Parent Group for Parents of Older Children with developmental or physical disabilities 21 and older (via Zoom)
2024-09-25 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
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.

How to Prepare for a Successful CPSE/CSE Meeting - webinar
2024-09-26 09:30 - 10:45
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager/Education Specialist, as she presents this wonderful presentation on How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting. This training is to help parents, who approach IEP meetings with fear and dread. If this is, you attended this training then we have some suggestions to help you feel more at ease and participate as a full member of the team that plans your child’s special education program. If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member, or guardian then this training is for you!
Register here.

Parent and Family Engagement within the FBA and BIP Process via Zoom
2024-09-26 11:00 - 12:30
Parent and Family Engagement within the FBA and BIP Process
Participants will:

Gain an overview and learn more about the role of parents, families, guardians, and caregivers to support students throughout the FBA/BIP process.
Engaging families in the Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA), Behavioral Intervention Plan (BIP), and Progress Monitoring (PM) Process will build their capacity for engaging within the FBA/BIP process and EOs.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Parent to Parent of NYS- Statewide-Virtual Fathers Group (via Zoom)
2024-09-30 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-10-07 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.

Emerging Findings: Pediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Syndrome webinar
2024-10-02 13:00 - 14:15
Research Updates: Pediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS)

Tune in to learn research updates on Pediatric Acute Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) and Regulation. This is a follow-up to our June 12, 2024 webinar featuring Dr. Jennifer Frankovich, Ayan Mondal, Ph.D. and Noor A. Hussein, PhD.

The speakers:
Jennifer Frankovich:

Dr. Frankovich is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy, Immunology Rheumatology (AIR) at Stanford University/Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital (LPCH). Her clinical expertise is in systemic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases that co-occur with psychiatric symptoms. She completed her training in pediatrics, pediatric rheumatology, and clinical epidemiology at Stanford University/LPCH. She directs the Stanford Immune-Behavioral Health Program (2012- present) where she and her psychiatry/psychology collaborators have created a longitudinal clinical database and biorepository of patient and healthy control biospecimens. In addition to generating clinical data to better understand immune-behavioral health conditions, she is collaborating with basic science labs who aim to understand the immunological underpinnings of post-infectious neuropsychiatric conditions including PANS and related conditions.

Noor A. Hussein, PhD is a pharmacology scientist.
“My experience as a researcher has taught me to seek out new perspectives for exploration and discovery. As a dedicated biological and pharmacological researcher with over 7 years of experience with models of diseases such as cancer both in vitro and in vivo. During my masters and Ph.D. studies, I mastered lots of molecular biology techniques, including cell culture, cytotoxicity assays, western blot, quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry. I utilized my skills to design experiments finding solutions to common problems in the biomedical field, especially cancer experimental and molecular therapeutics.”
Ayan Mondal, Ph.D. is a third-year post-doctoral research fellow in Prof Elizabeth Mellins’ laboratory at Dept of pediatrics, Stanford University. “I completed my graduation from University of Calcutta, India, in 2017. I have conducted 1.5 years of research on molecular medicine following graduation and joined as a post-doctoral researcher at the Arnold School of Public health, University of South Carolina, in the year 2019. During the training, I studied neuroimmune signaling mechanisms in the gut-liver-brain axes in mouse models of metabolic disorders and military-deployment-associated disorders. My studies elucidated the mechanism of neuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction mediated by specific proteins that are elevated in blood during these disease conditions. In my post-doctoral research with Prof Mellins, I am studying changes in BBB function in PANS. I am focusing on elucidating the mechanisms of action of novel modulators of BBB that are relevant to homeostatic maintenance of the BBB and other novel modulators that increase BBB permeability during flares of PANS. My proposed experimental strategies include transcriptomic and proteomic approaches in cell types of the CNS neurovascular unit.”

Register here.

When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit.
2024-10-03 18:30 - 19:30
This presentation provides an overview of the parent’s perspective when planning for a child’s developmental evaluation. This webinar will not be looking at specific tests or types of evaluations. Instead, we want to share some tips and potential suggestions that we have learned based on our own personal experiences when our children were evaluated. We hope that this provides you with information and ideas when planning for your own child’s evaluation.
REGISTER HERE.

Charla Con Nosotros Grupo De Apoyo via Zoom
2024-10-03 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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Navigating Meltdowns and Difficult Moments: Addressing Neurodivergent Needs! with Dr. Brenda Smith via Zoom
2024-10-05 08:30 - 12:45
Navigating Meltdowns and Difficult Moments: Addressing Neurodivergent Needs! with Dr. Brenda Smith Myles via Zoom
Self-regulation challenges are among the most frequently observed behaviors in neurodivergent people. Research shows a link between neurology and these behaviors, highlighting the need to understand these challenges and learn meaningful prevention strategies.
Self-regulation challenges may manifest themselves in many ways, but they sometimes lead to meltdowns. This escalating behavior follows a 3-stage cycle: rumbling, rage and recovery. This session will review the cycle and discuss strategies to be used at each stage, allowing us to understand how our reactions affect this behavior.
About the Speaker
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
The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome (GRASP)
Divine Neurotypical Award
American Academy of Pediatrics Autism Champion.

She has made over 3,000 presentations all over the world and written more than 300 articles and books on ASD.

CEU’s and CTLE’s available!
*Scholarships available to Parents/Caregivers/Neurodivergent People with a financial need* Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
COST
Parent/Caregiver/ NeuroDivergent Person: $10
Professional/Student: $20
Earning CEU/CTLE: $30

Register today! Registration closes on Thursday, October 3 at noon.
Registration and more information here.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Teen Parent Group- for parents of teenagers with developmental or physical disabilities (via Zoom)
2024-10-08 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.

Caregiver Strategies for Building Infant Social Interaction webinar
2024-10-09 13:00 - 14:15
Caregiver Strategies for Building Infant Social Interaction

Tune in to hear Dr. Laurie Vismara discuss Infant Start, the Downward Extension of the Early Start Denver Model.

The speaker:
Laurie A. Vismara, Ph.D., BCBA-D, is a therapist and researcher in early autism intervention. She has spent the last 20 years contributing to the science and program development of the Early Start Denver Model (ESDM), named by Time magazine as one of the top 10 medical breakthroughs for early autism intervention. Over a dozen studies have found the ESDM to be effective and with gains maintained for infants and toddlers with or at risk of autism who have a wide range of learning styles and abilities. Dr. Vismara uses telehealth platforms and travels throughout the United States, Canada, and other countries to help publicly funded intervention programs and families develop the ESDM in their communities. Her coauthored book, An Early Start for Your Child with Autism: Using Everyday Activities to Help Kids Connect, Communicate, and Learn, covers practical strategies and tips to help families use the ESDM at home. Her second book, Coaching Parents of Young Children with Autism, helps early intervention providers coach and empower families in the ESDM.

Register here.

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP - webinar
2024-10-09 18:00 - 20:00
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Namita Modasra, Education Advocate 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!

How to Protect My Child's Future Through Guardianship, Wills & Trusts via Zoom
2024-10-09 18:00 - 20:00
How to Protect My Child’s Future Through Guardianship, Wills & Trusts
Planning for the future is especially important when you have a child with a disability.
This workshop provides parents or caregivers with an overview of things to think about: guardianship, wills, and trusts. The workshop will help you to understand your options as you begin to think about plans for your special needs child.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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NEW- Parenting With Pride (for parents of individuals in the LGBTQAI+) via Zoom
2024-10-09 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.
Registration required. Register here.

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - webinar
2024-10-10 09:30 - 11:00
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Tina Beauparlant 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!

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2024-10-10 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

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Parent to Parent of NYS-Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child or adult in a Residential placement
2024-10-10 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.

Chinese Speaking Family Support Group via Zoom
2024-10-12 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
2024-10-14 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
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ADHD/Learning Differences Support Group via Zoom
2024-10-15 18:30 - 20:00
ADHD/Learning Differences Support Group
Third Tuesday of the Month!
Are you a parent of a child with ADHD or do you suspect they have a learning difference?
We will be sharing experiences, discussing strategies and providing support.
Discuss topics such as:

Special Education
ADHD, Learning Disabilities,
and more!

ONE TIME REGISTRATION! FREE SUPPORT GROUP TO ATTEND! REGISTER HERE!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Parents CONSIDERING a Residential Placement Discussion Group
2024-10-15 19:00 - 20:00
Are you considering residential placement for your family member? Parent to Parent NYS is hosting this group for families with children and adults of all ages who are considering placement in a residential school or a group home.
Register here.

The 2024 Skirboll Family Autism Conference - Virtual
2024-10-16 14:00 - 17:00, 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.

Diploma and Credential Options for Students with Disabilities (Hybrid event via Zoom or In-person Olean City School)
2024-10-16 18:00 - 19:30 | Olean City School – PLC Building, 402 North 7th Street, Olean, NY, 14760, United States
Diploma and Credential Options for Students with Disabilities
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 session explores the options and outlines any updates to NYS regulations.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
HYBRID EVENT – VIA ZOOM or Olean City School- PLC Building, 402 North 7th street, Olean, NY 14760
REGISTER HERE TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Communicating with the CPSE / CSE through Letter Writing via Zoom
2024-10-16 18:30 - 19:45
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.

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.
