Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2022-08-30 10:00 - 12:00, 2022-09-13 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | NY
All Region 1 Self-Direction Information sessions are WebEx/online format and attendance is taken using the person’s email address. This WebEx (if attended in its entirety) satisfies the requirement for attending a Self-Direction information session.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. If you have any additional questions regarding attendance, please call your SD Liaison.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
REGISTER

Parents Considering a Residential Placement Discussion Group
2022-08-30 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Are you considering residential placement for your family member? Parent to Parent of New York State is excited to host a new Parent Discussion Group facilitated by Sharon Linne for families with children and adults of all ages who are considering placement in a residential school or a group home.
Come join us for an hour of support and conversation about this important topic.
Virtual Zoom- Registration Required. REGISTER
Questions, contact Sharon Linne – Slinne@ptopnys.org.

Back-To-School Strategies for Autism - Webinar
2022-08-31 13:00 - 14:00 | NY
Learn evidence-based strategies for supporting students with autism as they transition back to the classroom.
About the Speaker

Amy Moore Gaffney, M.A., CCC-SLP is an educational consultant with the Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA) at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, Indiana University, Bloomington. Gaffney has experience working with young children, school-age children, and young adults. Through her work as a speech-language pathologist and Autism consultant, Gaffney has worked with students and their families in a variety of settings, including in-home, public and private schools, and a private clinic.

Register: https://www.autism.org/back-to-school-strategies-2022/

NY ABLE workshop via Zoom
2022-08-31 18:00 - 19:00 | NY
The NY ABLE Program is a tax-advantaged savings program for individuals with disabilities and their families to save for their current or long term needs while maintaining their ability to benefit from federal benefits programs such as SSI, SSDI and Medicaid.
Our program offers multiple investment options including a checking account and debit card option allowing individuals with disabilities to maintain their independence and have quick and easy access to their own money.
FREE EVENT!
REGISTER
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Front Door Info Session (English) - Webinar
2022-09-01 09:00 - 11:00 | NY
The OPWDD Front Door Information Session will outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance.
Registration:

To register, click here:
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=ee12264ed5c059e0903ebc36964e6993d
If you need assistance, please contact Jeffrey Roberts 585-241-5797 Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov

Front Door Info Session (Spanish) - Webinar
2022-09-01 16:00 - 18:00 | NY
La Sesion Informativa de La OPWDD Front Door/Puerta Principal va explicar el proceso de como establecer eligibilidad para servicios y apoyos; describir los tipos de apoyos y servicios que hay desponible y donde pueden solicitar asistencia.
Registración:

Para registrarse, haga clic aquí:
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=eff7804b736b575e65627a88e5dc008fd

Si necesita ayuda, comuníquese con Miriam Nieto (718) 430-0806
miriam.x.nieto@opwdd.ny.gov

GET AIR - BUFFALO - A Special Time Just for You
2022-09-03 08:00 - 10:00 | GET AIR, 3637 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY, 14225, United States
GET AIR -Buffalo offers a dedicated time just for jumpers with special needs on the first Saturday of every month from 8 AM to 10 AM.

Location: GET AIR – 3637 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14225
Calmer Atmosphere

The First Saturday of the Month – 8 AM to 10 AM
Big Air – $16.99, Little Air (under 46″) – $10.99

They offer a dedicated time just for jumpers with special needs. Music is played at a lower volume and the park’s atmosphere is calmer. One parent or guardian can support jumpers on the trampoline for free. Siblings of jumpers are welcome to jump for the same price but should be more careful during this time. They have designed our trampoline parks with special needs as a primary focus, creating inclusive playgrounds where kids of all ages and abilities can come together in an environment that facilitates shared play and fun. Their goal is for Get Air Sports to be a place where kids can just be kids. They hope you’ll join Get Air! When you arrive, or call beforehand, talk to one of their team members and they will ensure proper accommodations are made to create a fun and enjoyable experience for all.Special Time Just for You is for special needs jumpers and their families.

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2022-09-05 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities or do you suspect they have a disability?
Do you want to…– Feel less overwhelmed?– Feel a sense of belonging?
Get the support you need from Parent Network of WNY, Empower and other group members!Discuss topics such as Special Education, Sensory Processing Disorders, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and more!
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives - webinar
2022-09-07 18:00 - 19:30 | NY
Come join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist as we explore:
Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives
Let’s face it nothing keeps parents up at night more than thinking about who will care for our child/children when we are no longer able to care for them.
This workshop will increase the knowledge of families of individuals with disabilities about the options besides legal guardianship for adults with disabilities.
If your adult child does not need full guardianship, there are other options that we will explore in this presentation.
We will also discuss guardianship and the legal requirements.
REGISTER

Parent to Parent of NYS Father Group On-Line Chat
2022-09-08 08:00 - 17:00 | NY
Virtual Meeting: Bi-weekly on Thursdays, starting at 7 p.m.
Parent to Parent has established an informal Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their childrens’ special needs.
Virtual Zoom- Registration required. REGISTER
Questions, contact Chris Brewster – cbrewster@ptopnys.org.

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child in a Residential placement
2022-09-08 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Do you have a family member in a residential program and are struggling to make peace with this decision? Parent to Parent is excited to host a new Parent Discussion Group facilitated by Mariela Adams, for families with children and adults of all ages that have children in residential school or a group home.
Virtual Zoom- Registration Required. REGISTER
Questions, contact Valerie Colavecchio – vcolavecchio@ptopnys.org.

Explore & More’s Au-Some Evenings - September 9, 2022
2022-09-09 17:30 - 19:30 | Explore & More – The Ralph C Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum, 130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
Explore & More’s Au-Some Evenings are free monthly events for children with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorders along with family and friends. The second Friday of each month from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, children can play and learn together in an understanding and supportive environment. Families have access to the museum space and play zones. Featured activities include a music center, therapy dogs, art projects and gross motor activities. Explore & More will also have a social
narrative about the museum and its play zones, quiet kits, as well as calming sensory friendly spaces in the museum. Space is limited so reservations are essential. Be sure to check the website for the latest information. Email accessibility@exploreandmore.org to reserve your space.

Executive Functioning: Managing the Transition Back to School - webinar
2022-09-12 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
The changes that come along with the transition back to school can be overwhelming for students and their families, and even more so for students diagnosed with ASD. The development of executive functioning skills is critical for success in such transitions, and this presentation will focus on the executive function skill development that is essential for the transition back to school.
REGISTER

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - webinar
2022-09-12 18:00 - 19:30 | NY
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Understanding the Regulation of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities.
This training will take you through the NYS Special Education Regulations step by step. Parents will learn the role they play on the CSE, learn the chain of command regarding the CSE, learn how to request information regarding your child’s IEP and gain an understanding how to communicate with your child’s teachers & administrators.
After this webinar parents will have more knowledge about the educational laws to advocate for their child/children.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER

What You Need to Know About Assistive Technology in the IEP - webinar
2022-09-13 11:00 - 12:30 | NY
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager /Education Specialist as she presents What You Need to Know About Assistive Technology in the IEP.
This training will teach parents, grandparents, guardians about appropriate Assistive Technology (AT) devices and services how they allow students with disabilities to participate in and benefit from the general education curriculum and to meet Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals. For every student with an IEP, federal and state regulations require that the team consider the student’s need for assistive technology devices and services.
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER

Front Door Info Session (English) - Webinar
2022-09-13 12:00 - 14:00 | NY
The OPWDD Front Door Information Session will outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance.
Registration

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=ea2ec7f84c5375eacf64fb32d6fb82965
If you need assistance, please contact Angelina Gogola, 315-793-9600 ext. 621 angelina.m.gogola@opwdd.ny.gov

Supporting Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder - webinar
2022-09-13 13:00 - 14:30 | NY
Having a child with autism spectrum disorder can present unique challenges for family members,
especially siblings. Information, services, supports, and resources are often focused on the autistic child or
the parents. This webinar offers information about the experiences of elementary and middle school –
aged siblings of children with autism spectrum disorder. We also discuss strategies for supporting siblings
and resources available to families, with a particular focus on a sibling support group offered at the NYU
Child Study Center.
SPEAKERS
Lorien Baker, PhD, Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Lauren Donnelly, PhD, Clinical Director, Autism Spectrum Disorder Service, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Register Now: https://bit.ly/rcasd91322
For any questions or to learn more about the New York City Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (RCASD), headquartered at the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU Langone Health, please contact: csc.rcasd@nyulangone.org

Autism Spectrum Disorder: Communication Strategies via Zoom
2022-09-13 18:00 - 20:00 | NY
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Communication Strategies
In this workshop participants will learn about communication disorders related to Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and treatment strategies to improve communication skills in children with ASD.
ABOUT THE HOST
Dr. Marcus Thomeer is Co-Director of the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) and a Professor at Canisius College. He has extensive experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating psychosocial programs for autistic children. He has over 75 research publications in peer reviewed journals. He provides consultation and training to many school districts and families.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/autism-spectrum-disorder-communication-strategies/

Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Autismo y el Procesamiento Sensorial: Estrategias Prácticas para Usar en Casa
2022-09-14 13:00 - 14:00 | NY
La transición de la atención médica pediátrica a la de adultos es una etapa crítica para todas las personas, y particularmente para los pacientes con necesidades médicas complejas. Conozca los factores a considerar al navegar por este desafiante período de vida.
Sobre el ponente
Moira Peña, BScOT, MOT Reg. (Ont.) es una terapeuta ocupacional experimentada que trabaja con niños y jóvenes en el espectro del autismo en Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital en Toronto, Ontario, Canadá. Es miembro del Equipo de Expertos del Programa de Autismo de ECHO Ontario, que tiene como objetivo desarrollar aún más las habilidades de los pediatras, psicólogos escolares y maestros para apoyar mejor a los niños y jóvenes autistas y sus familias. Investigadora publicada, ha presentado a nivel nacional e internacional a padres, maestros, profesionales de terapia ocupacional y otros profesionales de la salud. Moira es también la orgullosa creadora y anfitriona de la Cumbre de Autismo de Holland Bloorview.
Webinar gratuito a la 1 p.m. Hora del Este (EE. UU.), Miércoles, 14 de Septiembre de 2022
https://www.autism.org/autismo-y-el-procesamiento-sensorial/

Buffalo Autism Parent Group with Kathy and Jana (Participate in person or via Zoom)
2022-09-14 18:30 - 19:30 | Buffalo State College, 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY, 14222, United States
Join us and meet other families with children with autism spectrum disorders. The purpose of this group is to share experiences, tips, and ask questions in a friendly and supportive environment. Share as much or as little as you feel comfortable sharing.
You can participate in person or via zoom!
IN PERSON: 103 Ketchum Hall, Room 211 Buffalo State College, 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222
Enter the campus from Elmwood and turn on to Rockwell. The building is right across from the Burchfield Penney Art Center. Parking lot (R2) is directly in front of building and is free.
The conference room is located on the main floor of the building, at the end furthest away from Elmwood and close to Moot Hall. Parents should enter the exterior door from the far end of the parking lot (R2) that has an accessible ramp entrance; these doors are closest to Moot Hall.
VIA ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87176301190?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 871 7630 1190 Passcode: [REDACTED]

What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education - webinar
2022-09-14 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate as she presents What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education?
Not everyone starts out by being a good advocate. Many parents, guardians and grandparents have faced challenges in getting their child’s education needs met. Parents, guardians, grandparents, must learn the skills they need to become good advocates for their children. Participants will learn that communicate effectively with teachers and other school personnel is one of the best ways to ensure that your child’s school is creating a good learning environment for your child, and to ensure that your child’s school is providing your child with the services or programs that he or she needs to succeed in school.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member or just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
REGISTER

Parent's Guide to Special Education (Formerly Parent Member) via Zoom-Two Part Series
2022-09-17 09:00 - 11:00 | NY
FREE WORKSHOP
2 Parts: Online Training and Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Learn about the Special Education Process and the Individualized Education Program!

Gain understanding about procedures, NYS regulations, and strategies to promote a parent’s understanding and participation in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting.
This course is required to receive a Parent Member Certificate to support a parent of a child with a disability in an IEP meeting.

Part 1 – Online videos & activities
Complete at least 1 day prior to Live Zoom Session
Part 2 – Live Zoom Session
September 17th
9:00 am – 11:00 am
CTLE Credits Available
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download flyer

A Beginners Guide to Understanding the Special Education Process - webinar
2022-09-19 18:00 - 19:15 | NY
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Advocate for this presentation.
This workshop will describe the purpose of special education, introduction to special education process, and services available to children ages birth to 21. This training is for parents, grandparents, guardians, and professionals that are new to the special education process or have limited knowledge. The goal of the training is for attendees to learn the basics of the special education system.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER

ICSS Information Session (iLs) Intensive Communication & Social Skills at Sensational Fun, Inc.
2022-09-20 10:00 - 10:30 | Sensational Fun, Inc., 2881 Southwestern Blvd., Orchard Park, NY, 14127, United States
Sensational Fun, Inc.’s next session of Intensive Communication & Social Skills (w/iLs) starts Oct 11!
ICSS Information Session (iLs) Intensive Communication & Social Skills at Sensational Fun, Inc. is Tuesday, September 20 from 10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
This information session is a 15-minute presentation, giving you the details on ICSS. This is important if you are at all interested in what many refer to as “iLs.” They have 6 spots for the 10-week session. This session is a great opportunity to understand what is involved and if it is a good fit for you and your child!
There will be 15 minutes after to ask any questions!
Joining Sensational Fun, Inc.’s in person (at Sensational Fun) is ideal so you can have a hands-on understanding, but they will also have a virtual option as well!
If you have any questions, please contact jenniferkline@sensationalfun.org.
Registration

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2022-09-20 12:00 - 13:00 | NY
Receive Support – Connect with Others – Express Yourself
Free Support for parents, family members and caregivers of children with special needs
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/chautauqua-county-family-caregiver-support-group-9/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs - webinar
2022-09-20 17:30 - 18:30 | NY
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Manager/ Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs.
Extraordinary parenting responsibilities create extraordinary pressures on parents. At the same time, parenting a child with special needs requires energy, focus, and enthusiasm to be effective in our role. The better off we are emotionally and physically, the better off our families will be. Join us for this webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout and discover positive ways to cope with and effectively manage stress.
Moderator – Sharon Linne
REGISTER

Front Door Info Session (Chinese) - Webinar
2022-09-21 16:00 - 18:00 | NY
OPWDD 前门信息会议将概述您如何有资格获得支持和服务的流程、可用的支持和服务类型以及您可以在哪里获得帮助。
Registration

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e1b4eda4171f79f10801c8d69dca0ae6d
If you need assistance, please contact Xindi Xu, 718-722-2745, xindi.x.xu@opwdd.ny.gov

How to Protect My Child's Future Through Guardianship, Wills & Trusts via Zoom
2022-09-21 18:00 - 20:00 | NY
Planning for the future is especially important when you have a child with a disability. This workshop provides parents or caregivers with an overview of things to think about: guardianship, wills, and trusts.
The class will help you to understand your options as you begin to think about plans for your special needs child.
Presentation & Discussion with Bruce A. Goldstein | Special Counsel Kenney Shelton Liptak Nowak LLP
FREE EVENT!
REGISTER
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs - webinar
2022-09-21 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents a webinar on Starting Over, Grandparents (or Other Relatives) Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs.
There are many reasons why a grandparent, or relative, raising their grandchildren full time. By creating an enriched, supportive, and safe living environment, grandchildren stay connected to their family while keeping them out of foster care.
This webinar will address the advantages and disadvantages of caring for our own and give practical resources and strategies for providing the best for your grandchildren. As one of the most important members of the family, we will also look at ways to care for you along the way.
If you have questions, please contact: Tina Beauparlant – (518) 381-4350.
Moderator- Chris Brewster
REGISTER
