Tools for Finding your First Job
2020-08-20 16:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York)
What things do you need to consider before a job search? Learn techniques around searching for a job. Employment for youth can be difficult. Be prepared for your search with resources and tips to be successful.
Presentation & Discussion with Tonia Weichmann !
ABOUT THE HOST
Tonia Weichmann is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of Western New York. She has over 20 years experience working with young adults with disabilities, their families, and professionals. Her personal mission is to ensure that all young adults have the skills, knowledge, and support to achieve their life goals. Life is full of opportunity and knowing where to find the resources and supports that are needed is one of the most important steps.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMkcuCsrzwrGdH0NJNU0DGBjEyBegRy9AbO
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
2020-08-20 18:30 - 19:30
PURPOSE: Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals
with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82679660440?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,,82679660440#,,1#,0281
88# US (New York)
If you have any questions contact us at (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org or join the group on Facebook for future dates, helpful hints and links CHQ Support Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Special Needs.

Webinar: Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition
2020-08-20 18:30 - 19:30
Parent to Parent of NYS presents the webinar: Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition presented by Lin Perry, Project Director for Family to Family Healthcare Information Center. As our youth with ID/DD or special healthcare needs transition from pediatric to adult healthcare 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 person’s success.
In this webinar participants will learn what research says, what issues to consider, the importance of transitioning healthcare and some effective means to begin a plan to transition for the caregiver/parent or for the child. The focus is on being a good parent partner with health professionals, and using some tools to begin the conversations and plan for and insure success.
Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions. Click here to register for this webinar.

Buffalo Family & Caregiver Chat Sessions
2020-08-20 19:00 - 20:30
Join us at our weekly chat sessions to discuss your questions & concerns. Buffalo Families! We are here to answer your questions and concerns on a wide range of topics including
• Transitions
• Meltdowns
• Time Management
• Technology Needs
• Guidance to Resources in Buffalo
• And Any Other Topics, General Questions or Concerns!
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Kim Hernandez is a Family Support Specialist at Parent Network of WNY. She has been working with the families in the city of Buffalo for over 17 years. Her expertise is supporting families from disadvantaged communities who have children with a variety of disabilities.
Lizarelis Ali is a Family Support Specialist at Parent Network of WNY. She has been working with the families in the city of Buffalo for over 20 years. Her expertise is supporting families from disadvantaged communities who have children with autism, ADHD and learning disabilities.
Join from your computer, tablet or smartphone: https://global.gotomeeting.com/ join/174359397
You can also dial in using your phone. United States: +1 (872) 240-3212 Access Code: 174-359-39
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts: https://global.gotomeeting.com/ install/174359397

FAMILY & CAREGIVER GROUP for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities
2020-08-21 13:00 - 14:30
PURPOSE
Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
DATE: Friday, August 21, 2020
TIME: 1:00 –2:30 PM
WILL BE USING GO-TO MEETING: Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/805112789
You can also dial in using your phone.
United States: +1 (312) 757-3121
Access Code: 805-112-789
New to GoToMeeting? Get the app now and be ready when your first meeting starts:
https://global.gotomeeting.com/install/805112789

FRONT DOOR FAMILY INFORMATION SESSION via WebEx
2020-08-21 15:00 - 17:00
People new to the OPWDD system can access services and supports through the Front Door. The Front Door is the way OPWDD connects people to the services they need and want. Once you enter, a person-centered planning process begins which helps you learn about and access service options taking your needs and desires into consideration. It will also give you the chance to direct your own service plan or help your family member or loved one as they direct theirs.
The Front Door is based on the understanding that people with developmental disabilities have the right to enjoy meaningful relationships, experience personal growth, take part in their community and live in the home of their choice. The Front Door process will guide you through the steps involved in finding out if you are eligible for services with OPWDD, identify your needs, goals and preferences, and help you work on a plan for getting those services.
Families/Individuals are welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them. Families are only required to attend one session even if there are multiple people in the family to be represented. Front Door Information sessions will be held via WebEx and pre-registration is REQUIRED.
To register for upcoming WebEx Front Door Information sessions for June – August 2020 for Region 1/Western & Finger Lakes (counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates) contact Jeffrey Roberts at 585-241-5797 or by email at Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
DATE TIME
8/21/2020 3pm-5pm
8/25/2020 1pm-3pm

Ask Me Anything! Behavior Edition
2020-08-24 10:00 - 11:00, 2020-08-31 10:00 - 11:00
No registration required.
• Need advice on tantrums or meltdowns?
• Need help implementing strategies?
• Tried everything and need some new ideas?
• Experiencing a new or challenging behavior?
Click the link https://global.gotomeeting.com/join/329637733 or call in to Ask Me Anything! Behavior Edition.
Dial by phone: +1 (224) 501-3412
Access Code: 329-637-733
Ask Me Anything! Behavior Edition is hosted by Debbie Schutt, MS. Debbie is the Behavior Intervention Coordinator at Parent Network of WNY. Debbie has over 15 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families on a wide variety of issues associated with developmental disabilities, mental health, crisis intervention, and behavior
management.

Help! My Child Won’t Wear a Mask!
2020-08-24 18:00 - 20:00
Everything you need to know to help your child learn to wear a mask :
• Specific strategies for parents, caregivers, and professionals.
• De-sensitization strategies
• Interventions for young children
• Tips for teenager compliance
• Information specific to various developmental stages and ages
• Disability-specific strategies
• Q&A
Presentation & Discussion with Debbie Schutt, MS!
ABOUT THE HOST
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYsf-6grT0sH9J9tdxgDxHIztMVptUQctXI
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

FRONT DOOR FAMILY INFORMATION SESSION via WebEx
2020-08-25 13:00 - 15:00
People new to the OPWDD system can access services and supports through the Front Door. The Front Door is the way OPWDD connects people to the services they need and want. Once you enter, a person-centered planning process begins which helps you learn about and access service options taking your needs and desires into consideration. It will also give you the chance to direct your own service plan or help your family member or loved one as they direct theirs.
The Front Door is based on the understanding that people with developmental disabilities have the right to enjoy meaningful relationships, experience personal growth, take part in their community and live in the home of their choice. The Front Door process will guide you through the steps involved in finding out if you are eligible for services with OPWDD, identify your needs, goals and preferences, and help you work on a plan for getting those services.
Families/Individuals are welcome to attend any session that is convenient for them. Families are only required to attend one session even if there are multiple people in the family to be represented. Front Door Information sessions will be held via WebEx and pre-registration is REQUIRED.
To register for upcoming WebEx Front Door Information sessions for June – August 2020 for Region 1/Western & Finger Lakes (counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Chemung, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Niagara, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates) contact Jeffrey Roberts at 585-241-5797 or by email at Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov.
DATE TIME
8/25/2020 1pm-3pm

Early Intervention (EI) to Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) Transition for Parents - Webinar
2020-08-25 16:00 - 17:30
In this training families and caregivers will learn about the role of the Early Intervention Program, Committee on Preschool Special Education Committee and their roles in the transition process.
Participants will learn about the timelines and vocabulary involved with the process.
Lastly, families and caregivers will learn about their roles in the transition from Early Intervention to Preschool Special Education Process.
Your Host: Katie Junevic is an Early Childhood Professional Development Specialist with Parent Network
of WNY. She has been working in the Special Education field for over 10 years and is the
mother to an amazing 8 year old son.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJYtcu-prTwtHNJDc2hdESnZlYAvTJEuNpeY
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Ask Me Anything. Take the Stress Out of Transition.
2020-08-26 11:00 - 12:00
• Do you have a high schooler with a learning difference?
• Do you have questions about accommodations at work or college?
• Need answers for after the bus stops coming?
• Not sure what to ask? Or who to ask?
Click the link https://zoom.us/j/94312045558?pwd=[REDACTED] or call in to Ask Me Anything about Transition.
Meeting ID: 943 1204 5558
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656
US (New York)
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adTpItYB0T
Ask Me Anything: Transition is hosted by Tonia Weichmann, Tonia is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of WNY, with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families on a wide variety of concerns associated with Learning Differences and Transitioning. The years of experiences have provided the ability to support young adults as they develop their skills and goals, educate families and professionals on ways to guide and support young adults, connecting to resources and services, and empower individuals to make an informed decision.P

Live Webinar on August 26: Navigating the Life Stages of ADHD: Key Concerns in Diagnosing and Treating Adolescents
2020-08-26 13:00 - 14:30
Register for this free expert webinar to learn key concerns in diagnosing and treating teens with ADHD on Wednesday, August 26 at 1 pm ET. Sign up and you will receive the free webinar replay link after 8/26 as well!
(Part 2 of a Three-Part Series on Managing ADHD Across the Lifespan)
Register to reserve your spot for this free webinar and webinar replay ►
Not available August 26? Don’t worry. Register now and we’ll send you the replay link to watch at your convenience.
Adolescents face many challenges (and thrilling new experiences) as they transition into adulthood — a passage that is often more difficult for adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Separation and individuation from their families, management of their academic and occupational endeavors, and legal independence may be more problematic for teens diagnosed with ADHD.
Moreover, unhealthy interpersonal interactions, mood disorders, anxiety, and substance use problems may also surface during these years.
The good news is that preventive education, a proper diagnosis that includes evaluation for comorbid conditions like depression and anxiety, and the identification of “stress points” will ease the transition for teens and set them up for a successful launch into adulthood.
In this webinar, you will learn:

Strategies for diagnosing and working with young people with ADHD
How to identify and manage “stress points”
How to help teens with ADHD manage medications, including safe storage and appropriate use of stimulants
The importance of preventive medicine in ADHD and ways to help teens with ADHD to feel and be at their best

Certificate of Attendance: For information on how to purchase the certificate of attendance option, register for the webinar, then look for instructions in the email you’ll receive around 45 minutes after it ends. The certificate of attendance link will also be available here, on the webinar replay page, several hours after the live webinar. ADDitude does not offer CEU credits.
Have a question for our expert? There will be an opportunity to post questions for the presenter during the live webinar.

Meet the Expert Speaker:
Dr. Timothy E. Wilens is the Chief of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and (Co) Director of the Center for Addiction Medicine at the Massachusetts General Hospital. He is a Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Wilens specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, substance use disorders, and bipolar disorder. Widely published, Dr. Wilens has more than 350 original articles, reviews, chapters, books and editorials to his credit. Dr. Wilens is a consultant to the National Football League, Major/Minor League Baseball, Bay Cove Human Services and Gavin House and is consistently named one of the Best Doctors in Boston and in America for psychiatry.

Let's Talk: Mindfulness & Managing Stress
2020-08-27 10:30 - 11:30
Do You….
• Feel overwhelmed and unable to stop?
• Find yourself dwelling on the past and/or worrying about the future?
• Feel stuck in a cycle of regret, exhaustion, and fear?
• Want to learn how mindfulness can reduce stress and foster positive attitudes?
• Each week will highlight a new strategy.
Presentation & Discussion with Theresa Drum & Mindy Scirri Ph.D. !
Theresa Drum has over 25 years of experience supporting and educating families who have children with special needs. Her first hand experiences as a parent and caregiver bring a valuable perspective and insight to the importance of mindfulness and stress reduction.
Mindy Scirri, Ph.D., is a Learning (Dis)abilities Specialist with over 20 years of experience in the direct service of K-12 and college students with and without special needs. Dr. Scirri also has over 10 years of experience in teacher preparation and has presented to administrators, teachers, support staff, and parents at local, state, national, and international venues. She currently collaborates with Mount Saint Mary College’s Center on Aging and Disability Policy and the Parent Network of WNY to bring Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) to parents and caregivers of individuals with special needs.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting
Register here: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIkfu6prjkuGdJdHt6PGn3yj0djsW3y-EdF
Last minute registration welcome. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

What to do About Challenging Behavior in the Home and Community - LIVE Webinar
2020-08-27 16:00 - 18:00
Parenting is a full time job with many daily challenges. As parents we teach are children what is the right thing to do and what they should not do. The purpose of this workshop is to help parents recognize the early signs of conflict and implement strategies that can manage the conflict in a proactive way and prevent the conflict from turning into a full blown storm.
Live Talk with Dr. Marcus Thomeer!
Dr. Marcus Thomeer is Co-Director of the Institute for Autism Research (IAR) and a Professor at Canisius College. He has extensive experience in developing, implementing, and evaluating psychosocial interventions for autism spectrum disorder. He has over 70 research publications in peer-reviewed journals. He provides consultation and training to many school districts and families throughout Western New York.
To register online please go to: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1859387820587076622

Buffalo Parent & Caregiver Chat Sessions
2020-08-27 19:00 - 20:30, 2020-09-03 19:00 - 20:00, 2020-09-10 19:00 - 20:00

Got Stress? Get Mindful
2020-08-28 15:00 - 16:00
Youth between the ages of 14 and 26
Do you…
• Feel stressed or overwhelmed?
• Worry a lot about what happened in the past or will happen?
• Want to learn ways to focus better and feel better?
ABOUT THE HOSTS
Saafir is a student at Canisius College studying Human Services. Mindfulness has been an essential part of his work with the Erie County Restorative Justice Coalition and is directly intertwined with the circles and programming that Saafir is passionate about hosting for local youth.
Jesse is a studying education at Canisius College. He first came across mindfulness practice with the Erie County
Restorative Justice Coalition, where Jesse plans circles and leads programs in youth engagement.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: ParePaOPOPStahttps://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJEvce-upz0tH9Wu4xN9CT-AZQQLWtJFKIDr
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Live Webinar on September 1: “My Child’s Handwriting Is So Messy!” Strategies for Improving Dysgraphia in Children with ADHD
2020-09-01 13:00 - 14:00
Dysgraphia is a learning disability that affects the ability of a child, teen, or adult to express their thoughts on paper and on screen. It affects 20% to 60% of people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). In addition to impairing handwriting and keyboarding, dysgraphia interferes with academic achievement and self-esteem. In other words, it is much more than messy writing.
Dysgraphia varies in its symptoms and severity, and can be easy to miss in kids, particularly in mild cases. If your child has dysgraphia, they may struggle with more than just writing — they might also find it hard to tie shoelaces, for example. Because children with dysgraphia are often skilled at reading or at expanding on a topic verbally, their struggles with writing may be blamed on “laziness” or “carelessness.” Like other learning disabilities, dysgraphia is genetic and often runs in families.
Occupational therapist and best-selling author Lindsey Biel explains why children can’t always show what they know on paper, and provides practical sensory-smart strategies that can help them do that.
In this webinar, you will learn:

Why handwriting requires much more than fine motor skills
Fun activities that build underlying, foundational skills
Practical ways to enhance attention and reduce conflicting sensory input
Multisensory strategies that helps kids with ADHD enjoy writing
Tips and tools for handwriting and keyboarding

Certificate of Attendance: For information on how to purchase the certificate of attendance option, register for the webinar, then look for instructions in the email you’ll receive around 45 minutes after it ends. The certificate of attendance link will also be available here, on the webinar replay page, several hours after the live webinar. ADDitude does not offer CEU credits.
Have a question for our expert? There will be an opportunity to post questions for the presenter during the live webinar.
Meet the Expert Speaker
Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist with a private practice in New York City where she evaluates and treats children, adolescents, and young adults with sensory processing issues, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, and other challenges. With the COVID-19 pandemic, she now offers teletherapy to families and schools nationwide.
Lindsey is co-author of the award-winning Raising a Sensory Smart Child: The Definitive Handbook for Helping Your Child with Sensory Processing Issues, with a foreword by Temple Grandin. She is also the author of Sensory Processing Challenges: Effective Clinical Work with Kids & Teens and has authored two chapters in Dr. William Steele’s book Optimizing Learning Outcomes as well as contributed to the all-new edition of Kim West’s classic Good Night, Sleep Tight.
Register for this free expert webinar to learn strategies for improving dysgraphia in children with ADHD on Tuesday, September 1 at 1 pm ET. https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1346109&tp_key=3b93776813Sign up and you will receive the free webinar replay link after 9/1 as well! Not available September 1? Don’t worry. Register now and we’ll send you the replay link to watch at your convenience.

New Beginning-Returning to School During COVID-19
2020-09-02 19:00 - 20:30
As we begin the new school year, our panelists will share their own lived experience as a framework to move forward, to support, and to guide families with strategies for mental health management as school begins again.
Join Peg Barrett, Social Worker, Kristie Moscato, Community Engagement Manager and Youth Peer Advocates Caleek Roman and Julianna Hill via a Zoom meeting.
Register here:
https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcsduyqpz4sE9VcnQybsE8C-OgOyX0XCvKE
Questions?
Email peersupport@mhawny.org Call/Text 716-245-5339

Creating Structure & Routine at Home with Hybrid-Model Schooling
2020-09-04 08:00 - 10:00
Strategies for setting up routine and structure in the home when children are engaged in hybrid-model schooling.
Learn tips to set up a routine that will be helpful in keeping everyone on track with in-school days and distance learning days. Ideas for helping to keep your child/children engaged in their distance learning by setting up the structure they need to be successful.
Strategies for parents/caregivers working from home while children are engaged in distance learning. Participants will receive copy of social skills story titled “School is Different”.
TARGET AUDIENCE: Parents/Caregivers of School-Aged Children
ABOUT THE HOST
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwufu2tqDgoG9yrpOjPsgV24TqSohJ1A-bj
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Live Webinar on September 8: Navigating the Life Stages of ADHD: Key Concerns and Strategies for Diagnosing and Treating Adults with ADHD
2020-09-08 13:00 - 14:00
(Part 3 of a Three-Part Series on Managing ADHD Across the Lifespan)
ADHD in adults is among the most impairing outpatient disorders seen in clinical practice. ADHD is viewed as a disorder of self-regulation and executive functioning. The condition has an adverse affect on family functioning, self-care and independence, education, peer relationships, sexual activities, driving, money management, occupational functioning, antisocial behavior, substance abuse, marriage, and child rearing, among others.
ADHD expert Russell Barkley will discuss the latest research on how to meet the many challenges facing adults with ADHD — from diagnosis and evaluation to everyday symptom management. Adults will also learn about the most effective treatments for managing common risks while living with ADHD.
In this webinar you will learn:

The findings from the latest studies, and Dr. Barkley’s own research, on the impairments caused by ADHD in adulthood
Ways to ensure an accurate diagnosis for adult ADHD
How to identify the detailed risks within each domain of impairment — education, occupational functioning, social functioning, driving, and so on.
Key recommendations and treatments to address ADHD symptoms in adults

Certificate of Attendance: For information on how to purchase the certificate of attendance option, register for the webinar, then look for instructions in the email you’ll receive around 45 minutes after it ends. The certificate of attendance link will also be available here, on the webinar replay page, several hours after the live webinar. ADDitude does not offer CEU credits.
Have a question for our expert? There will be an opportunity to post questions for the presenter during the live webinar.
Meet the Expert Speaker
Russell A. Barkley, Ph.D., is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center, Richmond, VA. He is board certified in Clinical Psychology (ABPP), Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology, and Clinical Neuropsychology (ABCN, ABPP). Dr. Barkley is a clinical scientist, educator, and practitioner who has published 26 other books, rating scales, and clinical manuals numbering more than 43 editions, and creator of 7 award winning professional videos. He has also published more than 300 scientific articles and book chapters related to the nature, assessment, and treatment of ADHD and related disorders. He is the founder and Editor of the clinical newsletter, The ADHD Report, now in its 28th year of publication. Dr. Barkley has presented more than 800 invited lectures in more than 30 countries and appeared on nationally televised shows such as 60 Minutes, the Today Show, Good Morning America, CBS Sunday Morning, CNN, and many others. He has received numerous awards from professional societies and ADHD organizations for his lifetime achievements, contributions to research and clinical practice, and the dissemination of science. His websites are www.russellbarkley.org and www.ADHDLectures.com.
Register for this free expert webinar to learn key concerns and strategies for diagnosing and treating adults with ADHD on Tuesday, September 8, at 1 pm ET. https://goto.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1348191&tp_key=8a74875b6cSign up and you will receive the free webinar replay link after 9/8 as well! Not available September 8? Don’t worry. Register now and we’ll send you the replay link to watch at your convenience.

Take the Stress out of Transition Ask Me
2020-09-09 11:00 - 12:00
Need answers for after the bus stops coming?
Do you have a high schooler with a learning difference?
Do you have questions about accommodations at work or college?
Not sure what to ask? Or who to ask?
Click the link or call in to Ask Me Anything about Transition https://zoom.us/j/94312045558? pwd=[REDACTED] DhORXpzdz09
Dial by your location
+1 646 558 8656
US (New York)
Meeting ID: 943 1204 5558
Passcode: [REDACTED]
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/adTpItYB0T
Ask Me Anything: Transition— is hosted by Tonia Weichmann. Tonia is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of WNY, with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families on a wide variety of concerns associated with Learning Differences and Transitioning. The years of experiences have provided the ability to support young adults as they develop their skills and goals, educate families and professionals on ways to guide and support young adults, connecting to resources and services, and empower individuals to make an informed decision.

The Role of Neurotransmitters in GI Disorders Related to Autism
2020-09-09 13:00 - 14:00
Tune in to learn about research exploring the role enteric neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin and oxytocin, play in enteric nervous system (ENS) development and how, when signaling of either of these neurotransmitters is abnormal, it can result in intestinal inflammation and/or motility dysfunction.
Register: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/944629322134593803
About the Speaker: Kara Gross Margolis, MD is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics and a pediatric gastroenterologist with a clinical expertise in brain-gut axis disorders, and particularly autism spectrum disorders (ASD). She has published highly novel observations on the roles that enteric neurotransmitters, specifically serotonin and oxytocin, play in enteric nervous system (ENS) development and how, when signaling of either of these neurotransmitters is abnormal, result in intestinal inflammation and/or motility dysfunction. She has more recently leveraged her expertise to study disorders of the brain-gut axis from the perspective of the ENS. Her studies in this area thus far have focused on two disorders that have been classically thought of as central nervous system (CNS)-centric, ASD and developmental antidepressant (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor; SSRI) exposure. Her overall goals are to pursue translational research that interrogates basic mechanisms underlying important clinical conditions, in order to utilize this knowledge to develop novel therapeutic strategies.

Help! My Child Won’t Wear a Mask!
2020-09-10 08:00 - 10:00
Strategies and tips for parents, caregivers, and professionals who engage with children experiencing behavior challenges related to wearing a face mask.
Learn tips and strategies to use with children, tweens, and teens. Specific strategies for individuals diagnosed with developmental disabilities, sensory processing challenges, physical disabilities, speech or hearing impairments, and more.
Participants will receive copies of two (2) social skills stories: “We All Wear Masks” and “School is Different”.
TARGET AUDIENCE: Parents/Caregivers of School-Aged Children
ABOUT THE HOST
Debbie Schutt, MS is Parent Networks’ Behavior Intervention Coordinator. Debbie has been a member of the Parent Network of WNY team since 2018. She has extensive experience working with youth and families through the Office of Mental Health and the Office of People with Developmental Disabilities in the areas of behavior intervention, crisis management, and mental health.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwkdeygpjkuHtRLyRM8yfLplU3MEub26_j6
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Your Mama Doesn’t Work Here Anymore
2020-09-10 16:00 - 16:30
Teens and young adults…What do you need to be successful at work?
This workshop will teach participants to identify future goals, make a plan to meet your goals and learn the skills you need to get and keep a job. (Geared towards individuals with disabilities.)
Presentation & Discussion with Tonia Weichmann!
ABOUT THE HOST
Tonia Weichmann is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of Western New York. She has over 20 years experience working with young adults with disabilities, their families, and professionals. Her personal mission is to ensure that all young adults have the skills, knowledge, and support to achieve their life goals. Life is full of opportunity and knowing where to find the resources and supports that are needed is one of the most important steps.
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
Register in advance for this meeting: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJMvcuysrT8oHNBnduv3KpZ-i1NXUPVnUSRM
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
2020-09-10 18:00 - 19:30 | Allen Park, 31 Hughes St., Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
PURPOSE: Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
In Person Meeting: Thursday, September 10, 2020 from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm
“Social Distancing Get Together”
Meeting at Allen Park this one time
Allen Park, 31 Hughes Street, Jamestown NY
If you have any questions contact us at (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org or join the group on Facebook for future dates, helpful hints and links CHQ Support Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Special Needs.

Parent Member Training Webinar Three (3) Part Series- Part 1
2020-09-12 10:00 - 11:00
Parent Members contribute valuable information and support to families who request their attendance at an IEP meeting.
Parent Members participate in discussions
about:
• Eligibility for special education services
• Educational planning and goal-setting
• Learning in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
• Understanding the evaluation and placement processes
Parent Members help to ensure that the student’s family member(s):
• Understand and are comfortable with the IEP team’s decisions
• Have had their questions and concerns addressed
Hosts
Katie Junevic is an Early Childhood Professional Development Specialist with Parent Network of WNY. She has been working in the Special Education field for over 10 years and is the mother to an amazing 8 year old son.
Tonia Weichmann is the Transition Coordinator at Parent Network of WNY, with over 20 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and families on a wide variety of concerns associated with Learning Differences and Transitioning.
Saturday, September 12, 19 & 26 from 10 – 11 am. You must attend all three (3) sessions to receive certificate!
You are invited to this Webinar.
Please register in advance https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/3665588557591463437
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
This link will be the same for all three (3) sessions.

Come Ask the Advocate your questions about CSE or 504 plans. Webinar
2020-09-14 11:00 - 12:00
Come Ask the Advocate your questions about CSE or 504 plans.
Do you know how to request information about your child / student?
Do you understand your role at a CSE meeting?
Do you know how to discuss your child’s needs at a CSE meeting?
If you have questions, we have answers for you!
Please register at: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2349488532130010382
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
