Autism Society Western New York

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2023-12-11 18:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
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! REGISTER

Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
MEET THE HOSTS
Kim Newton, 20 years experience working with special needs families,
Nicole LaMonte-DeGolier, parent of child with special needs, and
Erin Reisdorf, Parent of child with special needs.
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Parent to Parent of NYS- Statewide-Virtual Fathers Group
2023-12-11 19:00 - 20:30
Parent to Parent of NYS Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their children’s special needs. Come join Bing Feng, for an informal meeting to share information, resources, and support. Parents of children and adults are welcome.
Register here.

Las sesiones informativas de Front Door de la OPWDD - Español
2023-12-12 10:00 - 12:00, 2024-01-08 14:00 - 16:00
Las sesiones informativas de Front Door de la OPWDD describen el proceso de cómo usted puede ser elegible para los apoyos y servicios, los tipos de apoyos y servicios disponibles y adónde se puede ir para obtener ayuda. En la actualidad, todas las sesiones se están ofreciendo a distancia por WebEx. La duración de la sesión es de dos horas. Las sesiones informativas de Front Door están enumeradas debajo. También se puede encontrar esta información en el sitio web de la OPWDD aquí: https://opwdd.ny.gov/get-started/information-sessions.
Para las sesiones es necesario estar registrado. Una vez que haya encontrado el día y horario que
más le convenga, por favor haga clic en el enlace para registrarse para la sesión. Si usted está
viendo una copia impresa de este folleto, puede registrarse en el sitio web con el enlace mencionado
con anterioridad o comunicarse con el contacto indicado debajo para la sesión a la cual desea asistir.
Todas las Oficinas Regionales ofrecen servicios de traducción para el idioma que se adapte mejor a
sus necesidades. Si necesita una sesión en otro idioma que no sea inglés o español, incluyendo el
lenguaje de señas estadounidense (ASL), por favor póngase en contacto con su oficina local de
Front Door. Los números de contacto de Front Door se pueden encontrar en el sitio web de la
OPWDD aquí: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.
Contacto para ayuda: Clara Fournier at 718-430-0761 or clara.fournier@opwdd.ny.gov.
Enlace de registro.

Holiday Anxiety – Let It Go!
2023-12-12 18:00 - 20:00
Holidays are a time of stress, but holidays are also about LOVE.
This workshop will give you the tools to “Let It Go” and help you and your family cope with the stressors brought on by holidays.
You will feel more empowered to enjoy and experience love and joy this holiday season.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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From Special to HAPPY - webinar
2023-12-13 13:00 - 14:00
A little bit more than 20 years ago, I (Peter Vermeulen, PhD) developed a psycho-education program for children and youngsters on the autism spectrum, named ‘I am Special’ It was translated into more than 10 different languages and it is being used all over the world – also in Norvegian: Jeg er noe helt spesielt!
Times have changed. We are looking at autism in a quite different way than we did 20 years ago. We made the move from a purely deficit-based conceptualization of autism towards a neurodiversity perspective where we see neurological differences as a positive thing.
Despite having a brain that is differently wired, autistic individuals have the same human needs as any other human being. Now the time has come to focus on the similarities and not only the differences between autistic and non-autistic people. We are all a bit special! A shift towards a more positive approach with a focus on well-being, and not just the lack of well-being, is happening. This will also affect how we help autistic people to understand themselves and their needs.
Based on this evolution, we made a shift from ‘I am Special’ to ‘H.A.P.P.Y.’, a new psycho-education program focusing on happiness and well-being in autism. The H.A.P.P.Y. program results in an individualized well-being plan for an autistic child, youngster or adult, based on 10 evidence-based well-being strategies. These strategies are made autism friendly in the program. H.A.P.P.Y. is where autistic thinking and well-being meet each other.
In this presentation I will describe the shift in focus towards well-being and the backgrounds and content of the H.A.P.P.Y.-program.
This is a joint presentation by ARI and the World Autism Organisation.
PRESENTER
Peter Vermeulen, PhD, in Psychology and Clinical Educational Sciences, has more than 35 years of experience in the field of autism. Founder of “Autism in Context”, where autism is understood in context. Peter is an internationally respected lecturer/trainer and he presents all over the world. Peter wrote more than 15 books and several articles on autism, some of them translated into more than 10 languages. For his +30 years of work in the field of autism, he received in 2019 a Lifetime Achievement Award.
REGISTER HERE.

What You Need to Know About Assistive Technology in the IEP - via Zoom
2023-12-13 18:30 - 20:00
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, 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.

OPWDD Front Door Information Session - English
2023-12-14 13:00 - 15:00
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, December 14, 2023 at 1:00 p.m.
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/weblink/register/r838364aa33600061b097558076a6a154
If you need assistance, please contact Erin Caglioti at (631) 416-3943 or erin.a.caglioti@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.

Sensory Sensitive Santa - Jamestown, NY
2023-12-16 16:00 - 18:00 | Fenton History Center, 67 Washington St., Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
On Sunday, December 16, 2023, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., the Fenton History Center in Jamestown, NY will be hosting a “sensory-friendly” Santa Claus at the Fenton Mansion.
Join the Fenton History Museum for an exclusive event tailored for children and families who may find traditional Santa Claus encounters overwhelming. Their Santa is well-versed in working with individuals with disabilities, and they have created a peaceful and festive atmosphere that caters to everyone.
Parents or caregivers are required to accompany children, and the event is open to all community members free of charge. At the Fenton, they are dedicated to ensuring that all our visitors have a safe, enriching, and delightful experience. Join us for a heartwarming holiday celebration!
There will be refreshments and a gift for all children!
For more information about the event, or to request any special accommodations, please contact Jane Babinsky at the Fenton History Center by calling (716)-664-6256.

Sensory Sensitive Santa in Jamestown, NY
2023-12-16 16:00 - 18:00 | Fenton History Center, 67 Washington St., Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
On Sunday, December 16, 2023, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., the Fenton History Center will be hosting a “sensory-friendly” Santa Claus at the Fenton Mansion.
Join the Fenton History Center for an exclusive event tailored for children and families who may find traditional Santa Claus encounters overwhelming. Their Santa is well-versed in working with individuals with disabilities, and they have created a peaceful and festive atmosphere that caters to everyone.
Parents or caregivers are required to accompany children, and the event is open to all community members free of charge. At the Fenton, they are dedicated to ensuring that all our visitors have a safe, enriching, and delightful experience. Join them for a heartwarming holiday celebration!
There will be refreshments and a gift for all children!
For more information about the event, or to request any special accommodations, please contact Jane Babinsky at the Fenton History Center by calling (716)-664-6256.

OPWDD Front Door Information Session - English
2023-12-18 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.
Monday, December 18, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/webappng/sites/meetny/meeting/register/ada5ba4edc874732880c41eb1e487dad?ticket=4832534b00000006bdb4b1af6ca1fe4906f5a2d0193074509d96e0922772d0247c9b82f4735edab6&timestamp=1699311578608&RGID=r681e6ed6430f49b5bca1bf28a11bf31d
If you need assistance, please contact Monica Moore at 315-473-6985 or monica.moore@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.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2023-12-19 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

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OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION - ENGLISH
2023-12-21 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.
Thursday, December 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Register here.
If you need assistance, please contact 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.

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION - ENGLISH
2024-01-03 11:00 - 13:00
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, January 3, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Register here.
If you need assistance, please contact Erin Caglioti at 631-416-3943 or erin.a.caglioti@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.

Charla Con Nosotros Grupo De Apoyo via Zoom
2024-01-04 18:30 - 20:00
¿Eres padre de un niño/a que tieneuna discapacidad o sospechas quetengan una discapacidad?
DISCUCIONES YPERSPECTIVAS
OBTEN APOYO
Consigue información práctica,constructiva, y útil.
CONECTA CON OTROS
Consigue información práctica,constructiva, y útil.
Aprende mas sobre como manejar con susproblemas a través de experienciascompartidas.
EXPRESATE
Tén un espacio seguro para compartirsus experiencias y dificultades.

Primer Jueves de cada mes. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

REGISTRACIÓN
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
Mas Información
716.332.4170 o
info@parentnetworkwny.org
Registración es necesaria para recibirel enlace de Zoom.
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Flix Stadium 10 sensory friendly family film - MIGRATION
2024-01-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road, Lancaster, NY, 14043, United States
Flix Stadium 10 sensory friendly family film series slated to run the first or second 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.
MIGRATION
Saturday, January 6, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
After a migrating duck family alights on their pond with thrilling tales of far-flung places, the Mallard family embarks on a family road trip, via New York City, to tropical Jamaica.
Admission is $10 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: Larry Phillips, General Manager, Flix Stadium 10, Larry@dipsontheatres.com, 716-668-1888
4901 Transit Road Lancaster, NY 14043
Flix Stadium 10 – Sensory Friendly Family Film Series (dipsontheatres.com)

What You Need to Know About Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) - Webinar
2024-01-09 12:30 - 13:45
Have you heard of LRE or the Least Restrictive Environment? Many parents are unaware of what is 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.
Come join Parent to Parent NYS for this new presentation and learn what the laws says about LRE.
REGISTER HERE.

What Is An Individualized Education Program (IEP) For Families Of Preschool Students via Zoom
2024-01-09 18:00 - 19:00
Participants will:
• Identify the various preschool components of the IEP
• Identify the family’s role in the development of the IEP
• Review tools and resources that can enhance family engagement during the IEP process
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

NYSAA: What Families Need To Know About NYS Alternative Assessments via Zoom
2024-01-10 12:00 - 12:45
The Amherst School District Family Support Center and Parent Network are partnering to provide families with three informative lunch and learn sessions about transition!
Do you have a child that is entering high school, or you just want to learn about services out there for special education students? Does your child have an IEP or a 504 Plan?
If so, one of these sessions might be for you! Professionals are also welcome to learn more. Sign up for one or all three!
Wednesday, January 10, 2024 – NYSAA: What families need to know about NYS Alternative Assessments.
Wednesday, February 7, 2024 – Navigating Adult Services: Learn about ACCES-VR, OPWDD, and others.
Wednesday, March 6, 2024 – Live, Learn, Work and Play: What to do after graduation!
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION - ENGLISH
2024-01-11 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.
Thursday, January 11, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Register here.
If you need assistance, please contact Amanda Brechko at 607-217-6580 or amanda.l.brechko@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.

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide via Zoom
2024-01-11 18:30 - 20:00
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS for 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).
If you have any questions, please call Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
Register here.

Key Ingredients For the Start of a Successful School Year!
2024-01-11 18:30 - 20:00
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents Key Ingredients For the Start of a Successful School Year!
Moving from one school year to the next can be challenging for families and school team members. Join us for a FREE online class to learn strategies to help promote a seamless transition and lay the groundwork for a positive start to the new school year. We’ll help you prioritize the information to share with your child’s team and how to encourage a positive start to the school year.
Register here.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2024-01-11 18:30 - 20:00
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!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Download Flyer

Parent to Parent of NYS-Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child or adult in a Residential placement
2024-01-11 19:00 - 20:00
For families with children and adults of all ages that currently have children in residential school or a group home. Come join us for an hour of support and conversation.
Register here.

Parent to Parent of NYS- Statewide-Virtual Fathers Group
2024-01-15 19:00 - 20:00
Parent to Parent of NYS Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their children’s special needs. Come join Bing Feng for an informal meeting to share information, resources, and support. Parents of children and adults are welcome.
Register here.

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION - ENGLISH
2024-01-16 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.
Tuesday, January 16, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Register here.
If you need assistance, please contact Anaya Warner at 518-388-0398 or Anaya.E.Warner@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.

Traveling with Your Special Needs Child/Adult
2024-01-16 11:00 - 12:30
Come join Parent to Parent NYS for this NEW Presentation on Traveling with Your Special Needs Child/Adult. Have you dreamed of going on a vacation with your child or adult with special needs? Does your child express a desire to go visit grandparents or a friend? Does he/she want to go on a field trip? Are theme parks or cruises a wish? Does the thought of even planning a trip make you nervous? Whether it’s a day trip or a long vacation, get tips and tricks for planning and implementing a trip with your family member with special needs. Learn how a trip can benefit all of your family members.
Register here.

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding How to Read an IEP - webinar
2024-01-17 10:00 - 12:00
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.

Sensory Considerations for Social Communication - webinar
2024-01-17 13:00 - 14:00
PRESENTER
Vanessa Rentschler, Au.D., CCC-A, C.A.S. is a clinical audiologist and owner of Audball Paradigm, LLC (private practice). Regular honorarium received for facilitating a bi-weekly friendship group for autistic youth (Autism Society of Oregon). She is the parent of an autistic child, is active in her local autism, community and identifies as neurodivergent, herself (ADHD). Dr. Rentschler offers neurodiversity-affirming assessment and treatment for auditory processing difficulties, provided in a sensory-friendly environment. Therapeutic techniques also helpful for those who wear hearing aids and cochlear implants.
REGISTER HERE.

Family Guide to Transition (In-person event)
2024-01-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Albion High School, 302 East Avenue, Albion, NY, 14411, United States
Families will learn:

The transition planning process starting at an early age, although focusing primarily on high school to postsecondary
The transition process, which will help them to support students in establishing measurable postsecondary goals and annual goals, based on their preferences and interests
Utilize resources embedded in the Guide to further enhance their understanding of each of the topic areas.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
Location: Albion High School, 302 East Avenue, Albion, NY 14411
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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