Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Girls and Women: Perspectives on Diagnosis, Treatment, and Social Supports in the Community via Zoom
2022-04-28 18:00 - 19:00 (America/New_York)
Girls and women with ASD often present with unique social challenges different from those seen in males with ASD. These differences often lead to misdiagnosis or an ASD diagnosis later in life, which impact development and access to supports. Join our diverse panel during Autism Month in an empowering discussion about ASD diagnosis, research in gender differences, personal experiences, and building community for Autistic girls and women.
Register Now: https://bit.ly/rcasd428
PANELISTS
Beatrix Bradford, BS
Graduate Student, Self-Advocate
Kathleen Koenig, MSN, APRN
Clinical Specialist in Psychiatry,
Director, S.E.L.F., Yale Child Study
Lara Schaeffer, M.Ed
English Department Chair,
Oak Knoll School
Advisory Council Member, RCASD
Katherine Sullivan, PhD
Clinical Psychologist

Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS Zoom GROUP
2022-04-28 19:00 - 20:30
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 children’s special needs.
Virtual Zoom Group: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtcOivqD8vGdEpO5DltxXk9Ds9xNFODCuV
Contact: Tina Beauparlant- tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org Phone: (518) 381-4350

Introduction to Pyramid Model: The Foundation for Building Social-Emotional Success at Home and School via Zoom
2022-04-28 19:00 - 21:00
Introduction to Pyramid Model: The Foundation for Building Social-Emotional Success at Home and School
Guest Speaker:
Kathleen Kiblin, Education and Training SpecialistvPyramid Model Master Cadre
This FREE workshop is brought to you by the Early Childhood Inclusion Committee of DDAWNY
What is the Pyramid Model? Pyramid Model supports the theory that school readiness is dependent upon the foundation of healthy social emotional skills, building friendships, the ability to self-regulate and problem solving.
What will you learn? Participants will be able to describe the relationship between children’s social emotional development and challenging behaviors. Participants will have a basic understanding of what the Pyramid Model is as well as be able to assess their readiness to implement in their program or home.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!

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

Preparing for the Transition into Adulthood for Individuals with ASD via Zoom
2022-04-29 13:00 - 14:00
The journey from the school-age years into adulthood can be challenging for many individuals with ASD and their caregivers. Appropriate preparation and planning is critical for a successful transition into the “real world.” This webinar will focus on effective planning strategies from the perspective of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). The presentation will discuss how to use assessments to analyze daily living skills and assist with goal planning, provide strategies for fostering self-advocacy and independence, and examine how to shift skill acquisition to real-world contexts. Valuable resources will be shared to assist individuals who present with a wide range of strengths and challenges across the spectrum.
Cassandra Karabaic, BCBA, LBA
Blue Apple Kids
Register Now: https://bit.ly/rcasd429

What Families and Caregivers Need to Know About The New York State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA) via Zoom
2022-04-29 16:00 - 17:00
Participants will learn:

The criteria for NYSAA eligibility
The type of assessments used to measure a NYSAA student’s performance and how often
How a NYSAA determination affects graduation options and plans for life after high school

Certificate of completion available upon request
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/what-families-and-caregivers-need-to-know-about-the-new-york-state-alternate-assessment-nysaa/

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

Front Door Information Session via WebEx
2022-05-02 09:00 - 11:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions 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. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e988599ce201b352f305ea56f8fe2f252
If you need assistance, please contact Jeffrey Roberts 585-241-5797 Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

Northtowns Family/Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2022-05-02 18:30 - 19:30
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!
Join Zoom Meetinghttps://zoom.us/j/99541728957?pwd=[REDACTED] ID: 995 4172 8957Passcode: [REDACTED]

Family/Caregiver Support Group - 2022 via Zoom
2022-05-03 17:30 - 19:00
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities or 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 & other group members! First Tuesday of the month from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Virtual Meeting via Zoom. Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/96127043675?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 961 2704 3675, Passcode: [REDACTED]
NO JUDGEMENTS – NO FEES – ALL ARE WELCOME
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs - Webinar
2022-05-04 12:00 - 13:30
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.
Virtual Webinar- Registration Required: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2074204916299188493
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant – Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org Phone: 518-381-4350.

Live Q&A: Sensory Strategies at Home - Webinar
2022-05-04 13:00 - 14:00
Tune in for this live Q&A featuring Moira Peña, BScOT, MOT, OT Reg. (Ont.)
This is a follow-up to Ms. Peña’s webinar, Sensory-Friendly Strategies at Home.
About the speaker:
Moira Peña, BScOT, MOT, OT Reg. (Ont.) is an experienced occupational therapist working with children and youth on the autism spectrum at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. She is an Expert Hub Team member of the ECHO Ontario Autism Program which aims to further develop pediatricians’, school psychologists’ and teachers’ skills to best support autistic children and youth and their families. A published researcher, she has presented nationally and internationally to parents, teachers, occupational therapy practitioners and other health care professionals. Moira is also the proud creator and host of Holland Bloorview’s Autism Summit.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/qa-sensory-strategies-at-home/

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEX
2022-05-04 16:00 - 18:00, 2022-05-16 09:00 - 11:00
Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
Registration is required.
(All sessions are WebEx/online format and attendance is taken using the person’s email address)
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

Celebrate Raising Children - A 7-week series
2022-05-04 18:00 - 20:00
May 4, 11, 18, 25 and June 1, 8 @ 6:00PM – 8:00PM via Zoom
June 11 @ 9:00AM – 11:00AM at Explore & More Children’s Museum
A 7-week series where you’ll meet other parents/caregivers and learn new ways to be a positive parent/caregiver.
REGISTER ONCE FOR ENTIRE SERIES! FREE EVENT!
CTLE Credits Available.
For more information or to register: Call: 716-332-4170, Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org, or https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/celebrate-raising-children/

Celebrate Raising Children - A 7-week series via Zoom
2022-05-04 18:00 - 20:00
A 7-week series where you’ll meet other parents/caregivers and learn new ways to be a positive parent/caregiver.
CTLE Credits Available
Certificate of completion available upon request
REGISTER ONCE FOR ENTIRE SERIES! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

May 4, 11, 18, 25 and June 1, 8 @ 6:00PM – 8:00PM via Zoom.
June 11 @ 9:00AM – 11:00AM at Explore & More Children’s Museum.

Transitioning From Preschool (CPSE) To Kindergarten Special Education (CSE) via Zoom
2022-05-04 18:30 - 20:00
You will learn about working together with your school district during the transition from the Committee on Preschool Education (CPSE) to Committee on Preschool Special Education (CSE).
We will cover topics such as the transition process, timeline and commonly used terms.
CTLE Credits Available
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! Register: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/transitioning-from-preschool-cpse-to-kindergarten-special-education-cse/

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

RCASD at SUNY OLD WESTBURY VIRTUAL AUTISM CONFERENCE: TEACHING TO SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES: SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH AUTISM IN THE HOME, SCHOOL, AND COMMUNITY
2022-05-06 08:30 - 17:15
RCASD at SUNY OLD WESTBURY VIRTUAL AUTISM CONFERENCE – May 6, 2022 from 8:30 a.m. – 5:15 p.m. (EST)
TEACHING TO SUCCESSFUL OUTCOMES: SUPPORTING CHILDREN WITH AUTISM IN THE HOME, SCHOOL, AND COMMUNITY
8:30 a.m. – 9:45 p.m. “You’re in the Driver’s Seat: A Roadmap for Effectively Supporting Students with Autism in Classroom Settings” presented by Janet VanLone, Ph.D. and Karen Robie, Ph.D.
10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. Keynote Presentation: “Introducing Social Skills into Academic instruction for Students with ASD” presented by Wesley Dotson Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA
12:45 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. “Challenging Behavior in Children with Autism: Prevent It, Respond to It, and Replace It” presented by Lauren Moskowitz, Ph.D.
2:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. “From Schedules to Checklists: Practical Solutions to Promote Independence in Students with Autism” presented by Sarah K. Smith, M.Ed.
4:00 p.m. – 5:15 p.m. “Visual Supports and Strategies for Children with Autism in the Home Setting” presented by Katie McLaughlin, MA, BCBA, LBA
Presenter bios and full description available at https://owautism.com/events
BACB CEUs (for BCBAs only & CTLE available. See website Events — RCASD Old Westbury (owautism.com) for more information,
FREE REGISTRATION; https://nysrcasd.org/events/991/registrations/new or go to www.owautism.com

Front Door Information Session via WebEx
2022-05-06 10:00 - 12:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions 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. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=ef0c8371083fcb3295b202a73c7615773 If you need assistance, please contact Kelly Dean 607-217-6587, kelly.l.dean@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

Sensory Friendly Family Film Series: Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness - May 7, 2022
2022-05-07 10:00 - 12:10 | Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road, Lancaster, NY, 14043, United States
Flix Stadium 10 in Lancaster, NY Announces Sensory Friendly Family Film Series
Flix Stadium 10 sensory friendly family film series slated to run the first Saturday of every month at 10am. The films will be presented with the theatre lights on and the sound lowered.
Dipson Theatres, Inc. acknowledges the needs of social engagement and environmental factors affecting people on the autism spectrum, and hope that this family film series will create an entertainment venue for families to enjoy new releases in a presentation that will suit unique and special needs.
Upcoming movie: May 7: Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness – To restore a world where everything is changing, Strange seeks help from his ally Wong, the Sorcerer Supreme, and the Avengers’ most powerful Scarlet Witch, Wanda. But a terrible threat looms over humanity and the entire universe that no longer can be done by their power alone. Even more surprising, the greatest threat in the universe looks exactly like Doctor Strange…
Admission is $8.75 per person for both children and adults. Flix will also offer a monthly raffle for attendees to win concession prizes and promotional movie gifts.
Potential guests are encouraged to sign up for the theatre’s weekly email list which will announce each month’s film. Anyone interested can go to www.dipsontheatres.com and sign up for the weekly newsletter.
Contact:
Tracy Janis, General Manager
Flix Stadium 10
tracy@dipsontheatres.com
716-668-1888
4901 Transit Road
Lancaster, NY 14043
www.dipsontheatres.com

Front Door Information Session via WebEx - Spanish
2022-05-09 16:00 - 18:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions 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. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

Para registrarse, haga clic aquí: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e56b83be685030d2ce7097ab0f0e992f4
Si necesita ayuda, comuníquese con Clara Fournier 718-430-0761 Clara.Fournier@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

What Is Special Education Mediation? via Zoom
2022-05-10 18:00 - 20:00
Learn about Special Education Mediation and how to use this tool to resolve complaints regarding the education of students with disabilities.
Expert Speaker – Amber Kane
Mediator & trainer with 20+ years’ experience working with people with I/DD, their families, & service providers. Project Coordinator of ADR CONNECTS, an initiative to connect people with I/DD to mediation & related services. Interim Director of Disability Programs for the New York State Dispute Resolution Association.
Certificate of completion available upon request
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/what-is-special-education-mediation/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

What is Section 504? - Webinar
2022-05-10 18:00 - 20:00
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on What is Section 504?
This training will introduce you to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This training is designed to provide you with an understanding of the law, how it applies to educational programs and to students with disabilities. Children who qualify under this law receive services and/ or accommodations in the public-school system without being classified under IDEA and their school district’s Committee on Special Education.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member, or just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
If you have any questions, contact Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350 tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Virtual Zoom Platform. Registration Required: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMldOuvrzMuHd1ggMh-yFNehBrBYtizMEia

Front Door Information Session via WebEx
2022-05-11 10:00 - 12:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions 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. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e3dbed5d44a38309f0012510252ec3bff If you need assistance, please contact Erin Caglioti 631-416-3943 erin.a.caglioti@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

Understanding the Regulation of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - webinar
2022-05-12 11:00 - 12:30
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.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5936900313890705933
If you have any questions, contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - webinar
2022-05-12 13:00 - 14:30
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Manager / Regional Coordinator, as she presents on A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD.
The purpose of this training is to introduce families to the language of service delivery systems and to define and clarify information about services and supports. Participants will gain an increased awareness and understanding of eligibility criteria and the eligibility determination process. The training includes an overview of Home and Community Based Services Waiver, and Family Support Services.
If you have any questions, contact Tina Beauparlant at Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org or 518-381-4350.
Virtual Webinar: Registration Required: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6785056987946127632

Binder Training: Organizing All Your Stuff!
2022-05-12 18:00 - 19:30 | Sweet Home Central School District, 1901 Sweet Home Road, West Amherst, NY, 14228, United States
Where did you put that paper? It’s here somewhere!!!
Participants will learn which papers or documents to keep, organizing tips, and understand how having the right paper at your fingertips can lead to a successful education plan.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! Register: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/binder-training-organizing-all-your-stuff/

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

(Spanish) Chat with Us! via Zoom
2022-05-12 19:00 - 20:00
¡Únase a nosotros para obtener respuestas a sus preguntas e inquietudes!
RESPONDEREMOS SUS PREGUNTAS SOBRE…– Transiciones– Educación Especial y Discapacidades– Manejo de tiempo en el Hogar– Trabajo Escolar– Comportamiento– Tecnología Virtual– Recursos en Buffalo– ¡Y cualquier otro tema que quieras discutir!
Unirse a la Zoom reuniónhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/83163589898?pwd=[REDACTED]ón ID: 831 6358 9898 Contraseña: [REDACTED]
Sesiones Semanales de Charla Con Lizarelis Ali!
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child in a Residential placement
2022-05-12 19:00 - 20:00
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: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZItcOCgqjkiE93EvzhK2aXOn96j5KDcPGBy
Contact: Valerie Colavecchio – vcolavecchio@ptopnys.org

Explore & More’s Au-Some Evenings - May 13, 2022
2022-05-13 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.

Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs - webinar
2022-05-17 11:00 - 12:15
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator, as she presents on Loss, Grief and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs.
Powerful and intense feelings are natural and common responses to parenting a child with exceptional needs. This training will provide an overview of common emotions experienced by parents and discuss how by sharing and acknowledging these emotions parents can find the inner strength needed to face and embrace their role as a parent of a child with special needs.
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Virtual Webinar. Registration Required: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7198493151295956238

Understanding the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) & Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) Process via Zoom
2022-05-17 17:00 - 19:00
Gain an understanding of the regulations, the process, and the roles of the families and the school.
Certificate of completion available upon request
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/understanding-the-functional-behavior-assessment-fba-behvaior-intervention-plan-bip-process/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
