Autism Society Western New York

Education Records Organizer via Zoom
2024-11-20 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | NY
Join Parent to Parent NYS for this great workshop.
This workshop is where parents, guardians and advocates of children who receive 504, CPSE and CSE special education services take their educational records and organize them into a record-keeping binder. This workshop will assist in being more organized in planning a child’s education, and in the CPSE/CSE process.
Register here.

Research Updates: GI Symptoms & Behavior - webinar
2024-11-20 13:00 - 14:15 | NY
About the Speaker:
Dr. Bradley Ferguson, PhD is an Assistant Research Professor, MU School of Medicine. He is currently studying the association between immune, endocrine, and psychophysiological markers of stress and gastrointestinal disorders in those with autism spectrum disorder. He is also leading the psychophysiological biomarker assessment for predictors of response to medications, and also the relationship to aberrant behaviors.

REGISTER HERE.

CARD's Professional Development and Parent Seminars - Fall 2024
2024-11-20 09:00 - 14:15 | NY
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND PARENT SEMINARS
LIVESTREAM
CEUs AVAILABLECARD Albany is offering three livestream seminars that are directed towards school personnel, community professionals, and parents and family members who live or work with individuals on the autism spectrum.
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 of New York. There is a $5.00 registration fee per session for each CEU selected.
Registration is required to attend. Please choose the sessions you would like to attend when you fill out your registration entry.
These sessions will not be recorded at this time.
9:00am-10:15am
Beyond Theory of Mind: Autism and the Social World
Presenter: Erica Davis, LMSW

Participants will be able to explain the specific difficulties autistic individuals may face in understanding and responding to the emotions and thoughts of others
Participants will be able to explain the concept of double empathy and how it can be a valuable tool in fostering understanding between individuals with and without autism
Participants will identify strategies to improve communication and understanding between neurotypical individuals and autistic individuals

11:00am-12:15pm
Tolerating the Intolerable: Supporting Autistic Students to Cope with Uncertainty
Presenter: Jane Ann Worlock, MS Ed

Participants will be able to identify the correlation between symptoms of autism and intolerance of uncertainty
Participants should recognize some of the common responses and possible challenging behaviors stemming from intolerance of uncertainty in their autistic students and children
Participants will learn strategies they can implement in school and at home to support their students/children in coping with uncertain situations

1:00pm-2:15pm
Charting the Course Together: Empowering Autistic Learners Through Person-Centered Planning
Presenter: Melissa L. Rinaldi, PhD

Participants will be able to define person-centered planning (PCP), articulate its core principles, and demonstrate an understanding of its significance in supporting autistic students
Participants will be able to identify the benefits and positive outcomes associated with implementing PCP
Participants will be able to differentiate between various person-centered planning approaches and apply practical tools, strategies, and resources gained from the presentation to effectively integrate PCP into their professional setting

The three topics above are each available on the following dates:
Wednesday, October 30, 2024
Wednesday, November 20, 2024
Wednesday, December 11, 2024

Continuing Education Credits
CARD Albany is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:
School Psychologist (NASP)
NYS Social Worker (LMSW & LCSW)
Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE)
NYS Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)
NYS Psychologist
General certificates of attendance will be provided for all participants.
Each session is eligible for 1.25 contact hours for NASP, SW, CTLE, and LMHC. Session one and two are eligible for 1.25 hours for NYS psychologists. There is a $5.00 registration fee per session for each CEU selected. Please visit CARD Albany website for more information about CEU offerings. CEUs can be selected during registration and payment can be submitted online with a credit card.

REGISTER HERE!
If you have questions or would like to learn more about any of their programs, please contact them at: 518-442-2574 or card@albany.edu
Additional information on all of their programs can be found on their website:
www.albany.edu/autism

Parents CONSIDERING a Residential Placement Discussion Group
2024-11-19 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Are you considering residential placement for your family member? Parent to Parent NYS is hosting this group for families with children and adults of all ages who are considering placement in a residential school or a group home.
Register here.

ADHD/Learning Differences Support Group via Zoom
2024-11-19 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
ADHD/Learning Differences Support Group
Third Tuesday of the Month!
Are you a parent of a child with ADHD or do you suspect they have a learning difference?
We will be sharing experiences, discussing strategies and providing support.
Discuss topics such as:

Special Education
ADHD, Learning Disabilities,
and more!

ONE TIME REGISTRATION! FREE SUPPORT GROUP TO ATTEND! REGISTER HERE!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs via Zoom
2024-11-19 10:00 - 11:00 | NY
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.

PADRE A PADRE DE NYS via Zoom
2024-11-18 19:00 - 20:30 | NY
Les invitamos a ser parte de nuestra siguiente reunión de Cuidadores vía Zoom. Parent to Parent of NYS está ofreciendo reuniones GRATUITAS de padres y/o cuidadores de seres queridos con necesidades especiales y/o médicamente frágiles. Estamos aquí para usted. Venga a compartir con nosotros en una reunión informal donde compartiremos información, recursos y encontrará el apoyo que necesita mientras cría a un ser querido con necesidades especiales y/o médicamente frágiles, sin importar la edad de la persona.
Regístrese aquí.

How to Prepare for a Successful CPSE/CSE Meeting - webinar
2024-11-18 18:30 - 19:30 | NY
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager/Education Specialist, as she presents this wonderful presentation on How to Prepare for a Successful CPSE/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.

Parent to Parent of NYS-Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child or adult in a Residential placement
2024-11-14 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
For families with children and adults of all ages that currently have children in residential school or a group home. Come join us for an hour of support and conversation.
REGISTER HERE.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2024-11-14 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
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

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Diploma and Credential Options for Students with Disabilities via Zoom
2024-11-13 16:00 - 17:00 | NY
What does it mean to get a Regent’s diploma? A Local? A CDOS or Skills Credential? What can you do? What can you not do? How much effort does it take? Can your child do the work?
This session explores the options and outlines and any updates to NYS regulations.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Special Education 101: Training a Parent Member via Zoom
2024-11-13 15:00 - 16:00 | NY
Special Education 101: Training a Parent Member
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.

Instructions will be sent via email on how to access and complete the Part 1 online videos and activities.
Part 1: Online videos & activities-Complete at least 1 day prior to Virtual Session
Part 2: Wednesday, November 13th @ 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM (VIA ZOOM)
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE TODAY! FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Autism Health and Nutrition
2024-11-13 13:00 - 14:15 | NY
About the Speaker:
Kelly Barnhill, MBA, CN, CCN, is the Director of the Nutrition Clinic at The Johnson Center for Child Health and Development. She is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist, with over a decade of experience working with nutrition in children with autism and related disorders. At the Johnson Center, she directs a team of dieticians and nutritionists that has served over 3000 children through this practice. Ms. Barnhill also serves as Co-Vice Chair of ARI’s Board of Directors and sits on ARI’s Scientific Advisory Board.
REGISTER HERE.

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - webinar
2024-11-13 10:00 - 11:30 | NY
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Tina Beauparlant for this in-depth presentation 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.
REGISTER HERE!

Parent group for families of children 5 and younger (via Zoom)
2024-11-12 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Connect with other parents who understand the joys and challenges of parenting young children with special needs. Share experiences, advice, and encouragement in a supportive environment.
Register here.

Education Records Organizer via Zoom
2024-11-12 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
This workshop is where parents, guardians and advocates of children who receive 504, CPSE and CSE special education services take their educational records and organize them into a record-keeping binder. This workshop will assist in being more organized in planning a child’s education, and in the CPSE/CSE process.
REGISTER HERE.

Carl the Collector Family Screening Night - A Buffalo Toronto Public Media Event - FREE!
2024-11-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Buffalo Toronto Public Media, Lower Terrace Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
Join us for a delightful family event as we celebrate the new PBS KIDS show, Carl the Collector!
Enjoy episodes “The Plushie Collection/The Bouncy Ball Collection” and “The Fake Mustache Collection/The Lint Dinosaur Collection” on the big screen before the show premieres! We will also have engaging, hands-on activities related to Carl – AND special exhibits with kids and their collections!
We will have chairs set up AND space on the floor in front for viewing. Bring your own blanket, sleeping bag, bean bag chair – we will provide personal spaces for all!
Please note that we will have a sensory room set up for the duration of the event in case a family needs to step away.
This event is free, but registration is required to attend.
REGISTER HERE.

Calling All Collectors!

Children attending our screening event of Carl the Collector are invited to bring their own treasured collections to share with fellow young enthusiasts. We’ll have dedicated tables set up where kids can proudly display their items and explore the collections of others. Whether it’s rocks, stamps, action figures, or anything in between, we can’t wait to see what unique treasures your child has been collecting! This is a wonderful opportunity for kids to showcase their passions and connect with others who share their interests. Don’t miss out on this chance to celebrate the joy of collecting together! Space is limited. We can accommodate 13 collectors, each at 1 table. Please fill out this application to be a showcased collector: APPLICATION
The first 13 applications will fill these spots, pending approval.
If a child does not get approved for a collection table, they may still bring a prized possession to share with attendees! We will have “Show & Tell” time throughout the event!
FREE PARKING!

General Information Session to Learn More about SDMNY via Zoom
2024-11-12 17:00 - 18:00 | NY
These Information Sessions are held on Zoom and are for anyone who wishes to learn more about supported decision-making (SDM), and the SDMNY facilitation process. Appropriate for Individuals who are considering creating their own SDM agreement, or for parents, guardians, service providers and others who wish to learn more. Includes time for Q&A.
RSVP required. Click here to RSVP.

Student Involvement in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) for Families via Zoom
2024-11-12 12:00 - 14:00 | NY
This workshop will help promote and encourage student and family involvement in the IEP development process and Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
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
2024-11-11 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
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 HERE.

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

Chinese Speaking Family Support Group via Zoom
2024-11-09 20:00 - 22:00 | NY
Welcome to our Parent Group tailored specifically for Chinese-speaking parents who have children with a developmental or physical disability. Led by our Fatherhood Engagement Coordinator, Bin Feng, this group is open to parents of children of any age or disability who speak Chinese (Mandarin).
Register here.

Charla Con Nosotros Grupo De Apoyo via Zoom
2024-11-07 18:30 - 20:00 | NY
¿Eres padre de un niño/a que tieneuna discapacidad o sospechas quetengan una discapacidad?
DISCUCIONES YPERSPECTIVAS
OBTEN APOYO
Consigue información práctica,constructiva, y útil.
CONECTA CON OTROS
Consigue información práctica,constructiva, y útil.
Aprende mas sobre como manejar con susproblemas a través de experienciascompartidas.
EXPRESATE
Tén un espacio seguro para compartirsus experiencias y dificultades.

Primer Jueves de cada mes. 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

REGISTRACIÓN
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
Mas Información
716.332.4170 o
info@parentnetworkwny.org
Registración es necesaria para recibirel enlace de Zoom.
Flyer

What Is an Individualized Education Program For Families of School-Age Students (in-person event)
2024-11-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Jamestown High School, 350 E Second Street, Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
Parents and families will gain an understanding of the entire IEP process, including but not limited to, the Committee on Special Education (CSE), the roles and responsibilities of all parties, the various components of the IEP, and the transition planning process.
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER HERE FOR THIS FREE EVENT!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Getting Started with the Residential Process: Tips, Tricks, and Information via Zoom
2024-11-07 18:00 - 19:15 | NY
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.

NEW- Parenting With Pride (for parents of individuals in the LGBTQAI+ via Zoom
2024-11-06 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Parenting a child with disabilities that also identifies in the LGBTQAI+ community can bring about many challenges and questions. This group offers a safe space for parents and caregivers to discuss this unique intersectionality and share experiences.
REGISTER HERE!

Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2024-11-06 18:00 - 19:00 | NY
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.

Improving Clinical Understanding of Autism - webinar
2024-11-06 13:00 - 14:15 | NY
Applying Neuroscience to Improve Clinical Understanding of Autism
Learn about emerging research on improvements in clinical understanding that can be gained by applying findings from the neurosciences field.
About the Speaker:
James McPartland, Ph.D., is the Harris Professor of Child Psychiatry and Psychology at the Yale Child Study Center. He is a neuroscientist and practicing child psychologist who directs the Yale Developmental Disabilities Clinic. Dr. McPartland is also a founder and director of the Yale Center for Brain and Mind Health and the Principal Investigator of the Autism Biomarkers Consortium for Clinical Trials, a US-based effort to identify biological indices to enhance intervention research in autism. Dr. McPartland’s program of research investigates the brain bases of neurodevelopmental conditions to develop biologically-based tools to improve clinical care and quality of life for autistic people and their families.
REGISTER HERE.

What Is An Individualized Education Program For Families Of Preschool Students via Zoom
2024-11-05 18:00 - 19:30 | NY
Participants will:

Gain an overview of the process for developing an IEP at the preschool level.
Review the components of the preschool IEP and the information that families can share with the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) regarding their child’s performance and disability related needs.

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

Parent to Parent of NYS- Statewide-Virtual Fathers Group (via Zoom)
2024-11-04 19:00 - 21:00 | NY
Parent to Parent of NYS Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their children’s special needs. Come join Bin Feng for an informal meeting to share information, resources, and support. Parents of children and adults are welcome.
Register here.

Teen Parent Group- for parents of teenagers with developmental or physical disabilities (via Zoom)
2024-11-04 19:00 - 20:00 | NY
Are you a parent of a special needs teenager? You are not alone! From navigating adolescence to managing behaviors and fostering independence, our group provides a safe space for open discussions about all things teen related. Parent to Parent offers parents a place where you can connect with other parents facing similar challenges and share experiences in a welcoming and understanding environment.
Register here.
