Autism Society Western New York

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide via Zoom
2023-04-04 12:30 - 13:30 (America/New_York)
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, 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).
If you have any questions, please call Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
Register here.

Self-Directed Services: A Caregiver Guide - Live webinar
2023-04-03 19:00 - 20:00
Have you been wondering about Self-Directed Services? Come learn the basics of self-directed services that are an option for families with OPWDD. This will include a discussion about what types of supports and services can be included in a self-direction budget.
Live webinar on Monday, April 3 from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
REGISTER here for this FREE event!
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 | http://www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
About the speaker
Bonnie has worked with Parent Network since 2021 as a Family Support Specialist; she is passionate about supporting families to secure all the benefits and services to help them reach their goals. In 2022 Bonnie became in independent broker for individuals who want to self-direct their OPWDD services. Bonnie is a NYS credentialed Peer Support Specialist as well as a NYS credentialed Family Peer Advocate; she is also the parent of a child with multiple diagnoses including ADHD and autism.

Front Door Information Session (English) - webinar
2023-04-03 09:00 - 11:00
The Front Door Information Session will 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.
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.

Register here: https://meetny.webex.com/weblink/register/r3cd1e4fae54f217b15214da2a6fabdba
If you need assistance, please contact Richard Labonte at 585-241-5842 or Richard.S.Labonte@opwdd.ny.gov

Adaptive Climbing - Central Rock Gym
2023-04-02 09:00 - 10:00 | Central Rock Gym, 55 Chicago Street, Buffalo, NY, 14204, United States
Adaptive Climbing
Anyone can climb! We will help figure out the most fun and safe way to get you climbing. Maybe its on the wall, a rope or a combination of both. All levels and abilities welcome.
Sensory Sensitive Sundays
Every 1st Sunday of the month from 9-10 am – all ages (per CRG)

Free for members
$10 per session for non-members

We will have the music off and staff available to belay. Come climb during on of our less busy and more quiet times!
Sign up online to ensure a staff belay.

Central Rock Gym
55 Chicago St.
Buffalo, NY 14204

(716) 262-0443
jennifer@centralrockgym.com

Statewide- Virtual Special Education Parent Chat Group via Zoom
2023-03-30 18:30 - 20:00
Come join us for our Special Education chat group.
As a parent’s of children with special needs, we know firsthand how hard it is to advocate for our children in school. Sometimes we feel helpless, exhausted, and lonely and let’s face it advocating for our kids is complicated!
If you’re a parent, grandparent, caregiver of a child with special needs and struggling with special education school related issues, come join us for an opportunity to share what’s happening while engaging in great conversation, sharing your knowledge, ideas and resources with other parents in the community who are dealing with the same issues. All from the comfort of your own home.
REGISTER HERE.

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (English) - online
2023-03-29 13:00 - 15:00
The Front Door Information Session will 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.
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.
Registration is required. REGISTER HERE.
Contact for assistance: Erin Caglioti (631) 416-3943 orerin.a.caglioti@opwdd.ny.gov

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx/online
2023-03-29 09:00 - 11:00, 2023-03-14 09:00 - 11:00
All Region 1 Self-Direction Information sessions are WebEx/online format and attendance is taken using the person’s email address. This WebEx (if attended in its entirety) satisfies the requirement for attending a Self-Direction information session.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. If you have any additional questions regarding attendance, please call your SD Liaison.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
REGISTER HERE.

Parents Considering a Residential Placement Discussion Group via Zoom
2023-03-28 19:00 - 20:00
Are you considering residential placement for your family member? Parent to Parent of New York State is excited to host a new Parent Discussion Group facilitated by Sharon Linne for families with children and adults of all ages who are considering placement in a residential school or a group home. Come join Sharon Linne for an hour of support and conversation about this important topic.
REGISTER HERE.

Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs - webinar
2023-03-28 11:00 - 12:00
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Dodie Daniels, Regional Coordinator, 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.

Parent Network Information Night for Transition via Zoom
2023-03-27 18:00 - 19:00
Parent Network Information Night for Transition
Join Parent Network to learn more about NYSAA (NYS Alternative Assessment) and transition for special needs students.
REGISTER.
FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Nurtured Heart Approach - 4 Week Series - In-person workshop
2023-03-23 17:30 - 20:00 | Clarence High School, 9625 Main St., Clarence, NY, 14031, United States
Four Week Parenting Series – Joe Clem MA, LMFT, BCBA, Certified NHA Advanced Trainer
Thursdays, March 23, March 30, April 13, and April 20 from 5:30-8:00 pm
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. Childcare available for children age 4+ to those who register.
Register by email to info@parentnetworkwny.org or by phone at (716) 332-4170 or online at Nurtured Heart Approach – 4 Week Series – Parent Network of WNY (parentnetworkwny.org).
Clarence High School, 9625 Main Street, Clarence, NY 14031 Families should park on the far east lot closest to the church.
A light dinner will be served at 5:30 pm, event running from 6 pm to 8 pm.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

NEW- (LRE) Least Restrictive Environment What You Need to Know - webinar
2023-03-23 11:00 - 12:30
Have you heard of LRE or the Least Restrictive Environment? Many parents are unaware of what is means. (LRE) stands for Least Restrictive Environment and is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It refers to the placement that your child is in. Least restrictive environment is an important part of your child’s IEP.
Join Parent to Parent NYS for this new presentation and learn what the laws says about LRE.
REGISTER

Strategies for Helping Children with ASD: Exploring Various Applications of Behavioral Interventions - Virtual Conference
2023-03-23 07:50 - 15:15
Full Day Virtual Conference
Strategies for Helping Children with ASD: Exploring Various Applications of Behavioral Interventions
Thursday, March 23, 2023
7:50am – 3:15pm
Registration – $25.00
Continuing Education Units Available – $15.00
This conference is sponsored by The Summit Center and the Western New York Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) for parents, teachers, therapists, and other helping professionals. There continues to be considerable controversy regarding the best approach to ensure that autistic children are learning in school. Autism is a neurological disorder characterized by significant impairments in communication, socialization, and interests. These deficits mean that some learning readiness skills are absent. The field is associated with a great number of instructional / treatment movements to overcome these challenges, but most have not been subjected to objective evaluation. At the same time, evidence-based approaches, are often rejected as too rigid and removed from the natural environment. However, there are a broad range of empirically validated techniques that can be applied in many ways and conditions. This conference will present some of those approaches.
Download flyer for additional information including presenter bios, abstract, learning objectives, and speaker disclosures.
Presentation 1: 8:00 – 9:00 AM
Cultural Responsiveness in Professional Practice: A Commitment to Collective Empowerment
Presented by Margaret Uwayo, Ph.D., BCBA
Kalamazoo Academy for Behavioral & Academic Success (KABAS) and YWCA of Kalamazoo, MI
Presentation 2: 9:00 – 10:30 AM
Progressive ABA with Individuals Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Recent Advancements in Research and Clinical Practice
Presented by Justin Leaf, Ph.D., CPBA-AP, BCBA-D
Autism Partnership Foundation & Endicott College
Presentation 3: 10:45 AM – 12:45 PM
Increasing Play Complexity in Young Children with Autism and Other Disabilities
Presented by Erin Barton, Ph.D., BCBA, Associate Professor
Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN
Presentation 4: 1:00 PM – 3:15 PM
Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) for Young Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Presented by Danny Openden, Ph.D., BCBA
Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center, Phoenix, AZ
Register for this conference at:
https://nysrcasd.org/events/1077/registrations/new
ASHA, BCBA, CTLE, OT/OTA, PT/PTA, PSY (Pending) CEUs will be available for a fee of $15.00 each. Please see flyer for additional details.
Please call 716-629-3417 or email wnyrcasd@thesummitcenter.org with any questions.

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities via Zoom
2023-03-22 18:00 - 20:00
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, 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. Parents will learn the role they play on the CSE, learn the chain of command regarding the CSE, learn how to request information regarding your child’s IEP and gain an understanding how to communicate with your child’s teachers & administrators. After this webinar parents will have more knowledge about the educational laws to advocate for their child/children.
If you have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER HERE.

Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs - webinar
2023-03-21 19:00 - 20:00
Please join Sharon Linne, Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs.
Extraordinary parenting responsibilities create extraordinary pressures on parents. At the same time, parenting a child with special needs requires energy, focus, and enthusiasm to be effective in our role. The better off we are emotionally and physically, the better off our families will be. Join us for this webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout and discover positive ways to cope with and effectively manage stress.
REGISTER HERE.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2023-03-21 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’ experience working with special needs families and Laurie Reynolds, parent of child with special needs.
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Download Flyer
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/chautauqua-county-family-caregiver-support-group-14/

Is Guardianship the Only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives. - via Zoom
2023-03-21 11:00 - 13:00
Come join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist as we explore: Is Guardianship the Only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives.
Let’s face it nothing keeps parents up at night more than thinking about who will care for our child/children when we are no longer able to care for them. This workshop will increase the knowledge of families of individuals with disabilities about the options besides legal guardianship for adults with disabilities. If your adult child does not need full guardianship, there are other options that we will explore in this presentation. We will also discuss guardianship and the legal requirements.
REGISTER HERE.

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (English) - online
2023-03-21 10:00 - 12:00
The Front Door Information Session will 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.
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.
Registration is required. REGISTER HERE.
Contact for assistance: Kelli Smith (845) 695-7330 or Kelli.l.smith@opwdd.ny.gov

Transition In Individualized Education Programs (in person event)
2023-03-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Transition in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

Help teens decide what they want to do after high school and how to get there.
Help teens prepare to be independent adults.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/transition-in-individualized-education-programs-ieps/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download flyer

Transition in Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) - In Person Event
2023-03-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States

ABLE Account Basics and NDI AT Loan Program Resources via Zoom
2023-03-16 19:00 - 20:30
ABLE Account Basics and NDI AT Loan Program Resources
Presenter: Laurie Schaller, the National Disability Institute
REGISTER HERE.

What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education via Zoom
2023-03-16 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Namita Modasra for this training on What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education.
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 communicate 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 are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member or just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
REGISTER HERE.

UpState West- Caregiver Connection Parent Group via Zoom
2023-03-15 19:00 - 20:30
Parent to Parent of NYS offers FREE online groups for parents of children with special needs.
Groups are available Regionally and Statewide
We are here for you!
Come join Barb Hoffman for an informal meeting to share information, resources, and support. Parents of children and adults are welcome.
REGISTER

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMAITON SESSION (English) - online
2023-03-15 09:00 - 11:00
The Front Door Information Session will 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.
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.
Registration is required. REGISTER HERE.
Contact for assistance: Richard Labonte (585) 241-5842 or Richard.S.Labonte@opwdd.ny.gov

Section 504, Students with Disabilities in Public & Private Schools - webinar
2023-03-14 18:00 - 20:00
Please join Nancy Marmet, Education Advocate, 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!
If you have any questions, please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2023-03-13 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.
Download flyer

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (Spanish)- online
2023-03-13 10:00 - 12:00
The Front Door Information Session will 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.
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.
Registration is required. REGISTER HEAR.

Understanding Your Child's FBA and BIP Process via Zoom
2023-03-10 16:30 - 18:00
Gain an understanding of the regulations, the process, and the roles of the families and the school.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Evidence-Based Supports for Children, Adolescents, & Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder -Free virtual conference
2023-03-10 08:30 - 15:00
Institute for Child Development presents the 6th Annual Binghamton Regional Center for ASD Spring Conference for Families, Educators, & Providers
Evidence-Based Supports for Children, Adolescents, & Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder
FREE 2023 Virtual Conference Theme: Neurodivergent Coping and Social Success is on Friday, March 10 from 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Keynote I – Stuck in the Middle! Program Development and Supports for Students with ASD at the Middle School Level presented by Sanja Cale, Ph. D., BCBA-D & Kristin Durante, M. S. (1.5 CE/Contact Hours – NYSED CTLEs, Social Work, BACB)
Keynote II – It’s Never too Late: Friendships, Mental Health, and Well-Being in ASD Across the Lifespan presented by Amy Van Hecke, Ph. D. (1.5 CE/Contact Hours- NYSED CTLEs, Social Work)
Workshop I – Occupational Therapy at Home: Helping Families Promote Skills in Everyday Activities presented by Deborah Eckhardt, OTR/L (1.0 CE/Contact Hours- NYSED CTLEs, Social Work)
Workshop II – Making Sense of a Sensory-Intense World: Practical Coping and Opportunities for Connection presented by Rachel N. S. Cavalari, Ph. D., BCBA-D (1.0 CE/Contact Hours- NYSED CTLEs, Social Work, BACB)
The detailed conference brochure is available at BRCASD’s website: https://brcasd.binghamton.edu
REGISTER NOW
