Autism Society Western New York

Uncovering Neurodiversity in WNY - In person event at Cradle Beach
2023-10-11 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Cradle Beach, 8038 Old Lakeshore Rd., Angola, NY, 14006, United States
Uncovering Neurodiversity in WNY
What does it mean to be Neuro-affirming? This strength based positive approach will alter your view on “challenging behaviors” and offer you helpful strategies to meet your client or loved ones needs.

Neurodiversity Network of WNY has a number of learning objectives for this event including exploring and understanding neurodiversity and applying practical strategies for creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent children, adults, and their families. They will critically analyze existing systems and structures to identify areas of exclusion, while proposing solutions for creating more equitable and inclusive spaces.

Additionally, they aim to

Engage in open and respectful discussions about the experiences of neurodivergent individuals and their families,
Identify best practices for promoting the rights and inclusion of neurodivergent individuals,
Develop a network of professionals and advocates committed to promoting equity and belonging, and
Create action plans for incorporating and advocating for the use of neuro-affirming practices in our personal and professional lives.

Tickets are donation based, please pay what you can to help support the Neurodiversity Network of WNY organization.

Information & Registration.

Date: Wednesday, October 11, 2023
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. EDT
Location: Cradle Beach, 8038 Old Lakeshore Rd, Angola, NY 14006

What You Need to Know About Assistive Technology in the IEP - webinar
2023-10-11 10:00 - 11:30
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS for this presentation on 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.
REGISTER HERE.

Children in Care: Helping Them Flourish - Virtual Six Part Series
2023-10-11 13:00 - 15:00
Children placed in out-of-home care (including foster, kinship and residential settings) need strong supports to be successful in both school and life.
Please join us for this engaging six-part VIRTUAL series, developed and delivered jointly by Parent Network of WNY and the Legal Aid Bureau of Buffalo.
The program offers both families and professionals key information, tools and skills to help children and youth in the child welfare or juvenile justice systems carve a pathway to success.
Wednesday, October 11th – School Matters for Youth in Care
Wednesday, October 18th – Making Sense of School Discipline & Suspensions
Wednesday, October 25th – Educational Advocacy
Wednesday, November 1st – Special Education
Wednesday, November 8th – Pathways to Graduation
Wednesday, November 15th – High School Selection
Time: 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Empowering Your Child Through Self-Advocacy - FREE Webinar
2023-10-12 12:00 - 13:00
FREE webinar: Starting Early: Empowering Your Child Through Self-Advocacy presented by Mary E. McDonald Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA, Associate Executive Director – Eden II/Genesis Programs.
This presentation will discuss fostering self-advocacy skills in young children with disabilities, setting the stage for their lifelong journey towards empowerment and independence. Grounded in the understanding that self-advocacy is a powerful tool for personal growth, attendees will explore the significance of early self-advocacy education, understanding how it lays the foundation for building resilient, confident, and proactive individuals. Drawing on research, real-life case studies, and best practices, participants will gain an understanding of the pivotal role caregivers and instructors can play in guiding these young learners to effectively voice their needs, rights, and aspirations. Fostering communication skills and self-awareness to nurturing problem-solving abilities will be discussed.
Presenter: Mary E. McDonald, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA Associate Executive Director – Eden II/Genesis Programs
REGISTER HERE.
These webinars are made possible through a generous grant from NYS Developmental Disabilities Planning Council.

Navigating Expectations through Nurturing Adaptability and Executive Function Supports - Zoom Webinar
2023-10-12 12:00 - 13:00
The New York State Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Navigating Expectations through Nurturing Adaptability and Executive Function Supports
Zoom Webinar on Thursday, October 12, 2023 from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Register Here.
Learn More
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.

Excelling with Autism: Techniques to Ensure Success at Home, School, and Work presented by Brenda Smith Myles, Ph.D. - virtual workshop
2023-10-14 08:45 - 12:45
Autism Society Western New York & Autism Services, Inc.’s Autism Center for Learning invite you to attend: Excelling with Autism: Techniques to Ensure Success at Home, School, and Work presented by Brenda Smith Myles, Ph.D.
Co-Sponsored by The Speech-Language-Hearing Association of WNY and Associated Physical and Occupational Therapists, PLLC
Virtual Workshop Saturday, October 14, 2023
8:45 am – 12:45 pm EST
Teach a skill from start to finish! Promote independent learning in autistic individuals! Maximize learning across environments and across the lifespan! How do we help autistic children and adults reach their potential? This session provides instructional strategies that match the unique learning style and neurology of autistic people, promotes generalization across environments, and supports independence.
In addition, attendees will be introduced to a framework, the Comprehensive Autism Planning System (CAPS) that can be easily used to ensure that (a) necessary skills are taught and (b) supports are provided in a meaningful way when they are needed. CAPS, which is designed to be used at home, school, postsecondary education, and on the job, makes it possible for parents, all professionals working with the individual and the individual, themselves, to understand what skills and supports are needed for success.
This workshop is geared towards individuals with ASD, parents, and professionals.

Brenda Smith Myles Ph.D., formerly a professor at the University of Kansas, is the recipient of several awards, including the Autism Society of America’s Outstanding Professional Award, the Princeton Fellowship Award, and the The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome (GRASP) Divine Neurotypical Award, and American Academy of Pediatrics Autism Champion. She has made over 3000 presentations all over the world and written more than 300 articles and books on ASD. Further, in the latest survey conducted by the University of Texas, she was acknowledged as the second most productive applied researcher in ASD in the world.

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

1. Describe evidence-based strategies, including executive functioning skills, that lead to success.
2. Discuss a framework that allows for interventions and supports to be used effectively throughout the day.
3. Describe the methods to support generalization of skills to promote independence and lifelong learning.

Workshop Schedule
8:30-8:45: Registration/Login
8:45-9:00: Introduction
9:00-9:45: How Autistic People Learn and Process Information
9:45-10:30: Evidence Based Strategies That Support the Autistic Learning Style
10:30-10:45: Morning Break
10:45-12:15: Evidence Based Strategies That Support the Autistic Learning Style; Developing a Plan to Ensure that Each Autistic Individual Get the Supports they Need in Home, School, Work, and Community; The Comprehensive Autism Planning System (CAPS)
12:15-12:45: Q and A

Download the workshop brochure here.

Please note that this is a live webinar, and will be broadcast in Eastern Standard Time.
We are pleased to announce that we will be offering ASHA CEU credit through the Speech-Language-Hearing Association of Western New York (SHAWNY), and New York State Education Department Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy State Board Approved Continuing Competency Hours for OTs/COTAs/PTs/PTAs through Associated Physical and Occupational Therapists, PLLC (APOT). Both SHAWNY and APOT are co-sponsors of this workshop. The cost and CEU credit information are listed below:

Registration Type
Price
CEUs

Parent/ Family/ Individual w/ASD
$10
n/a

Speech-Language Pathologist or Audiologist*
$30
.35 ASHA CEUs included**

*SLPs, please click “return to merchant” after your purchase to be directed back to our site to provide your ASHA number.
**ASHA CEUs are only awarded to ASHA members who are eligible and have paid the CE Registry fee.

OT or COTA
$30
3.0 NYS Continuing Competency Hours for OTs/OTAs***

***Please note that these hours may be used towards completing AOTA continuing competency requirements, but are not offered through an AOTA approved provider.

PT or PTA
$30
.3 NYS PT Board Continuing Education Hours

Other Professional/Paraprofessional or Student
$20
No CEUs Awarded

Register here.
Online registration is open until October 11, 2023. No refunds will be processed after October 4, 2023.

Please note that all webinar materials (i.e. registration links, handouts, continuing education credit forms/survey links, etc.) will be e-mailed to attendees approximately 1-2 days prior to the workshop. If you have a PayPal account, the e-mail associated with that account will be used for all correspondence including Zoom links and all webinar materials. This is a live event and will be broadcast in Eastern Standard Time.
A limited number of scholarships for individuals with ASD/parents/caregivers are available based on financial need. Call 716-633-2275 to apply.

Recognizing and Responding to Trauma-Based Behaviors in Children (In-person event)
2023-10-14 10:00 - 12:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway Street, Floor 4, Room 442, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Please join Parent Network, CAFFA, and Mental Health Advocates in hosting trauma therapists Marcella Moslow and Amy Wilkerson for this unique event.
At this workshop, you will learn:

What encompasses trauma
How does it impact the brain, body and behavior across environments
Behaviors as communication
Trauma reactions/protective system
Ways to Help sensory grounding/soothing, coregulation, repair after rupture
Types of resources to explore

Childcare available. Please contact Parent Network for more information. Light refreshments served. If using childcare, please plan to arrive at 9:30 am.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE.
FREE EVENT.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES - English
2023-10-17 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.
Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. (English)
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/weblink/register/rd8de64d23608b8fd7dfc6664708903b4
If you need assistance, please contact Karen Francisco at Karen Francisco at 518-388-0431 or Karen.Francisco@opwdd.ny.gov.
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/get-started/information-sessions.
Registration for a session is required. Once you have found the date and time that works best for you, please click the link to register for the session.
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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP - webinar
2023-10-17 11:00 - 13:00
Please join Tina Beuparlant,Regional Manager, Education Specialist for this training on Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read your child’s IEP. Does your child have an IEP (Individualized Education Program)? We’ll walk through the different sections of the IEP and discuss how to advocate for supports to make sure the IEP reflects your child’s abilities and needs. 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 guardian then this training is for you!
REGISTER HERE.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2023-10-17 12:00 - 13:00
Receive Support – Connect with Others – Express Yourself
Free Support for parents, family members and caregivers of children with special needs.
MEET THE HOSTS
Marcia Restivo, 23 years of experience working with special needs families
Laurie Reynolds, parent of child with special needs
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS! REGISTER
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Download Flyer

Nutrition and Autism - Research Updates 2023 - webinar
2023-10-18 13:00 - 14:00
The speaker:
Kelly Barnhill, MBA, CN, CCN, is the Director of the Nutrition Clinic at The Johnson Center for Child Health and Development. She is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist, with over a decade of experience working with nutrition in children with autism and related disorders. At the Johnson Center she directs a team of dieticians and nutritionists that has served over 3000 children through this practice.
In addition to her clinical practice, Kelly also serves as the Johnson Center Clinical Care Director, overseeing management and implementation of multidisciplinary care across the practices within the organization. In 2008, Kelly accepted the position of Nutrition Coordinator for the Autism Research Institute. In this role, she designs and manages curriculum and training for hundreds of nutrition practitioners each year, as well as providing direct training for thousands of parents. Kelly is a sought-after presenter, speaking at several national and international conferences each year.
Her studies and work at JCCHD are the culmination of many years’ effort and expertise, with the last several years devoted to understanding the biological underpinnings of the disorder we know as autism. Her work has raised awareness of the need for these services for children with autism and related disorders. Kelly is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin.
Ms. Barnhill also sits on ARI’s Board of Directors and Scientific Advisory Board.
REGISTER here.

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - webinar
2023-10-18 18:30 - 20:00
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager/ Education Specialist, for this in-depth presentation 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.
REGISTER HERE.

A General Overview of Social Security for special needs families - via Zoom
2023-10-19 19:00 - 20:00
Please join Laurie Schaller from the National Disability Institute as she presents an overview of Social Security.
Laurie will give a general overview of Social Security benefits and answer questions. The National Disability Institute helps individuals across the spectrum of disability, and their families, understand the intricate web of federal and state public benefits, as well as the effect of work on benefits, which is a vital step toward economic advancement for people with disabilities.
REGISTER HERE.

CARD ANNUAL AUTISM CONFERENCE - LIVESTREAM VIA ZOOM - October 20, 2023
2023-10-20 08:30 - 14:15
CARD ANNUAL AUTISM CONFERENCE – LIVESTREAM VIA ZOO
Friday, October 20, 2023

Keynote Session – 8:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Reducing Bullying Involvement Through Social and Communication Skill Development
Presenter: Chad A. Rose, Ph.D.
Description: Youth with disabilities are disproportionately involved in bullying, often due to social and communication skill deficits. Therefore, strategies designed to increase socially appropriate skills are a mechanism by which we can reduce bullying in our schools, especially among youth with disabilities. This session will highlight warning signs and risk factors, while providing strategies for reducing bullying that can be applied universally, as well as targeted and individualized strategies designed for specific skill areas.
1.5 contact hours available for ASHA, CTLE, LMHC, NASP, NYS Psychologists, and SW.

Session Two – 10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.

I-Connect: How to Effectively Implement Self-Monitoring Interventions and Monitor Student Progress
Presenters: Gretchen Scheibel, Ph.D., OTR, BCBA and Howard Wills, Ph.D., BCBA
Description: This session will provide practical guidance and freely available implementation supports on how to use I-Connect to implement self-monitoring programs for students with autism spectrum disorders and related needs. Evidence will be provided of anticipated outcomes when using I-Connect and the overall usability of I-Connect among educators using I-Connect in their classrooms. The session will review step-by-step implementation of I-Connect and troubleshooting tips.
This presentation will focus exclusively on I-Connect and will not include information about other similar or related applications.
1.5 contact hours available for BCBA.
1.25 contact hours available for CTLE, LMHC, NASP, NYS Psychologists and SW.
1.0 contact hour available for ASHA.

Session Three – 1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

Say What? Increasing Communication Across Environments
Presenter: Shannon Wess, MSW, QIDP
Description: Approximately 40% of autistic individuals are nonverbal communicators but that doesn’t mean they don’t have plenty to say! In this session, participants will gain a foundational understanding of different types of communication, common communication challenges for autistic individuals, and practical tips and strategies for promoting and increasing communication across environments.
1.25 contact hours available for CTLE, LMHC, NASP, NYS Psychologists, and SW.
1.0 contact hour available for ASHA.

Download session descriptions, objectives, financial disclosure statements, and presenter bios.

REGISTER HERE.

Credit/Debit card payment and purchase orders are accepted on the registration form.

Registration Fees
NYS Resident: $15
Out of State Resident: $ 30

Front Door Information Session - Chinese
2023-10-20 14:00 - 16:00
To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/weblink/register/r480f84f3322258ab24f74aafba8169fb
如果您需要帮助，请联系 Xindi Xu @ 718-722-2745 或发送电

New Support Group: Caring for an adult child on the Autism Spectrum and looking for support?
2023-10-24 18:00 - 19:30 | Niagara Wheatfield Senior Center, 2790 Church Road, North Tonawanda, NY, 14120, United States
NEW SUPPORT GROUP – Caring for an adult child on the Autism Spectrum and looking for support?
Come join Patty Mccalister, LMHC/Autism Coach in sharing experiences, gaining support, and learning about resources for these individuals.
I am a mental health counselor, autism coach and a parent of adult child who is Autistic. I know of the struggles with resources and finding others with similar experiences. There is so much awareness about children under 18 years of age, but what happens when they age into adulthood? The concerns and worries do not stop despite the depletion of resources.
Where: Niagara Wheatfield Senior Center, 2790 Church Rd, North Tonawanda, NY 14120
When: Tuesday, October 24th, from 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
RSVP: Patty Mccalister LMHC / Autism coach @ 716-345-5450 or email – pattyemccalister@gmail.com by October 22nd to reserve your seat!

Parent to Parent of NYS- Parents Considering a Residential Placement Discussion Group via Zoom
2023-10-24 19:00 - 20:00
For families with children and adults who have not yet placed but are considering a placement in a residential school or a group home. Join Parent to Parent NYS as they talk about the issues and emotions that we experience when making the difficult decision of residential placement.
REGISTER HERE.

FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES - English
2023-10-25 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.
Wednesday, October 25, 2023 at 9:00 a.m. (English)
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/weblink/register/r521f783b8a998fdad3feab54386d78dc
If you need assistance, please contact Richard Labonte at 585-241-5842 or Richard.S.Labonte@opwdd.ny.gov.
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/get-started/information-sessions.
Registration for a session is required. Once you have found the date and time that works best for you, please click the link to register for the session.
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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

Anthropomorphism and Autism webinar
2023-10-25 13:00 - 14:00
Learn about recent findings suggesting that autistic individuals may be more likely to anthropomorphize, the tendency to ascribe human-like attributes, such as mental states, to non-human agents, than non-autistic individuals, and how researchers are developing virtual and augmented reality techniques that allow for anthropomorphic experiences.
The speaker:
Gray Atherton, PhD, has a BSc in Child Development from Vanderbilt University, a Master’s in Counselling from University of Houston, and a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology and Individual Differences from University of Houston. She has previously lectured at University of Houston and the University of Wolverhampton. Prior to entering academia, Gray was a counselor for adolescents with neurodevelopmental conditions. “I am interested in understanding how people with autism spectrum condition see the social world. Specifically, I explore individual differences in social processing and how these differences often found in people with autism also exist in the general population. I also investigate anthropomorphism, or seeing the human in the non-human, and how this relates to social processing in autism. To investigate this, I am developing virtual reality techniques that allow for anthropomorphic experiences. My other research interest lies more broadly in embodied social processing. I am particularly interested in how movement can affect the way we see ourselves and our social partners, and how this can be used to understand special populations.”
REGISTER HERE.

Agency 101 (In-person event)
2023-10-25 18:00 - 20:00 | Albion High School, 302 East Avenue, Albion, NY, 14411, United States
Knowing and understanding the services and supports available to help with the transition to adulthood process is beneficial. Best plans come with planning and coordinating, that means knowing your options and making informed decisions. Included in this session is a segment on navigating adult services, the eligibility requirements and regional contact information.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY.
FREE EVENT.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Education Records Organizer - webinar
2023-10-25 19:00 - 20:00
Please join Dodie Daniels, Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents this wonderful webinar.
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.
Please contact with any questions: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER HERE.

Microbiota Transfer Therapy Research Updates – Adults - webinar
2023-11-01 13:00 - 14:00
Learn research updates about how Microbiota Transfer Therapy—and its possible interactions with bacteria—may impact gastrointestinal and autism-related symptoms in adults.
THE SPEAKER

Dr. Rosa Krajmalnik-Brown is an Associate Professor at the School of Sustainable Engineering and The Built Environment and the Swette Center for Environmental Biotechnology at Arizona State University. She Joined the SSEBE faculty in 2007. She has Ph.D. in Environmental Engineering from Georgia Tech. She was awarded an NSF CAREER award, was selected as one of 40 under 40 leaders in Phoenix, AZ. Funding for her research has come from many federal agencies including NIH, DoE, DoD, and NSF. She pioneers research on gut microbiome and autism and is the author of 3 patents and more than 90 peer-reviewed publications.
Dr. Krajmalnik-Brown specializes in molecular microbial ecology for bioremediation, the use of microbial systems for bioenergy production, and the human intestinal microbial ecology and its relationship to obesity, bariatric surgery, and autism.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/mtt-2023-updates/

FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION - webinar
2023-11-02 17:00 - 19:00
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.
Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. (English)
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/webappng/sites/meetny/meeting/register/87a11f8b7a0f4d418702c4dba1dae175?ticket=4832534b00000006874f714bdd0ae2ae99e1ba6e0910350dbd69c85520a44d6d5fc097778f922611&timestamp=1696275727012&RGID=r00c1ef87c7013bf2accf97ba23edb551
If you need assistance, please contact Richard Labonte at 585-241-5842 or Richard.S.Labonte@opwdd.ny.gov.
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/get-started/information-sessions.
Registration for a session is required. Once you have found the date and time that works best for you, please click the link to register for the session.
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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education - webinar
2023-11-02 18:00 - 19:15
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, for this training on 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 HERE.

Diploma and Credential Options for Students with Disabilities (In-person event)
2023-11-02 18:00 - 19:30 | Olean City School District, 402 North 7th Street, PLC Building, Olean, NY, 14760, United States
This session explores the options and outlines and any updates to NYS regulations

What does it mean to get a Regent’s diploma?
A Local? A CDOS or Skills Credential?
What can you do? What can you not do?
How much effort does it take?
Can your child do the work?

This is an IN-PERSON event.
CTLE credits available.
Parking is available on Reed Street side of the building.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

SENSORY NIGHT: DINOFEST - BUFFALO SCIENCE MUSEUM
2023-11-03 17:00 - 20:00 | Buffalo Science Museum, 1020 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo, NY, 14211, United States
SENSORY NIGHT: DINOFEST

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 3 @ 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Limited exhibit sounds will provide a comfortable and fun evening of learning and exploration! Plus, all guests may enjoy hands-on sensory activities featuring dinosaur movement, dinosaur dig bins, arts and crafts, and so much more.
A limited number of sensory backpacks including sound dampening headphones, visual communication cards, and fidgets will be available upon request, along with dedicated quiet areas on the 1st and 4th floors and balcony.
Space is limited to the first 200 tickets reserved; pre-registration strongly encouraged.
Purchase tickets here.
Age: All ages
Cost: $15, FREE for members.

Supporting Siblings of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder via Zoom
2023-11-07 13:00 - 13:45
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 autistic children. 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.
REGISTER HERE.

FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (Spanish)- webinar
2023-11-07 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.
Tuesday, November 7, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. (Spanish)
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/webappng/sites/meetny/meeting/register/205b92ce3c1f4b86a2e32e4af59cf187?ticket=4832534b0000000671f402439d9f3e6a257a926e274d4f6a313f59ab90d45da085093c6b5890298f&timestamp=1696276125615&RGID=rfb3564461cd53b009ffe420ff8f721a8
If you need assistance, please contact Clara Fournier at 718-430-0761 or clara.fournier@opwdd.ny.gov.
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/get-started/information-sessions.
Registration for a session is required. Once you have found the date and time that works best for you, please click the link to register for the session.
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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) What You Need to Know - webinar
2023-11-07 18:30 - 19:45
Come join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, for this wonderful presentation and learn what the laws says about LRE. Have you heard of the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)? Many parents are unaware of what it means. (LRE) stands for Least Restrictive Environment and is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It refers to the placement that your child is in. Least restrictive environment is an important part of your child’s IEP.
REGISTER HERE.

Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs - webinar
2023-11-08 11:00 - 12:00
Please join Barb Hoffman, Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of NYS, 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.
REGISTER HERE.
