Autism Society Western New York

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2022-09-26 15:00 - 17:00 (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.
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Communicating with the CSE through Letter Writing - webinar
2022-09-27 17:00 - 18:30 | NY
Please join Nancy Marmet, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the CSE through Letter Writing.
Letter writing can be a very effective method of communication and advocacy for parents of children with disabilities. This training assists parents, guardians, grandparents how to clearly and effectively express concerns, ideas or suggestions to the professionals involved in their child’s special education program.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350.
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Parents Considering a Residential Placement Discussion Group
2022-09-27 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.

Understanding Your Child's Individualized Education Program (IEP) via Zoom
2022-09-28 18:00 - 19:30 | NY
Gain an understanding of the components, the process, and the roles of the families and the school.
REGISTER
FREE EVENT!
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
call: 716.332.4170

Parent to Parent of NYS Grupo de Padres en Español | Spanish Parent Group via Zoom
2022-09-28 18:00 - 19:30, 2022-10-12 18:00 - 19:30 | NY
PADRE A PADRE DE NYS
Les invitamos a ser parte de nuestra siguiente reunión de Cuidadores vía Zoom. Parent to Parent of NYS está ofreciendo reuniones GRATUITAS de padres y/o cuidadores de seres queridos con necesidades especiales y/o médicamente frágiles.
Está reunión está dirigida para los cuidadores a nivel estatal. Estamos aquí para usted.
Venga a compartir con nosotros en una reunión informal donde compartiremos información, recursos y encontrará el apoyo que necesita mientras criar a un ser querido con necesidades especiales y/o médicamente frágiles sin importar la edad de la persona.
Usted debe registrarse en el siguiente enlace electrónico: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUkdeCppjwjGdAIBMX3PDuqprOU_4kKDrSq
Después de registrarse usted recibirá el enlace de zoom para ingresar a la reunión en el correo electrónico que provea al registrarse.
Si tiene preguntas por favor contacte a Rocio Zumaya por correo electrónico rzumaya@ptopnys.org o por el número de Google Voice al (516) 654 – 6591.
Family to Family Health Information Center
Parent to Parent of NYS
www.ptopnys.org

Statewide- Special Education Parent Chat Group via Zoom
2022-09-29 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
As a parent of a child with a disability, I know first-hand how hard it is to continue the good fight. Sometimes we feel hopeless, helpless, and at a loss for words. If you’re a parent, grandparent, caregiver of a child with special needs, you may feel isolated, alone and struggling with special education school related issues. Come join us for an opportunity to share how your feelings, engage in some great conversation and share resources with other parents in the community who are dealing with the same issues. All from the comfort of your own home.
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant- tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org Phone: (518) 381-4350.
Online Zoom- Registration Required: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcvduqtpzspHNELns7of5HyDn6ybP-4umZO

GET AIR - BUFFALO - A Special Time Just for You
2022-10-01 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.

Communicating with the CSE through Letter Writing - webinar
2022-10-03 12:00 - 13:15 | NY
Please join Trish Washburn, Education advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the CSE through Letter Writing.
Letter writing can be a very effective method of communication and advocacy for parents of children with disabilities. This training assists parents, guardians, grandparents how to clearly and effectively express concerns, ideas or suggestions to the professionals involved in their child’s special education program.
REGISTER

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2022-10-03 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

Transitions from Pediatric to Adult Medical Care - Webinar
2022-10-05 13:00 - 14:00 | NY
The transition from pediatric to adult healthcare is a critical stage for all individuals, and particularly so for patients with complex medical needs. Learn about the factors to consider when navigating this challenging life period.
The Speakers
Julie Corder, CNP
Carrie Cuomo, DNP, CPNP
Christine Arnica, MS
Register: https://www.autism.org/transition-medical-care-adulthood/

Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS GROUP via Zoom
2022-10-06 19:00 - 20:30 | 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.
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It’s Nemo Night at Ausome Aquarium! at Aquarium of Niagara
2022-10-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Aquarium of Niagara, 701 Whirlpool Street, NIagara Falls, NY, 14301
It’s Nemo Night at Ausome Aquarium! Families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder are invited to enjoy a special, Finding Nemo themed evening at the Aquarium of Niagara to visit and learn in a supportive environment.
Guests can watch a sea lion presentation, touch sharks and stingrays at M&T Bank Shark and Ray Bay, interact with sensory stations, enjoy snacks, complete crafts, and more.
When: Friday, October 7, 2022
Time: 6-8pm
Cost:
$25 – Family Admission (up to five people; please indicate the number of children and adults attending)
$7 – Individual Group Home Resident
Free – Group Home Staff Chaperone
The program was developed with collaboration between Aquarium of Niagara, John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital, and several community partners.

Lyle, Lyle, Crocidile - Sensory Friendly Family Film Series showing at Flix Stadium 10 - Saturday, October 8
2022-10-08 10:00 - 12:00 | 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: October 8: Lyle, Lyle, Crocidile. When the Primm family moves to New York City, their young son Josh struggles to adapt to his new school and new friends. All of that changes when he discovers Lyle – a singing crocodile who loves baths, caviar and great music-living in the attic of his new home. The two become fast friends, but when Lyle’s existence is threatened by evil neighbor Mr. Grumps, the Primm’s must band together with Lyle’s charismatic owner, Hector P. Valenti, to show the world that family can come from the most unexpected places and there’s nothing wrong with a big singing crocodile with an even bigger personality.
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

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - webinar
2022-10-11 10:00 - 11:30 | NY
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Manage, 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.
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Key Ingredients For the Start of a Successful School Year! - webinar
2022-10-11 18:00 - 19:30 | NY
Come join Namita Modasra to start the school year off GREAT!!
A new school year means a new grade, new teachers, new goals, and maybe even a new school! In order to help you and your child with special needs be as successful as they can be, we put together this great presentation with helpful back to school tips that we hope will make this transition into a new school year a little easier for you and your child.
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Understanding the Individualized Education Program (IEP) Process for Parents of Preschoolers via Zoom
2022-10-12 11:30 - 13:00 | NY
Understanding the IEP Process for Parents of Preschoolers
Is your child going into Preschool Special Education?
Learn about the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) process, your role in the process, and identify the different components of the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Discuss how to develop relationships and practices that build home-school collaboration and support your child.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
REGISTER
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting - webinar
2022-10-12 12:00 - 13:30 | NY
Please join Trish Washburn for this presentation on How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting.
This training is to help parents, who approach IEP meetings with fear and dread? If this is you, attended this training and there may be some suggestions to help you feel more at ease and able to participate as a full member of the team that plans your child’s special education program.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member, or just interested in this topic, this training is for you!
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Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP. - Webinar
2022-10-12 18:00 - 20:00 | NY
Come join Namita Modasra as she presents Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law, requires certain information to be included in the IEP but doesn’t specify say how the IEP should look. Because states and local school systems may include additional information, forms differ from state to state and may vary between school systems within a state. The IEP, Individualized Education Program, is a written document that’s developed for each public-school child who is eligible for special education. The IEP is created through a team effort and reviewed at least once a year. This training will teach you how to read the IEP so you can understand what should and can be in the IEP.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member or just interested in this topic, this training is for you!
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Is Guardianship the Only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives - webinar
2022-10-13 10:00 - 12:00 | 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.
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When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit - webinar
2022-10-13 13:00 - 14:00 | NY
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator as she presents a webinar on When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit.
This presentation provides an overview of the parent’s perspective when planning for a child’s developmental evaluation. This webinar will not be looking at specific tests or types of evaluations. Instead, we want to share some tips and potential suggestions that we have learned based on our own personal experiences when our children were evaluated. We hope that this provides you with information and ideas when planning for your own child’s evaluation.
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Overview Of Office for People with Developmental Disabilities - Virtual Google Meeting
2022-10-13 17:00 - 18:00 | NY
This workshop provides parents, caregivers and professionals with detailed information about the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD).
The class will help you to understand eligibility, the admission process, and any updates to the service.
Meeting ID
meet.google.com/pgh-gvjn-qmp
Phone Numbers
(US)+1 218-301-1965
PIN: 318 648 437#
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
REGISTER

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

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child in a Residential placement
2022-10-13 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 - October 14, 2022
2022-10-14 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.

Symphonic Spooktacular 2022 at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo
2022-10-16 14:30 - 15:30 | Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY, 14201, United States
An oogie, woogie, super spooky performance of the trickiest, treatiest Halloween hits. Wear your costume and join the parade across the Kleinhans stage!
Fernanda Lastra, conductor
Click here for information and to purchase tickets.
Where: Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle. Buffalo, NY 14201
Phone: 716-885-5000
Cost: $7.00 child/adult

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide - webinar
2022-10-17 18:00 - 19:30 | NY
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents this wonderful webinar: Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide.
Let’s explore what the IEP team needs to consider, supplemental aids, services and program modifications for all students with disabilities.
A key question for the IEP team is to consider whether the student with a disability does or does not require one-to-one support to make meaningful progress toward annual goals in the IEP in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
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Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2022-10-18 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-10/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Sensory Processing Disorder via Zoom
2022-10-18 18:00 - 20:00 | NY
Sensory Processing Disorder
This workshop explores the different sensory processing disorders and offers parents and caregivers activities, tips and suggestions to help their child manage his/her sensory needs.
ABOUT THE HOST
Amy Ruffino has been working directly with children having sensory processing disorders for over 25 years. Currently, she is the owner of a Pediatric Therapy Practice called Beyond Boundaries: Therapy for Kids. She continues to practice home and community-based occupational therapy with young children, specializing in the areas of play and sensory processing disorders.
CTLE Credits Available
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/sensory-processing-disorder-2/

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

Creating a Well-Structured Classroom for Autism - Webinar
2022-10-19 13:00 - 14:00 | NY
Educational consultant Amy Moore Gaffney, M.A, discusses classroom strategies that can provide helpful support for students with autism.
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. She is also a TEACCH® certified advanced consultant. Ms. Gaffney has experience working with young children, school-age children, and young adults. Through her work as a speech-language pathologist and Autism consultant, she 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/well-structured-classroom-autism/

Education Records Organizer - webinar
2022-10-19 18:00 - 19:00 | NY
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Advocate for this wonderful presentation.
This workshop is where parents, guardians and advocates of children who receive 504, CPSE and CSE special education services take their educational records and organize them into a record-keeping binder. This workshop will assist in being more organized in planning a child’s education, and in the CPSE/CSE process.
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