Autism Society Western New York

Communicating with the CPSE / CSE through Letter Writing via Zoom
2024-10-16 18:30 - 19:45 (America/New_York)
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the CPSE/CSE through Letter Writing. Letter writing can be a very effective method of communication and advocacy for parents of children with disabilities. This training assists parents, guardians, grandparents how to clearly and effectively express concerns, ideas or suggestions to the professionals involved in their child’s special education program.
Registration required. Register here.

The 2024 Skirboll Family Autism Conference - Virtual
2024-10-17 09:30 - 12:30, 2024-10-18 10:00 - 12:00
Each year, the Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities hosts the Skirboll Family Autism Conference. This free 3-day interactive conference offers information sessions presented by national experts on various topics related to autism spectrum disorder. It is developed in collaboration with individuals with ASD, families, agency representatives, and community members. The theme for 2024, “Inclusive Care, Inclusive Living: Support Across the Life Course,” focuses on support for individuals with disabilities across the life span.
The 2024 Skirboll Family Autism Conference is made possible with support from the Skirboll Family Foundation and the Rochester Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorder (RRCASD).
October 16–18, 2024
Inclusive Care, Inclusive Living: Support Across the Life Course
Hosted virtually by the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics and Strong Center for Developmental Disabilities.

Day 1: October 16, 2:00–5:00 p.m.: Navigating Healthcare and Disability Systems
Day 2: October 17, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.: Future Planning and Supporting Independence
Day 3: October 18, 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.: Understanding Lived Experiences

Register today for the 2024 Skirboll Family Autism Conference.
Check out the detailed 2024 conference sessions and speakers here.

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2024-10-17 11:00 - 12:30
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, for this great presentation on A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD.
The purpose of this training is to introduce families to the language of service delivery systems and to define and clarify information about services and supports. Participants will gain an increased awareness and understanding of eligibility criteria and the eligibility determination process. The training includes an overview of Home and Community Based Services Waiver, and Family Support Services.
REGISTER HERE.

Communicating with the CPSE / CSE through Letter Writing - webinar
2024-10-17 18:30 - 19:30
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the CPSE/CSE through Letter Writing. Letter writing can be a very effective method of communication and advocacy for parents of children with disabilities. This training assists parents, guardians, grandparents how to clearly and effectively express concerns, ideas or suggestions to the professionals involved in their child’s special education program.
REGISTER HERE.

PADRE A PADRE DE NYS via Zoom
2024-10-21 19:00 - 20:30
Les invitamos a ser parte de nuestra siguiente reunión de Cuidadores vía Zoom. Parent to Parent of NYS está ofreciendo reuniones GRATUITAS de padres y/o cuidadores de seres queridos con necesidades especiales y/o médicamente frágiles. Estamos aquí para usted. Venga a compartir con nosotros en una reunión informal donde compartiremos información, recursos y encontrará el apoyo que necesita mientras cría a un ser querido con necesidades especiales y/o médicamente frágiles, sin importar la edad de la persona.
Regístrese aquí.

Section 504, Students with Disabilities in Public & Private Schools via Zoom
2024-10-22 13:00 - 14:15
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager, Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Section 504, Students with Disabilities in Public & Private Schools.
This training will introduce you to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This training is designed to provide you with an understanding of the law, how it applies to educational programs and to students with disabilities. Children who qualify under this law receive services and/ or accommodations in the public-school system without being classified under IDEA/IDEIA and their school district’s Committee on Special Education. If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Members, or just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
REGISTER HERE.

Parent group for families of children 5 and younger (via Zoom)
2024-10-22 19:00 - 20:00
Connect with other parents who understand the joys and challenges of parenting young children with special needs. Share experiences, advice, and encouragement in a supportive environment.
Register here.

Is Guardianship the Only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives
2024-10-23 12:00 - 14:00
Come join Michele Juda, Ex. Director Parent to Parent of NYS, Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist as we explore: Is Guardianship the Only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives.
Let’s face it nothing keeps parents up at night more than thinking about who will care for our child/children when we are no longer able to care for them. This workshop will increase the knowledge of families of individuals with disabilities about the options besides legal guardianship for adults with disabilities. If your adult child does not need full guardianship, there are other options that we will explore in this presentation. We will also discuss guardianship and the legal requirements.
Register here.

Disordered Eating and Autism – Obesity (webinar)
2024-10-23 13:00 - 14:15
Disordered Eating and Autism – Obesity

Tune in to learn research updates on co-occurring disordered eating and autism, including emerging findings to a higher risk for obesity.

The speaker:
Francesca Solmi, PhD, is a senior epidemiologist serving as a principal research fellow at University College London, with over a decade of experience researching risk factors for adolescent psychiatric disorders. In her research, she uses extensive general population cohort study data, population registers, linked electronic health records, and epidemiological designs for causal inference in observational data. She has published scientific papers in high-impact factor journals, informing policy and scientific funding priorities.

Register here.

Parent Group for Parents of Older Children with developmental or physical disabilities 21 and older (via Zoom)
2024-10-23 19:00 - 20:00
Transitioning to adulthood isn’t easy for our kids, or us! Connect with other parents who understand the joys and struggles of raising older children with special needs. Share experiences, advice, and encouragement in a welcoming environment. This group is specifically for parents of children 21 and older.
Register here.

Statewide - Virtual Special Education Parent Chat Group via Zoom
2024-10-24 18:30 - 20:00
Come join us for our Special Education chat group. As a parent’s of children with special needs, we know firsthand how hard it is to advocate for our children in school. Sometimes we feel helpless, exhausted, and lonely and let’s face it advocating for our kids is complicated! If you’re a parent, grandparent, caregiver of a child with special needs, and struggling with special education school related issues. Come join us for an opportunity to share what’s happening while engaging in great conversation, sharing your knowledge, ideas and resources with other parents in the community who are dealing with the same issues. All from the comfort of your own home.
REGISTER HERE.

ANNUAL AUTISM CONFERENCE LIVESTREAM Friday, October 25th
2024-10-25 08:30 - 14:15
ANNUAL AUTISM CONFERENCE LIVESTREAM Friday, October 25, 2024 from 8:30 am – 2:15 pm
Three livestream presentations will be offered via Zoom. The conference includes a keynote address and two breakout sessions.
Keynote Session – 8:30am-10:00am
Ensuring High Quality Classroom Programs for Autistic Learners
Presenter: Becky Dees, M.Ed.
1.5 contact hours available for CTLE, NYS LMHC, NASP, NYS SW; .15 ASHA CEUs

Session Two – 10:30am-11:45am
Creating Effective, Engaging, and Practical Instructional and Social Supports for Students with Disabilities in Inclusive Settings
Presenter: Susan R. Copeland, Ph.D., BCBA-D
1.25 contact hours available for CTLE, NYS LMHC, NASP, NYS Psychologists and NYS SW; 1.5 contact hours for BCBA; .1 ASHA CEUs

Session Three – 1:00pm-2:15pm
MAAPS: A Modular Approach for Supporting Teachers to Implement Evidence-Based Practices for Students on the Autism Spectrum
Presenter: Rose Iovannone, Ph.D., BCBA-D
1.25 contact hours available for CTLE, NYS LMHC, NASP, NYS Psychologists, and NYS SW; 1.5 contact hours for BCBA; .1 ASHA CEUs

Download flyer
Download session descriptions, objectives, financial disclosure statements, and presenter bios
Registration link
Registration Fees: NYS Resident: $25 Out of State Resident: $40
Continuing Education Available (Per Eligible Session): Each organization/entity uses their own calculation to determine the number of
CEUs based on contact hours. As with all continuing education, the attendee should verify CEU requirements by their professional organization and/or state licensure board. Partial credit will not be awarded. Participants must remain through the entire session(s) to receive credit.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about any of CARD Albany programs, please call 518-442-2574 or email card@albany.edu.
Additional information on all of their programs can be found on their website.

Traveling with Your Special Needs Child/Adult
2024-10-29 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.

What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education - webinar
2024-10-29 18:30 - 19:45
Please join Namita Modasra 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!

CARD's Professional Development and Parent Seminars - Fall 2024
2024-10-30 09:00 - 14:15
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND PARENT SEMINARS
LIVESTREAM
CEUs AVAILABLECARD Albany is offering three livestream seminars that are directed towards school personnel, community professionals, and parents and family members who live or work with individuals on the autism spectrum.
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 provided by the New York State Education Department. Funding is administered by The Research Foundation for the State University of New York. There is a $5.00 registration fee per session for each CEU selected.
Registration is required to attend. Please choose the sessions you would like to attend when you fill out your registration entry.
These sessions will not be recorded at this time.
9:00am-10:15am
Beyond Theory of Mind: Autism and the Social World
Presenter: Erica Davis, LMSW

Participants will be able to explain the specific difficulties autistic individuals may face in understanding and responding to the emotions and thoughts of others
Participants will be able to explain the concept of double empathy and how it can be a valuable tool in fostering understanding between individuals with and without autism
Participants will identify strategies to improve communication and understanding between neurotypical individuals and autistic individuals

11:00am-12:15pm
Tolerating the Intolerable: Supporting Autistic Students to Cope with Uncertainty
Presenter: Jane Ann Worlock, MS Ed

Participants will be able to identify the correlation between symptoms of autism and intolerance of uncertainty
Participants should recognize some of the common responses and possible challenging behaviors stemming from intolerance of uncertainty in their autistic students and children
Participants will learn strategies they can implement in school and at home to support their students/children in coping with uncertain situations

1:00pm-2:15pm
Charting the Course Together: Empowering Autistic Learners Through Person-Centered Planning
Presenter: Melissa L. Rinaldi, PhD

Participants will be able to define person-centered planning (PCP), articulate its core principles, and demonstrate an understanding of its significance in supporting autistic students
Participants will be able to identify the benefits and positive outcomes associated with implementing PCP
Participants will be able to differentiate between various person-centered planning approaches and apply practical tools, strategies, and resources gained from the presentation to effectively integrate PCP into their professional setting

The three topics above are each available on the following dates:
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Continuing Education Credits
CARD Albany is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:
School Psychologist (NASP)
NYS Social Worker (LMSW & LCSW)
Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE)
NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
NYS Psychologist
General certificates of attendance will be provided for all participants.
Each session is eligible for 1.25 contact hours for NASP, SW, CTLE, and LMHC. Session one and two are eligible for 1.25 hours for NYS psychologists. There is a $5.00 registration 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.

REGISTER HERE!
If you have questions or would like to learn more about any of their programs, please contact them at: 518-442-2574 or card@albany.edu
Additional information on all of their programs can be found on their website:
www.albany.edu/autism

Teen Parent Group- for parents of teenagers with developmental or physical disabilities (via Zoom)
2024-11-04 19:00 - 20:00
Are you a parent of a special needs teenager? You are not alone! From navigating adolescence to managing behaviors and fostering independence, our group provides a safe space for open discussions about all things teen related. Parent to Parent offers parents a place where you can connect with other parents facing similar challenges and share experiences in a welcoming and understanding environment.
Register here.

Parent to Parent of NYS- Statewide-Virtual Fathers Group (via Zoom)
2024-11-04 19:00 - 21:00
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 Bin Feng for an informal meeting to share information, resources, and support. Parents of children and adults are welcome.
Register here.

What Is An Individualized Education Program For Families Of Preschool Students via Zoom
2024-11-05 18:00 - 19:30
Participants will:

Gain an overview of the process for developing an IEP at the preschool level.
Review the components of the preschool IEP and the information that families can share with the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) regarding their child’s performance and disability related needs.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Improving Clinical Understanding of Autism - webinar
2024-11-06 13:00 - 14:15
Applying Neuroscience to Improve Clinical Understanding of Autism
Learn about emerging research on improvements in clinical understanding that can be gained by applying findings from the neurosciences field.
About the Speaker:
James McPartland, Ph.D., is the Harris Professor of Child Psychiatry and Psychology at the Yale Child Study Center. He is a neuroscientist and practicing child psychologist who directs the Yale Developmental Disabilities Clinic. Dr. McPartland is also a founder and director of the Yale Center for Brain and Mind Health and the Principal Investigator of the Autism Biomarkers Consortium for Clinical Trials, a US-based effort to identify biological indices to enhance intervention research in autism. Dr. McPartland’s program of research investigates the brain bases of neurodevelopmental conditions to develop biologically-based tools to improve clinical care and quality of life for autistic people and their families.
REGISTER HERE.

Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2024-11-06 18:00 - 19:00
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.

NEW- Parenting With Pride (for parents of individuals in the LGBTQAI+ via Zoom
2024-11-06 19:00 - 20:00
Parenting a child with disabilities that also identifies in the LGBTQAI+ community can bring about many challenges and questions. This group offers a safe space for parents and caregivers to discuss this unique intersectionality and share experiences.
REGISTER HERE!

Getting Started with the Residential Process: Tips, Tricks, and Information via Zoom
2024-11-07 18:00 - 19:15
Where Do I Begin?
The process of pursuing residential placement can be overwhelming. This presentation will help you organize your needs, preferences, and documents to help you navigate the process.
REGISTER HERE.

What Is an Individualized Education Program For Families of School-Age Students (in-person event)
2024-11-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Jamestown High School, 350 E Second Street, Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
Parents and families will gain an understanding of the entire IEP process, including but not limited to, the Committee on Special Education (CSE), the roles and responsibilities of all parties, the various components of the IEP, and the transition planning process.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Charla Con Nosotros Grupo De Apoyo via Zoom
2024-11-07 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.
Flyer

Chinese Speaking Family Support Group via Zoom
2024-11-09 20:00 - 22:00
Welcome to our Parent Group tailored specifically for Chinese-speaking parents who have children with a developmental or physical disability. Led by our Fatherhood Engagement Coordinator, Bin Feng, this group is open to parents of children of any age or disability who speak Chinese (Mandarin).
Register here.

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2024-11-11 18:30 - 20:00
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 HERE.

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

Student Involvement in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for Families via Zoom
2024-11-12 12:00 - 14:00
This workshop will help promote and encourage student and family involvement in the IEP development process and Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

General Information Session to Learn More about SDMNY via Zoom
2024-11-12 17:00 - 18:00
These Information Sessions are held on Zoom and are for anyone who wishes to learn more about supported decision-making (SDM), and the SDMNY facilitation process. Appropriate for Individuals who are considering creating their own SDM agreement, or for parents, guardians, service providers and others who wish to learn more. Includes time for Q&A.
RSVP required. Click here to RSVP.

Carl the Collector Family Screening Night - A Buffalo Toronto Public Media Event - FREE!
2024-11-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Buffalo Toronto Public Media, Lower Terrace Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
Join us for a delightful family event as we celebrate the new PBS KIDS show, Carl the Collector!
Enjoy episodes “The Plushie Collection/The Bouncy Ball Collection” and “The Fake Mustache Collection/The Lint Dinosaur Collection” on the big screen before the show premieres! We will also have engaging, hands-on activities related to Carl – AND special exhibits with kids and their collections!
We will have chairs set up AND space on the floor in front for viewing. Bring your own blanket, sleeping bag, bean bag chair – we will provide personal spaces for all!
Please note that we will have a sensory room set up for the duration of the event in case a family needs to step away.
This event is free, but registration is required to attend.
REGISTER HERE.

Calling All Collectors!

Children attending our screening event of Carl the Collector are invited to bring their own treasured collections to share with fellow young enthusiasts. We’ll have dedicated tables set up where kids can proudly display their items and explore the collections of others. Whether it’s rocks, stamps, action figures, or anything in between, we can’t wait to see what unique treasures your child has been collecting! This is a wonderful opportunity for kids to showcase their passions and connect with others who share their interests. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate the joy of collecting together! Space is limited. We can accommodate 13 collectors, each at 1 table. Please fill out this application to be a showcased collector: APPLICATION
The first 13 applications will fill these spots, pending approval.
If a child does not get approved for a collection table, they may still bring a prized possession to share with attendees! We will have “Show & Tell” time throughout the event!
FREE PARKING!
