Autism Society Western New York

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (English) - online
2023-03-03 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York)
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 at 585-241-5842 Richard.S.Labonte@opwdd.ny.gov

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - webinar
2023-03-02 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Sharon Linne, 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 Medicaid Service Coordination (MSC), Home and Community Based Services Waiver, and Family Support Services.
REGISTER

Parents Considering a Residential Placement Discussion Group via Zoom
2023-02-28 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: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcqc–ppzkiGdLNb3pg51CS4TfR1hFcibfp

Preparing to Transition from High School to the Adult World after Graduation - webinar
2023-02-28 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Parent to Parent of NYS, Regional Manager/ Education Specialist for this wonderful webinar.
This training gives parents, grandparents and guardians, an understanding of high school transition.
Transition from high school to young adulthood is a critical stage for all teenagers; for students with disabilities this stage requires extra planning and goal setting. Factors to consider include post-secondary education, the development of career and vocational skills, as well as the ability to live independently. The first step in planning for a successful transition is developing the student’s transition plan. A transition plan is required for students enrolled in special education who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). We will define and describe transition planning and how it can be utilized to maximize your child’s future.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2810106957002208854

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx/online
2023-02-28 14:00 - 16:00, 2023-02-15 16:00 - 18:00
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.

Health Care Transition Research and Resources - online
2023-02-28 11:00 - 12:30
REAL TRANSITION PARTNERS Health Care Transition Research and Resources
This event is for Parent Center Staff and Adult system representatives. Join for a presentation by Got Transition.
They will discuss the following:

What is health care transition (HCT), and why is it important for youth/young adults with disabilities?
How many youth with I/DD do not receive HCT guidance.
Recently available statistics indicating the need for youth and families to learn about HCT.
Resources available to assist youth/young adults in managing their healthcare.

REGISTER HERE.
Questions, contact Dawn Monaco at dmonaco@spanadvocacy.org.

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (English) - online
2023-02-27 16:00 - 18:00
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 erin.a.caglioti@opwdd.ny.gov

Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS GROUP via Zoom
2023-02-23 19:00 - 20:30
Statewide Virtual Meeting: Bi-weekly on Thursdays, starting at 7 p.m.
Parent to Parent of NYS Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their childrens’ special needs.
Come join Chris Brewster for an informal meeting to share information, resources, and support. Parents of children and adults are welcome.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtcOivqD8vGdEpO5DltxXk9Ds9xNFODCuV

Communicating with the CPSE / CSE through Letter Writing - webinar
2023-02-23 11:00 - 12:30
Please join Nancy Marmet, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a 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.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/8779799786895260245

School Avoidance: A Holistic Approach (This event will be live streamed as well as in person.)
2023-02-22 17:30 - 18:30 | North Tonawanda School Administration Building, 176 Walck Rd., North Tonawanda, 14120
School Avoidance: A Holistic Approach
Families, do you have a child or children that’s avoiding school? Teachers, are you working with a chronically absent student? Learn information on why students may avoid school, and what adults can do to help support them to get back on track.
This event will be live streamed as well as in person!
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (English) - online
2023-02-22 16:00 - 18:00
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 Kelli.l.smith@opwdd.ny.gov

The Complexities of Establishing Evidence-Based Interventions for Autism - webinar
2023-02-22 13:00 - 14:00
Learn about historical developments, methodological approaches, and areas of ongoing debate in establishing evidence-based interventions for autism.
The Speaker
Dr. Giacomo Vivanti is an Associate Professor in the Early Detection and Intervention research program at the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute. His career as a scientist is driven by a key commitment to understand and address the social learning difficulties observed in young children with autism. This focus reflects his life experience of growing up with two brothers diagnosed with autism, as well as his diverse clinical and research training. Dr. Vivanti’s research involves eye-tracking and behavioral paradigms to investigate early learning processes in young children with autism, as well as clinical trials and community-based participatory research to evaluate, optimize and customize early interventions for children with autism. His research has been funded through a diverse portfolio of federal and foundation grants.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/complexities-evidence-based-treatment/

Graduation Options for Students with Disabilities via Zoom
2023-02-21 18:00 - 20:00
Gain understanding of the NYS graduation requirements.
Key areas being discussed:

credit requirements
multiple pathways to graduation
safety nets for students with disabilities
appeal process
exiting credentials available to students

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/graduation-options-for-students-with-disabilities-3/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2023-02-21 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-13/

Trauma Informed Parenting (In person event)
2023-02-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
When behavior is communication, what are kids trying to tell us?
Have you ever wondered if there’s a way to reach a child when their brain is in a dysregulated state?
Come and learn what trauma is and how it impacts the brain, body and behavior across environments.
Our expert will share ways to help, including sensory grounding/soothing, coregulation and resources to explore. This workshop is appropriate for anyone dealing with challenging behaviors.
SPEAKER
Marcella Moslow, LCSW, RPT is a trauma therapist with a private practice in Buffalo, NY that consists of clients of all ages that have experienced trauma. She is also a trainer, consultant and educator specializing in the areas of trauma informed parenting, play therapy, topics pertaining to adoption and foster care for caregivers and professionals and trauma informed care within the school system.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/traumainformedparenting/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Preschool Special Education Process via Zoom
2023-02-17 12:00 - 14:00
The Preschool Special Education process training is designed to gain an understanding of the IEP process including but not limited to the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE), the roles and responsibilities of all parties.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Any questions? Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Statewide- Virtual Special Education Parent Chat Group
2023-02-16 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: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIvfuCvpj0vEt3f_afZetC6OhLvnYGCOEGq

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (Spanish) - online
2023-02-16 16:00 - 18:00
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: Miriam Nieto (718) 430-0806 Miriam.X.Nieto@opwdd.ny.gov

OPWDD FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION (English)- online
2023-02-15 14:00 - 16:00
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 for a session is required. REGISTER HERE.
Contact for assistance: Karen Francisco (518) 388-0431 Karen.Francisco@opwdd.ny.gov

When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit - webinar
2023-02-15 10:00 - 11:00
Please join Julia Luppino, Regional Coordinator as she presents a webinar on When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit.
This presentation provides an overview of the parent’s perspective when planning for a child’s developmental evaluation. This webinar will not be looking at specific tests or types of evaluations. Instead, we want to share some tips and potential suggestions that we have learned based on our own personal experiences when our children were evaluated. We hope that this provides you with information and ideas when planning for your own child’s evaluation.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6535393089479971936

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP - webinar
2023-02-13 18:30 - 20:30
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, for this training on Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal law, requires certain information to be included in the IEP but doesn’t specify say how the IEP should look. Because states and local school systems may include additional information, forms differ from state to state and may vary between school
systems within a state. The IEP, Individualized Education Program, is a written document that’s developed for each public-school child who is eligible for special education. The IEP is created through a team effort and reviewed at least once a year. This 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: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUucOCrqDwvHdG0cDsS_bfLNMrfGq72eACm

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2023-02-13 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!
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 need
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS! REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/the-link-wnys-family-caregiver-group-2/

Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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SIBSHOP WNY - Saturday, February 11, 2023
2023-02-11 13:00 - 17:00 | Richard E. Winter Student Center, 98 Hughes Ave., Buffalo, NY, 14208, United States
When a child is diagnosed with a developmental disorder or serious chronic physical disorder, the entire family is affected.
WHAT ARE SIBSHOPS?
Sibshops provide support and guidance to siblings of children with special needs. Siblings are encouraged to share the challenges and celebrate the joys with brothers and sisters in similar situations. They reflect a belief that brothers and sisters have much to offer one another—if they are given a chance.
Sibshops WNY are lively, action-packed, 4-hour workshops. They are held quarterly on Saturdays from 1 PM to 5 PM. The Sibshop model mixes information with special guests, events, and discussion activities with new games (designed to be unique, off-beat, and appealing to a wide ability range). The minimum age for participation is six years old.
LOCATION: 2nd Floor—Richard E. Winter Student Center at 98 Hughes Ave. Buffalo, NY 14208—between Jefferson Avenue and Meech Street.
REGISTRATION: $20 per session https://www.sibshopwny.com/
QUESTIONS? Please contact: Susan Putnam, PhD or Sarah Vallo, LMHCP. Email: profputnam@gmail.com or lovallos@my.canisius.edu
Phone: (716) 714-9691

Au-Some Evenings at Explore & More
2023-02-10 17:30 - 19:30 | Explore & More – The Ralph C Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum, 130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
Au-Some Evenings at Explore & More

Once a month, our special Au-Some Evenings give children with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorder, their friends and family an opportunity to play and learn together in an understanding and supportive environment. Families will have access to the museum space and play zones, including our cafe. Featured activities include a music center, therapy dogs, art projects and gross motor activities. Explore & More will also have a social narrative about the new museum and its play zones, quiet kits, as well as calming sensory friendly spaces in the museum.
Register for the next Au-Some Evening.

Au-Some Evenings are also supported by J.M. McDonald Foundation, Maria Love Convalescent Fund, and Erie County

For more au-some activities and videos, click here.

A Family’s Guide to Student-Directed IEPs via Zoom
2023-02-10 16:00 - 17:30
When your child learns how to self-advocate, they will feel more:
Informed | Empowered | Understood | Confident
GET INVOLVED!
Understanding Student-Led IEPs and CSE Meetings
Is your child’s voice heard at their meetings?

Did they help create a goal for their IEP?
Learn more about working with the school district to help your child learn how to advocate for themselves.

*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE. FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS GROUP
2023-02-09 19:00 - 20:30

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child or adult in a Residential placement via Zoom
2023-02-09 19:00 - 20:00
Are you considering a residential school or program for your son/daughter and just don’t know how you will ever be able to make this decision? Do you feel guilty for even thinking about it? Do you have a family member in a residential program and are struggling to make peace with this decision?
Parent to Parent is excited to host a Parent Discussion Group facilitated by Mariela Adams, for families with children and adults of all ages that have children in residential school or are considering a residential placement for their loved one.
Come join us for an hour of support and conversation about this important topic.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZItcOCgqjkiE93EvzhK2aXOn96j5KDcPGBy

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide - webinar
2023-02-08 18:30 - 20:00
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents 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 questions, please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMrdOihrT8qEtV7mRQT9uem9jOkFZ92v_Ku

The Basics Of Supported Decision Making via Zoom
2023-02-08 18:00 - 20:00
Supported Decision-Making (SDM) allows individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) to make choices about their own lives with support from a team of people they choose.
People with I/DD will choose people they know and trust to be part of a support network to help with decision-making. SDM can be an alternative to guardianship and allows the person with the disability to make his or her own decisions.
Learn the basic process for SDM and resources available.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/basicsofsupporteddecisionmaking/

Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Call: 716-332-4170
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