Autism Society Western New York

GET AIR - BUFFALO - A Special Time Just for You
2022-12-03 08:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | GET AIR, 3637 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY, 14225, United States
GET AIR -Buffalo offers a dedicated time just for jumpers with special needs on the first Saturday of every month from 8 AM to 10 AM.

Location: GET AIR – 3637 Union Road, Cheektowaga, NY 14225
Calmer Atmosphere

The First Saturday of the Month – 8 AM to 10 AM
Big Air – $16.99, Little Air (under 46″) – $10.99
They offer a dedicated time just for jumpers with special needs. Music is played at a lower volume and the park’s atmosphere is calmer. One parent or guardian can support jumpers on the trampoline for free. Siblings of jumpers are welcome to jump for the same price but should be more careful during this time. They have designed our trampoline parks with special needs as a primary focus, creating inclusive playgrounds where kids of all ages and abilities can come together in an environment that facilitates shared play and fun. Their goal is for Get Air Sports to be a place where kids can just be kids. They hope you’ll join Get Air! When you arrive, or call beforehand, talk to one of their team members and they will ensure proper accommodations are made to create a fun and enjoyable experience for all.Special Time Just for You is for special needs jumpers and their families.

The Link WNY’s Family & Caregiver Group via Zoom
2022-12-05 18:30 - 20:00
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!
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit - webinar
2022-12-06 18:00 - 19:00
Please join Maryalice Fegeley, Regional Coordinator as she presents a webinar on When You Are Considering a Developmental Evaluation for Your Child: A Parent’s Perspective to Assist Your Visit.
This presentation 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.
If you have questions, contact Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER

Starting Over: Grandparents Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs - webinar
2022-12-07 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Dianne O’Connor, Regional Coordinator for Parent to Parent of NYS as she presents a webinar on Starting Over, Grandparents (or Other Relatives) Raising Grandchildren with Special Needs.
There are many reasons why a grandparent or relative, is 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.
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER

Education Records Organizer - webinar
2022-12-07 17:30 - 18:30
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.
REGISTER

Transition Planning for Families via Zoom
2022-12-07 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

REGISTER
FREE EVENT!
Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Call: 716-332-4170

Is Guardianship the Only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives - webinar
2022-12-08 11:00 - 13:00
Come join Tina Beauparlant, Regional Manager / Education Specialist as we explore Is Guardianship the only Option? An overview of Guardianship and the Many Alternatives.
Let’s face it nothing keeps parents up at night more than thinking about who will care for our child/children when we are no longer able to care for them. This workshop will increase the knowledge of families of individuals with disabilities about the options besides legal guardianship for adults with disabilities. If your adult child does not need full guardianship, there are other options that we will explore in this presentation. We will also discuss guardianship and the legal requirements.
REGISTER

What Happens After Early Intervention? via Zoom
2022-12-08 11:30 - 13:00
What Happens After Early Intervention?
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

Certificate of completion available upon request
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT!
REGISTER
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education - webinar
2022-12-08 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Namita Modasra for this training on What Does Advocacy Mean in Special Education.
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 communicate 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 are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member or just interested in this topic, this training is for you!
REGISTER

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child in a Residential placement
2022-12-08 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.
Virtual Zoom- Registration Required. REGISTER
Questions, contact Valerie Colavecchio – vcolavecchio@ptopnys.org.

Explore & More’s Au-Some Evenings - Friday, December 9, 2022
2022-12-09 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 or call 716-655-5131 ext. 3.

Jingle Bell Jam at Kleinhans Music Hall in Buffalo
2022-12-11 14:30 - 15:30 | Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo, NY, 14201, United States
Fernanda Lastra, conductor
A family tradition of festive frivolity including a seasonal souvenir for kids! Santa helps conduct and leads the holiday sing-along.
Where: Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle. Buffalo, NY 14201
Phone: 716-885-5000
Cost: $7.00 child/adult
Click here for information and to purchase tickets.

Guidelines for Determining the Need for a One-to-One Aide - webinar
2022-12-12 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Trish Washburn, Education Advocate, 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 be 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 question, please call Tina Beauparlant at (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER

Preventing Parent Burnout for Parents of Children with Special Needs - webinar
2022-12-12 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 for Parents of Children with Special Needs.
Extraordinary parenting responsibilities create extraordinary pressures on parents. At the same time, parenting a child with special needs requires energy, focus, and enthusiasm to be effective in our role. The better off we are emotionally and physically, the better off our families will be. Join us for this webinar on Preventing Parent Burnout and discover positive ways to cope with and effectively manage stress.
REGISTER

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - webinar
2022-12-14 18:00 - 19:30
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.
REGISTER

Buffalo Autism Parent Group with Kathy and Jana (Participate in person or via Zoom)
2022-12-14 18:30 - 19:30 | Buffalo State College, 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY, 14222, United States
Join us and meet other families with children with autism spectrum disorders. The purpose of this group is to share experiences, tips, and ask questions in a friendly and supportive environment. Share as much or as little as you feel comfortable sharing.
You can participate in person or via zoom!
IN PERSON: 103 Ketchum Hall, Room 211 Buffalo State College, 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, NY 14222
Enter the campus from Elmwood and turn on to Rockwell. The building is right across from the Burchfield Penney Art Center. Parking lot (R2) is directly in front of building and is free.
The conference room is located on the main floor of the building, at the end furthest away from Elmwood and close to Moot Hall. Parents should enter the exterior door from the far end of the parking lot (R2) that has an accessible ramp entrance; these doors are closest to Moot Hall.
VIA ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87176301190?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 871 7630 1190 Passcode: [REDACTED]

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

Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS GROUP via Zoom
2022-12-15 19:00 - 20:30, 2022-12-29 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

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

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

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

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

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
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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

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

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

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

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

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
