Let’s Take a Crash Course on Understanding how to Read an IEP via Zoom
2022-03-08 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York)
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents this wonderful webinar.
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 be in the IEP.
Zoom Online registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAlc–pqz0sHdfBuOp_LH2QLQXRn7bt8Jk2
Contact: Phone: Tina Beauparlant- Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org

Brain & Sensory Processing Differences Across the Lifespan - Webinar
2022-03-09 13:00 - 14:15
Sensory Processing Differences Don’t Go Away for Adults with Autism
Part 1: Understanding Brain & Sensory Processing Differences Across the Lifespan
Tune in to hear Fakhri Shafai, Ph.D., M.Ed., describe sensory differences experienced by individuals with autism throughout the lifespan.
About the speaker:
Since 2003, Dr. Fakhri Shafai has worked with autistic persons, their families, clinicians, and educators in various capacities. Her research is focused on sensory processing differences in autism spectrum disorder and how these differences are related to social competence, emotion processing, and anxiety. Currently, she works as the Research and Evaluation Project Coordinator for AIDE Canada, a federally funded nonprofit that seeks to support autistic individuals, individuals with intellectual disabilities, and their families.
Register: https://www.autism.org/brain-sensory-processing-differences/
Register for Part 2: Sensory-Friendly Strategies for Home, Wednesday, March 23, 2022

Front Door Information Session via WebEx
2022-03-09 13:00 - 15:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e9fdef4d597babf598081b0d291c98f40 If you need assistance, please contact Monica Moore 315-473-6985 monica.moore@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

What is Section 504? - Webinar
2022-03-09 18:00 - 19:15
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Advocate, 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 questions, please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/7253413755527421452

Education Records Organizer - Webinar
2022-03-10 13:00 - 14:00
Please join Trish Washburn, Parent Advocate 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 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1772114097940225037

(Spanish) Chat with Us! via Zoom
2022-03-10 19:00 - 20:00
¡Únase a nosotros para obtener respuestas a sus preguntas e inquietudes!
RESPONDEREMOS SUS PREGUNTAS SOBRE…– Transiciones– Educación Especial y Discapacidades– Manejo de tiempo en el Hogar– Trabajo Escolar– Comportamiento– Tecnología Virtual– Recursos en Buffalo– ¡Y cualquier otro tema que quieras discutir!
Unirse a la Zoom reuniónhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/83163589898?pwd=[REDACTED]ón ID: 831 6358 9898 Contraseña: [REDACTED]
Sesiones Semanales de Charla Con Lizarelis Ali!
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org | call: 716.332.4170
www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child in a Residential placement
2022-03-10 19:00 - 20:00
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 new Parent Discussion Group facilitated by Mariela Adams, for families with children and adults of all ages that have children in residential school or a group home.
March_10-2022_Residential_Placement_Discussion_Group.docx
Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZItcOCgqjkiE93EvzhK2aXOn96j5KDcPGBy
If you have questions, please contact: Valeria Colavecchio – vcolavecchio@ptopnys.org.

Front Door Information Session via WebEx - Spanish
2022-03-11 10:00 - 12:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

Para registrarse, haga clic aquí: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e985f3b670d659cd867a5987f4852f878 Si necesita ayuda, comuníquese con Clara Fournier 718-430-0761 Clara.Fournier@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

Explore & More’s Au-Some Evenings - March 11, 2022
2022-03-11 17:30 - 19:30 | Explore & More – The Ralph C Wilson Jr. Children’s Museum, 130 Main Street, Buffalo, NY, 14202, United States
Explore & More’s Au-Some Evenings are free monthly events for children with autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorders along with family and friends. The second Friday of each month from 5:30pm – 7:30pm, children can play and learn together in an understanding and supportive environment. Families have access to the museum space and play zones. Featured activities include a music center, therapy dogs, art projects and gross motor activities. Explore & More will also have a social
narrative about the museum and its play zones, quiet kits, as well as calming sensory friendly spaces in the museum. Space is limited so reservations are essential. Be sure to check the website for the latest information. Email accessibility@exploreandmore.org to reserve your space.

What are Effective Advocacy Skills
2022-03-14 13:00 - 14:15
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Effective Advocacy Skills. 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 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8505411153401124366

Parent's Guide to Special Education (formerly Parent Member) via Zoom
2022-03-14 18:00 - 20:00
FREE WORKSHOP
2 Parts: Online Training and Virtual Meeting via Zoom
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.

Part 1 – Online videos & activities
Complete at least 1 day prior to Live Zoom Session
Part 2 – Live Zoom Session
March 14th
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
CTLE Credits Available
RESERVE YOUR SPOT TODAY
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parents-guide-to-special-education-formerly-parent-member-2/
Call: 716-332-4170
Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Front Door Information Session via WebEx
2022-03-15 09:00 - 11:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=efe6971f3cc78eba51eb17fbea7131bc8 If you need assistance, please contact Jeffrey Roberts 585-241-5797 Jeffrey.e.roberts@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting - Webinar
2022-03-15 10:00 - 11:15
This training is to help parents, who approach IEP meetings with fear and dread. If this sounds like you, attend this training and you may find some suggestions to help you feel more at ease and able to 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 just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
If you have questions, please contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2162964090502694925

BEHAVIOR STRATEGIES FOR THE BIG FOUR - FEEDING
2022-03-15 12:00 - 13:00
BEHAVIOR STRATEGIES FOR THE BIG FOUR
for parents of children with autism spectrum disorders
Behavior, Feeding, Sleeping and Toileting
Autism Learning Partners is offering a monthly FREE virtual workshop on each of the big topics for families with autism spectrum disorders. The parent workshops will consist of a presentation followed by an opportunity to ask questions.
Workshops are on the third Tuesday of each month, from 12:00 pm—1:00 pm:
Tuesday, January 18 – Behavior
Tuesday, February 15 – Sleeping
Tuesday, March 15 – Feeding
Tuesday, April 19 – Toileting
Featuring Presenters from Autism Learning Partners:
Rachael Schneider, MA, BCBA-LBA – Executive Director-IN, MD, MI, NJ, NY, & OH and PA
Kathy Honer, Psy.D., BCBA-D, LBA – Senior Behavior Analyst, Licensed Psychologist
Kara Wozniak, MA, BCBA-LBA – Clinical Director- Buffalo & Yonkers, NY
Here is the link to log on or call in:
Join from the meeting link: https://autismlearningpartners.zoom.us/j/86949654257?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 869 4965 4257 Passcode: [REDACTED]
Call in: +1 (346) 248-7799,,86949654257# US

Graduation Options for Students with Disabilities via Zoom
2022-03-15 18:00 - 19:00
Graduation Options for Students with Disabilities
Gain understanding of the NYS graduation requirements
Key areas being discussed:

Credit requirements
Multiple pathways to graduation
Safety nets for students with disabilities
Appeal process
Exiting credentials available to students

CTLE Credits Available
REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/graduation-options-for-students-with-disabilities/
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Call: 716.332.4170
Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Nurtured Heart Series - Part 2 - via Zoom
2022-03-15 18:00 - 20:00
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.
By combining these curriculums, it is our intention to more fully provide you tools to not only manage the challenges in your life, but to actually grow and get better because of them. We look forward to seeing you transform!!
(No prior reading is required)
Nurtured Heart Series is a four-part series,
March 8, 2022 – Nurtured Heart Part 1 – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
March 15, 2022 – Nurtured Heart Part 2 – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
March 22, 2022 – Nurtured Heart Part 3 – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
March 29, 2022 – Nurtured Heart Part 4 – 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
REGISTER ONCE FOR ENTIRE SERIES
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

Emotional Regulation Strategies - Webinar
2022-03-16 13:00 - 14:15
Learn evidence-based strategies for teaching emotional-regulation to individuals with autism.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/emotional-regulation-strategies/
About the speaker:

Amy Moore Gaffney, M.A., CCC-SLP is an educational consultant with the Indiana Resource Center for Autism (IRCA) at the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community, Indiana University, Bloomington. Gaffney has experience working with young children, school-age children, and young adults. Through her work as a speech-language pathologist and Autism consultant, Gaffney has worked with students and their families in a variety of settings, including in-home, public and private schools, and a private clinic.

Webinar: Transitioning from High School to the Adult World after Graduation
2022-03-16 18:00 - 19:15
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 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4456179208670246669

Western NY Region: Caregiver Connections — Virtual Parent Groups through ZOOM
2022-03-16 19:00 - 20:30
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.
Click the link above to register in advance for this meeting. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Parent_Group_Flyer_3-16-2022.docx
Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qcOmopjksHd0j3ZyCvaxvwpEshlVhCmb7
Contact: Phone: Barb Hoffman – bhoffman@ptopnys.org.

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom
2022-03-17 18:30 - 19:30
Receive Support – Connect with Others – Express Yourself
Free virtual support for parents, family members and caregivers of children with special needs is the third Thursday of every month at 6:30pm.
Virtual meeting. Join via Zoom.
Meeting ID: 826 7966 0440 Passcode: [REDACTED]

Communicating with the CSE through Letter Writing - Webinar
2022-03-21 16:00 - 17:00
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the 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 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org,
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2604987556767846928

Front Door Information Session via WebEx
2022-03-22 10:00 - 12:00
ATTEND A FRONT DOOR INFORMATION SESSION TO LEARN ABOUT SUPPORTS AND SERVICES
The OPWDD Front Door Information Sessions outline the process of how you can become eligible for supports and services, the types of supports and services available and where you can go to get assistance. All sessions are presently offered remotely by WebEx. The session length is two hours.
Registration for a session is required.

To register, click here: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e4136346ca9568553f30a049841f8f5c0 If you need assistance, please contact Christina Vankeuren 518-388-0431 Christina.M.Vankeuren@opwdd.ny.gov

All Regional Offices offer translation services for the language that best fits your needs. If you require a session in a language other than English or Spanish, including American Sign Language (ASL), please contact your local Front Door Office. Front Door contact numbers may be found on the OPWDD website: https://opwdd.ny.gov/contact-us#access-services-through-front-door

Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs - Webinar
2022-03-22 18:00 - 19:00
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Manager/ Regional Coordinator, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout and discover positive ways to cope with and effectively manage stress.
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.
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4016947404577681676

Nurtured Hearth Series - Part 3 via Zoom
2022-03-22 18:00 - 20:00

Zoom Presentation- How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting
2022-03-22 18:30 - 20:30
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents this wonderful presentation.
This training is to help parents who approach IEP meetings with fear and dread. If this is you, attend this training where there may be some suggestions to help you feel more at ease and able to 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 just interested in this topic then this training is for you!
Contact: Tina Beauparlant- Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org
Registration: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEqduivqTssHdVPZSCo5TYvDynQnzc8kfC_

Sensory-Friendly Strategies for Home - Webinar
2022-03-23 13:00 - 14:15
Sensory Processing Differences Don’t Go Away for Adults with Autism
Part 2: Sensory-Friendly Strategies for Home
Learn practical sensory-friendly strategies that support best outcomes across the lifespan in autism.
About the speaker:
Moira Peña, BScOT, MOT Reg. (Ont.) is an occupational therapist, speaker & educator with training credentials from the STAR (Sensory Therapies and Research) Institute for Sensory Processing. She is also a certified Solution-Focused Healthcare Facilitator & Coach (C-SFHCF). Moira works with children and youth on the autism spectrum and is the creator & host of Holland Bloorview’s Autism Summit.
Register: https://www.autism.org/best/
Register for Part 1: Brain & Sensory Processing Differences Across the Lifespan, Wednesday, March 9, 2022

Understanding the Regulation of the Commissioner of Education Part 200 Students with Disabilities - Webinar
2022-03-23 18:00 - 19:30
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 or Tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org.
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3512866401760528653

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - Webinar
2022-03-24 11:00 - 12:30
Please join Barb Hoffman, Parent to Parent of NYS, 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.
Contact: Tina Beauparlant – tbeauparlant@ptopnys.org Phone: (518) 381-4350
Registration: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2257732098767834636

Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session via WebEx
2022-03-28 16:00 - 18:00
Region 1 Self-Direction Information Session
Registration is required.
(All sessions are WebEx/online format and attendance is taken using the person’s email address)
Attendance is taken using the email address logging in for the session. If you have any
additional questions regarding attendance, please call your SD Liaison.
**People who are unable to access a WebEx session should contact their SD Liaison for a phone session.
Register: NYS Information Technology Service WebEx Enterprise Site

I’ve Been Denied SSI/SSD Benefits. What Now? via Zoom
2022-03-28 18:00 - 19:00
Nicole Blackwell, Lead Paralegal for Mental Health Advocates of WNY – Legal Services will give an introduction and overview of the Legal Services program and discuss the basics of the Social Security disability appeals process.
Learn how to navigate throughout your claims process, and a gain a better understanding of what to expect, how to prepare, and what you can do to help your case.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!

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