Autism Society Western New York

Preparing to Transition from High School to the Adult World after Graduation - webinar
2023-01-23 12:00 - 13:30 (America/New_York)
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/3356609315963360089

CCM Sensory Friendly Craft Even at Sweet Charlottes
2023-01-22 13:30 - 15:00 | Sweet Charlottes, 10255 Main Street, Suite 9, Clarence, 14031, United States
CCM Sensory Connection – Northtowns Sweet Charlottes
1:30pm to 3:00pm
This is an inclusive event for all abilities, come have a sensory experience, and then you are welcome to play at Sweet Charlotte’s where the event is being held.
REGISTER: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080d4ba5a922abf58-ccmsensory3

Healthy Relationships: A Workshop for Parents and Guardians (In Person Event)
2023-01-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
This can be even more complicated when our loved ones have a disability. As parents and guardians, we often worry whether talking about it gives permission and whether they can be safe from harm when they are in relationships.
This workshop will help you become more comfortable discussing this sexuality & healthy relationships by covering what topics to cover when and the most effective ways to talk about this sensitive topic.
“Adapted from Elevatus Training”
Goals:

Examine barriers to talking about sexuality.
Gain knowledge about sexuality and developmental disabilities.
Acquire and practice skills in communicating about sexuality with our young and grown children.

IN PERSON EVENT located at Parent Network of WNY, 1021 Broadway St., Buffalo, NY 14212

REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parental-rights-during-a-cps-investigation-399-733-823/

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

Sibling Needs Across the Lifespan - webinar
2023-01-19 19:00 - 20:30
‘When Siblings are supported, the whole family is supported’.
Special education teacher and advocate Lindsay Hyland discuss the challenges, joys, and impact of having a sibling with special needs. The workshop is to help families learn what it is like to be a sibling of someone with a disability.
If you have questions, please contact Valerie Colavecchio – Vcolavecchio@ptopnys.org.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2105753210378927120

Williamsville Agency Fair
2023-01-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Williamsville North High School, 1595 Hopkins Road, Williamsville, 14221, United States
A great opportunity to learn more about activities, programs and events available for young adults with disabilities both while in school and after high school.
You will be able to speak to agencies and organizations about:

Recreational programs
Respite
Housing
Dayhab without walls
Pre-Voc
College programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities

LOCATION: Williamsville North High School (2nd Floor Library),1595 Hopkins Road, Williamsville, NY 14221
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/williamsvilleagencyfair/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Assistive Technology for Students with Disabilities 101 - webinar
2023-01-19 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents Assistive Technology for Students with Disabilities 101.
This training will teach parents, grandparents, guardians about appropriate Assistive Technology (AT) devices and services how they allow students with disabilities to participate in and benefit from the general education curriculum and to meet Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals. For every student with an IEP, federal and state regulations require that the team consider the student’s need for assistive technology devices and services.
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAoceGhrDMqEt3Ckqjw-4Zw4d2zlnkG8nLj

Professional Development – Creating Inclusive Learning Environments in Schools via Zoom
2023-01-18 13:30 - 15:30
Teaching Professionals! This course is for you!
Inclusive learning environments are ones in which students feel that their contributions and perspectives are equally valued and respected.
Learn about inclusive teaching strategies to ensure that students with a wide range of backgrounds, characteristics, and expectations have productive learning experiences in your class.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parental-rights-during-a-cps-investigation-399-733/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
call: 716.332.4170
Download Flyer

Parents and Caregivers: The Importance of Self-Care - webinar
2023-01-18 13:00 - 14:00
Amanda Tami, LPC, BCBA discusses the importance of self-care for adult caregivers supporting people with special needs, including autism. Free webinar at 1 p.m. Eastern time (US), Wednesday, January 18, 2023.
The Speaker: Amanda Tami, MA, BCBA, LBA, LPC, holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology and has completed a recertification program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). In addition to being a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Amanda is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has experience working with both children and adults, including those who have autism spectrum and other pervasive developmental disorders, ADD/ADHD, anxiety issues, and trauma, both as a BCBA and as a counselor. She has additional specialized training as a counselor in EMDR therapy and its applications to children.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/self-care/

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - webinar
2023-01-18 10:00 - 11:30
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Julia Luppino, 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: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/[REDACTED]

Clarence Learn to Swim Adaptive Program Winter 2023 Lesson Registrations Open January 17 at 7:00 p.m.
2023-01-17 19:00 | Clarence Middle School, 10150 Greiner Road, Clarence, NY, 14031, United States
Clarence Learn to Swim Adaptive Program located at Clarence Middle School is for children with a classified disability or significant medical condition. Adaptive Level 1 (typical age of swimmers is 4-10) for swimmers who are just becoming comfortable with the water. These children are NOT able to swim independently and require 1:1 adult support in the water. Adaptive Level 2 (typical age of swimmers is 12-25) is for swimmers who are able to float, tread water, and maintain balance in the water independently. Swimmers may have an interest in competing in the Special Olympics Aquatic Division. Cost and online registration at www.clarencelearntoswim.com
WINTER 2023 LESSON REGISTRATIONS WILL OPEN JANUARY 17TH AT 7:00PM.
We are happy to announce that we have more than enough coaches, lifeguards, and assistance to be able to hold all of our classes, including our Adaptive programs!
Lessons begin January 30th and end March 30th. No classes for mid-winter break, Feb 18th-25th.
Winter 2023 Clarence Learn to Swim Registration Opens Online Monday January 17TH AT 7:00PM
No Classes: February 18th-25th (Mid Winter Break)
NO MAKE-UP DAYS Available at this time
Adaptive: Please verify locations!
Level: Adaptive Level 1 (30min)
Days: Tuesdays (Begins: Jan 31st)
Time: 5:30PM, 6:00PM, & 6:30PM
Fee: $120 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE School
Level: Adaptive Level 1 (30min)
Days: Thursdays (Begins: Feb 2nd)
Time: 5:30PM, 6:00PM, & 6:30PM
Fee: $120 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE School
Level: Adaptive 2: Competitive (45 mins)
Days: Tuesdays (Begins: Jan 31st)
Time: 7:15–8PM
Fee: $124 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE School
Level: Adaptive 2: Competitive (45mins)
Days: Thursdays (Begins Feb 2nd:)
Time: 7:15–8PM
Fee: $124 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE Schoo

Rebecca AK Wicher
Director/Head Coach
cltsdirector@gmail.com
716-906-7875

Communicating with the CPSE / CSE through Letter Writing - Webinar
2023-01-17 18:00 - 19:30
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/4370081959842351959

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom (Third Tuesday of the Month at 12:00 p.m.)
2023-01-17 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 need.
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS!
https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/chautauqua-county-family-caregiver-support-group-2/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Download Flyer

What Families And Caregivers Need To Know About the New York State Alternative Assessments (NYSAA) via Zoom
2023-01-13 16:00 - 17:30
Participants will learn:

The criteria for NYSAA eligibility

The type of assessments used to measure a NYSAA student’s performance and how often

How a NYSAA determination affects graduation options and plans for life after high-school

REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parental-rights-during-a-cps-investigation-399/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
call: 716.332.4170
Download flyer

Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS GROUP via Zoom
2023-01-12 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

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child or adult in a Residential placement via Zoom
2023-01-12 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

How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting - webinar
2023-01-12 10:00 - 11:30
Please join Nancy Marmet, 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!
If you have questions, please contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1766196532710599765

CANCELED Transition To Adulthood For Families via Zoom
2023-01-11 18:00 - 20:00
Is your high schooler with disabilities getting ready to transition to adulthood?
Learn how to:

assess the teen’s strengths, interests and needs
establish measurable goals for the future
identify appropriate transition services and coordinated activities
work with the Committee on Special Education (CSE) to get your teenager ready for adulthood

CTLE Credits Available
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/transition-to-adulthood-for-families/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Education Records Organizer - webinar
2023-01-11 18:00 - 19:00
Please join Barb Hoffman, Regional Coodrinator, for this wonderful presentation.
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.
Please contact with any questions: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3710458546343290460

Parental Rights During a CPS Investigation via Zoom
2023-01-10 19:00 - 20:00
During an investigation, Child Protective Services’ goals are to determine if a child has been abused or neglected and to protect the child from immediate danger. Parents aren’t often aware that they have legally protected rights during a CPS investigation, or how to access those rights.
Unfortunately, there are times that parents of children with special needs have contact with the court system. In this presentation, the Erie County Assigned Counsel Program Social Worker will explain parental rights and answer questions.

REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parental-rights-during-a-cps-investigation/

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

What Does Advocacy Mean in the Special Education World? - webinar
2023-01-10 10:00 - 11:00
Please join Nancy Marmet, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on What Does Advocacy Mean in the Special Education World?
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 communicating 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 have questions, please contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2019975911029153109

Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - webinar
2023-01-09 18:30 - 20:00
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, for 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 (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7681124887447730782

The Link - WNY's Family & Caregiver Group - Meets Second Monday of the Month via Zoom
2023-01-09 18:30 - 20:00
The Link – WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group
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!
REGISTRATION REQUIRED TO RECEIVE ZOOM MEETING LINK.
https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/the-link-wnys-family-caregiver-group/
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.

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

Nurtured Heart Approach - Four Week Parenting Series via Zoom
2023-01-04 18:00 - 20:00
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!!
Four Week Parenting Series
Wednesdays from 6:00-8:00 pm
January 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th

REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/nurtured-heart-approach-series/

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

Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS GROUP via Zoom
2022-12-29 19:00 - 20:30, 2022-12-15 19:00 - 20:30
Virtual Meeting: Bi-weekly on Thursdays, starting at 7 p.m.
Parent to Parent has established an informal Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their childrens’ special needs.

REGISTER

Statewide- Special Education Virtual Parent Chat Group via Zoom
2022-12-28 18:30 - 20:00
Come join Namita Modasra for the chat group.
As a parent of a child with a disability, I know first-hand how hard it is to continue the good fight. Sometimes we feel hopeless, helpless, and at a loss for words. If you’re a parent, grandparent, caregiver of a child with special needs, you may feel isolated, alone and struggling with special education school related issues.
Come join us for an opportunity to share your feelings, engage in some great conversation and share resources with other parents in the community who are dealing with the same issues. All from the comfort of your own home.
REGISTER

UpState West- Caregiver Connection Parent Group
2022-12-21 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

Parents Considering a Residential Placement Discussion Group
2022-12-20 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

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2022-12-20 12:00 - 13:00
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: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/chautauqua-county-family-caregiver-support-group-12/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP - webinar
2022-12-15 11:00 - 13:00
Please join Nancy Marmet 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 just interested in this topic, this training is for you!
REGISTER
