Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2021-10-06 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York)
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar 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.
Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2079082341785059596

Webinar: NYS Autism Insurance Reform
2021-10-07 12:00 - 13:15
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center, as she presents a webinar on the Autism Insurance Reform.
Autism Insurance Reform legislation became effective in 2013, however aspects of the bill, related to Applied Behavioral Analysis, are still being worked on within the NYS government.
This webinar will address the overall legislation, who it assists and how and will also give an update on the current status of the ABA portion of the legislation.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7621026670766268430

Au-Some Evening with Superheroes! at Explore & More Children's Museum
2021-10-08 17:30 - 19:30 | Explore & More – The Ralph C Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum, 130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
This event is extra special – Super Hero Alliance of WNY superheroes will be here for Au-Some Evenings & Halloween Fun. There’ll be a photo booth with backdrops and props, Halloween activities and more! Plus, Paws for Love will be here with furry friends to pet! Bring a bag or pumpkin pail for trick or treating throughout the museum exhibits and wear a costume if you would like.

To register for the event, please email accessibility@exploreandmore.org.

Au-Some Evenings are brought to us through the generous support of Mother Cabrini Health Foundation and the Maria Love Convalescent Fund.

OPWDD Front Door Information Session via WebEx
2021-10-12 10:00 - 12:00, 2021-10-21 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. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Register: 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 or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2021-10-12 16:00 - 18:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e47a0661e87aae3a74598fc69e5d90db3

Overview of OPWDD via Zoom
2021-10-12 18:00 - 19:00
This workshop provides parents and caregivers with detailed information about the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). The class will help you to understand eligibility, the admission process, and any updates to the service.
Register Today! FREE Workshop!
Register: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/overview-of-opwdd-3/

Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org or Call: 716.332.4170

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - Webinar
2021-10-12 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar 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. You will learn the role they play with 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.
If you have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Webinar Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6479320185780626702

Nurtured Heart Approach Fall 2021 Series - A Four Part Series via Zoom
2021-10-12 18:00 - 20:00
The Nurtured Heart Approach (NHA) is a language based approach that can help you regain focus and power and rebuild the love you want in your home. NHA teaches us why our typical parenting methods don’t always work and can even make things worse. The magic rests in its ability to use language to build “inner wealth” and to make positive connections to those 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.
By combining these curriculum it is our intention to more fully provide you tools to not only manage the challenges in your life, but to actually grow and get better because of them. We look forward to seeing you Transform!!
(No prior reading is required)
Nurtured Heart Approach Part 1: October 12, 2021 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Nurtured Heart Approach Part 2: October 19, 2021 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Nurtured Heart Approach Part 3: October 26, 2021 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Nurtured Heart Approach Part 4: November 2, 2021 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.
Register: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/nurtured-heart-approach-part-1-2/

Behavioral Strategies to Treat Anxiety in Individuals with ASD - Webinar
2021-10-13 11:00 - 12:15
Tune in to hear Lauren Moskowitz, Ph.D. discuss positive behavioral strategies for supporting individuals with autism who also experience anxiety.
About the speaker:

Lauren Moskowitz, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Psychology at St. John’s University and a core member of the School Psychology (Psy.D. and M.S.) programs. She earned her B.S. from Cornell University and her M.A. and Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Stony Brook University. Dr. Moskowitz completed her clinical internship at NYU Child Study Center and Bellevue Hospital and her postdoctoral fellowship at NYU Child Study Center. She is on the editorial board of the Journal of Positive Behavior Interventions(JPBI), serves as a peer reviewer for many other leading journals in the field, and was Co-Chair of the Autism Spectrum and Developmental Disabilities (ASDD) SIG for the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT) from 2016-2018.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/behavioral-strategies-anxiety-autism/

Zoom- Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP
2021-10-13 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS as they present this wonderful webinar.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law, requires certain information to be included in the IEP but doesn’t specify how the IEP should look. 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 trainings will teach you how to read the IEP so you can understand what should and can be in the IEP.
If you have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Zoom Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0pdO2sqTosG9FxNybxSzUStoeKCJ-sAcPR

Celebrate Parents/Caregivers Raising Children - Six Week Series via Zoom
2021-10-13 18:00 - 20:00
Are you a parent/caregiver of a young child?
A six week fall series for parents/caregivers with young children offers a safe, supportive space for families to focus on the bond with their children while connecting with other parents/caregivers.
Opportunities provided for you to learn positive and effective techniques to promote your children’s social and emotional development.
SIX WEEK SERIES – Sessions happening once a week on Wednesdays from 6:00PM – 8:00PM October 13, 20, 27 and November 3, 10, 17 via Zoom.
Register one time for the entire series.
Register: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/celebrate-parents-caregivers-raising-children/
For more information or to register: call: 716-332-4170 or email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Buffalo Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders via Zoom
2021-10-13 18:30 - 19:30
Practicing social distancing but still need to talk?
Do you want to
~ feel less overwhelmed?
~ feel a sense of belonging?
Get the support you need from Kathy Doody, Jana Mertz & other group members!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/97311273663?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 973 1127 3663
Passcode: [REDACTED]

OPWDD Front Door Information Session via WebEx (Spanish)
2021-10-14 10:00 - 12:00

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-10-14 19:00 - 19:45
GOT STRESS? We Can Help!
This ongoing series is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State to meet virtually and learn how mindfulness can help with change and planning for the future. Join us to learn strategies and techniques to reduce stress and for a chance to connect with other youth and their families. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to whatever is happening in our lives, both inside and out.
Mindfulness Stress Reduction Series session from 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
Register once and use the same link for every session!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/mindfulness-stress-reduction-series-16/

Communicating with the CSE through Letter Writing - Webinar
2021-10-18 12:30 - 13:45
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the 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.
If you have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Webinar Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6107036543091944461

What is Section 504? - Webinar
2021-10-18 17:30 - 18:45
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager/ Education Specialist, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on What is Section 504?
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 Member, or just interested in this topic, this training is for you!
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Webinar Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5061934248216251661

Northtowns Family/Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2021-10-18 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!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/99541728957?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 995 4172 8957 Passcode: [REDACTED]

Webinar: Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition
2021-10-19 12:00 - 13:00
Please join Lin Perry Project Director Parent to Parent of NYS Family to Family Healthcare Information Center, as she presents a webinar on the Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition.
As our youth with ID/DD or special healthcare needs transition from pediatric to adult health care systems, self-advocates and parents alike need to understand the importance of transitioning their healthcare effectively. While many people engage in transition planning for their education to adult systems, sadly healthcare, isn’t often included in those plans. And yet, good health is the most fundamental and foundational aspect of any persons success. In this webinar you will learn what the research says, what issue to consider, the importance of transitioning healthcare and some effective means to begin a plan to transition for yourself or for your child.
Our focus is being a good parent partner with your health professionals and using some tools to begin the conversations and plan for and insure success. Please join us and get ready for a future of healthy success!
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8692953750824595726

What are Effective Advocacy Skills - Webinar
2021-10-20 11:00 - 12:15
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on What are Effective Advocacy Skills.
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 communicating 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 have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Webinar Registration:https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7124519105878020365

Bullying and ASD: Addressing Victimization - Webinar
2021-10-20 13:00 - 14:00
Most people are against bullying, so why do we have bullying? The answer is that when bullying happens individuals often do not recognize it or know what to do about it. The Girls Guide to End Bullying and The Boys Guide to End Bullying were created to address some of the problems that allow bullying to continue. Tune in to learn about these free, online curricula created for students, teachers, and parents to support bullying prevention.
About the Speaker
Ryan E. Adams, PhD, is a faculty member of the Division of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center within the UC Department of Pediatrics. His research focuses on adolescents, peer victimization, bullying, and depressive symptoms.
Register: https://www.autism.org/bullying-victimization-asd/

Understanding the IEP Process for Parents of Preschoolers via Zoom
2021-10-20 15:30 - 17:00
Understanding the Individualized Education Program (IEP) Process for Parents of Preschool Students
Learn about the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) process, your role in the process, and identify the different components of the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Discuss how to develop relationships and practices that build home-school collaboration and support your child.
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/understanding-the-iep-process-for-parents-of-preschoolers-4/

Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) for Families via Zoom
2021-10-20 18:00 - 19:30
WHAT IS SPECIALLY DESIGNED INSTRUCTION (SDI)?
• Learn how teachers use SDI to meet the needs of your child with disabilities in the classroom
• Examine what SDI looks like in the IEP
• Understand your value as an engaged meaningful partner in the special education process of your child
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/sdi-for-families/

What Makes Education Special? via Zoom
2021-10-20 18:00 - 19:30
Special Education is Specially Designed Instruction (SDI)
• Learn how teachers use SDI to meet the needs of your child with disabilities in the classroom.
• Examine what SDI looks like in the Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
• Understand your value as an engaged meaningful partner in the special education process of your child.
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/sdi-for-families/

WNY CCDA's Virtual College Night 2021
2021-10-21 18:00 - 20:00
​WNY CCDA is proud to present this year’s Virtual College Night on October 21st, 2021, from 6pm – 8pm.
6:00 – 6:45p: Presentation – Difference between college and high school
6:50 – 7:10p: Student panel – Students registered to receive services, from different colleges, will share experience about transition
7:15 – 8:00p: Open table – colleges and agencies will have open virtual rooms that attendees can choose to visit and ask questions
Registration (MS Form) is highly recommended as we will be sending you the link to the event by email. The deadline for registering for this event is October 15th, 11:45pm.
The Virtual College Night Flyer (PDF) can be downloaded and shared with students, families, school districts and professionals. For your convenience, the registration QR code can be accessed from the printed or online version of this file.
This year we are pleased to welcome colleges from across the state of New York. During our “Open Table” session you will have the opportunity to meet members of the Accessibility/Disability Services from colleges beyond Western New York. Each participating college will have their own “virtual room” where you can connect to ask college specific questions.
Information and links to individual colleges will be provided to all participants via email by October 20th, 2021.
Please be sure to provide a valid email address when you register.

Participating colleges
​Buffalo State College
Canisius College
Cayuga Community College
CUNY School of Professional Studies
​Daemen College
Dutchess Community College
Jamestown Community College
Mohawk Valley Community College
Niagara County Community College
Niagara University
St. Thomas Aquinas College
SUNY Brockport
SUNY Delhi
SUNY Erie Community College
SUNY Geneseo
SUNY Polytechnic
​Tompkins Cortland Community College
Trocaire College
University at Buffalo
Utica College
Villa Maria College​
​Participating Agencies
​Accessible Academics
ACCES-VR
Learning Disabilities Association of WNY
Parent Network of WNY
​Prime Care Coordination
Other resources:
​The NYS Higher Education Services Corporation site has resources for college bound students and their families. Visit this site for information or to formulate questions to ask as you head to college.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group (Available in-person and virtually via Zoom.)
2021-10-21 18:30 - 19:30 | The Resource Center, 880 E. Second St., Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
Free support group for parents, family members, and caregivers of children with special needs.
Receive support, connect with others, and express yourself.
Attend in-person at 880 E. Second Street, Jamestown, NY 14701 or virtually via Zoom.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82679660440?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,, 82679660440#,,1#,028188# US (New York)

The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities' 20th Annual Autism Conference
2021-10-22 08:30 - 14:15
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities’ 20th Annual Autism Conference will be held virtually on October 22, 2021. Five different live stream presentations will be offered, including a keynote address and a choice between two different breakout sessions. The sessions will not be recorded.
Keynote Session – 8:30am-10:00am
Pivotal Response Treatment for ASD
Presenter: Pamela Ventola, Ph.D.

Breakout One – 10:30am-11:45am
2A: Strategies for Supporting the Emotional Wellbeing of Students with ASD
Presenter: Verity Rodrigues, Ph.D.
2B: Behavioral Parent Training: The What, Why, and How
Presenter: Kait Gould, Ph.D., BCBA-D

Breakout Two – 1:00pm-2:15pm
3A: Identity Reconstruction Through Functional Communication
Presenters: Victoria Morrison, M.S., CCC-SLP and Lexi Drake, M.S., CCC-SLP
3B: Behavioral Strategies for Learning: Keeping Students Engaged
Presenter: Michelle Hopton, M.Ed., BCBA

Download Flyer
https://mcusercontent.com/24ccd20e4329dd3bbd8a040c9/files/4c2794cd-03c5-8989-5ce1-6930c7336aef/conference_flyer.04.pdf

Download session descriptions, objectives, financial and non-financial disclosure statements, and presenter bios
https://mcusercontent.com/24ccd20e4329dd3bbd8a040c9/files/4375a9e8-15a7-8db5-db54-5da975348432/2021_objectives.pdf

Registration Fees
NYS Resident: $15
Out of State Resident: $ 30
*Continuing Education Available for an Additional $5 Processing Fee (Per Eligible Session – Please see website for eligible session information.)
Register: https://www.albany.edu/autism/training-and-learning/conferences

The Buffalo Autism Project's 4th Annual Sensory Friendly Trick or Treat at Explore & More Children's Museum
2021-10-24 15:00 - 18:00 | Explore & More – The Ralph C Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum, 130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
Join the Buffalo Autism Project on Sunday, October 24, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. at Explore & More Children’s Museum in Buffalo for some sensory-friendly Halloween fun.
Join Buffalo Autism Project for their Fourth Annual Trick or Treat Event. This is one of their most favorite (and popular events) as they know how challenging trick or treating can be for children on the spectrum and their families and love to provide this experience! Costumes are encouraged but of course, not mandatory! Again, this year due to COVID-19 and safety regulations they have decided to move the event to Explore & More. Your $1 donation reserves your spot. Admission includes a safe, stress free trick or treat experience as well as use of the whole museum which will be closed for their group.
Reservations for each time slot are limited to ensure all visitors can maintain proper social distancing. Timed ticketing helps keep everyone spaced out so please be sure to be on time! Limit 2 adults accompanying the person on the Autism Spectrum and their siblings.
Get your tickets at https://buffalo-autism-project.ticketleap.com/

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2021-10-26 10:00 - 12:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=ef1f7034b8432a5ec77d55e116caf8b82

WEBINAR: Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities
2021-10-26 12:00 - 13:15
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center, as she presents a webinar on Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities. Join Lin Perry as she unravels the web of public benefits and Medicaid waivers available to people with disabilities. This is a very complicated issue and many families don’t know where to begin so let us help you get started. The purpose of the webinar is to provide caregivers with the information about state and federal programs so they will have the knowledge to know what their loved one is eligible for.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2224415793943881998
