Valentine's Gift for Your Special Needs Child and Anyone Else

A Cute and Fun Valentine's Day Gift, for your Special Needs Child ...

For my Special Needs son, who has autism, the concept of 'pretend play' has always been an alien and unnatural concept for him.  In his earlier years, 'pretend play' was absolutely non-existent.  

One year, my dad gave my son, Jordan, a gift from Peru.  This seemingly simple gift gave me many ideas and scenarios on how to initiate 'pretend play' with Jordan.  I thought by giving him very basic one to two step directions and demonstrating extremely simple body movements, emotions, etc, that this gift could ignite a spark to learning and enjoying 'pretend play'.

These Cute,Silly, and Fun Baby Gorillas WEREN'T designed by Rocket Scientists!  But for teaching my son a basic skill most typical children just 'do', these Baby Gorillas are Genius! 
Because you can position these Baby Gorillas to stick their fingers and toes into their mouths, ears, and belly buttons, here are some examples of how I tried to engage Jordan in 'pretend play':
"That's a baby.  Babies suck their fingers.  Show me this Baby Gorilla sucking his finger." 
"This Baby likes to play.  Show me the Silly Baby Gorilla sticking his finger in his bellybutton!" 
"This Baby's ear aches.  The Baby Gorilla wants to show you that his ear hurts.  Stick one of it's fingers in one of it's ears." 
"Play Peek-A-Boo with this Silly Baby Gorilla!  "See his eyes open so wide when you play Peek-A-Boo with his blanket?"

I asked my dad to bring some more Plush Baby Gorillas so I may show other families. 
No matter where you live in the US, shipping from here costs $5.  I priced the Baby Gorillas at $8, which just covers the purchase costs and transporting the Baby Gorillas from Peru.

Please look at this Ebay link to order.  And by the way, I have many more different colors then shown on the photos.   http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=290664714688 

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY (???????)

Lots' of Stuff to do in February

B'more Abilities Special Arts Center in Baltimore, MD, Annouces it's Upcoming Events and Programs for February 2012:

February 1  Sign up for Spring Camp!  Camp dates are April 2-6, 2012.  Have a blast with art, music, dance, and theater camp!

February 4  Parent Yoga!  All parents of Special Needs kids welcome!

February 11  Parent Belly Dancing!  All parents of Special Needs kids welcome!!

For Teens and Adults...

February 3  Friday Dance Party!

February 8  B'more Girly: Talk about hygiene, make up, and more girl talk!

February 17  Photography Workshop.   Learn the ins and outs of taking great shots!

February 22  Drum Circle and Drum Alive Workshop.  Come and make rhythm!

For details on times, locations, and possible fees:

http://www.basac.org/  or 443-769-0507.

B'More Abilities Special Arts Center and Guest Speaker Temple Grandin
If you missed guest speaker Temple Grandin in person, you may now listen to her on this website:
http://www.basac.org/

Military Families and Their Autistic Children

"Speak Up For Those
Who Cannot Speak For Themselves"
      ~Proverbs 31:08

-Special Needs Matter-  

Military Families, who have autistic children,
and their Supporters are asked to attend the Capitol Hill Hearing. 
It is necessary to RSVP in order to gain admittance to the briefing.
Rachel Kenyon, Karen Driscoll and Jeremy Hilton, the parents of children with autism, will explain how the TRICARE program has affected their families. In addition, Autism Speaks Chief Science Officer Geri Dawson and Rhondavena Laporte, branch head of the U.S. Marine Corps' family care programs will also address the briefing.
Congressional Briefing for Military Families
January 31, 2012 @ 11:30 AM
Capitol Visitor Center, Room SVC 203
Washington, DC
Forward your name to rick.remington@autismspeaks.org
It will be added to a list for admittance. 

DISABILITIES FILM FESTIVAL

 

AWARD-WINNING FILMS THAT WILL ENGAGE, ENTERTAIN, EDUCATE AND INSPIRE YOU!!   A groundbreaking film festival presented for the first time in the DC metropolitan area by the Washington DCJCC~JCC of Northern Virginia~JCC of Greater Washington REELAbilities is dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories and artistic expressions of people with different disabilities from a variety of communities.  Films are accompanied by discussion and other engaging programs, which bring together the community to explore, discuss and celebrate the diversity of our shared human experience.Complete schedule, trailers and tickets at greaterdc.reelabilities.org Join us for a very special Opening Night WARRIOR CHAMPIONS Wednesday, February 1 6:30 pm Reception, 7:30 pm FilmThe Avalon Theatre5612 Connecticut Ave. NW Post-film speaker: Richard Bernstein, disabilties advocate Four Iraq War veterans strive to turn the nightmares of war into Olympic dreams.  After losing limbs and suffering paralysis fighting for their country, they set out to do what many thought impossible---but will they make the cut? The following films are screening at the Washington DCJCC, one of six REELAbilities venues.  Please check greaterdc.reelabilities.org for the complete festival schedule.  BENX Thursday, February 2, 7:30 pm  Post-film discussion "Mothering/Grandmothering in Families with Disabilities" with Dr. Marion Usher and Karen Whitehead                              As someone on the autism spectrum having trouble dealing with life, Ben hides from the harsh reality of school bullying and awkward social interactions by escaping into his favorite online computer game, where he is safe, strong and in control of his surroundings...until a girl from his computer game becomes very real in this flm with a surprise twist. Mature content recommended for 15 and aboveHENRY O! Friday, February 3, 1:00 pm Enrique "Henry" Oliu has been blind since birth, but that didn't stop him from making his major league baseball dream come true--being a color commentator for Florida's Tampa Bay Rays. A film about overcoming challenges to live the life you dream of.  SHOOTING BEAUTY                                                             with CROOKED BEAUTY Sunday, February 5, 11:00 am SHOOTING BEAUTY                                                                             Fashion photographer Courtney Bent's career and views on art take an unexpected turn when she discovers a hidden world of beauty at a center for people living with significant disabilities.  CROOKED BEAUTY                                                    Artist-activist Jacks Ashley McNamara takes a transformative journey from troubled childhood to psych ward patient to pioneering mental health advocate, reshaping mental health stigmas while re-approaching madness as a tool for creativity, inspiration and hope.   Closing Night WAR EAGLE Thursday, February 9, 7:00 pm                                                                                             Followed by dessert reception Introduction by:  Daniel Risner Enoch Cass (Luke Grimes, TV's Brothers & Sisters) is the star high school pitcher with an innate goodness, a debilitating stutter and a fast-talking, life-long best friend with cerebral palsy, Samuel "Wheels" Macon. Together they face the crossroads of childhood and independence. Based on a true story about the power of friendship to help face challenges and live to the fullest. With Brian Dennehy, Mare Winningham and Mary Kay Place. Complete schedule, trailers and tickets at greaterdc.reelabilities.org

Free Presentation on Effective IEPs for Students with ASD

Partnership for Extraordinary Minds ~Presents ‘Parents Night’, on February 15, 2012, from 7-9PM, in Rockville, MD.  Speakers Janet Price and Jennifer Engle-Fisher of the Weinfeld Education Group present on the topic Effective IEPs for students with ASD.  Come away with an understanding of the laws governing 504s and IEPs, the steps involved in navigating the special education system, the parts of an IEP, and what an effective and appropriate IEP should look like.  Meeting is FREE.  Light refreshments served.  Details, 301-444-5225.

"Speak Up For Those
Who Cannot Speak For Themselves"
      ~Proverbs 31:08

-Special Needs Matter-

Webinar, Adult Day Program, Indoor Gym Program, and a Sock Hop!

Access Community Lecture Series

Special Transition Times and MCTrans Joint Meeting Webinar
SSI (Supplemental Security Income) for Students: How to Get SSI and Medical Assistance, Go to Work...And Live to Tell About It, Thursday, February 9, 2012, from 6:45-9:15PM, in Rockville, MD.  Webinar Presentation By Michael Dalton, Work Incentives Project Director, Maryland Department of Disabilities.  For reservations and questions, or to request information about participating from home, please contact: Reda Sheinberg, MCTransitions, 301-385-5889, Reda.Sheinberg@MCTransitions.org

Sport Plus looking for 10 more kids for the Howard County, MD, indoor gym program www.playsportsplus.org or 301-452-3781.

Sock Hop:  Hosted by Up County Special Needs Ministry, on February 4, 2012, from 7-9PM, @ the  St. Francis of Assisi Parish Center, in Derwood, MD.  You are invited to enjoy an evening of music, dance, food, and fun activities, in a supportive environment!  Admission, $5 per family.  Call to register @ 301-762-6564 or jtnii@cs.com 

Adults with Disabilities, Day Program (A.D.D.P.)

Day-Support Program offered to those who have finished high school.  For details,

call Fran Smith, 703-770-4393. 

 

On January 30, 2012, The Access Community Lecture Series presents, "From Chaos to Calm", given by author Sharon Weiss. The lecture will be at MBC Tysons in Community Room A, 7:30-9 pm. RSVP preferred but not required.  For details, contact Erin Roundtree, 703-770-2938.

Article, Employment Webinar, and a two day Summit

Signs of Autism 'Can be Detected in Six-Month-Old Babies' by Measuring Brain ActivityThe younger your child is when you detect signs of autism, the sooner you can intervene and
and help redirect the brain.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2092251/Autism-signs-detected-6-month-old-babies-measuring-brain-activity.html#ixzz1kgXzjhF4

The Autism Society for an Employment Webinar  
January 31, 2012, at 2 p.m.  EST, participate in the Autism NOW webinar, “Access to Autism Friendly Companies and Competitive Employment Opportunities,” lead by Autism Society Vice President of Programs Jennifer Repella. AMC Theatres and the Autism Society teamed up to provide equal opportunities to employment for individuals with autism. This webinar shares the outcomes of this collaboration, as well as lessons learned. Other topics of discussion will include the efforts of essential local partners, the training process for managers, how hiring practices were improved and how real access to businesses and competitive jobs were provided.  Get details and register at
https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/showReg?udc=a4lv8osm1vh0

Accessibility Summit
Participate in the 12th annual Accessibility Summit, taking place on April 20-21, 2012, in McLean, VA.  This special conference is intended for families and caregivers; faith-based organizations; teachers; and other professionals connected to the disability community.  The 2012 Summit will offer 30 workshops led by experts and covering a broad range of disability-related topics. The Accessibility Summit gives attendees the opportunity to visit with over 60 vendors, representing products, services, and organizations of interest to the special needs community.  Guest speakers are author and advocate, Eustacia Cutler best known as the mother of Dr. Temple Grandin, and Patrick Henry Hughes was born without eyes or the ability to fully straighten his arms and legs, making him unable to walk.  In spite of these physical challenges, he is a virtuoso pianist, who also sings and plays the trumpet.  Don't over look this FANTASTIC summit.  All details may be found on http://accessibilitysummit.org/

Jump in the Frigid Waters and Support Special Olympics on the 16th Annual Polar Bear Plunge, sponsored by the Maryland State Police on January 28, 2012. Will you take the plunge or stay dry and make a donation?  Get details: http://plungemd.com/

Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) invites you to COPPA's 14th Annual Conference in Miami, FL, from March 8-11, 2012. 
COPPA is an independent, nonprofit membership organization of special education attorneys, special education advocates, other professionals, and parents/family members. Our primary mission is to secure high quality education services for children with disabilities.
COPAA is premised on the belief that the key to effective educational programs for children with disabilities is collaboration – as equals – by parents and educators. Disseminating knowledge of protections under the law, advocacy strategy, and educational best practice is an important part of leveling the playing field and enabling parents to meaningfully participate in their child’s educational programs.To secure more details on the itineraries, reserved hotels, and other agendas, view website 
http://www.cvent.com/events/copaa-s-14th-annual-conference/event-summary-80d8086bc1db4e74b9516ecb8cb9dd3e.aspx

Personal Video, TV Show, and Informative Articles

Watch 'Everyday Health' on TV Episode 14:  The Miracle Project for Autism 
"Autism is awesomeism!"
Kids in the Miracle Project get musical help from superstars Jack Black and Stephen Stills.
Tune in, this Saturday, 10AM EST, January 28, 2012, on WJLA in Washington, D.C.
Here's where it's playing in your state:  http://www.littonweekendadventure.com/everyday-health-tv-schedule/

Parent Tip:  How and When to Disclose Your Autism

http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=9sxk67bab&v=001Akwh5HY8vpwzobsLsn_ddDDyFkDT76m6gTrRZkzXigyfHGGA0lttlxE7rSQUjQyf0vkusmQyUg883uwEd4cjNeN9RUqI8HS8A_uFuuZOtjdM7Sn_mNIXnw%3D%3D 

Adult Language and Pragmatic Skills Group (ALPS Group)
The program will meet from 6:00-7:45pm on Mondays starting February 20, 2012 
For details, contact Patricia Townes Admin. Asst. at the Center for Adults with Autism, 410-704-4486.

Navigating Love and Autism - Autism, Grown Up.  Love on the Spectrum.  By The New York Times.
And Related Articles.
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/26/us/navigating-love-and-autism.html?emc=eta1

Meet Jordan - He's WHY I started this blog. Local FOX News Interview with My Son and Me 2011

I had considered getting a dog for my autistic son.  My son loves dogs but is terrified of touching them, even puppies.  I researched an organization that seemed to be serious on helping a family get the right dog.  Because they charged $5000, I had to take the route of going to local humane societies. While asking the Lord for direction, I ended up at the Washington Humane Society in Washington, D.C.  I explained what type of personality I was looking for in a dog.  I basically said, "calm, quiet, is okay with sudden or loud noises (my son gets these urges to get up and run across the house yelling), so then, an overall relaxed pet.  I wanted a dog to help him curtail his fears and possibly receive tranquility.  The WHS introduced me to Chyna, a 7 y.o. Australian Cattle Dog mix.  They were so certain that Chyna would be perfect for my son, and they were right.  My son now lays his head on her.  We are teaching him the basics of taking care of a dog.  Senior dogs are commonly overlooked for pets.  I really hope you are touched by this video.

Events for ALL Disabilities

Join The Arc Maryland in partnership with The Maryland State Department of Education, The Maryland Department of Disabilities, The Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council and The Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education for the 10th Annual “Together We’re Better” Awards Reception, celebrating students as they learn why inclusive schools are good for all students, families and communities.  Wednesday, February 15, 2012 6:30PM-8:30PM  Loews Annapolis Hotel 126 West Street Annapolis, Maryland 21401 410.263.7777 www.loewshotels.com  RSVP to The Arc Maryland by February 10th 410.571.9320, events@thearcmd.org

Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature
Citizens with Developmental Disabilities, families, providers and advocates are coming to Annapolis to meet with Legislators about critical disability issues.                                       February 21, 2012,  8:30 AM - 11:30 AM Register at: https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e5hjbuqma77d6288&oseq=

The Ability Project  Real and Practical Support for Our Disabled Adults.
The Ability Project has been established in response to the growing need to assist adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities transition from home and school to a permanent place in our community. Adults are often overlooked by government and private agencies.  These adults have a tremendous potential to be successful, contributing members of the community, but lack the professional and social support to meet those goals and live independently.
For more details on the creation of this sustainable and permanent residential, employment and social structure for our developmentally disabled adult, go to http://www.abilityprojectmaryland.com/

Aggression: A Challenge for Families of Children with ASD
Children with ASD sometimes have aggressive and other out-of-control behaviors, and this has been linked with high levels of stress in families. Little research has been conducted to gauge the extent of the problem. Now, researchers report that aggression occurs at a very high frequency among children with ASD, and is tied to certain child characteristics. 
http://www.iancommunity.org/cs/simons_simplex_community/aggression_and_asd

New Findings on Driving and ASD
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22157351

Rules of the Road: Driving and ASD
An article on some of the challenges faced by individuals with ASD who hope to drive.
http://www.iancommunity.org/cs/adults/driving_with_asd

February Events 2012

Resources for our students with special needs  

and their families.

specialneedsmatter.blogspot.com

OUT and ABOUT!

·         Bounce U-just for our kids! ~ On February 6, 2011, and every 1^st Monday of the month, Bounce U presents: Sensory Rebound Bounce, from 6-7:30 PM.  No loud music and limited attendance in a supportive environment.  Reservations are required.  In Clarksburg, 301-515-5665 and in Rockville, 301-340-1311.

·         Let’s Go To The Movies!: THE  SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY ~

playing on February 25, 2012, at the AMC Loews Theaters at Rio Cinemas 18, in Gaithersburg, MD.  This 10 A.M. showing provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment.  Lights will be dimmed up, the sound turned down, and the audience will be invited to get up, walk, dance, shout, or sing!  301-948-6763.

ACTION AND INFORMATION

·         Free Download :  of the Direct Instruction Funnix Beginning Reading Program.  Direct Instruction is a body of curriculum based on scientific principles of human learning with 40+ years of research validation in producing excellent student outcomes. 

From February 1 through 16th, 2012, the Funnix Beginning Reading Program will be free for download.  You will receive the entire 220 lessons downloaded onto your computer and daily workbook activities and guides.  funnix.com

·         Parent Academy Workshop~ presents ‘Understanding ADHD and How to Help Your Child’, on February 1, 2012, at the Cabin John MS, in Potomac, MD.  Learn about ADHD and explore strategies and interventions that support academic and social success.  Register online:  montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/parentacademy/register.aspx.

·         Discussion on Bipolar Disorder and Depression:   At this FREE presentation, Dr. Adelaide Robb of the Children’s National Medical Center will discuss Bipolar Disorder and Depression in children and adolescents.  This meeting will be held on February 9, 2012, @ 7:30PM, in Rockville, MD.  For details, email dbaylinson@namimc.org.

·         GT/LD  Network:  presents FREE Speakers Series.  On February 16, 2012, from 7:30-9PM, the presentation will be held in Walter Johnson HS in Bethesda, MD.  The speaker will be Charles Moseley, M.D.  He practices Integrative Psychiatry in utilizing both standard psychiatric, as well as innovative nutritional and metabolic strategies.  Dr. Moseley will discuss the role of nutrient supply to the brain, with emphasis on the role of energy production and utilization.  For more details, go to gtldnetworkmc.org. 

·         Summer Opportunities Fair for Special Needs Children:  held at Ivymount School on February 26, 2012, from 1-3:30 PM, in Rockville, MD.  Explore sleep-away camps and local options for exceptional children.  Call 301-469-0223.

SUPPORT GROUPS:

·         Parents of Children with ASDs (Autism Spectrum Disorders)~ sponsored by JSSA, this free support group shares coping strategies, community resources, developing networks and gaining support.  February 5, 2011, in Rockville, MD, from 7-8:15PM.  Registration required: 301-610-8361.

·         Family Support Group ~ This free, monthly group focuses on building a support network, connecting with your community resources and learning to balance your own needs with those of children with special needs.  The next meeting will be on February 21, 2012, from 7:15-9PM., in Rockville, MD.  Pre-registration is required, 301-610-8355.    

Three Key Studies Shed Light on Autism Genetics
http://www.iancommunity.org/cs/simons_simplex_community/key_genetic_findings

Bacteria in the Gut of Children with Autism Different from Typically Developing Children
http://www.autism-society.org/news/bacteria-in-the-gut-of.html

VA Man Creates App for Autistic Son
http://wtop.com/?nid=120&sid=2699105

Project Life Saver Free Resource for Families with Members who might wander off.  A GPS bracelet that police officers use to locate them in an efficient time frame.
www.montgomerycountymd.gov/poltmpl.asp?url=/content/pol/districts/chief/communityservices/ProjectLifesaver/about.asp

Complete Guide to Educational and Special Needs Apps
http://www.oneplaceforspecialneeds.com/main/library_special_needs_apps.html

 

Events for Virginia

If you are looking for a church who will accept your special needs child with open arms, please visit McLean Bible Church (MBC) in McLean, VA.  While you listen to the sermon, this church will have 'Sunday School' for your child at his/her level.  Classes are divided by age.  RNs on premises.  My autistic son loves church.  He wants to go every weekend.  703-790-5500.
Respite care for your Special Needs Child and siblings provided by MBC, two Friday nights a month and two Saturday morning/afternoons a month. 
Speaking from personal experience, your children will have loads of fun.  Trained persons and volunteers will give your child a great time!  These people really have a love in their hearts for these kids!
Break Out is on Friday nights and Breakaway is on Saturday morning/afternoons.  Call 703-770-3832.
Moms' Small Group - Call 703-770-4393.
Parent Support Group - Call 703-770-2942.
Lecture Series - 'From Chaos to Calm', January 30, 2012.  Speaker Sharon K. Weiss, M.Ed, Behavioral Consultant.  Add structure and peace in your home and the classroom environment.  Free.  RSVP 703-770-2938.

Events in Maryland

Autism Society Meeting - Held in Frederick County, MD, will hold it's next gathering on January 17, 2012, at 7PM.  Speaker Darcy Lipscomb, MT-BC from Noteable Progressions Music Therapy Services will be discussing the topic of music therapy.  For details, email johnandshawna4@comcast.net.

Family Support Group - Presented by the One World Center for Autism (OWCA), will hold its' next meeting on January 18, 2012, from 6:30-8:30PM, in Hyattsville, MD.  You will be encouraged, empowerd, and enlightened.  Childcare avail for those who pre-register.  $10 for first child and $5, for each additonal child.  Call 301-618-8395.
 Howard County Autism Support Group - meets every third Thursday of the month, in Columbia, MD, @ 7PM.  Next date is for January 19, 2012.  This group gives presentations, current information and has families ready to offer support.  Call 410-290-3466

Anxiety in Children and Adolescents: A one day seminar offered by the MCPS Parent Academy.  An NIH psychologist will take you through the biology behind both normal and excessive anxiety and discuss interventions that can be used at home and in school. Held in Bethesda, MD, on January 25, 2012, from 7-8:30PM.  Call or go online for details and registration, 301-279-3100. 

http://www.montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/familycommunity/pareg.shtm

Hip Hop Dance Course

Enjoy this hip hop dance intro to fresh and exciting dance moves to the beat of

hip hop music. Designed especially for ages 18+ with developmental disabilities.

Movements are adapted for those that use wheelchairs too.  Class begins on January 27, 2012 and held in Silver Spring, MD.  For details, call or visit: 240-777-6878,   montgomerycountymd.gov.

. 

Local events in Maryland

Daytime Parent Support and Learning Group

Held in Rockville, MD, this monthly meeting will provide guest speakers to teach and advise parents on topics relating to raising children with ADHD and/or Sensory Processing Disorders.  Get peer support and learn from professionals who will equip you with concrete tools and recommendations.
Meeting every third Thursday of the month, the next gathering is January 19, from 9:15-11:30AM.  There is a membership fee.  To RSVP, and for more details, email:  adhdparentsforum@yahoo.com.

Ivymount Model Asperger Program (MAP) Lecture Series

Monday, January 23: Unstuck and On Target: A Panel Discussion of How to Promote Flexibility and Problem Solving in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders Panel includes the authors of Unstuck and On Target: Lynn Cannon, Lauren Kenworthy, Katie Alexander, Monica Adler Werner & Laura Anthony.

 

Registration is free, however donations of $10 or more will support MAP's ongoing quality programming for the autism community.  RSVP for this lecture, 301-469-0223.

 

Pictures of your Special child

I invite you to send me a picture, that you will allow me to post, of your Special Needs child (other people may be included in those photos), and (with your permission to post), please write a brief description and/or share a little something you'd like the readers to know!  Special Needs Matter reserves the right to edit any text sent in to this blog.  (Mainly, what will be edited is bad language.) 

Local events in Maryland we can enjoy with our Special Needs child and the ENTIRE family

Resources for our family members with special needs  

and their families.

OUT and ABOUT!

·         Swim Lessons   ~Sports Plus’ is offering swim lessons starting January 14, 2012, at two locations, the Quince Orchard Swim and Tennis Club and Georgetown Prep.  Call for registration information, 301-452-3781.

·         Bounce U-just for our kids! ~ On February 6, 2011, and every 1^st Monday of the month, Bounce U presents: Sensory Rebound Bounce, from 6-7:30 PM.  No loud music and limited attendance in a supportive environment.  Reservations are required.  In Clarksburg, 301-515-5665 and in Rockville, 301-340-1311.

·         Let’s Go To The Movies!: THE  SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY ~

playing on February 25, 2012, at the AMC Loews Theaters at Rio Cinemas 18, in Gaithersburg, MD.  This 10 A.M. showing provides a special opportunity for families to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment.  Lights will be dimmed up, the sound turned down, and the audience will be invited to get up, walk, dance, shout, or sing!  301-948-6763.

ACTION AND INFORMATION

·         MC Trans ~ Presents speaker Dr. Valerie Hu, will discuss the topic of ‘What Causes Autism?’.  Dr. Hu is a researcher in autism and Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the George Washington University Medical Center and is also a mother of a son with ASD.  This meeting will be held on January 12, 2012, from 7:30-9PM, at the Arc of Montgomery County, 11600 Nebel Street, Rockville MD. 

·         Partnership for Extraordinary Minds ~Presents ‘Parents Night’, on January 18, 2012, from 7-9PM, in Rockville, MD.  A panel of parents will be discussing the topic of mainstreaming your child with autism.  This panel has successfully mainstreamed and will share tips and strategies.   There is no registration required for this free meeting.  For specifics, call 301-444-5225.  Light refreshments will be served. 

·         Parent Academy Workshop~ presents ‘Understanding ADHD and How to Help Your Child’, on February 1, 2012, at the Cabin John MS, in Potomac, MD.  Learn about ADHD and explore strategies and interventions that support academic and social success.  Register online:  montgomeryschoolsmd.org/departments/parentacademy/register.aspx.

SUPPORT GROUPS:

·         Parent Connection~ A peer support group for parents of children with LD (learning disabilities), will be holding their next meeting on January 18, 2012, and continue every 3^rd Wednesday of the month, from 7-8:30PM, at the Flower Valley ES.  The topic will be on modifications and accommodations for the LD/ADHD student, followed by open discussion.  RSVP at ldamcpc@yahoo.com.

·         Parents of Children with ASDs (Autism Spectrum Disorders)~ sponsored by JSSA, this free support group shares coping strategies, community resources, developing networks and gaining support.  February 5, 2011, in Rockville, MD, from 7-8:15PM.  Registration required: 301-610-8361.

·         Family Support Group ~ This free, monthly group focuses on building a support network, connecting with your community resources and learning to balance your own needs with those of children with special needs.  The next meeting will be on February 21, 2012, from 7:15-9PM., in Rockville, MD.  Pre-registration is required, 301-610-8355.