Autism Society Western New York

Playtime with Parent Network
2021-07-07 16:30 - 17:30, 2021-07-23 16:30 - 17:30 (America/New_York) | 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
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]

Webinar: Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition
2021-07-15 12:00 - 13:15
Parent to Parent of NYS presents the webinar: Education for Empowerment: School and Teens in Healthcare Transition presented by Lin Perry, Project Director for Family to Family Healthcare Information Center. As our youth with ID/DD or special healthcare needs transition from pediatric to adult healthcare systems, self-advocates and parents alike need to understand the importance of transitioning their healthcare effectively. While many people engage in transition planning for their education to adult systems, sadly healthcare, isn’t often included in those plans. And yet, good health is the most fundamental and foundational aspect of any person’s success.
In this webinar participants will learn what research says, what issues to consider, the importance of transitioning healthcare and some effective means to begin a plan to transition for the caregiver/parent or for the child. The focus is on being a good parent partner with health professionals, and using some tools to begin the conversations and plan for and insure success.
Contact Maryalice Fegeley, email mfegeley@ptopnys.org with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7569116525821360400

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group
2021-07-15 18:30 - 20:00 | The Resource Center, 880 E. Second St., Jamestown, NY, 14701, United States
Free support group for parents, family members, and caregivers of children with special needs. Third Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m.
Receive support, connect with others, and express yourself.
In-person and virtual options available.
In-person located at 880 E. Second St., Jamestown, NY 14701
or
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)

COMPENSATORY SERVICES- Time is running out for make-up education services? via Zoom
2021-07-19 13:00 - 14:15
Please join Christen Smith, Staff Attorney Legal Aid Society and Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, Parent to Parent of NYS, as they present on Compensatory education: Is time running out for make-up education services? Learn how to preserve your child’s right to compensatory education.
This presentation is designed to teach parents and guardians how to advocate for compensatory education services before time runs out.
The presentation will include:

a brief overview of compensatory education law, including time limitations and appeal rights,
how to assess whether your child might qualify, and
guidance on how to request and advocate for compensatory education.

See flyer for registration information.07-19-2021_Compensatory_Education_Webinar_-_proof_2.pdf
Contact: Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
Online virtual zoom Registration Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZwrcO-vrj0tGtRO5zMrSSMv2_QHfVpsikIp

Webinar: NYS Autism Insurance Reform
2021-07-19 18:00 - 19:15
Parent to Parent of NYS presents the webinar: NYS Autism Insurance Reform presented by Lin Perry, Project Director for Family to Family Healthcare Information Center. Autism Insurance Reform legislation became effective in 2013, however aspects of the bill, related to Applied Behavioral Analysis, are still being worked on within the NYS government. This webinar will address the overall legislation, who it assists, and how, and will also give an update on the current status of the ABA portion of the legislation.
Contact Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 or email mfegeley@ptopnys.org with any questions.
Click here to register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1723402427791205646

Webinar:Understanding the Regulations of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities
2021-07-20 09:30 - 11:00
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.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/643286185620431628

Webinar: Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs
2021-07-20 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Program Manager/Education Specialist 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 Maryalice Fegeley at 716-427-5140 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7236314144128036108

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2021-07-20 14:00 - 16:00
“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=e659c6c5096cd078c74c0cd6cd7b86edb

Transition for Families - Virtual Meeting Via Zoom
2021-07-21 13:00 - 14:30
Is your teenager in high school getting ready to transition to adulthood?
During this training, parents will learn about assessing their teen’s strengths, interest and needs, how to establish measurable goals for the future and identify appropriate transition services and coordinated activities. Learn how to work with the Committee on Special Education (CSE) to get your teenager ready for adulthood.
CTLE Credits Available
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/21825/
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716-332-4170

Playtime with Parent Network
2021-07-21 16:30 - 17:30 | Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, Clark & Kent Street, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
Join us for an hour filled with activities for all ages and abilities provided by The Collaborative Community Mission! 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.

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2021-07-21 19:00 - 20:00
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. Online Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMuf-yvrDojHNNjxQcYRU77sxJKFgIqdBDI 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
2021-07-22 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 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
2021-08-02 17:30 - 19:00
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, 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 Tina Beauparlant at 516-381-4350 with any questions.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5283064722682338572

Webinar: Health Care Notebook Overview
2021-08-04 13:00 - 14:00
Please join Lin Perry, Project Director, Family to Family Healthcare Information Center for Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents the webinar Health Care Notebook overview. Participants will learn how a Health Care Notebook can assist in organizing medical records. They will be given tips on how the notebook can assist with advocacy, save time, reduce stress and utilize the information within the notebook in the event of an emergency. Contact Maryalice Fegeley 716-427-5140 or email mfegeley@ptopnys.org with any questions.
Click here to register: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7771250743210448654

Understanding the IEP Process for Parents of Preschoolers - Virtual meeting via Zoom
2021-08-05 10:00 - 11:30
Is your child going into Preschool Special Education?
During this training, parents will learn about the Committee on Preschool Special Education (CPSE) process, their role in the process, and identify the different components of the IEP.
Discuss how to develop relationships and practices that build home-school collaboration and support the student.
CTLE credits available.
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/event/understanding-the-iep-process-for-parents-of-preschoolers-3/

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2021-08-05 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. Online Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUscu-urzksH9bfidAyb3AAyPohv2PBa_gF 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
2021-08-05 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
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/

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
2021-08-06 15:00 - 17:00
“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=e245cbc18881c0f01832af0068af9fd48

Webinar: Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide
2021-08-10 10:00 - 11:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist, 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 considering, 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.
Online Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5164322968027812878
