Preparing for High School
2021-02-25 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
This workshop is designed to help parents or caregivers of children about to enter high school. Hear about changes that will take place along the way. Learn how to help your student identify his or her interests, strengths, and needs for all areas of life. An early understanding of graduation requirements will help to simplify this transition to independence.
Presentation & Discussion with Tonia Weichmann!
* CTLE Credits Available *
ABOUT THE HOST
Tonia Weichmann is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of Western New York. She has over 20 years experience working with young adults with disabilities, their families, and professionals. Her personal mission is to ensure that all young adults have the skills, knowledge, and support to achieve their life goals. Life is full of opportunity and knowing where to find the resources and supports that are needed is one of the most important steps.
Target Audience: Families of middle or high school students with disabilities and professionals.
FOR MORE INFORMATION: email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
REGISTER HERE: https://parentnetworkwny.secure.force.com/pmtx/evt__QuickEvent?id=a4l3a000000Y1Rj

BUFFALO PARENT & CAREGIVER CHAT SESSIONS
2021-02-25 19:00 - 20:00, 2021-03-11 19:00 - 20:00
BUFFALO PARENT & CAREGIVER CHAT SESSIONS
Join us at our weekly chat sessions to discuss your questions & concerns.
Buffalo Families! We are here to answer your questions and concerns on a wide range of topics including …
• Transitions
• Meltdowns
• Time Management
• Technology Needs
• Guidance to Resources in Buffalo
• And Any Other Topics, General Questions or Concerns!
Thursdays, 7:00 PM
Weekly Live Chats with Kim Hernandez & Lizarelis Ali!
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Kim Hernandez is a Family Support Specialist at Parent Network of WNY. She has been working with the families in the city of Buffalo for over 17 years. Her expertise is supporting families from disadvantaged communities who have children with a variety of disabilities.
Lizarelis Ali is a Family Support Specialist at Parent Network of WNY. She has been working with the families in the city of Buffalo for over 20 years. Her expertise is
supporting families from disadvantaged communities who have children with autism, ADHD and learning disabilities.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/91379417144?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 913 7941 7144
Passcode: [REDACTED]
+1 646 558 8656 US
(New York)
info@parentnetworkwny.org or 716.332.4170 or www.parentnetwork.org

The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) Professional Development and Parent Seminars - Live Stream
2021-02-26 09:00 - 14:15
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) are offering three live stream seminars that are directed towards school professionals, community professionals, and parents, who live or work with individuals on the autism spectrum. These sessions will not be recorded.
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) offers these seminars AT NO COST to participants living in New York State through a grant from the New York State Education Department. The funding is administered by The Research Foundation for SUNY.
Registration is required to attend. Please choose the sessions you would like to attend when you fill out your registration entry.
Seminar I—9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. What Does “Quality Education Programming” Mean for Children Diagnosed with Autism?
This presentation is a primer regarding autism programming for success! We will discuss characteristics of autism and how these necessitate modification/enhancement in assessment, curriculum, and instruction. A summary of current research regarding practices designed to support and enhance instruction for students with autism will be included. Key variables related to creating quality programming will be discussed.
Seminar II—11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Increasing Engagement and Motivation in Students with ASD
Students with ASD and other disabilities are often exposed to academics and homework assignments that are challenging or simply uninteresting to the students. Active participating in academics is important and students are expected to engage in and practice these fundamental skills both within and outside of the classroom. This presentation will focus on what factors influence motivation, different strategies that support motivation as well as how Executive Functions play a role in motivating students with ASD.
Seminar III—1:00 p.m.-2:15 p.m. Encouraging Independence with Emotion Regulation in Students with ASD
Learners with ASD across the age range from preschool to high school can benefit from self-management interventions. The use of self-management interventions is not limited to a particular skill domain. This presentation will focus on how the deficits in ASD affect individuals’ ability to maintain emotional regulation and multiple evidence-based interventions that can support individuals’ attempts to regulate their emotions and maintain prosocial behavior.
Registration information: http://www.albany.edu/autism/pdps.php
CARD Albany is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:
School Psychologists (NASP), Social Workers (LMSW & LCSW), and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC), and Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE). General certificates of attendance will be provided for all participants.
Each part is eligible for 1.25 contact hours. There is a $ 5.00 processing fee per session for each CEU selected. Please visit CARD Albany website for more information about CEU offerings. CEUs can be selected during registration and payment can be submitted online with a credit card.
The live stream seminars (three seminars per date) are available on the following dates:
Friday, February 26, 2021
Tuesday, March 9, 2021
Friday March 26, 2021
Tuesday, April 13 2021
Friday, April 30, 2021

Region 1 Front Door Information Session
2021-02-26 13:00 - 15:00
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions 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.
Families/Individuals are welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them. Families are only required to attend one session even if there are multiple people in the family to be represented.
Pre-registration is REQUIRED to attend through WebEx (Online).
Preregistration is NOT required to attend by phone.
Please note that participants are muted throughout the session and may not hear anything when first joining the session.
If you have difficulty registering for a session, please contact Jeff Roberts at 585-241-5797 or Jeffrey.E.Roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
Counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates.
WebEx Event (Online) Registration Link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e98f98da112ac0bc8722de1635badee51
Phone Only: Call 518-549-0500 and enter code 171 443 3071 then press # and # again.

DDAWNY Family Committee VIRTUAL Legislative Event
2021-02-26 14:00 - 16:00
State and Federal representatives will attend to learn from families and self-advocates about the struggles of COVID, essential services and the workforce that we rely on, and the importance of fairly and fully funding OPWDD services in the NYS budget.
Your involvement demonstrates that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities matter. Your presence shows that you value and respect them and want to ensure that they are provided the services they need to be respected and valued members of our communities.
Please join via zoom to represent yourself, your loved one, your neighbor, your friend. Share this invitation. All are welcome.
Join event: https://parentnetworkwny.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=a0a972fb38315336e2cd1bb57&id=a58e7c9168&e=6eb51d2385

Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2021-03-01 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar 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 Medicaid Service Coordination (MSC), Home and Community Based Services Waiver, and Family Support Services. Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-51400 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5334553752699548172

Northtowns Family/Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2021-03-01 19:00 - 20:30, 2021-03-15 19:00 - 20:30
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, Empower and other group members!
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99541728957?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 995 4172 8957 Passcode: [REDACTED]
NO JUDGEMENTS – NO FEES – ALL ARE WELCOME
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716-332-4170
online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Hippotherapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder - Webinar
2021-03-03 13:00 - 14:00
Hippotherapy is a form of physical, occupational and speech therapy in which a therapist uses the characteristic movements of a horse to provide carefully graded motor and sensory input. Learn about strategies therapists utilize while supporting individuals diagnosed with ASD.
About the speaker:

Presented by Chelsea Whitaker, OTR/L, Founder & COO of Taking the Lead, a non-profit organization which helps children and adults with disabilities gain independence, build self-confidence, and learn to function at their highest levels through the use of therapeutic horseback riding and service dogs.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/hippotherapy/

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-03-04 16:00 - 18:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link.
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e286854e2731fdff2854b3182f2e5b746

Transition from Preschool to School Age Special Education - Via Zoom
2021-03-04 18:00 - 19:30
Is your child going from preschool to school age special education?
During this training, guardians and family members will learn about the timeline, vocabulary and process for the transition from Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) to School Age Committee on Special Education (CSE).
CTLE Credits Available.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT.
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

CHQ Family/Caregiver Support Group of Children with Special Needs
2021-03-04 18:30 - 19:30, 2021-03-18 18:30 - 19:30
Want to feel less overwhelmed? Want to feel a sense of belonging? This is the Place for You!
No Judgements! No Fee!
Every 1st & 3rd Thursday of the Month
6:30-7:30PM
Join Zoom Meeting.
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,, 82679660440#,,1#,028188# US (New York)
If you have any questions contact us at (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org or join the group on Facebook for future dates, helpful hints and links:
CHQ Support Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Special Needs

The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) Professional Development and Parent Seminars - Live Stream
2021-03-09 09:00 - 14:15
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) are offering three live stream seminars that are directed towards school professionals, community professionals, and parents, who live or work with individuals on the autism spectrum. These sessions will not be recorded.
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) offers these seminars AT NO COST to participants living in New York State through a grant from the New York State Education Department. The funding is administered by The Research Foundation for SUNY.
Registration is required to attend. Please choose the sessions you would like to attend when you fill out your registration entry.
Seminar I—9:00 a.m.-10:15 a.m. What Does “Quality Education Programming” Mean for Children Diagnosed with Autism?
This presentation is a primer regarding autism programming for success! We will discuss characteristics of autism and how these necessitate modification/enhancement in assessment, curriculum, and instruction. A summary of current research regarding practices designed to support and enhance instruction for students with autism will be included. Key variables related to creating quality programming will be discussed.
Seminar II—11:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Increasing Engagement and Motivation in Students with ASD
Students with ASD and other disabilities are often exposed to academics and homework assignments that are challenging or simply uninteresting to the students. Active participating in academics is important and students are expected to engage in and practice these fundamental skills both within and outside of the classroom. This presentation will focus on what factors influence motivation, different strategies that support motivation as well as how Executive Functions play a role in motivating students with ASD.
Seminar III—1:00 p.m.-2:15 p.m. Encouraging Independence with Emotion Regulation in Students with ASD
Learners with ASD across the age range from preschool to high school can benefit from self-management interventions. The use of self-management interventions is not limited to a particular skill domain. This presentation will focus on how the deficits in ASD affect individuals’ ability to maintain emotional regulation and multiple evidence-based interventions that can support individuals’ attempts to regulate their emotions and maintain prosocial behavior.
Registration information: http://www.albany.edu/autism/pdps.php
CARD Albany is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:
School Psychologists (NASP), Social Workers (LMSW & LCSW), and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC), and Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE). General certificates of attendance will be provided for all participants.
Each part is eligible for 1.25 contact hours. There is a $ 5.00 processing fee per session for each CEU selected. Please visit CARD Albany website for more information about CEU offerings. CEUs can be selected during registration and payment can be submitted online with a credit card.
The live stream seminars (three seminars per date) are available on the following dates
Tuesday, March 9, 2021
Friday March 26, 2021
Tuesday, April 13 2021
Friday, April 30, 2021

Power2Relate Using the Nurtured Heart Approach - A Four Week Parenting Series Via Zoom
2021-03-09 18:00 - 20:00
We are naturally created to be connected. Events, Circumstances, Unconscious ways of thinking and Stress can steal the joy and Love in our relationships. When this happens we feel pain and often helpless to stop the hurting. Power2Relate is designed to strengthen our natural ability to manage challenges and stay connected by focusing on 6 sources of power.
The Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) is a language based approach that can help you regain focus and power and rebuild the love you want in your home. NHA teaches us why our typical parenting methods don’t always work and can even make things worse. The magic rests in its ability to use language to build “inner wealth” and to make positive connections to those around us by focusing on what IS working, at all times.
You will learn how to hold clear limits and consequences while you build positive connections. You will immediately FEEL the difference in your home, and in time, you, your children and your family learn to flourish.
By combining these curriculum it is our intention to more fully provide you tools to not only manage the challenges in your life, but to actually grow and get better because of them. We look forward to seeing you Transform!!
Joe Clem MA, LMFT, BCBA, Certified NHA Advanced Trainer
(No prior reading is required.)
Online Zoom Sessions for NHA. Once registered you will receive meeting id and password
Register here: https://tinyurl.com/y4zgwnbs

Please set up Zoom at 5:45 p.m. so we can begin Parent Session at 6:00 p.m.
Four Week Parenting Series
Tuesday, March 9, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 16, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 23, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tuesday, March 30, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Register by email to info@parentnetworkwny.org, online at www.parentnetworkwny.org/events or by phone at (716) 332-4170.

Webinar: Health Care Notebook Overview
2021-03-09 18:30 - 19:45
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Health Care Notebook Overview. Participants will learn how a Health Care Notebook can assist in organizing medical records. They will be given tips on how the notebook can assist with advocacy, save time, reduce stress and utilize the information within the notebook in the event of an emergency. Contact Maryalice Fegeley 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1834314560767121166

Region 1 Front Door Information Session
2021-03-10 16:00 - 18:00
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions 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.
Families/Individuals are welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them. Families are only required to attend one session even if there are multiple people in the family to be represented.
Pre-registration is REQUIRED to attend through WebEx (Online).
Preregistration is NOT required to attend by phone.
Please note that participants are muted throughout the session and may not hear anything when first joining the session.
If you have difficulty registering for a session, please contact Jeff Roberts at 585-241-5797 or Jeffrey.E.Roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
Counties: Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates.
WebEx Event (Online) Registration Link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e2ececfe94cd97884b8fc0356f2bc249b
Phone Only: Call 518-549-0500 and enter code 171 443 3071 then press # and # again.

Webinar: Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs
2021-03-10 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs. There are many reasons why a grandparent, or relative, may be 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. Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1189612619446778894

Charla con Nosotros!
2021-03-10 19:00 - 20:00
Charla con Nosotros!
¡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
• Recursos en Buffalo
• ¡Y cualquier otro tema que quieras discutir!
Cada Miércoles 7:00 PM
Sesiones Semanales de Charla Con Lizarelis Ali!
ACERCA DE LA ANFITRIONA
Lizarelis Ali es especialista en apoyo familiar en Parent Network of WNY. Ella ha estado trabajando con las familias en la ciudad de Buffalo por más de 20 años. Su esperiencia es en apoyar y guiar a las familias en las comunidades que tienen hijos con autismo, ADHD y problemas de aprendizaje.
Unirse a la Zoom reunión: https://zoom.us/j/95683049386?pwd=[REDACTED]
Reunión ID: 956 8304 9386
Contraseña: [REDACTED]
Marque por su ubicación
+1 646 558 8656 US
(New York)

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP - Webinar
2021-03-11 12:00 - 13:45
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS as they present this wonderful webinar.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law, requires certain information to be included in the IEP but doesn’t specify 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 trainings will teach you how to read the IEP so you can understand what should and can be in the IEP.
If you have question’s contact: Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7709912283942243344

Sensory Processing Disorder - Via Zoom
2021-03-11 18:00 - 20:00
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.
Presentation & Discussion with Amy Ruffino !
Target Audience: Families of school-age children with disabilities and professionals.
* CTLE Credits Available *
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.
REGISTER NOW: https://parentnetworkwny.secure.force.com/pmtx/evt__QuickEvent?id=a4l3a000000Y1RP
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170

2021 Conference Theme: Promoting Health and Physical Activity - Virtual Conference
2021-03-12 08:30 - 12:15
The Institute for Child Development presents the 4th Annual Binghamton Regional Center for ASD Spring Conference for Parents, Educators, and Providers: 2021 Conference Theme: Promoting Health and Physical Activity.
Livestream and on demand options are available, but the BEST deal is to purchase tickets for the livestream conference, which gives you FREE access to the conference proceedings on demand for two months following the event!
Come for two resource-filled workshops by experts in physical activity and health featuring:
Dr. Colombo-Dougovito of University of North Texas and Dr. Pangelinan of Auburn University.
Livestream and on demand options are available, but the BEST deal is to purchase tickets for the livestream conference, which gives you FREE access to the conference proceedings on demand for two months following the event!
Come for two resource-filled workshops by experts in physical activity and health featuring:
Dr. Colombo-Dougovito of University of North Texas and Dr. Pangelinan of Auburn University.
Workshop I: Navigating Access: Modifying the Environment to Leverage the Strengths of Autistic Youth Andrew M. Colombo-Dougovito, Ph.D., CAPE Assistant Professor of Motor Behavior & Sport Pedagogy University of North Texas
Physical activity is a key modifiable factor in the pursuit of positive health comes for all individuals as they age. Unfortunately, autistic individuals have been shown to engage in less physical activity and are more likely to have poorer health outcomes compared to non-autistic peers. For many autistic individuals, their lower engagement in physical activity is not due to a lack of motivation or a limited understanding of its importance, but is a result of issues related to access. In this presentation, we will explore the barriers for access to physical activity for many autistic individuals, then examine practical, evidenced strategies that leverage individual strengths to provide successful opportunities.
Workshop II: The Relationship Between Physical Activity and Sleep in Children and Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder Melissa Pangelinan, Ph.D. Assistant Professor & Director of the Pediatric Movement and Physical Activity Lab School of Kinesiology – Auburn University
The CDC recommends that children and adolescents achieve 60 minutes or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) each day to positively impact health, which has been associated with improved sleep in typically developing children and adolescents. However, children and adolescents with ASD are less likely to participate in regular physical activity and exercise than their peers and between 40-80% of children and adolescents with ASD report sleep problems. Only recently have studies examined the relationship between physical activity and sleep in individuals with ASD. This presentation will describe the development, implementation, and effects of adapted physical activity, sport, and exercise programs for children and adolescents with ASD. Data will be presented to support that it is necessary to achieve high levels of daily MVPA (i.e., at least the recommended daily amount of MVPA) to have immediate and consistent effects on sleep outcomes in children and adolescents with and without ASD. Practical strategies for helping individuals with ASD meet daily physical activity recommendations and improve sleep will be shared. Finally, perspectives will be provided on necessary directions for future research, particularly related to the interaction between medications and sleep outcomes for children and adolescents with ASD.
Individuals with ASD and their family members attend FREE with registration at this site! Low-cost registration for professionals and students from NY. Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-institute-for-child-development-brcasd-2021-conference-registration-135589400547?fbclid=IwAR1ASjENyKz–HXtLn2qVGNNnqU7zkMhMbEZpqDgyOz5w-BT3LG0O2IMXgo

FAMILY & CAREGIVER GROUP for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities
2021-03-16 17:30 - 19:00
PURPOSE: Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
DATE: Tuesday, March 16, 2021
TIME: 5:30 –7:00 PM
“NEW ZOOM LINK”
We are moving to ZOOM every month on the Third Tuesday.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/95461308157?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 954 6130 8157
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
If you have any questions contact us at (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org.

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-03-17 09:00 - 11:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link.
https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e8af62fca20dea4f3d8ac074114354e3a

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-03-17 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Program Manager / Education Specialist for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar 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. Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1292772098789516812

FAMILY & CAREGIVER - ERIE PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM GROUP
2021-03-17 18:30 - 19:30
PURPOSE: Provide a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support. Practicing social distancing but still need to talk?
Kathy Doody and Jana Mertz are inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting. February 17, 2021 & March 17, 2021 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/97311273663?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 973 1127 3663
Passcode: [REDACTED]
FREE TO ATTEND – ALL ARE WELCOME
www.parentnetworkwny.org or (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org

Buffalo Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
2021-03-17 18:30 - 19:30
Practicing social distancing but still need to talk? Do you want to ~ feel less overwhelmed? ~ feel a sense of belonging? Get the support you need from Kathy Doody, Jana Mertz & other group members!
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/97311273663?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 973 1127 3663
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Mindfulness Stress Reduction Series via Zoom
2021-03-18 19:00 - 19:45
GOT STRESS? We Can Help!
This ongoing series is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State to meet virtually and learn how mindfulness can help with change and planning for the future. Join us to learn strategies and techniques to reduce stress and for a chance to connect with other youth and their families. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to whatever is happening in our lives, both inside and out.
Mindfulness Stress Reduction Series sessions every 2 weeks from 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
March 18
April 1, 15, 29
May 13, 27
June 10, 24
July 8, 22
August 5, 19
September 2, 16, 30
Register once and use the same link for every session!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/mindfulness-stress-reduction-series/

Spring 2021 Achieve Program Open House event at Villa Maria College - Attend virtually or in-person
2021-03-20 09:30 - 11:00 | Villa Maria College, 240 Pine Ridge Road, Felician Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14225, United States
Visit Villa Maria College on Saturday, March 20th to learn more about the Achieve Program for Students with Learning Differences. Attend virtually or in-person! Founded in 2015, the Achieve Program was designed to help high school students with learning differences successfully transition from high school to college, thrive in college and prepare for life after graduation. Upon entering the program, each student is assessed and an individualized plan is put in place to help support each student as they work to earn their degree.
They will also have a student panel along with hands-on activities for student participants and special guests from Accessible Academics https://www.accessibleacademics.org/ and Person Centered Services https://personcenteredservices.com/ speaking to parent participants.
Register: https://visit.villa.edu/event/157943
