Autism Society Western New York

Game Night - "Movie Night"
2020-02-10 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Lancaster Youth Bureau, 200 Oxford Ave., Lancaster, NY, 14086, United States
Exclusively for children with Asperger’s, PDD-NOS or on the Autism Spectrum
Bring your family and friend over for a fun time at the Lancaster Youth Bureau!
Includes: video games, board games, snacks and new friends that you can meet! You can bring your own games and snacks (peanut-free, please) to share too!
Parent participation is necessary and important for this program.

Network with other parents about common interests and concerns.
Be involved in encouraging social interaction of your child with their peers.
Share resources and opportunities for you child with other parents.

Contact: Lynne at thirtytoesntired@aol.com, Danielle at dpitirri@lancasterschool.org, or Lancaster Youth Bureau 716-683-4444

HOW TO PROTECT MY CHILD’S FUTURE THROUGH GUARDIANSHIP, WILLS & TRUSTS
2020-02-12 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Autism Services Inc., 40 Hazlewood Drive, West Amherst, NY, 14228, United States
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 class will help you to understand your options as you begin to think about plans for your special needs child.
Workshop held in Room 217 at Autism Services in West Amherst, NY.

Check your local TV broadcasts for cancellation information.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Childcare and transportation are not provided. Childcare and Transportation stipend available.

The Nurtured Heart Approach Helping Children Flourish Emotionally, Academically & Socially - Day 2
2020-02-13 17:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Woodrow Wilson Elementary School, 166 Halstead Ave., Sloan, NY, 14212, United States
Four Week Parenting Series – Thursdays 5:30-8:00 pm February 6th, 13th, 27th & March 5th 2020
The Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) is an approach to life that creates a shift in how we relate to the problems that have been causing us challenges.

Presenter: Joe Clem MA, LMFT, BCBA, Certified NHA Advanced Trainer

Are you frustrated by behavior challenges that put your child in control of your home? Have your discipline methods stopped working? Do you want your children to have good morals, be compassionate, and be self-confident?
The Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) is a language based approach that can help you regain focus and power and re- build the love you want in your home. NHA teaches us whyour typical parenting methods don’t always work and can evenmake things worse. The magic rests in its ability to use languageto build “inner wealth” and to make positive connections tothose around us by focusing on what IS working, at all times.
You will learn how to hold clear limits and consequences while you build positive connections. You will immediately FEEL the difference in your home, and in time, you, your children and your family learn to flourish.
The approach is valid for all ages and types of relationships. It is effective for behaviorally and emotionally challenged children (ADHD, ODD, ASD, Attachment, etc.) as well as typically developing children. You will leave this series with clear techniques and strategies to face the behavioral challenges that brought you in.
The approach has much proven success in homes, schools, human service agencies and businesses all over the world. We look forward to seeing you Transform!!

(No prior reading is required)

Where: Woodrow Wilson Elementary School
166 Halstead Avenue
Sloan, NY 14212
(parking is available in the lot behind the school) Enter through Rear Doors

Light dinner at 5:30 pm in cafeteria Parenting Series begins at 6:00 pm
Register by email to info@parentnetworkwny.orgOnline at www.parentnetworkwny.org
or by phone at (716) 332-4170
Childcare available for children age 4+ to those who register by January 30th

Family & Caregiver Group for Parents of Teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders
2020-02-13 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Wegman’s Cafe, Back Conference Room, 601 Amherst Street, Buffalo, New York, 14207
Provide a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of teenagers with autism spectrum disorders to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support. All are welcome to attend but group is geared towards parents of teenagers who may be transitioning to higher education, employment and/or independent living.
A light dinner will be served.
MODERATED BY
Tonia Weichmann – Transition Coordinator, Parent Network of WNY.
Jana Mertz, MBA – Program Coordinator, Autism Center – Oishei Children’s Hospital
A group for Teens with Asperger’s will be available at the same time with prior registration.
Please contact 716-332-4170 or email info@parentnetworkwny.org for more information
RSVP TO ATTEND
FREE TO ATTEND – ALL ARE WELCOME
BUT RESERVATIONS ARE APPRECIATED
If you are interested in attending but have transportation or other barriers that would limit your participation, please let us know.

Au-Some Evenings at Explore & More - February 14, 2020
2020-02-14 17:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Explore & More – The Ralph C Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum, 130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
FREE
One Friday each month.
Once a month, these special Au-Some Evenings give children with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorder, their friends and family an opportunity to play and learn together in an understanding and supportive environment. Families will have access to the museum space and play zones, including our cafe. Featured activities include a music center, therapy dogs, art projects and gross motor activities. Explore & More will also have a social narrative about the new museum and its play zones, quiet kits, as well as calming sensory friendly spaces in the museum.
You will need to register in advance and your name must be on the list or you will not be admitted to the event. Reserve your spot today by emailing: accessibility@exploreandmore.org

Au-Some Evenings are brought to us through the generous support of the Summit Center, the J.M. McDonald Foundation, the Hamister Family Foundation, and the Maria Love Convalescent Fund.
130 Main Street Buffalo, New York 14202 accessibility@exploreandmore.org

Sensory Friendly Family Film "Sonic The Hedgehog"
2020-02-15 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road, Lancaster, NY, 14043, United States
Flix Stadium 10 in Lancaster, NY Announces Sensory Friendly Family Film Series
Flix Stadium 10 sensory friendly family film series slated to run the first 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.
Admission is $8.75 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:
Tracy Janis, General Manager
Flix Stadium 10
tracy@dipsontheatres.com

Movies @ The Reg - Frozen 2 - Sensory Friendly
2020-02-15 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Reg Lenna Center for The Arts, 116 East Third Street, Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
*During sensory friendly screenings, the sound will be lower and lights kept up higher to help patrons with sensitivity issues. Also, patrons may move around in the seats and talk during the screening without stigma.
Elsa the Snow Queen has an extraordinary gift — the power to create ice and snow. But no matter how happy she is to be surrounded by the people of Arendelle, Elsa finds herself strangely unsettled. After hearing a mysterious voice call out to her, Elsa travels to the enchanted forests and dark seas beyond her kingdom — an adventure that soon turns into a journey of self-discovery.
Rated PG. 103 minutes.
Reg Lenna Center for The Arts
116 East Third Street
Jamestown, NY 14701
Box Office: 716.484.7070
Main Office: 716.664.2465
Fax: 716.661.3829
info@reglenna.com
Reg Lenna Box Office – Tues. through Fri. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.; One hour prior to all movies and events. 116 E. 3rd St. – enter through main doors under the marquee. Only $6! Online ticket sales close one hour before performance start time when the box office opens.
Events, artists, times, and dates are all subject to change.

BPO Kids for Exceptional Kids! - BuffaLove!
2020-02-16 14:30 - 15:30 (America/New_York) | Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY, 14201, United States
BuffaLove! Buffalo is an amazing place to grow up! There are so many different ways to express what we love about our home, and this concert celebrates Buffalo arts with help from the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, Just Buffalo Literary Center, Verve Dance Studio, and others. https://bpo.org/event/buffalove/

BPO Kids for Exceptional Kids!
BPO Kids is a classical concert series just for kids and a great way to introduce children to a lifelong love of music. The John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital haspartnered with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra to make the concerts more accessible to children with autism, sensory or physical challenges. Thanks to generous sponsorship from Wegmans, the tickets are available to our families at a reduced price. The hospital and BPO have worked together to train the ushers about autism and provide families with sound muffling headphones available at BPO coat check; preferred seating near exits (if desired) and access to a quiet space if a child needs a break.
The free, pre-concert activities start at 1:30 pm. Concerts start at 2:30 pm & last about 1 hour.
A parking voucher will be sent with your tickets for FREE parking. Parking: New procedure this year – please present the parking voucher to parking attendant. If you do not have voucher, please let them know you are with Exceptional Kids. Typically, parking is $5 for these shows. The accessible entrance is on Porter Ave.
Art activities will be available downstairs. The concert hall opens at 2:00 pm if families would like to sit in a quieter, calmer space until the concert begins.

Concerts take place at Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY 14201
Special Discounted Rate: $15 per family per concert (includes all members in household)
TO PURCHASE TICKETS: PHONE: (716) 885-5000 and please ask for Rachael and mention “BPO Kids Exceptional Kids”
Please e-mail Jana with any questions: jmertz@kaleidahealth.org
BPO Kids for Exceptional Kids! – a partnership between BPO & John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital with generous sponsorship from Wegmans.

Family & Caregiver Group - DDAWNY for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities
2020-02-18 17:30 - 18:45 (America/New_York) | Aspire Building, 7 Community Drive, Cheektowaga, NY, 14225, United States
Provides a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
COST
FREE to attend, all are welcome
*Light dinner will be served
RSVP TO ATTEND
716-332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org
Child Care is Available. In order to provide for your child’s individual needs reservations for childcare are required by the Friday prior to the meeting. Registration forms are required for all new children and are available at www.parentnetworkwny.org or call (716) 332-4170.

Finding the Best Graduation Option for Students with Disabilities-Webinar
2020-02-19 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Webinar
Dealing with challenging behavior at home and in the community can be a full-time job. This workshop will help parents and caregivers to understand negative behavior. It will teach you to recognize early warning signs of trouble. The course will teach you how to manage conflict and offer suggestions for establishing consequences before the behavior turns into something even more difficult to handle.

To register online please go to:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/ register/2527868894623505420
Or call to reserve your spot today! (716) 332-4170 phone 1(866) 277-4762 toll free www.parentnetworkwny.org

Parent Group for Parents of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
2020-02-19 18:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Aspire Building, 7 Community Drive, Cheektowaga, NY, 14225, United States
Provides a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.

*Light refreshments will be served.
MODERATED BY:
Kathy Ralabate Doody, PhD – Parent of child with autism, Instructor, Exceptional Education at Buffalo State
Jana Mertz, MBA – Program Coordinator, The Children’s Guild Foundation Autism Center Oishei Children’s Hospital of Buffalo
RSVP TO ATTEND. Please call (716) 323-6435 or e-mail: jmertz@kaleidahealth.org. Please sign up online so we will have enough materials available:https://tinyurl.com/2020ausomeparents
FREE TO ATTEND – ALL ARE WELCOME BUT, RESERVATIONS ARE APPRECIATED
If you are interested in attending but have transportation or other barriers that would limit your participation, please let us know.

Debra Kroetsch-Autism Advocate and an Adult with Autism
2020-02-24 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Museum of disABILITy History, 3826 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14226, United States
Debra Kroetsch was not diagnosed with autism until the age of 50. She was left to her own devices as wife and mother without the guidance and supports that many others receive. Debra has “translated the indecipherable neurotypical world into a simpler, visual language and holds that translation with a permanent context”. That is to say she has made the world work for her.
Debra shows the many low-tech but extensive changes that she has made to her life. She hopes to not only inspire others to think outside the box by thinking “Inside the Box”, she also hopes to inform others about the way many individuals living with autism see the world. Debra has the ability to help us understand what often goes on in the minds of our loved ones that they may not be able to relay to us themselves.
This Workshop is free to attend but space is limited so we ask that you RSVP to dkroetsch53@gmail.com by February 1, 2020.

ADHD Strategies for Success and IEP Development - Webinar
2020-02-26 18:30 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Webinar
Learn the signs and symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This class discusses the characteristics of ADHD, and the tips and tools to help identify strategies that can be included in a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

To register online please go to:
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/ register/7149870531847617291
or call to reserve your spot today! (716) 332-4170 or 1(866) 277-4762 toll free
www.parentnetworkwny.org

The Nurtured Heart Approach Helping Children Flourish Emotionally, Academically & Socially - Day 3
2020-02-27 17:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Woodrow Wilson Elementary School, 166 Halstead Ave., Sloan, NY, 14212, United States

Digital Arts and Technology Access Program
2020-02-29 13:00 - 15:00 (America/New_York) | The Buffalo Center for Arts & Technology, 1221 Main Stree, Buffalo, 14209, United States
Digital Arts and Technology Access Program
DATA is a media arts and technology program designed for individuals on the Autism Spectrum ages 13-19. A series of weekly winter and spring workshops will build up different creative and social skills. These workshops will culminate in a summer intensive on Villa Maria’s campus. All workshops utilize hands-on project focused learning with achievable modular goals for each meeting. Students will learn a large range of media-based practices that will suit all interests in technology and art.

There is a registration fee of $50 for participants. Limited full scholarships are available.
Contact kevin@squeaky.org for more information and registration.

All Winter/Spring workshops take place at The Buffalo Center for Arts & Technology, 1221 Main St. Buffalo, N.Y.
SOUND ENGINEERING – February 29th – March 21st
10 am – 1 pm
$50 Registration Fee
From beats to broadcast, sound plays an important part in all forms of media. In this workshop, students will explore audio production and learn fun new ways to construct and create unique soundscapes and stories. Using podcasts as a model students will work with found and recorded audio to make a creative take on their experience.

Alternative Animation – March 28th – April 18th
10 am – 1 pm
$50 Registration Fee
Animation is the oldest form of media art. In this creative workshop, students will explore different forms of traditional and digital animation. From stop-frame to Adobe’s Character Animator. Students will create short projects that explore different aspects of their experience.

Movie Production – April 25th – May 16th
10 am – 1 pm
$50 Registration Fee
Lights, Camera, ACTION! This workshop will teach students how to plan, set up and shoot short format narrative videos. Students will learn to use manual cameras, audio equipment, and video editing. The class will culminate in students creating a short biography from their perspective.

Spring/Winter Registration

Summer program takes place on the Villa Maria College Campus, 240 Pine Ridge Rd, Buffalo, N.Y.
Summer Program – August 17th – August 21st
10 am – 3 pm
$100 Registration Fee
Lights, Camera, ACTION! This workshop will teach students how to plan, set up and shoot short format narrative videos. Students will learn to use manual cameras, audio equipment, and video editing. The class will culminate in students creating a short biography from their perspective.

Summer Registration is not open

DATA is made possible with support from:

Fantastic Friends of WNY - Social Club
2020-03-02 17:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Ages 13 years and up.
Cost: $10 includes pizza.
Mail payment to Fantastic Friends of WNY or pay at the door the day of the event.
YOU MUST REGISTER TO fantasticfriendswnyjk@gmail.com

Fantastic Friends of WNY-Art-Paint Pouring
2020-03-02 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Ages 13 years and up.
Cost: $10
Mail payment to Fantastic Friends of WNY or pay at the door the day of the event.
YOU MUST REGISTER TO fantasticfriendswnyjk@gmail.com

Family & Caregiver Niagara Autism Group
2020-03-02 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | Empower Children’s Academy, 9812 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304
Provides a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorders to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
RSVP TO ATTEND
www.parentnetworkwny.org or
(716) 332-4175 or support@parentnetworkwny.org
FREE TO ATTEND – ALL ARE WELCOME BUT RESERVATIONS ARE APPRECIATED
If you are interested in attending but have transportation or other barriers that would limit your participation, please let us know.
Please check local TV stations for cancellation information
*Light refreshments will be served.
Child Care is Available. In order to provide for your child’s individual needs reservations for childcare are required a minimum of 1 week in advance. Registration forms are required for all new children and are available at www.parentnetworkwny.org or call (716) 332-4175.

Koru Basic - March 2020 Class
2020-03-03 19:15 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | SowFit Buffalo Sports and Fitness, 1292 Sheridan Drive, Buffalo, NY, 14217, United States
Koru Mindfulness is a 4 session course that will teach you the skill of mindfulness. It will also help you build the habit of using it in your life on a regular basis. Mindfulness is a practice that helps cultivate greater peace, compassion, and resilience in your life. We’ve found that folks get a lot more out of Koru if they stick with it from beginning to end, therefore attendance at all 4 sessions is required. So double check your calendar and then sign up below! Accessible Academics requests a minimum donation of $40 ($10/class) to attend the course. This can be paid by cash, check or via the donation link on Accessible Academics’ website: https://www.accessibleacademics.org/donate The required book is The Mindful Twenty-Something by Holly Rogers. A limited number of copies of the book are available to borrow. If you would like to borrow a book, please contact Anne Showers at ashowers@accessibleacademics.org to reserve one. The book can be purchased online and there is also an e-Book version available.

ONE-TIME APP FEE: $3.99
The Koru Center charges this one-time fee to help cover the costs for development and maintenance of the Koru app. Our app helps you develop your mindfulness practice and connects you with your teacher for support during your Koru course. The app is essential for getting the full benefit from the Koru program.
This fee will only be charged for first time Koru students. If you have already paid your fee or already have a Koru account you will not be charged. You will be asked to login to your account on the registration page.

Teacher: Anne Showers
ashowers@accessibleacademics.org

Tuesdays March 3, March 10, March 17 and March 24, 2020 from 7:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

FINDING THE BEST GRADUATION OPTION FOR STUDENT’S WITH DISABILITIES
2020-03-04 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Sweet Home Central School District, 1901 Sweet Home Road, West Amherst, NY, 14228, United States
This workshop explores graduation options and outlines the updates
to New York State regulations. Learn about the different kinds of diplomas, and what you as a parent
or caregiver can do to help your young adult graduate.

Sweet Home Central School District
1901 Sweet Home Road
West Amherst, New York 14228
Enter through Door #6

Recommended Audience: Families of middle or high school students with disabilities.

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Childcare and transportation are not provided on-site. Childcare and transportation stipend available.

Fantastic Friends of WNY - DrumFit
2020-03-04 18:30 - 19:15 (America/New_York) | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Ages 13 years and up.
NO CHARGE. YOU MUST REGISTER TO fantasticfriendswnyjk@gmail.com

The Nurtured Heart Approach Helping Children Flourish Emotionally, Academically & Socially - Day 4
2020-03-05 17:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Woodrow Wilson Elementary School, 166 Halstead Ave., Sloan, NY, 14212, United States

Speak- Up! Skills for Effective Advocacy & How to Prepare for Meetings
2020-03-05 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Boys & Girls Club of the North Towns, 54 Riverdale Avenue, Buffalo, NY, 14207, United States
This workshop is for parents, caregivers, and individuals with disabilities who participate in various meetings with professionals throughout a school year.
The class will provide you with tips on how to be prepared and organized. You will learn how to be a powerful advocate (someone who speaks up).

RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716-332-4170
online: www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Childcare and transportation are not provided. Childcare and Transportation stipend available.

Fantastic Friends of WNY - Dance Party
2020-03-06 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Ages 13 years and up. Cost: $10
Pay in advance by mailing payment to Fantastic Friends of WNY or pay at the door the day of the event.
RSVP: fantasticfriendswnyjk@gmail.com

Au-Some Aquarium - Nemo Night
2020-03-06 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Aquarium of Niagara, 701 Whirlpool Street, NIagara Falls, NY, 14301
Generally, First Friday (excluding summer break: June, July,August) then September 11th & December 18th)
6:00pm to 8:00pm
Special evenings dedicated to providing a safe, supportive and sensory friendly environment where families with autism and other special healthcare needs can meet, learn, and have fun together. Families will enjoy a touch tank, a sea lion show, art activities, gluten-free snacks and information provided by community resource specialists.

$10 per family – free parking! FREE for members.
$5 per person in a group. Please take a moment to RSVP here
(https://tinyurl.com/ausomeaquarium2020) so we can plan for the appropriate number of people. Please check your local TV channel for cancelations due to weather. Call 716-323-6435 or email jmertz@kaleidahealth.org
701 Whirlpool St. Niagara Falls, NY 14301
www.aquariumofniagara.org
The program was developed with collaboration between Aquarium of Niagara, John R. Oishei Children’s Hospital, and several community partners and is supported with generous donations from The Rotary Club of Lewiston/Niagara-on-the-Lake and The Kiwanis Club of Lewiston.

Sensory Friendly Family Film "Onward"
2020-03-07 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road, Lancaster, NY, 14043, United States

Fantastic Friends of WNY - DrumFit
2020-03-07 11:00 - 11:45 (America/New_York) | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
All ages.
NO CHARGE. YOU MUST REGISTER TO fantasticfriendswnyjk@gmail.com

Fantastic Friends of WNY - Bingo
2020-03-07 12:00 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
All ages.
Pay in advance by mailing your payment to Fantastic Friends of WNY or pay at door the day of the event. Cost: $10
RSVP: fantasticfriendswnyjk@gmail.com

Fantastic Friends of WNY - Bingo
2020-03-09 18:00 - 19:30 (America/New_York) | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States

Game Night - "March Madness"
2020-03-09 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Lancaster Youth Bureau, 200 Oxford Ave., Lancaster, NY, 14086, United States
