disorders: Epidemiology, Consequences, Treatment, And Service Needs
PETER STURMEY, PhD
There is less research on behavioral and psychiatric problems in adults with Pervasive Developmental Disorders (PDDs) than with children. However, as new cohorts with higher prevalences of PDDs age and as PDDs are diagnosed more commonly in adults, greater attention should be given to this issue. This presentation will review the literature in four areas: epidemiology, consequences of behavioral and psychiatric disorders, treatment options and evidence-based practice, and current and future service needs. The presentation will conclude with recommendations for practitioners and services.

2. Evidence-Based Practice In The Promotion Of Healthy Lifestyles For Adolescents And Adults With ASDs
LINDA MEYER, EdD, MPA
Regular exercise promotes fitness and health benefits as well as improves appearance. Adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders may be at risk for being physically inactive. The characteristics of the disorder may interfere with successful participation in traditional forms of physical activity or the limited number of fitness and recreation programs designed for individuals with developmental disabilities. Achieving an appropriate fitness level can help learners with ASDs participate more fully with their families and peers in leisure time activities and activities of daily living, as well as education, vocational, and community environments. Acquiring appropriate fitness skills may promote the productive use of leisure time in less restrictive settings. Extensive research supports the effectiveness of a behavioral approach for individuals with ASDs. This presentation will address the application of behavioral principles ! to promote the physical fitness of individuals with ASDs to promote inclusion in home, community, volunteer, leisure, and work settings.

3. The Parent Perspective: Facing the Issues of Living with a Family Member Aging with Autism – Parent Panel

4. Positive Behavior Support: What Really Counts in Life
EDWARD CARR, PhD
When a person with autism becomes an adult, the central issue is no longer how to
“cure” autism but, rather, what is it that really counts in life? The answer to this question is the same whether or not you have a disability. What really counts is: personal relationships, health, being productive, happiness, and involvement in your community. This presentation will explore these issues by focusing on social relationships (rapport, building friendships), health (access to medical care, physical illness), problem behavior as a barrier to a meaningful life, and becoming part of the community (illustrative case study). The concept of “support” moves the field closer to modern medicine in which “management” rather than “cure” reflects the reality of much clinical practice, and closer to the field of positive psychology in which building personal “strengths” rather than overcoming “psychopathologies” is seen as the signature issue leading the way to a better life.

2:45 p.m.-3:00 p.m. COFFEE BREAK

3:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSION 2

5. The Autism Spectrum and Competitive Employment
S. MICHAEL CHAPMAN
This presentation will cover some of the best practice approaches that are used to assist individuals with an autism spectrum diagnosis in obtaining and maintaining competitive employment. Vocational assessment, job development, training strategies and support needs that are unique to individuals with ASD will be covered.

6. Technology and Learning: Developing Innovative Teaching Methods for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders
MARY McDONALD, PhD, BCBA
This presentation will provide information on a variety of technology- based instructional methods that can be used to teach skills to adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorders. Specific areas of video technology will be reviewed as they pertain to skill development. Computer programs will be presented and will include commercial software and teacher made lessons such as individualized PowerPoint applications (produced by The Genesis School). A variety of other technology-based tools will be discussed and depicted through video. Specific areas of learning will focus on promoting independence, effective communication, and social skills.

7. Issues of Psychopharmacology and Adults with ASD
ERIC LONDON, MD
As individuals with autism transition from childhood to adulthood they lose the support of the school environment. Further, as they age, parents are less able to handle difficult behaviors, both due to the age of the parent as well as the size and strength of the young adult. If employment is to be successful, behaviors must be acceptable in that environment which is generally more stringent than in a school setting. Trained behavior analysts are often not present in the work environment. This creates a need for psychopharmacologic interventions to optimize the individual’s ability to function in this adult environment.

8. Training, Supervising, and Motivating Support Staff
DENNIS REID, PhD, BCBA
This presentation will describe an evidence-based approach to training, supervising, and motivating support staff working with adults who have autism. Initially, a step-by-step process for managing staff performance will be described that focuses on promoting staff work behavior necessary to ensure desired consumer outcomes. Procedures to be discussed include an on-the-job competency- and performance-based way to train important work skills to staff, systematically monitoring staff performance in a manner that is acceptable to staff, supporting or reinforcing proficient staff performance, and quickly correcting non-proficient performance when necessary. Strategies for motivating staff in terms of enhancing both work effort and enjoyment will also be described. The latter strategies will include summaries of reports from over 1,000 experienced supervisors regarding what they have found to be the most effective motivational strategies as well as common supervisory approaches th! at tend to decrease staff motivation (i.e., management procedures to avoid). Finally, general management practices will be described that tend to create a work environment that staff find enjoyable and supportive of diligent work habits.

4:30 p.m.-6:00 p.m. POSTER SESSION
Proposals for posters are invited. The poster should address issues pertaining to adults in the following areas: Applied Research and/or Case Studies

Persons interested in presenting posters should submit a cover letter with the following:
· Names, addresses, and phone numbers of author(s)
· 100-150 word abstract summary
· Data where applicable
· Self-addressed stamped envelope

Electronically send materials by October 29, 2007 to: Mary McDonald at MMcdonald@eden2.org

AGING WITH AUTISM: DEFINING THE FUTURE

Friday, November 30, 2007-Day 2


7:45 a.m.-8:45 a.m. Check In & Registration – Continental Breakfast

8:45 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Welcome and Opening Remarks

9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. KEYNOTE PRESENTATION: UNDERSTANDING THE HIDDEN CURRICULUM AND ITS IMPACT ON ADULT LIFE
BRENDA SMITH MYLES, PhD
This presentation will discuss the hidden curriculum – unwritten rules that can impact the quality of life, life success, and safety of individuals on the spectrum. This includes assumed rules, expectations, idioms, and metaphors. Understanding the hidden curriculum is difficult for everyone, but it is compounded when accompanied by challenges in understanding social interactions and incongruities. The hidden curriculum and its impact will be overviewed and numerous examples related to community, work, and daily living will be provided. Finally, instructional strategies that can be used to foster understanding of the hidden curriculum will be provided to assist adults on the spectrum make sense of their world.

10:15 a.m.-10:30 a.m. COFFEE BREAK

10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Live. Work. Play.
LINDA WALDER FIDDLE
This presentation is geared towards inspiring advocacy and creating partnership to address the needs of adults with autism. For parents and those in the community more unfamiliar with the core issues faced by adults with autism it will serve as an outline to focus them on these challenges. For providers and educators it will offer perspectives as to how to address these challenges. The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation is the first organization in the United States with the specific mission to address these issues by developing programs and awarding grants to programs that exemplify respect for individuality of each person with autism.

11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. LUNCH

12:30 p.m.-1:45 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSION 3

9. Bringing the Birds & Bees Down to Earth: Sexuality & Sexuality Education
for Persons with Autism
LISA MITCHELL, LCSW
This presentation will assist parents, caregivers, and professionals working with
individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders of all ages, however, particular attention will be paid to issues which adolescents and young adults commonly face. Attendees will learn about Autism and social/sexual interest, improving a person on the spectrum’s understanding of personal boundaries and relationships, facilitating social skill development, teaching abuse prevention strategies, preparing young people with autism spectrum disorders for puberty, including how to address negative reactions to body changes, ways to address inappropriate social or sexual behaviors, key concepts to focus on when educating persons on the spectrum about sexuality, and suggested activities to use when providing sexuality education for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

10. Evidence-Based Practices for Promoting Daily Enjoyment Among Adults with Autism
DENNIS REID, PhD, BCBA
This presentation will describe evidence-based practices for promoting enjoyment among adults with autism. A particular focus will be on adults who experience difficulties expressing affect such as happiness in conventional ways due to communication challenges. Initially, valid means of identifying expressions of happiness and unhappiness will be described based on recent research findings. Next, systematic means of increasing happiness and decreasing unhappiness during daily routines will be described. Procedures to be discussed include providing choices at a level commensurate with an individual’s communication skills, identifying and providing preferred activities, and presenting teaching and related instructional activities in ways that are enjoyable for learners. Practical ways to monitor happiness during daily routines will also be described. The importance of monitoring happiness will be emphasized as one step in the process of designing supports and services to address happiness as a formal outcome by provider agencies similar to more conventional outcomes (e.g., skill acquisition, reduction of challenging behavior).

11. The Primary Care Approach to Adults with Developmental Disabilities
JAMES R. POWELL Jr., MD
The medical care of individuals with developmental disabilities requires a unique look and understanding. There is currently a national movement to recognize the care of adults with Autism and developmental disabilities as its own specialty. As of today, there is no standardized curriculum or proven approach to treating this population. This presentation will examine some of the local and national data that emphasizes how we should approach adults with Autism and developmental disabilities. It will show some of the trends related to frequency of visits, medication usage, and commonly encountered diagnoses in this population. It will also provide insight into the atypical presentation of common medical disorders as well as some of the expanding screening recommendations that exist in the current literature.

12. Matching the Characteristics of Asperger Syndrome and Job Requirements: A Formula for Success
BRENDA SMITH MYLES, PhD, DONNA OWENS
The full-time employment rates for individuals with high-functioning autism/Asperger Syndrome (AS) and those with a more classical presentation are 12% and 6%, respectively. A myriad of reasons exist for these abysmal statistics, including a lack of understanding of the characteristics of the spectrum and how they can impact job performance. This presentation will describe the characteristics of adults with AS that impact the workplace. Suggestions for preparation for employment that acknowledge these characteristics, as well as an overview of employment options that match the profile of adults will be addressed. Emphasis will be placed on the assets that individuals with AS bring to the workplace.

1:45 p.m.-2:00 p.m. COFFEE BREAK

2:00 p.m.-3:15 p.m. BREAKOUT SESSION 4

13. Speech and Language and Communication: Meeting the Needs of Adults with ASD
JOANNE GERENSER, PhD, CCC-SLP
One of the hallmark features of autism is a qualitative impairment in communication. This can range from a failure to develop any functional speech to an inability to initiate or sustain a conversation. Although we have made significant strides in our ability to treat these speech, language and communication problems, deficits generally persist throughout an individual’s lifespan. Research has shown that more than one half of adults with autism do not have sufficient language to meet their daily communication needs. This workshop will review the existing literature on speech-language issues in adults with ASD. Topics to be addressed include augmentative communication, speech and language needs in the workplace as well as models of service delivery in adult programs.

14. The Comprehensive Guide to Transitional Services: The Aging-Out Process
LAUREN GIORDANO, MA
This presentation will provide information about transition services. Learning what steps are imperative to take in order to make a smooth transition from district into the adult world will be discussed in detail. Attendees will be given a guide which will include a well detailed outline of which steps need to be taken at each age to complete the transition process, a guide to understanding supports and services, as well as a complete list of service providers in the Long Island region. Attendees will be guided on how and when to apply for Medicaid and what services will be available for individuals aging out into the adult world.

15. Successful Transition from an Individualized Education Plan to an Individualized Vocational Plan
NICOLE WEIDENBAUM, MS, Ed, SAS, MARIA GARRETT, MS, BCBA, JASON WATSON
Until recently adults with autism were perceived to be incapable of integration into the community and workforce. Fortunately, with increased advocacy and awareness, and effective educational programming, these perceptions are changing. The challenge now is to continue to provide the same level of support that was deemed necessary and appropriate up until the age of 21 despite a significant decrease in funding and a lack of experienced and qualified support staff. This presentation will focus on the need to individualize adult service provision and the challenges faced in doing so. We will discuss the successes and pitfalls that we have faced within our adult services program as well as some creative ways to access opportunities for job sampling and community integration.

16. Residential Issues for Adolescents and Adults with Autism
EILEEN HOPKINS, PhD
The size and specific type of residence are important considerations in creating a safe and happy home for individuals with autism. Importantly, however, what is needed to provide truly effective residential supports to adolescents and adults with autism extends far beyond the physical qualities of the house. Ensuring the individual’s health and safety are critical clinical concerns, as are supporting the person in maximizing their quality of life through promoting independence, inclusion, and on-going skill development. This presentation will orient attendees to important options, principles, and practices in the area of residential services, with the goal of building skills to provide quality services and supports to individuals with autism in residential settings. Topics including needs assessment and program development; addressing dietary, health, and medical needs; developing opportunities for meaningful community inclusion; and promoting overall happiness and quality of life will be discussed. A program staffing model found to be effective in delivering quality residential services will be reviewed, and time will be provided for participants to share ideas and practices they have found to be effective.

3:15 p.m.-4:15 p.m. “Aging With Autism Spectrum Disorder”: Consumer Panel
A panel of consumers on the autism spectrum will discuss some of the challenges they face as adults living with ASD. A question and answer period will be provided

CONFERENCE PRESENTERS (bios available in the PDF version)
__________________________________________

CONFERENCE REGISTRATION (form available in PDF form)

Spectrum Sunday Play Group in Brooklyn

Jill has tried this out with her boys (one on the spectrum and
another not), and gives it a good review. Not all of the programming is spectrum focused, but the Sunday play group is, and they will apparently be a SNACK expansion site in fall 2007.
__________________________________________

This Summer at Brooklyn “PLAY” Spot!
399 Atlantic Ave, Lower level Corner of Bond
Brooklyn, NY 11217 718-852-2494

In door drop in play, private parties, events, classes
Free to members, 12.00 per day, per family for members

www.brooklynplayspot.com

Sunday's
10:30 am Special Needs Play Date Free to members. $12. for non-members

Tuesday's
10:00 am Life Coaching with Bethany Rule $10. for members. $20. for non members
11:00 am Ciao Ciao Bambino with Ludo $4.00 for members. $16. for non members

Thursday's
10:30 am Music for Aardvarks

Friday's
10:30 am Come Knit! Free to members. 12. for non members
3:30 pm Storytelling with Cricket $2. for members. $14. for non members

Space is limited, please RSVP by responding to this to email.
All events include a full day of drop in play.

Sunday July 28th, 2007. The Deedle Deedle Dee’s will perform at
Brooklyn “PLAY” Spot.
$8. for members. $20. for non members
Space is limited, please RSVP by responding to this email.

August 17, 2007 Jump For Joy will offer a preview to their Fall of
2007 movement class.

We will offer 1 class for special needs kids and 1 class for general education kids.

Free to members $12. for non-members

***Prices are per family, per day***

12 packs, memberships and day passes can be purchased in line on our
web site.

Starting September 2007 at Brooklyn “PLAY” Spot!
Jump for Joy, Let's Dance Brooklyn, SNACK (Special Needs Activity Center for Kids), Karma Kids Yoga, Life Coaching, Music for Aardvarks, Ciao Ciao Bambino, Story Telling with Cricket, Knitting, Reading etc…
Please email for registration and details. zrenner@earthlink.net

New ABA School in Manhattan

Here's their announcement. Word from parents who have inquired is that they plan to have 30 pupils, and they will be Carter funded, with an estimated tuition of $90K. I'm thrilled to learn of new seats offering what sounds like a quality ABA program, but whew is that a big ticket.
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Manhattan Childrens Center
Opening its Manhattan Campus September 2007

Providing services for children with autism and pervasive developmental disorders.


The Children’s Center’s Upper West Side campus will provide scientifically based world class treatment and education to children ages 3 to 12 utilizing the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

The program’s Interdisciplinary Model will incorporate ABA, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy as well as natural environment training and family support.

The Children's Center is a partner in research and service activities with Columbia University, Teachers College faculty and students.

Program information may be obtained by contacting Abigail Szoszun-Weiss, Director of Admissions at 347-578-3442.


The Children’s Center’s Brooklyn Campus (www.schoolworksonline.org) was established in 1996 to provide educational and therapeutic services to children with developmental delays including children diagnosed with PDD and Autism. Over the years of its existence, The Children's Center has served over 1,500 children and employed over 200 professionals in its Interdisciplinary Model. It is this level of front line experience that gives The Children's Center its expertise in delivering quality services to the right children at the right time by the right people.

Feb 5: NYC Talk on Unstrange Minds

What does a father do when his two-year-old is diagnosed with a
mysterious illness he knows nothing about?

He learns all there is to know about the illness; he fights so his
child receives the best services and support; and---if you are a
father and a highly regarded anthropologist like Roy Richard
Grinker---you travel abroad studying in other countries/cultures and
develop an improved understand of the illness, and, along the way,
discover a new humility in the face of this challenge.

Roy Richard Grinker will talk and sign copies of

UNSTRANGE MINDS: Remapping the World of Autism
(forthcoming February 1, 2007) in New York City
Monday, February 5 at 7pm.

at
MO PITKIN'S HOUSE OF SATISFACTION/UPSTAIRS
Talk/Signing
34 Avenue A
New York, NY (between 2nd and 3rd Streets)

For more information about Unstrange Minds, see Professor Grinker's website:
www.unstrange.com.

Professor Grinker's recent Q & A with US News and World Report can be read at
http://www.usnews.com/usnews/health/articles/070107/15autism.htm
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