MISS AMERICA HAS AUTISM??!! THE UPCOMING MISS AMERICA CONTEST IS ON JANUARY 12, 2013. MISS MONTANA HAS AUTISM. YOU CAN SEE HER VIDEO AUDITION AND VOTE FOR HER! YOU HAVE UNTIL JANUARY 10, 2013, MIDNIGHT!
http://www.missamerica.org/videocontest/
SPORTS PLUS 2013 WINTER SWIM PROGRAMS begin January 12, 2013, in two locations: Bethesda and Gaithersburg, MD. Find details on specific age groups for the swim programs and registration at www.playsportsplus.org.
THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF VIRGINIA MEDICAID WAIVERS
This FREE lecture is brought to you by the ACCESS COMMUNITY LECTURE SERIES--A FORUM FOR THE DISABILITY COMMUNITY. On Janurary 14, 2013, from 7:30-9P, at the McLean Bible Church in Vienna, VA, the guest speaker will be Savina Avila, Client Advocate of The Arc of Northern Virginia. This lecture will provide an overview of the Medicaid Waiver System in VA. Avila will discuss which programs give assistance for respite, assistive technology, and provide services for children and adults with special needs. Learn what ID, DD, and EDCD mean? Understand better what a waiver is, why you need one, how can it benefit your family and how to apply. Although not required, RSVP would be appreciated at erin.roundtree@mcleanbible.org.
For details, call 703-770-2938 or visit www.accessministrymbc.org.
With more details to follow soon, also in Vienna, VA on February 11, 2013, PLANNING FOR LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL ~ FAIRFAX COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
PETITIONS FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION TO SIGN:
YOU MAY HAVE HEARD OF SOME OF THE PETITIONS BELOW ALL INVOLVING SPECIAL NEEDS MATTERS. HOWEVER, THE REQUESTS FOR SIGNATURES ARE STILL COMING.
http://www.change.org/petitions/fda-please-approve-the-medicine-my-boys-need-to-survive-both-of-my-sons-deserve-to-live
http://www.change.org/petitions/hsbc-bank-stop-the-eviction-of-horse-farm-therapy-center-for-autistic-children
http://www.change.org/petitions/a-staged-school-shooting-traumatized-400-kids-with-disabilities-and-teachers-we-demand-justice
http://www.change.org/petitions/help-my-autistic-son-get-a-life-saving-heart-transplant
http://www.change.org/petitions/united-healthcare-stop-cutting-off-medical-coverage-for-autism-at-age-9-2
http://www.change.org/petitions/end-abuse-of-autistic-students-in-mercer-county-kentucky
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Just some of my thoughts on this Special Needs Matter Blog 1 year Anniversary---ALMOST
Hi Friends! January 12, 2013 will be the 1 year anniversary of this blog. On January 12, 2012, I started this blog in a despairing time in my life. My son Jordan, who has autism, was turning 13 the next day. I was severely depressed. Nieve, foolish, or hopeful, I really whole heartedly believed that by now, God would have healed him. I would finally have been given the son I was initially suppose to be given, right? My journey should be over by now, right? I've done my time, right? My son now, would be on his way to getting a high school diploma instead of a certificate, right? He too, like my friends who have 'typical' children, would go to college, get a degree, get a successful career, get married, and have kids. We would talk and have great conversations, not ones with him repeating himself. I'd be able to go vacation with my husband and not have to take him along.
Right now I apologize to anyone I'm offending. If you've fully come to terms with your lot in life...I hope one day to be where you are. I really thought by now, I would have been.
But I am feeling better in what gift God has given me. I love Jordan more and more each day and appreciate what that child teaches me. Like you, I don't overlook the milestones he achieves.
During my journey, I have chosen to reachout to you with information on events we can attend to become better parents and advocates. I also include events that we can bring our entire families without people staring and looking at us cross-eyed as I've encountered many times. I too feel energized when I meet up with you folks. You, are my family and I know you understand.
Thank you for taking your time in viewing this blog. Your views motivate me!
Sincerely,
Vanessa
Right now I apologize to anyone I'm offending. If you've fully come to terms with your lot in life...I hope one day to be where you are. I really thought by now, I would have been.
But I am feeling better in what gift God has given me. I love Jordan more and more each day and appreciate what that child teaches me. Like you, I don't overlook the milestones he achieves.
During my journey, I have chosen to reachout to you with information on events we can attend to become better parents and advocates. I also include events that we can bring our entire families without people staring and looking at us cross-eyed as I've encountered many times. I too feel energized when I meet up with you folks. You, are my family and I know you understand.
Thank you for taking your time in viewing this blog. Your views motivate me!
Sincerely,
Vanessa
Sunday, December 30, 2012
TEEN CRISIS CALL-IN; FOUR-YEAR UNIV PROGRAM; PARENT SUPPORT GROUP; WORKSHOPS; SHOULD AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE BE RECOGNIZED
AUTISM PARENT SUPPORT GROUP MEETING to be held on January 7, 2013, at 7P, in Rockville, MD. Although FREE, reservations are requested at 301-610-8361.
EVERYONE COMMUNICATES: TRAINING OURSELVES TO BETTER HEAR ONE ANOTHER! Workshop Sponsored by DDA/MCDD Supporting Adults With Autism Training Series, learning to communicate better with those we care for is an asset for us and them! Learn to do this, by attending a one day workshop, held on different dates at different locations, from 9A-4P. Among other topics to be covered, learn to practice simple techniques and stratagies to read subtle commumications, and explore other methods to augment communication. For more detail and to register: Cambridge, MD Workshop on January 8, 2013
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e6ph16w9ebdaa446&oseq=
Hagerstown, MD Workshop on January 9, 2013
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e6ph30pz5fde95e7&oseq=
(P.S. Workshops are being filled quickly. Four workshop dates have now dropped to two because of high demand.)
MPT TO AIR LIVE CALL-IN SPECIAL ON SELF-INJURY IN TEENS, on January 16, 2013, from 8-9PM. As part of "Your Health 2013," Maryland Public Television (MPT) is planning to air a special presentation of "The Hurting: Cutting for Relief," an episode from the teen-family awareness series MAPLE AVE. Host Yolanda Vazquez will interview local clinicians and experts on the issue of self-injury in teens. During the broadcast, viewers may call a toll-free number to get advice and referrals to self-injury help and resources in their area.
THE SUCCESS PROGRAM - OPEN HOUSE - MARYLAND'S FIRST FOUR-YEAR UNIVERSITY PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES Held on January 25, 2013, from 9:30-11A, at UMBC, Baltimore, MD., the Success Program enables Marylanders with intellectual disabilities to develop their independence, critical thinking, problem-solving and employment skills in a university setting. Get an overview of the program, have your questions answered and take a brief tour of the campus.Students must have an intellectual disability, have exited school at age 21 with a certificate by spring 2013, and be no older than 24. Applications will be avail in February 2012. For details,call 410-767-3948 or email nbrittingham@mdod.state.md.us.
(Article from disabilityscoop)
WHITE HOUSE TO RESPOND TO DISABILITY PETITION
A grass-roots effort calling on the U.S. government to formally recognize American Sign Language is poised to get an official response from the Obama administration.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/12/19/white-house-respond-petition/16983/
WEG'S 4TH ANNUAL DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH: DC AREA SPECIAL LEARNING NEEDS CONFERENCE
This year's topic is FAMILY QUALITY OF LIFE. Keynote address, COMING TO TERMS WITH YOUR CHILD'S DISABILITY, by Eustacia Cutler (Temple Grandin's mother). Still time to save at registration. This conference will be held on March 3, 2013, from 9A-4:30P, in Rockville, MD. For more details on the other speakers, and to register, go to http://www.weinfeldeducationgroup.com/diamonds.html
EVERYONE COMMUNICATES: TRAINING OURSELVES TO BETTER HEAR ONE ANOTHER! Workshop Sponsored by DDA/MCDD Supporting Adults With Autism Training Series, learning to communicate better with those we care for is an asset for us and them! Learn to do this, by attending a one day workshop, held on different dates at different locations, from 9A-4P. Among other topics to be covered, learn to practice simple techniques and stratagies to read subtle commumications, and explore other methods to augment communication. For more detail and to register: Cambridge, MD Workshop on January 8, 2013
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e6ph16w9ebdaa446&oseq=
Hagerstown, MD Workshop on January 9, 2013
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e6ph30pz5fde95e7&oseq=
(P.S. Workshops are being filled quickly. Four workshop dates have now dropped to two because of high demand.)
MPT TO AIR LIVE CALL-IN SPECIAL ON SELF-INJURY IN TEENS, on January 16, 2013, from 8-9PM. As part of "Your Health 2013," Maryland Public Television (MPT) is planning to air a special presentation of "The Hurting: Cutting for Relief," an episode from the teen-family awareness series MAPLE AVE. Host Yolanda Vazquez will interview local clinicians and experts on the issue of self-injury in teens. During the broadcast, viewers may call a toll-free number to get advice and referrals to self-injury help and resources in their area.
THE SUCCESS PROGRAM - OPEN HOUSE - MARYLAND'S FIRST FOUR-YEAR UNIVERSITY PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES Held on January 25, 2013, from 9:30-11A, at UMBC, Baltimore, MD., the Success Program enables Marylanders with intellectual disabilities to develop their independence, critical thinking, problem-solving and employment skills in a university setting. Get an overview of the program, have your questions answered and take a brief tour of the campus.Students must have an intellectual disability, have exited school at age 21 with a certificate by spring 2013, and be no older than 24. Applications will be avail in February 2012. For details,call 410-767-3948 or email nbrittingham@mdod.state.md.us.
(Article from disabilityscoop)
WHITE HOUSE TO RESPOND TO DISABILITY PETITION
A grass-roots effort calling on the U.S. government to formally recognize American Sign Language is poised to get an official response from the Obama administration.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/12/19/white-house-respond-petition/16983/
WEG'S 4TH ANNUAL DIAMONDS IN THE ROUGH: DC AREA SPECIAL LEARNING NEEDS CONFERENCE
This year's topic is FAMILY QUALITY OF LIFE. Keynote address, COMING TO TERMS WITH YOUR CHILD'S DISABILITY, by Eustacia Cutler (Temple Grandin's mother). Still time to save at registration. This conference will be held on March 3, 2013, from 9A-4:30P, in Rockville, MD. For more details on the other speakers, and to register, go to http://www.weinfeldeducationgroup.com/diamonds.html
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
WORK FOR NASA; FREE WORKSHOP ON SSI/MEDICAID AND SSDI/MEDICARE; HAVE FUN INDOORS WITH FREE: ZUMBA CLASSES, PHOTOGRAPHY, DRAWING COLLAGE, PAINTING
UNDERSTANDING SSI/MEDICAID & SSDI/MEDICARE
The above is discussed in detail on government benefit programs, eligablility, importance, when and how to apply, and financial issues. Other topics addressed are when the SSA moves an individual from SSI to SSDI, keeping Medicaid /Medicare. This FREE workshop is provided by the M&L Special Needs Planning, and will be held on Janurary 9, 2013, from 7-8:30PM, in Washington, DC. To register, go to https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=idtuvbdab&oeidk=a07e6p6s9djaa0317f1&oseq=a013tg1f4v23w
NASA TO MENTOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITES
(Article from the Disability Scoop)
This program begins early next year and allows DC students with disabilities experience the working environment at NASA.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/12/18/nasa-mentor-disabilities/16978/
GET CREATIVE THIS WINTER THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY, COLLAGE, DRAWING, AND PAINTING
Brought to you by the MONTGOMERY COUNTY ALL STARS, for the dates of December 27, 28, 29, 2012 and January 12, 2013. These classes are FREE and are held in Silver Spring, MD, from 12:30-3:30PM. Call for details and available space, 443-934-3468
ZUMBA CLASSES FOR THE YOUTH, YOUNG ADULTS, AND THEIR FAMILIES Brought to you by the MONTGOMERY COUNTY ALL STARS, this program is FREE and geared to those 14-24 years old who have experienced emotional challanges. Zumba classes will be held on the first Saturdays of the month from January to May 2013, from 12-2PM, in Silver Spring, MD. Call 443-934-3468 or email cserkin@mcfof.org.
The above is discussed in detail on government benefit programs, eligablility, importance, when and how to apply, and financial issues. Other topics addressed are when the SSA moves an individual from SSI to SSDI, keeping Medicaid /Medicare. This FREE workshop is provided by the M&L Special Needs Planning, and will be held on Janurary 9, 2013, from 7-8:30PM, in Washington, DC. To register, go to https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=idtuvbdab&oeidk=a07e6p6s9djaa0317f1&oseq=a013tg1f4v23w
NASA TO MENTOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITES
(Article from the Disability Scoop)
This program begins early next year and allows DC students with disabilities experience the working environment at NASA.
http://www.disabilityscoop.com/2012/12/18/nasa-mentor-disabilities/16978/
GET CREATIVE THIS WINTER THROUGH PHOTOGRAPHY, COLLAGE, DRAWING, AND PAINTING
Brought to you by the MONTGOMERY COUNTY ALL STARS, for the dates of December 27, 28, 29, 2012 and January 12, 2013. These classes are FREE and are held in Silver Spring, MD, from 12:30-3:30PM. Call for details and available space, 443-934-3468
ZUMBA CLASSES FOR THE YOUTH, YOUNG ADULTS, AND THEIR FAMILIES Brought to you by the MONTGOMERY COUNTY ALL STARS, this program is FREE and geared to those 14-24 years old who have experienced emotional challanges. Zumba classes will be held on the first Saturdays of the month from January to May 2013, from 12-2PM, in Silver Spring, MD. Call 443-934-3468 or email cserkin@mcfof.org.
Friday, December 14, 2012
I HAVE NOTHING TO COMPLAIN ABOUT!!!
How can I not say something about the tragedy this morning in Conneticut? I am sickend to my stomach.
This now gives me, once again, another reason to appreciate my life and the cards that were delt to me.
So now, I can take a long look at myself and think about what my life is really all about. For me, it shouldn't be about what things I can buy for my kids and how to meet all of their wants. For me, it can't be about how many times I can amuse them by taking my kids to Chuck E. Cheese or McDonald's.
For me it's mentally absorbing all of the accomplishments and milestones my special needs son is making. It's remembering not to stay discouraged for too long when I see my son regressing in certain areas.
Sometimes I find myself wondering why I was given an autistic son with all of the difficulties that comes. But then I wonder, WHY NOT ME? Unlike those who don't have special needs persons in their lives, I get the opportunities time and time again to appreciate the small accomplishments my son makes: where's the salt? (he complained to me one day about how tasteless dinner was!) and what the heck! (he comments when he hears those lousey singers on American Idol). AND JUST NOW, MY YOUNGER SON ANNOUNCED THAT JORDAN JUST BROKE THE BATHROOM FAN--LOCATED ON THE CEILING!!! Those events remind me that regressive behavior will pop-up more times than I'd like to count!
Well, let me go see the damage Jordan has made. He is now laughing about the NAUGHTY deed he just did! (NOT FUNNY JORDAN!!)
Let me leave you with this poem that I came across the other day. The poem doesn't give you the answer why you were selected for this specialized position. It rather tells you what you'll learn if you allow yourself to experience the 'unknown' of tomorrow.
Some Mothers Chosen By God By Erma Bombeck
Most women become mothers by accident, some by choice, a few by social pressures and a couple by habit. This year, nearly 100,000 women will become mothers of handicapped children. Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen? Somehow, I visualize God hovering over earth selecting His instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As He observes, He instructs His angels to make notes in a giant ledger.
"Armstrong, Beth, son. Patron saint, Matthew.
"Forrest, Marjorie, daughter. Patron saint, Cecelia.
"Rudledge, Carrie, twins. Patron saint...give her Gerard, He's used to profanity."
Finally, He passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child."
The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy."
"Exactly," smiles God. "Could I give a handicapped child a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."
"But has she patience?" asks the angel.
"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wears off, she'll handle it.
"I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has his own world and that's not going to be easy."
"But Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."
God smiles. "No matter. I can fix that. This one is perfect. She has just enough selfishness."
The angel gasps, "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"
God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child who is less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a "spoken word." She will never consider a "step" ordinary. When her child says "Momma" for the first time, she will be present at a miracle and know it! When she describes a tree or sunset to her blind child, she will see it as few people ever see my creations.
"I will permit her to see clearly the things I see....ignorance, cruelty, prejudice... and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."
"And what about her patron saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in mid-air.
God smiles. "A mirror will suffice."
This now gives me, once again, another reason to appreciate my life and the cards that were delt to me.
So now, I can take a long look at myself and think about what my life is really all about. For me, it shouldn't be about what things I can buy for my kids and how to meet all of their wants. For me, it can't be about how many times I can amuse them by taking my kids to Chuck E. Cheese or McDonald's.
For me it's mentally absorbing all of the accomplishments and milestones my special needs son is making. It's remembering not to stay discouraged for too long when I see my son regressing in certain areas.
Sometimes I find myself wondering why I was given an autistic son with all of the difficulties that comes. But then I wonder, WHY NOT ME? Unlike those who don't have special needs persons in their lives, I get the opportunities time and time again to appreciate the small accomplishments my son makes: where's the salt? (he complained to me one day about how tasteless dinner was!) and what the heck! (he comments when he hears those lousey singers on American Idol). AND JUST NOW, MY YOUNGER SON ANNOUNCED THAT JORDAN JUST BROKE THE BATHROOM FAN--LOCATED ON THE CEILING!!! Those events remind me that regressive behavior will pop-up more times than I'd like to count!
Well, let me go see the damage Jordan has made. He is now laughing about the NAUGHTY deed he just did! (NOT FUNNY JORDAN!!)
Let me leave you with this poem that I came across the other day. The poem doesn't give you the answer why you were selected for this specialized position. It rather tells you what you'll learn if you allow yourself to experience the 'unknown' of tomorrow.
Some Mothers Chosen By God By Erma Bombeck
Most women become mothers by accident, some by choice, a few by social pressures and a couple by habit. This year, nearly 100,000 women will become mothers of handicapped children. Did you ever wonder how mothers of handicapped children are chosen? Somehow, I visualize God hovering over earth selecting His instruments for propagation with great care and deliberation. As He observes, He instructs His angels to make notes in a giant ledger.
"Armstrong, Beth, son. Patron saint, Matthew.
"Forrest, Marjorie, daughter. Patron saint, Cecelia.
"Rudledge, Carrie, twins. Patron saint...give her Gerard, He's used to profanity."
Finally, He passes a name to an angel and smiles, "Give her a handicapped child."
The angel is curious. "Why this one, God? She's so happy."
"Exactly," smiles God. "Could I give a handicapped child a mother who does not know laughter? That would be cruel."
"But has she patience?" asks the angel.
"I don't want her to have too much patience or she will drown in a sea of self-pity and despair. Once the shock and resentment wears off, she'll handle it.
"I watched her today. She has that feeling of self and independence that is so rare and so necessary in a mother. You see, the child I'm going to give her has his own world and that's not going to be easy."
"But Lord, I don't think she even believes in you."
God smiles. "No matter. I can fix that. This one is perfect. She has just enough selfishness."
The angel gasps, "Selfishness? Is that a virtue?"
God nods. "If she can't separate herself from the child occasionally, she'll never survive. Yes, here is a woman whom I will bless with a child who is less than perfect. She doesn't realize it yet, but she is to be envied. She will never take for granted a "spoken word." She will never consider a "step" ordinary. When her child says "Momma" for the first time, she will be present at a miracle and know it! When she describes a tree or sunset to her blind child, she will see it as few people ever see my creations.
"I will permit her to see clearly the things I see....ignorance, cruelty, prejudice... and allow her to rise above them. She will never be alone. I will be at her side every minute of every day of her life because she is doing my work as surely as she is here by my side."
"And what about her patron saint?" asks the angel, his pen poised in mid-air.
God smiles. "A mirror will suffice."
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
LENGTHY ARTICLE BUT WORTH YOUR TIME; INTERNSHIP FOR YOUR STUDENT; A RESOURCE DATABASE; FREE EVENT AT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM IN BALTIMORE; ONLINE SUPPORT FOR GRANDPARENTS OF KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
(An article from the National Journal)
HOW TWO PRESIDENTS HELPED ME DEAL WITH LOVE, GUILT, AND FATHERHOOD
Guidance from Bill Clinton and George W. Bush taught the author how to accept and understand his son's Asperger's syndrome
http://www.nationaljournal.com/magazine/how-two-presidents-helped-me-deal-with-love-guilt-and-fatherhood-20121129
A ONE-YEAR INTERNSHIP PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES, IN THEIR LAST YEAR OF SCHOOL
The Project SEARCH Transition Program is targeted to students whose goal is competitive employment. This program takes place in a healthcare, government or business setting where complete immersion in the workplace. Students participate in three unpaid internships lasting 10-12 weeks rotations. The Project SEARCH Information Night is on January 16, 2013, from 6:30-8PM, at the Ivymount School in Rockville, MD. For details, go to www.ivymount.org/projectsearch
(Provided by the Autism Society)
AUTISM SOURCE Whether you need an advocate for an IEP meeting, a social group for young adults or an understanding, doctor, the Autism Societ's Autism Source national resource database of autism-related services and supports can direct you to unbiased and free information.
http://www.autismsource.org/
Pathfinders For Autism presents: FREE FAMILY FUN EVENT AT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM IN BALTIMORE January 20, 2013. Registration opens on December 14, 2012.
Spaces go FAST! Register at www.pathfindersforautism.org
The Sibling Support Project announces it's new GKSN-GRANDPARENTS OF KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. On the GKSN website, grandparents will have a chance to meet other grandparents through it's Yahoogroup or Facebook groups, share ideas for supporting their kids and grandkids, and even post pics of their grandkids! Visit www.gksn.org
HOW TWO PRESIDENTS HELPED ME DEAL WITH LOVE, GUILT, AND FATHERHOOD
Guidance from Bill Clinton and George W. Bush taught the author how to accept and understand his son's Asperger's syndrome
http://www.nationaljournal.com/magazine/how-two-presidents-helped-me-deal-with-love-guilt-and-fatherhood-20121129
A ONE-YEAR INTERNSHIP PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES, IN THEIR LAST YEAR OF SCHOOL
The Project SEARCH Transition Program is targeted to students whose goal is competitive employment. This program takes place in a healthcare, government or business setting where complete immersion in the workplace. Students participate in three unpaid internships lasting 10-12 weeks rotations. The Project SEARCH Information Night is on January 16, 2013, from 6:30-8PM, at the Ivymount School in Rockville, MD. For details, go to www.ivymount.org/projectsearch
(Provided by the Autism Society)
AUTISM SOURCE Whether you need an advocate for an IEP meeting, a social group for young adults or an understanding, doctor, the Autism Societ's Autism Source national resource database of autism-related services and supports can direct you to unbiased and free information.
http://www.autismsource.org/
Pathfinders For Autism presents: FREE FAMILY FUN EVENT AT THE NATIONAL AQUARIUM IN BALTIMORE January 20, 2013. Registration opens on December 14, 2012.
Spaces go FAST! Register at www.pathfindersforautism.org
The Sibling Support Project announces it's new GKSN-GRANDPARENTS OF KIDS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS. On the GKSN website, grandparents will have a chance to meet other grandparents through it's Yahoogroup or Facebook groups, share ideas for supporting their kids and grandkids, and even post pics of their grandkids! Visit www.gksn.org
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
IEP PROCESS AND YOUR RIGHTS; RELIGIOUS-BASED SUPPORT GROUPS AT CHURCH
TOOL FOR SCHOOL: THE IEP PROCESS AND PARENTS' RIGHTS presented by Josie Thomas, Exec Director of the Parents' Place of Maryland. This presentation will include: How to request an IEP meeting and evals; practical work on writing goals and objectives; an explanation of what facilitated IEP meeting is and how to request one; and more. Parents will have an opportunity to ask questions. Sponsored by the Autism Society Montgomery County MD, The Arc of Montgomery County, and Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County, this meeting will be held on December 11, 2012, from 7-9PM, at the Arc Montgomery County, in Rockville, MD. FREE. To register, call 301-984-5777 x1275 or email haydeed@arcmontmd.org,
SUPPORT GROUPS FOR PARENTS AND 'JUST MOMS' OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN at McLean Bible Church in Leesburg, VA (about 10 minutes from the Tyson's Corner Mall).
The Parent Support Group, provides an open door, i.e., a safe place, for parents of children/adults with special needs. At this support group, participants are encouraged to share their pain, loss, anger, frustration, etc., with others who understand. This meeting uses God's Word for hope, encouragement, and inspiration. Meetings are held on Sundays, from 12:30-1:30PM, room 1410. Upcoming meeting dates: December 23, 2013, January 13 & 27, 2013. Details: via email Isabelle Brugere or call 703-639-2000 x3434.
The Moms' Small Group, is a place where moms can go and connect with other women who have children with special needs. Meetings are held on every other Thursday morning, from 10AM-12N, at Room 1605. Upcoming meeting dates: December 13, 2012, January 10 & 24, 2013. Details: via email Isabelle Brugere or call 703-639-2000 x3434.
SUPPORT GROUPS FOR PARENTS AND 'JUST MOMS' OF SPECIAL NEEDS CHILDREN at McLean Bible Church in Leesburg, VA (about 10 minutes from the Tyson's Corner Mall).
The Parent Support Group, provides an open door, i.e., a safe place, for parents of children/adults with special needs. At this support group, participants are encouraged to share their pain, loss, anger, frustration, etc., with others who understand. This meeting uses God's Word for hope, encouragement, and inspiration. Meetings are held on Sundays, from 12:30-1:30PM, room 1410. Upcoming meeting dates: December 23, 2013, January 13 & 27, 2013. Details: via email Isabelle Brugere or call 703-639-2000 x3434.
The Moms' Small Group, is a place where moms can go and connect with other women who have children with special needs. Meetings are held on every other Thursday morning, from 10AM-12N, at Room 1605. Upcoming meeting dates: December 13, 2012, January 10 & 24, 2013. Details: via email Isabelle Brugere or call 703-639-2000 x3434.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)