Autism Society Western New York

Video Chat Support Groups for Caregivers of Children, Teen and Young Adults ages 18-26
2021-06-10 19:00 - 20:00, 2021-06-24 19:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Family support groups are offered through Mental Health Advocates of WNY MHA’s Child and Family Support Program and are open to parents, foster parents, grandparents or any caregiver/guardian to provide support and alleviate isolation.
Video Chat Support Groups for Caregivers of Children, Teen and Young Adults ages 18-26
Second & fourth Thursdays of the month
7:00pm-8:00pm

To sign-up:
RSVP to laney@mhawny.org, or 716-886-1242 x 313
You will receive a confirmation email with log-in information.

Webinar: Communicating with your CSE through Letter Writing
2021-06-16 13:00 - 14:30
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with your 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 question’s contact: Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350.
Registration Link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3575821131272516878

CCM Social Connection with Miss Ashley
2021-06-16 16:30 - 17:00 | Sweet Charlottes, 10255 Main Street, Suite 9, Clarence, 14031, United States
Join Miss Ashley, NYS certified School Psychologist, for social skills fun! Classes will include a weekly social skills lesson and fun activities to practice newly-learned skills.
For children ages 4-7 years old.
When: Wednesdays from 4:30-5:00pm
Where: Sweet Charlotte’s – 10255 Main St. Clarence NY
Wednesdays from 4:30-5:00pm at Sweet Charlottes
Cost: All 4 months (15 classes) – $70, or monthly:
April (3 sessions) – $15
May (4 sessions) – $20
June (3 sessions) – $15
Have questions? Please contact: ashleyda@buffalo.edu
Register: https://www.collaborativecommunitymission.org/event-registration

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-06-16 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar 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.
Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1218893713496145676

Buffalo Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders - via Zoom
2021-06-16 18:30 - 19:30
Practicing social distancing but still need to talk?
Do you want to
~ feel less overwhelmed?
~ feel a sense of belonging?
Get the support you need from Kathy Doody, Jana Mertz & other group members!
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/97311273663?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 973 1127 3663
Passcode: [REDACTED]

Wednesday Wellness with the Experts Series-Anxiety and OCD in Youth: Identification and Management
2021-06-16 18:30 - 19:30
Join Mental Health Advocates of WNY for their free Wednesday Wellness with the Experts series on Wednesday, June 16th at 6:30 p.m.
This month’s topic is: Anxiety and OCD in Youth: Identification and Management
Presented by Alex Cogswell PhD.; Associate Professor, UBMD Psychiatry, Children’s Psychiatry Clinic
Click here to register. If you have any questions, please email sdziwulski@mhawny.org or call 716-886-1242 ext. 337.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group - Via Zoom
2021-06-17 18:30 - 19:30
Want to feel less overwhelmed? Want to feel a sense of belonging? This is the place for you.
No Judgements! No Fee! Every 1st & 3rd Thursday of the Month from 6:30-7:30PM.
Join Zoom meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82679660440?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440
Password: [REDACTED]
One tap mobile
+19292056099,, 82679660440#,,1#,028188# US (New York)
If you have any questions contact us at (716) 332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org or join the group on Facebook for future dates, helpful hints and links: CHQ Support Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Special Needs

The Mindfulness Self-Care Toolkit via Zoom
2021-06-19 09:30 - 11:30
FREE EVENT
Parents, Caregivers & Young Adults
The Mindfulness Self-Care Toolkit
Are you feeling exhausted from life’s day-to-day demands?
Relief is in sight!
Through this workshop, Sabrina Vogler from Heart in the Moment Mindfulness Coaching will share tools for shifting stress into a state of self-kindness and calm.
9:30 – 11 am – What is Mindfulness Self-Compassion?
11 am – We hope your youth (family member) will join to practice some simple tools.
We want you to feel comfortable!
Attendees can choose to watch & listen or interact & connect.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/the-mindful-self-care-toolkit/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170

Webinar: Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs
2021-06-21 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs. There are many reasons why a grandparent, or relative, may be raising their grandchildren full time. By creating an enriched, supportive, and safe living environment, grandchildren stay connected to their family while keeping them out of foster care.
This webinar will address the advantages and disadvantages of caring for our own and give practical resources and strategies for providing the best for your grandchildren. As one of the most important members of the family, we will also look at ways to care for you along the way.
Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5330592212465176078

Northtowns Family/Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2021-06-21 19:00 - 20:30
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities or suspect they have a disability?
Do you want to
~ feel less overwhelmed?
~ feel a sensed of belonging?
Get the support you need from Parent Network of WNY, Empower and other group members!
NO JUDGEMENTS – NO FEES – ALL ARE WELCOME
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events
Join Zoom Meeting: https://zoom.us/j/99541728957?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 995 4172 8957
Passcode: [REDACTED]

What Happens After Early Intervention? via Zoom
2021-06-22 18:30 - 20:30
FREE WORKSHOP

In this workshop you will learn more about:
How to get ready for your child’s transition to preschool
The transition from Early Intervention (EI) to working with the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE)
Information on timelines and commonly used vocabulary to help you better understand the transition process
How to make informed decisions to benefit your child

CTLE Credits Available
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/what-happens-after-early-intervention-2/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170

The effects of aging: brain research and ASD - Webinar
2021-06-23 13:00 - 14:00
Previous studies have shown that older adults with autism traits may experience notably increased difficulty with executive function and social cognition as they age. Learn about remerging brain research on the role of the underlying neuroanatomy in seniors with ASD.
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
Greg Wallace, PhD, is an Associate Professor in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences at The George Washington University. His research focuses on neuropsychological and structural brain development in autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders across the lifespan and their impacts on real-world outcomes. He is also particularly interested in eating-related behaviors and their cognitive and neural correlates in typical and atypical (e.g., autism spectrum disorder) development. Dr. Wallace has published extensively and presented his work widely on these and related topics.
Register: https://www.autism.org/effects-of-aging-brain-research-and-asd/

Webinar: “What is Section 504?”
2021-06-23 16:00 - 17:30
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Specialist, for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on What is Section 504?
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 Member, or just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
If you have question please call, Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6365637277775708428

Webinar: When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective
2021-06-24 10:00 - 11:15
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator for Parent-2-Parent of NYS as she presents the webinar: When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit. This webinar 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.
Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3371550563784489741

Webinar: Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities
2021-06-24 18:00 - 19:00
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center, as she presents a webinar on Benefits and Entitlements for People with Disabilities. Join Lin Perry as she unravels the web of public benefits and Medicaid waivers available to people with disabilities. This is a very complicated issue and many families don’t know where to begin so let us help you get started. The purpose of the webinar is to provide caregivers with the information about state and federal programs so they will have the knowledge to know what their loved one is eligible for. Please contact Maryalice Fegeley with any questions at Phone: 716-427-5140.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7245510462299577357

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-06-24 19:00 - 19:45
GOT STRESS? We Can Help!
This ongoing series is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State to meet virtually and learn how mindfulness can help with change and planning for the future. Join us to learn strategies and techniques to reduce stress and for a chance to connect with other youth and their families. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to whatever is happening in our lives, both inside and out.
Mindfulness Stress Reduction Series sessions every 2 weeks from 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
June 24
July 8, 22
August 5, 19
September 2, 16, 30
Register once and use the same link for every session!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/mindfulness-stress-reduction-series/

How to Protect My Child’s Future through Guardianship, Wills & Trusts via Zoom
2021-06-29 18:00 - 20:00
Event Details

Planning for the future is especially important when you have a child with a disability.
Learn how to effectively set your child up for safety and success in their future through guardianship, wills, and trusts.
Presentation & Discussion with Bruce A. Goldstein Special Counsel Kenney Shelton Liptak Nowak LLP
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/how-to-protect-my-childs-future-through-guardianship-wills-trusts-4/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170

Family & Caregiver Group - Virtual meeting via Zoom
2021-07-06 17:30 - 19:00
Are you a parent of a child with disabilities or 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 & other group members!
First Tuesday of the Month
5:30 pm to 7 pm
Join Zoom Meeting
https://zoom.us/j/96127043675?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 961 2704 3675, Passcode: [REDACTED]

Playtime with Parent Network
2021-07-07 16:30 - 17:30 | Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Playtime with Parent Network- Parents and Caregivers can find out more Parent Network Programs and Services while their children enjoy a fun and inclusive activity!
Join us for an hour filled with activities for all ages and abilities provided by OLV Human Services! Parent Network Staff will also be there providing information on programs, services and upcoming events!
This event is held as part of the Summer on Superstreet series and will be located at 1021 Broadway St. Buffalo, NY 14212 on the greenspace at the corner of Clark and Kent St. (Superman Corner)
Playtime with Parent Network is a FREE event that will be held on multiple Wednesday evenings throughout the summer in collaboration with other community organizations.
All are welcome! Each week will be a different activity.

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2021-07-08 11:00 - 12:00
At Parent to Parent of NYS we want you to know that during these uncertain and overwhelming times you are not alone. We are still here to offer support and information as we work from home. Our Caregiver Connections. This group is an informal meeting for parents who are navigating their child’s special needs.
Register in advance for this meeting. Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEude6rqz4pHtNwHx4Va6ob38PlvF06ESfG After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Contact Barb Hoffman with any questions at bhoffman@ptopnys.org

Mindfulness Stress Reduction 2021 Series via Zoom
2021-07-08 19:00 - 19:45
GOT STRESS? We Can Help!
This ongoing series is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State to meet virtually and learn how mindfulness can help with change and planning for the future. Join us to learn strategies and techniques to reduce stress and for a chance to connect with other youth and their families. Mindfulness is a way of paying attention to whatever is happening in our lives, both inside and out.
Mindfulness Stress Reduction Series sessions every 2 weeks from 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM
July 8, 22
August 5, 19
September 2, 16, 30
Register once and use the same link for every session!
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/mindfulness-stress-reduction-series/

Webinar: A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD
2021-07-12 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar 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.
Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registraiton: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4600921111740453900

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-07-12 16:00 - 18:00
“Everyone has their own likes and dislikes, hobbies and favorite activities. Having a choice is what Self-Direction is all about. You will get to pick your own activities, staff and schedule when you self-direct.
“Self-Direction may be right for you if you can make your own decisions (or have someone to help you do so) and if you want more responsibility, flexible supports and services. Anyone who is eligible for OPWDD services and enrolled in the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver can choose to self-direct their services.
“Although the process may seem complicated at first, you will get help at every step. First, you can attend a Self-Direction information session at a nearby Developmental Disabilities Regional Office (DDRO). You will meet with a team of people whom you choose, (your Circle of Support) and they will help you select your services and put together a budget. Your Circle of Support can include family and close friends, your Care Manager, a Support Broker and staff who know you well. You will talk about what you want from life and make it a reality.
“Self-Direction is flexible. You can change things in your plan when you want something different. You can always switch back to a more traditional model of supports if Self-Direction doesn’t suit you.”
(The above description was taken from http://opwdd.ny.gov/types-services/self-direction.)
NOTE: At this time, meetings are conducted virtually.
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. People cannot receive credit just by calling in.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Registration is required. Register through WebEx link. https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e9365398e5f27ec670f5f3ef5c04b9c27

Webinar: Loss, Grief, and Adjustment for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-07-13 11:00 - 12:15
Please join Barbara Hoffman, Assistant Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar 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.
Contact Tina Beauparlant at 518-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3075004581061935116

Parent Member Hangout
2021-07-13 18:00 - 20:00
Become a Parent Member to Support Families at Committee on Special Education (CSE) Meetings!
In this training, you will learn about the role of Parent Members and the NYS Regulations that structure the Committee on Special Education Process.
We will discuss the following topics:

Eligibility for special education services
Educational planning and goal-setting
Learning in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
Understanding the evaluation and placement processes

CTLE Credits Available
For more information view or download our flyer:
Parent Member Flyer

A Parent’s Guide to Special Education via Zoom
2021-07-13 18:00 - 20:00
FREE WORKSHOP
Two-Part Training! Online Training and Virtual Meeting via Zoom
Learn more about the Special Education Process and the Individualized Education Plan (IEP)!

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

Once you register for the July 13th event you will receive instructions via email on how to access the online videos and activities!
CTLE Credits Available
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/parent-member-hangout-2/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170 via

Webinar: Education Records Organizer
2021-07-14 12:00 - 13:15
Please join Trish Washburn, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Education Records Organizer. This workshop is where parents, guardians and advocates of children who receive 504 and 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.
Contact Tina Beauparlant with questions at 518-381-4350.
Webinar registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6114037128047288335

Webinar: What You Need to Know About Assistive Technology in the IEP
2021-07-14 14:00 - 15:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager /Education Specialist as she presents What You Need to Know About Assistive Technology in the IEP.
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.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1775075076741320460

Buffalo Group for Parents/Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders via Zoom
2021-07-14 18:30 - 19:30
