Autism Society Western New York

STARTING EARLY: EMPOWERING YOUR CHILD THROUGH SELF-ADVOCACY - FREE WEBINAR
2023-12-07 17:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York)
This presentation will discuss fostering self-advocacy skills in young children with disabilities, setting the stage for their lifelong journey towards empowerment and independence. Grounded in the understanding that self- advocacy is a powerful tool for personal growth, attendees will explore the significance of early self-advocacy education, understanding how it lays the foundation for building resilient, confident, and proactive individuals. Drawing on research, real-life case studies, and best practices, participants will gain an understanding of the pivotal role caregivers and instructors can play in guiding these young learners to effectively voice their needs, rights, and aspirations. Fostering communication skills and self-awareness to nurturing problem-solving abilities will be discussed.
Presenter: Mary E. McDonald, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LBA Associate Executive Director – Eden II/Genesis Programs

This webinar is made possible through a generous grant from NYS Developmental Disabilities Planning Council.
REGISTER HERE.

OPWDD Front Door Information Session - English
2023-12-07 09:00 - 11:00
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.
Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/webappng/sites/meetny/meeting/register/688f7ee95ff14447a7980cae99155f38?ticket=4832534b0000000630c98194d44860fd149e6f70a3cf42811f5eb023a367ebab0a3c513e3420c16e&timestamp=1699310573488&RGID=rccfeb06545afa6be92d4a24a3be91a5e
If you need assistance, please contact Richard Labonte at 585-241-5842 or Richard.S.Labonte@opwdd.ny.gov.
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: 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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

Specially Designed Instruction: A Guide for Families and Caregivers via Zoom
2023-12-06 13:00 - 15:00
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 HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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EI To CPSE For Parents via Zoom
2023-12-05 18:00 - 19:30
Is your child going from early intervention to preschool special education?
During this training, parents will learn about the timeline, vocabulary and process for the transition from Early Intervention (EI) to Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE). Learn more about the role of the teacher, the provider, and the county.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Communicating with the CPSE / CSE Through Letter Writing - webinar
2023-12-04 10:00 - 11:00
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager/Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, for this 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.

The Collaborative Community Mission's Patient Santa
2023-12-03 09:00 - 14:00 | Nickel City Sweat, 3218 Laker Shore Rd., Buffalo, 14219, United States
The Collaborative Community Mission’s Patient Santa offers a sensory-friendly setting for children with disabilities in the WNY community.
The Collaborative Community Mission is so excited to be bringing back Patient Santa this year! Join Collaborative Community Mission for a free event that includes snacks, sensory play, crafts and a special 1:1 visit with the BIG GUY! This will be a sensory-friendly event in which children will be allowed the time and freedom to explore and visit as they want to. They will have someone in charge of taking photos and each attendant will go home with a photo!
Sunday, December 3, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Nickel City Sweat, 3218 Lake Shore Rd, Buffalo, NY 14219
REGISTRATION

Sensory Friendly Family Film Series - Wish - December 2, 2023
2023-12-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road, Lancaster, NY, 14043, United States
Flix Stadium 10 in Lancaster, NY – Sensory Friendly Family Film Series
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.

Wish
Saturday, December 2 at 10:00 a.m.
In the Kingdom of Rosas, located off of the Iberian Peninsula, a 17-year-old girl named Asha senses a darkness that no one else does about the kingdom’s ruler, King Magnifico. This eventually leads to her trying to make a passionate plea to the stars in a moment of need. Soon, an actual star from the sky named Star answers Asha’s wish. After the star falls from the sky, it is revealed that the star has magical powers to grant wishes as well. Together, Asha and Star must overcome the evils rising in Rosas and fight for a better future in order to have something better than what they already have and for all dreams to come true for the people of Rosas.

Location: Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road Lancaster, NY 14043

http://flix10.dipsontheatres.com/

Admission is $8.75 per person for both children and adults.

Contact: Larry Phillips, General Manager, Flix Stadium 10, Larry@dipsontheatres.com, 716-668-1888

Understanding The Individualized Education Program (IEP) Process for Parents of Students with Disabilities via Zoom
2023-12-01 13:00 - 15:00
Caregivers will gain an understanding of the entire Individualized Education Program (IEP) 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 HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Nurtured Heart Approach – 4 Part Series – HYBRID
2023-11-29 18:00 - 20:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway Street, Floor 4, Room 442, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Nurtured Heart Approach – 4 Part Series – Hybrid

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 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.
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)
PRESENTER: JOE CLEM, MA, LMFT, BCBA and NHA ADVANCED TRAINER
A positive psychology, family systems, Behavioral Therapist who has worked closely with individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to understand, reduce and transform challenging behavior and heal the emotional issues which often occur in the family.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
Dates for the four-part series are November 29, December 6, December 13, and December 20 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
REGISTER HERE! FREE EVENT FOR FAMILIES!
Free for parents/caregivers. $25 fee for professionals to attend.
This is a HYBRID Event – Please let us know how you plan to attend (in-person or via Zoom) when you register. In-person location: Parent Network of WNY, 1021 Broadway St, Buffalo NY 14212.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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4TH ANNUAL WNY FAMILY ENGAGEMENT CONFERENCE
2023-11-29 08:30 - 15:30 | M Hotel Buffalo, 2040 Walden Ave., Cheektowaga, NY, 14225, United States
Evidence shows when families, communities and schools work together, students are more successful and the entire community benefits.
Keynote Speaker: Hasan Davis
For more than 25 years, Hasan has held to the belief that each child can and will succeed as long as adults in their world create hope. Starting as a counselor and a teaching artist, and through his years as a youth development specialist, Hasan has transformed the attitudes and strategies of school and facility staff, parents, and members of the community to help hundreds of children graduate from high school and go on to earn degrees from colleges and universities.
In addition to his work at schools, Hasan has been Commissioner of Juvenile Justice for the Commonwealth of Kentucky, Vice Chair of the Federal Advisory Committee on Juvenile Justice, and an organizational consultant. With this experience, he has transformed organizations and public systems to ensure they have the capacity to not only meet the needs of the children and families they serve, but also are transparent and set metrics and methods of accountability.
He brings to the process a powerful combination of passion, caring, and leadership to craft a refreshing, common-sense roadmap to help all youth achieve their dreams, no matter the odds.
Afternoon Speaker: Antoine Johnson
Antoine is currently a Fatherhood Practitioner whose work involves providing interventions and services to low-income fathers and families in communities throughout Western New York. The focus of his work is to help close the gap in disparity of services available to men and fathers and reduce the number of father absenteeism homes for the one in four children who grow up without a father. His experience and expertise have prepared him to undertake action-oriented, policy-relevant, and community-engaged activities in order to drive improvements in the health of communities he serves.
Early Bird Registration: $100. Registration After November 17th: $150. For 4 or more attendees, please call 716-800-2120 for a group rate.
Target Audience: School Administrators, Educators, Early Childhood Providers, Community Agencies, School Staff, Health Care Providers, Mental Health Providers, and Clinical Staff.
November 29th, 2023 from 8:30 AM — 3:30 PMLocation: M Hotel Buffalo, 2040 Walden Ave., Cheektowaga, NY 14225
To Register: wnyfamilyengagement.org

Parent to Parent of NYS- Parents Considering a Residential Placement Discussion Group via Zoom
2023-11-28 19:00 - 20:00
For families with children and adults who have not yet placed but are considering a placement in a residential school or a group home. Join Parent to Parent NYS as they talk about the issues and emotions that we experience when making the difficult decision of residential placement.
REGISTER HERE.

FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (English) - webinar
2023-11-28 10:00 - 12:00
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.
Tuesday, November 28, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/webappng/sites/meetny/meeting/register/066dbf76c149462abcf7c3a27d630ae3?ticket=4832534b00000006426e1c88c0f51d6e24149738dcb0fcef603d25b3a8ca5193218bb5b191d94be2&timestamp=1696277231803&RGID=r083e2a47e404250e89e74de8bc2bc010
If you need assistance, please contact Erin Caglioti at 631-416-3943 or erin.a.caglioti@opwdd.ny.gov
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: 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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

Getting Started with the Residential Process: Tips, Tricks, and Information - via Zoom
2023-11-27 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Sharon Linne, Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Getting Started with the Residential Process: Tips, Tricks, and Information Where Do I Begin? The process of pursuing residential placement can be overwhelming. This presentation will help you organize your needs, preferences, and documents to help you navigate the process.
REGISTER HERE.

CPSE To CSE For Parents via Zoom
2023-11-21 12:00 - 13:30
You will learn about working together with your school district during the transition from the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) to Committee on Special Education (CSE). We will cover topics such as the transition process, timeline and commonly used terms.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2023-11-21 12:00 - 13:00
Receive Support – Connect with Others – Express Yourself
Free Support for parents, family members and caregivers of children with special needs.
MEET THE HOSTS
Marcia Restivo, 23 years of experience working with special needs families
Laurie Reynolds, parent of child with special needs
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS! REGISTER
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

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THE IMPORTANCE OF SELF-ADVOCACY - FREE WEBINAR
2023-11-20 12:00 - 13:00
This presentation will discuss the importance of self-advocacy from an individual on the spectrum. Trevor is a 7th grade civics teacher/Team Leader at St. Lucie Public Schools and a Doctoral Candidate at Lynn University. He is on the Autism Spectrum and is an advocate for individuals who are on the spectrum. He has overcome many barriers through his own days as a student and has turned his experiences into strategies to enhance his own teaching. He understands what it means to struggle, to be different, to persevere and to overcome. Trevor will discuss the role self-advocacy has played in his life and how it has helped him achieve his goals.
Presenter: Trevor Sparacio, MS Ed Self Advocate

REGISTER HERE.
This webinar is made possible through a generous grant from NYS Developmental Disabilities Planning Council.

OPWDD Front Door Information Session - English
2023-11-20 10:00 - 12:00
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.
Monday, November 20, 2023 at 10:00 a.m.
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/weblink/register/r590a2aa1e6267b0512cd7ccce1184b3f
If you need assistance, please contact Kelli Smith at 845-695-7344 or Kelli.L.Smith@opwdd.ny.gov.
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: 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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

Sensory Friendly Family Film Series - Trolls Band Together - November 18, 2023
2023-11-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road, Lancaster, NY, 14043, United States
Flix Stadium 10 in Lancaster, NY – Sensory Friendly Family Film Series
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.

Trolls Band Together
Saturday, November 18 at 10:00 a.m.
Poppy discovers that Branch was once part of a boy band, BroZone, with his brothers: Floyd, John Dory, Spruce, and Clay. But when Floyd is kidnapped, Branch and Poppy embark on a journey to reunite the other brothers and rescue Floyd.

Location: Flix Stadium 10, 4901 Transit Road Lancaster, NY 14043

http://flix10.dipsontheatres.com/

Admission is $8.75 per person for both children and adults.

Contact: Larry Phillips, General Manager, Flix Stadium 10, Larry@dipsontheatres.com, 716-668-1888

How to Prepare for a Successful CPSE/CSE Meeting - webinar
2023-11-16 18:00 - 19:15
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, 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 and 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.

Family Guide to Transition via Zoom
2023-11-15 16:00 - 18:00
Families will learn about:

The transition planning process starting at an early age, although focusing primarily on high school to postsecondary
The transition process, which will help them to support students in establishing measurable postsecondary goals and annual goals, based on their preferences and interests
How to utilize resources embedded in the Guide to further enhance their understanding of each of the topic areas

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

FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (ENGLISH) - WEBINAR
2023-11-15 16:00 - 18:00
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.
Wednesday, November 15, 2023 at 4:00 p.m.
Registration link: https://meetny.webex.com/webappng/sites/meetny/meeting/register/48af9b5447a741adb25295cf22550879?ticket=4832534b00000006f0c5d4cc331b6a12f2d6edee562bc85d2b4d57e57b754568f29aab54292dcb82&timestamp=1696276492038&RGID=r0ea5be295779dd544ba1a8e16fa4a5eb
If you need assistance, please contact Brenda Sportello at 315-793-9600 ext. 635 or brenda.sportello@opwdd.ny.gov
All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Upcoming Front Door Information Sessions can be found on the OPWDD website here: 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, Spanish or Chinese, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD Website here: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door.

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide - webinar
2023-11-15 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager /Education Specialist Parent to Parent of NYS for this wonderful webinar: Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide.
Let’s explore what the IEP team needs to consider, supplemental aids, services and program modifications for all students with disabilities. A key question for the IEP team is to consider whether the student with a disability does or does not require one-to-one support to make meaningful progress toward annual goals in the IEP in the least restrictive environment (LRE).
REGISTER HERE.

CARD Albany Professional Development and Parent Seminar
2023-11-15 09:00 - 14:15
Professional Development and Parent Seminars (PDPS) are livestream webinars that disseminate information on effective programs for individuals with autism.
The target PDPS audience is school personnel, including general and special education teachers, administrators, related-service providers, counselors, psychologists, social workers, and paraprofessionals, working with students with autism spectrum disorders, as well as parents and family members.
The Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD Albany) offers these seminars at no cost to participants living in New York State through a grant provided by the New York State Education Department. Funding is administered by The Research Foundation for the State University New York.
There is a $15 registration fee for out-of-state registrants.
ALL WEBINARS ARE OFFERED THROUGH ZOOM. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. EACH PARTICIPANT MUST USE THEIR INDIVIDUAL EMAIL ADDRESS TO REGISTER AND LOG-IN. ZOOM LINKS ARE NOT TO BE SHARED.
THESE SESSIONS WILL NOT BE RECORDED.
Register for the webinars by clicking the link under each date. The same three topics will be offered on each date.
Upcoming Dates:
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
Registration Link
Wednesday, December 6, 2023
Registration Link
Wednesday, December 20, 2023
Registration Link
Session One:
9:00am-10:15am
Building Bridges: Enhancing Social Connections Among Students with Autism and Their Peers
Presenter: Erica Davis, LMSW
Download PowerPoint Handout

Participants will be able to explain how the core characteristics of ASD affect the development of their peer relationships
Participants will be able to identify research-based interventions for developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships
Participants will become familiar with where to find evidence-based resources to support peer relationships

CEUs offered for this session: 1.25 contact hours for NASP, NYS SW, NYS LMHC, CTLE, and NYS Psychologists
Session Two:
11:00am-12:15pm
Sticks and Stones: Students with ASD and Bullying Prevention Strategies
Presenter: Jane Ann Worlock, MS. Ed.
Download PowerPoint Handout

Participants will be able to define the term “bullying” and identify forms of bullying behavior.
Participants will be able to identify factors that influence vulnerability to bullying in students with ASD.
Participants will be able to identify strategies they can use or teach others to use when faced with bullying.

CEUs offered for this session: 1.25 contact hours for NASP, NYS SW, NYS LMHC, CTLE, and NYS Psychologists
Session Three:
1:00pm-2:15pm
Download PowerPoint Handout
Unlocking Success: Strategies for Effectively Addressing School Refusal in Students with Autism
Presenter: Melissa L. Rinaldi, Ph.D.

Participants will be able to explain the link between autism and school refusal.
Participants will be able to list possible functions of school refusal behavior.
Participants will be able to develop effective strategies to address school refusal behavior.

CEUs offered for this session: 1.25 contact hours for NASP, NYS SW, NYS LMHC, CTLE, and NYS Psychologists and 1.5 contact hours for BCBA.
Continuing Education Credits:
CARD Albany is an approved provider for the following continuing education:
School Psychologists (NASP), NYS Social Workers (LMSW & LCSW), NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC), Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE), NYS Psychologists, and Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA).
Each session is eligible for 1.25 contact hours for NASP, SW, LMHC, CTLE and NYS Psychologists. Session three is eligible for 1.5 contact hours for BCBA.
There is a $ 5.00 processing fee per session for each CEU selected. CEUs can be selected during registration and payment can be submitted online with a credit card.
Each organization/entity uses their own calculation to determine the number of CEUs based on contact hours. As with all continuing education, the attendee should verify CEU requirements by their professional organization and/or state licensure board. Partial credit will not be awarded. Participants must remain through the entire session(s) to receive credit.

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP - webinar
2023-11-14 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.

Special Education 101: A Parent Member - Please note that this is a two-part training.
2023-11-14 11:30 - 12:30 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway Street, Floor 4, Room 442, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Learn about the Special Education Process and the Individualized Education Program!

Gain understanding about procedures, NYS regulations, and strategies to promote a parent’s understanding and participation in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting.
This course is required to receive a Parent Member Certificate to support a parent of a child with a disability in an IEP meeting.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
Online videos & activities need to be completed at least 1 day prior to In Person Session.
Part 2: Tuesday, November 14th from 11:30 am – 12:30 pm
IN PERSON SESSION at Parent Network of WNY, 1021 Broadway Street, 4th Floor, Buffalo, NY 14212
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2023-11-13 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

Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
MEET THE HOSTS
Kim Newton, 20 years experience working with special needs families,
Nicole LaMonte-DeGolier, parent of child with special needs, and
Erin Reisdorf, Parent of child with special needs.
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A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - webinar
2023-11-13 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Barb Hoffman, Parent to Parent of NYS, Regional Coordinator, as she presents 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.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2023-11-09 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! REGISTER HERE.
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Download Flyer

Section 504, Students with Disabilities in Public & Private Schools - webinar
2023-11-09 10:30 - 11:45
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.

Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs - webinar
2023-11-08 11:00 - 12:00
Please join Barb Hoffman, Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents on Loss,Grief and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs.
Powerful and intense feelings are natural and common responses to parenting a child with exceptional needs. This training will provide an overview of common emotions experienced by parents and discuss how by sharing and acknowledging these emotions parents can find the inner strength needed to face and embrace their role as a parent of a child with special needs.
REGISTER HERE.
