FEB 26 & 27 HAPPENING FAST....in NoVA, Rockville and Bethesda, MD

Going Places!  A Social Club For Adults 30+ With Asperger's

"JSSA  and the Jewish Community Center of Northern Virginia (JCCNV), co-sponsor this structured and supportive monthly social outing program for adults 30+ with Asperger's syndrome or related disorders."  The next outing is set for February 26, 2012, time and location still to be announced.  $25 per event.  Registration is required:  melissah@jccnv.org or 703-537-3040.  

Cool, Calm & Connected:  A Young Adult Social Skills Therapy Group

This group is geared to persons ages 19-25, who have PDD, Asperger's syndrome or related disorders.  "Participants will focus on understanding others and improving their own non-verbal communication, building social confidence and conversation skills, and managing difficult emotions."  The next meeting will be on February 27, 2012, from 6:45-7:45 PM in Rockville, MD.  $65 per session and may be insurance-reimbursable.  301-816-2633.  

College Planning for Students Who Learn Differently: Fostering Independence and Understanding Options

This presentation will discuss topics such as: preparing students for independence and success, psychoeducational testing, support services and programs at colleges, Q&A, and much more.   
This one evening seminar will be on February 27, 2012, from 7:30-9PM, at the Walter Johnson High School in Bethesda, MD.  Aquire details by emailing: suec59@comcast.net or joan.wittan@gmail.com

Coming TODAY and Sunday, February 26, 2012

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.

The Auburn School presents a free Lecture: 

ADHD & Ececutive Functioning: What You Should Know.

Speaker, Dr. Karen Lamb will be featured, today, February 23, 2012, from 7-8:30PM, at the Silver Spring, MD campus of the Auburn School.  At this FREE lecture, Dr. Lamb will discuss bridging school to home as well as providing helpful strategies.  Lamb has a practice at Alvord, Baker, and has a distinct and specialized knowledge of children with ADHD and their challenges with executive functioning.  Please register at www.theauburnschool.org/silverspring 

Light dinner will be served. 

 

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

 

-Special Needs Matter-

 

 

 

Happening Tomorrow and Saturday!

SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee)

invites all to meet on February 23, 2012, from 7-9PM, at the Carver Admin Building, Rockville, MD, #127.  Babysitting provided.

Topics for the evening:  MCPS proposed program enhancements and changes for special education services for 2012-2013 school year.  And, the Facilitated IEP process to ensure meaningful participation of parents.

Gwen Mason, Director of Special Education will lead the discussion.

Anyone wanting to give public testimony please bring 5 copies of your testimony with you.  For more details, please email: Joan Sabaka, SEAC Co-chair, valentine20@aol.com 

Let's Go To The Movies!  Who Cares That My Kid Is Super Noisy!!!Join AMC Theatres and the Autism Society on Saturday, February 25, 2012, for a special showing of Journey 2: The Mysterious Island. The movie starts at 10 a.m. local time in participating theatres nationwide. Details and to find a theatre near you, visit www.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms

FREE Lecture and Workshops in Vienna, VA and Silver Spring, MD

Relationship Development Intervention Lecture - A New Approach to Autism Communication Strategies

A NEW APPROACH TO HELPING AUTISM

An introductory lecture about Relationship Development Intervention.  RDI is a rellatively new approach to autism intervention.  It's individualized autism therapy that enables parents to understand and work with their child and influence development through relationships and real life experinces.  This a new way to think about communication and working with individuals.  Lecture will be held February 27, 2012, from 7:30-9PM, in Vienna, VA.  FREE.  Please RSVP to erin.roundtree@mcleanbible.org , 703-770-2938, or www.accessministrymbc.org.   

Special Education: Parents as Advocates and the Family-School Partnership - 4-days Workshops

Learn about the SpEd process and advocating for your child.  Topics include: Individualized Education  Act, IEP, resolving issues, community resources, networking, and support.  The three dates are: March 5, 12, and 19, 2012, in Silver Spring, MD, from 6:30- 8:30PM.  FREE.  Register at www.mcpsparentacademy.org or 301-517-5940.    

FEBRUARY EVENTS AIN'T FINISHED YET!

Be Social Kids presents Writing Social Stories Workshop, on February 21, 2012, from 7:15-8:30PM, in Potomac, MD.  "Learn the steps in creating a social stories for your child.  A Social Story describes a situation, skills,  or concept in terms of relevant social cues, perspective, and common responses utilizing a specific format.  This approach allows the child to gain an understanding of events and expectations  that may result in more effective responses and/or behavior.  This workshop will be hands-on, and allow you to develop a story specific for your child."  For registration info, go online to http://www.besocialkids.com/images/BeSocial-Workshops_03.pdf

Sibshops presented by the Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital and the Arc Montgomery County.  Meet other kids ages 8-13, who have a sibling with special needs.  Play fun, high-energy games in a safe enviroment.  And you can alk about the good and hard parts of having a sib with special needs.  Registration CLOSES for March, April, and May sessions on February 24, 2012.  The fun kicks-off on March 4, 2012, in Silver Spring, MD.  For details and to register, call 410-578-5169 or email sibshopsofmaryland@yahoo.com   

Accessibility Summit Early Bird rates registration ENDS on February 24, 2012.  This two day summit brought to you by and housed at the McLean Bible Church, in Leesburg, VA, presents 30 workshops and pre-and post-conference workshops   Keynote speakers are Eustacia Cutler, mother of Dr. Temple Grandin, and Patrick Henry Hughes, intervied on Oprah and the Today Show.  Hughes was born without eyes nor the ability to fully straighten his arms and legs.  However, he is a virtuoso pianist, singer, and trumpet player.  Please visit the website for details for links leading to all the workshops provided, hotel accommodations, and  for a Summit brochure.  The Summit is on April 20 and 21, 2012.    http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=gijeeocab&v=001s0rRepf3dPaDaha4vo9s0rSYM1xBZrSuoTAdIcefR8qeblaOASQI9PztdGYBSJ14UoNnzfnmvP5CagT09Sq7rXRkAiM06h6kQTP6G9CL7-aNsPlOzYw84awGiPsR8dtWlrztr3jm-9zi0tL49lnO0NzBBBFg1Y10hBF6p0ZW-sla2Oek2UZ0M9zPJl02xlWFSb-vjxQMxWN5xRKAZeVufClGpp-2pCDQtBIe4CtkSmOPVueJh5M5GEoAu-9XaqQyor1tQ-34cSn6t3OhqoR03ahs4BzFb3jDxfSoLyh7t4s%3D

 M&L Special Needs Planning, LLC, offers Understand SSI/Medicaid and SSDI/Medicare Workshop, on February 21, 2012, from 7-8:30 PM, in Bethesda, MD.  Register https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=idtuvbdab&oeidk=a07e5dfxsihde629ada

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

 

-Special Needs Matter-

 

TODAY thru February 23, 2011 - Please Look Now! Free Webinars and Speaker Presentation, Commitee Meeting

Nutrition: Feeding Your Brain - FREE speaker presentation held February 16, 2012, in Bethesda, MD.                             

Charles Moseley, M.D. practices Integrative Psychiatry in utilizing both standard psychiatric, as well as innovative nutritional and metabolic strategies. His background includes the practice of general medicine, research in psychopharmacology, and treatment of adolescents, including those with ADHD. Dr. Moseley is currently the principal investigator in an FDA approved long term study of the utilization of Uridine in the treatment of Autistic Spectrum Disorder. He will discuss the role of nutrient supply to the brain, with emphasis on the role of energy production and utilization. 

6:30 – 7:30 PM     Pre-meeting Advocacy Discussion (open to all with concerns or questions)

7:30 – 9:00 PM     Speaker Presentation

Walter Johnson High School Cafeteria, 6400 Rock Spring Drive, Bethesda, MD

www.gtldnetworkmc.org

Autism College
will present two FREE online webinars on autism safety and crisis prevention, on February 18, 2012.  The first is entitled "Wandering", speaker, Dr. Joshua Feder, from 11:15AM-12:45PM, EST.  The second is entitled "Preventing and Eliminating the Use of Restraints and Seclusion", speaker Pat Amos,  from 1-2:30PM, EST.  Reserve your free spots by registering online http://autismcollege.com/register/

For Our Kids, For Ourselves, invites you to an interactive discussion with Dr. Lisa Lenhart, February 19, 2012, from 2-3:30PM, at 8300 Meadowbrook Lane, Chevy Chase, MD, on the topic of Understanding Psychological Evaluations and Testing for Learning Disabilities. 
Speaker, Dr. Lenhart, will provide an overview of the evaluation process for identifying learning disabilities by defining different kinds of evaluations, diagnoses, and the characteristics & behaviors of children with learning disabilities.  Fee $12/$15.
RSVP via email,  adhdparentsforum@yahoo.com 

SEAC (Special Education Advisory Committee)

invites all to meet on February 23, 2012, from 7-9PM, at the Carver Admin Building, Rockville, MD, #127.  Babysitting provided.

Topics for the evening:  MCPS proposed program enhancements and changes for special education services for 2012-2013 school year.  And, the Facilitated IEP process to ensure meaningful participation of parents.

Gwen Mason, Director of Special Education will lead the discussion.

Anyone wanting to give public testimony please bring 5 copies of your testimony with you.  For more details, please email: Joan Sabaka, SEAC Co-chair  Valntine20@aol.com

Events and Information brought to you by the Autism Society

Send an  Autism Society eCard this Valentine’s Day
This unique eCard- features artwork drawn by an individual on the spectrum.  Send this eCard for Valentine's Day to those who make a difference in your life: parents, teachers, care-givers, or persons on the spectrum.  
The Autism Society wishes you a Happy Valentine's Day!  
http://support.autism-society.org/site/Ecard?ecard_id=1081

Let's Go To The Movies!  Who Cares That My Kid Is Super Noisy!!!
Join AMC Theatres and the Autism Society on Saturday, February 25, 2012, for a special showing of Journey 2: The Mysterious Island. The movie starts at 10 a.m. local time in participating theatres nationwide. Details and to find a theatre near you, visit www.autism-society.org/sensoryfilms.
Earlier Signs of Autism Detected (By Birbeck University of London)
http://www.autism-society.org/news/earlier-signs-of-autism-1.html

Building Our Future Educating Students on the Spectrum

This 12-page publication provides information about working with students on the autism spectrum. Educators and school administrators provide the best educational services and supports when they become familiar with the learning styles of students with ASD and with the various educational approaches designed to meet their unique needs.  Visit the Autism Society to download this brochure. 
http://www.autism-society.org/about-us/publications/resource-materials.html

 

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

 

-Special Needs Matter-

 

New York Times Article on Dyslexia

The Upside Of Dyslexia

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/05/opinion/sunday/the-upside-of-dyslexia.html?_r=1

 

 

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

 

-Special Needs Matter-

 

Mentoring; Swim Lessons; All In MD.

The Parents' Place of Maryland
is seeking parents of children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing to serve as volunteer Parent to Parent (P2P) Mentors for families of babies and young children who are newly diagnosed with a hearing loss. 

All volunteers must be willing to:

Answer any questions the parent may have

Share their experiences in parenting a child who is deaf or hard of hearing

Share ALL the options families have to communicate with their child

Connect the family with resources that might help

Applications are due by February 24, 2012.  For details, contact Cheri Dowling by email at CAD800@aol.com or by phone at (443) 277-8899.

Sports Plus
The 2012 Late Winter Swim Programs, for adults and children with neurological disabilities, begin February 25, 2012.  Register at www.playsportsplus.org

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

-Special Needs Matter-

In The News And On The Air! 2/9/12. B'more Abilities Special Arts Center

http://campaign.r20.constantcontact.com/render?llr=uzoeggeab&v=001dTY-NYldfV0MeV9dd7Dzv4X8cuAz7XetZRUmBXvaa-HebadidVkEsvLFSSBbUxzoDXxhXFmf-j--FqqaYn4LVwJLUP3QH2zQFfzNo_Qfu14gszBwH5B3Xw%3D%3D

Maryland Events for February 2012

Resources for our students with special needs  

and their families.

specialneedsmatter.blogspot.com

OUT and ABOUT!

·         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 now through February, 16, 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

·         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:

·         Montgomery County Parent/Caregiver AD/HD Support Group 

At these meetings, parents and caregivers of children and teens with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, give and receive support, ideas, and encouragement. Sharing is facilitated by experienced clinicians affiliated with Alvord, Baker, Associates.  Next meeting will be on February 9, 2012, from 7:30-9:30PM, in Kensington, MD.  For details, email sanci@rcn.com or 301-656-5811.

·         Autism Society Parent Support Meeting ~  will hold its next support group on February 9, 2012, from 7:30-9PM, in Rockville, MD.  Call 301-924-2211.

·         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. 

Walking with other parents that could use your support!

Parent to Parent (P2P) is looking for support parents for the following families in the Maryland area:

1) Mom of a 17-month old boy with profound sensory dysregulation.  This little boy currently does not walk, talk, or respond to anything but his name.  Mom is originally from the country of Georgia and would ideally prefer to speak Georgian, but she also speaks Russian and would welcome a match with a Russian speaker, as well. 

2) Mom of a 5-month old daughter with Down Syndrome.  This mom would prefer to connect with a Spanish-speaking mentor who also has a child with Down Syndrome. 

3) Mom of a 6-month old son with a possible mitochondrial disorder.  There is no official diagnosis at this time, but the little boy has low tone and is receiving early intervention services.  Mom speaks Cantonese or Mandarin and would prefer to be matched with someone who shares a common language and cultural background. 

P2P is a free and confidential peer mentoring program for parents of children with special needs.  If you think you can provide emotional and informational support to any of these parents, please consider becoming a support parent. 

For details, please email kmiddlebrooks@seeconline.org or call 240-472-7363.

Website:

www.seeconline.org

Workshops in Rockville and Bethesda, MD

Understanding SSI/Medicaid & SSDI/Medicare Workshop-sponsored by the M&L Special Needs Planning, LLC
Government benefits of SSI/Medicaid & SSDI/Medicare are discussed in a language that one can understand.  Learn in detail what the govt benefits and programs are, their importance, when to apply, how to apply, how to qualify, and how much money the individual w/ disabilities could receive.  Discussion also includes info of when SSA moves an individual from SSI to SSDI and keeping Medicaid and/or without the govt benefit of SSI or SSDI.  This workshop is being held on February 7, 2012, from 7-830P in Rockville, MD, and February 21, 2012, from 7-8:30P in Bethesda, MD.  Call 202-2487113.

Swimming Lessons and Meeting with Legislators, both in Maryland

Sportsplus 
is beginning new swim programs starting February 25, 2012, at both Quince Orchard Swim and Tennis Club in Gaithersburg, Md., and Georgetown Prep School in Bethesda, Maryland.  To register, access the website at  www.playsportsplus.org or 301-452-3781.

Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature

February 21, 2012

This event is for people with disabilities, families, providers and advocates to go to Annapolis and meet with legislators about critical disability issues.

Visit The Arc of Maryland for more details about this day.

Support and Events in Virginia

(Continued from previous Blog below regarding McLean Bible Church)

Support for Parents

(held at MBC Tysons)

 

Parent Support Group

For parents of children or adults with special needs to share in a time of healing and encouragement through fellowship, scripture, prayer, and support.

INFO: Isabelle Brugere, 703-639-2000 x3434

CHILDCARE: Jackie Janssen, 703-770-3438

Access Moms' Small Group
A place for moms to grow in God's Word while connecting with other women who have children with special needs. Meet other moms for study and fellowship 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM in the Connect Room, 1605, on the first floor of the Tysons Campus. Childcare is not provided for this group.

INFO: Connie Hagewood

 

Access In-Home Care Referral Network

 

This network is an informal group consisting of a list of Soaring Over Seven Summer camp staffers and volunteers that may be willing to work with your children / young adults at home when you need it.

INFO: Mary Hasson, 703-770-8654

 

Seeking ASL Interpreter

MBC Tysons is looking for qualified American Sign Language Interpreters to provide services to deaf and hard-of-hearing persons in a variety of MBC events. If interested or for any questions, please contact Phyllis Rogers at mom48kidz@yahoo.com.

For more information about Access Ministry, please visit the

MBC Tysons or MBC Loudoun websites.

 

Events and Support in Virginia

McLean Bible Church in McLean, VA, Offers Tremendous Support and Love for those with Special Needs and Their Families.
I know this personally because my family and I have gone to MBC for nine years.  It takes us about 30 to 45 minutes to drive there but it's so well worth it.  This was the first church I encountered that gave and showed my autistic son, Jordan and my family genuine love, acceptance, and support.  The head Pastor is Lon Solomon.  He too has a Special Needs child.  Because of this, he feels that God put it in his heart to start a Special Needs Ministry.  Your Special Needs family member is so welcomed.  MBC has 'Sunday school' for our loved ones.  With a full-time RN on premises during every service (Saturdays and Sundays), we can comfortably pay attention to church service while our precious children are so well taken care of.  By the way, Jordan loves church and becomes very upset when we miss church!
You do NOT have to be a member of McLean Bible Church in order to benefit from these terrific programs.

McLean Bible Church provides the following services for our kids and us:
Weekly Classes

Friendship Club A weekly Sunday School community where adults aged 16+ come together for fellowship and learning. (held at MBC Tysons)

INFO: Brian Rice, 703-770-2985
Beautiful Blessings Weekly Sunday School for children aged 2-15 years.

INFO: Jackie Janssen, 703-770-3438 (Tysons)  INFO: Wendy Melcher, 703-770-8661 (Loudoun)

 

Monthly Programs

Respite

Programs, such as Breakaway and Break Out, designed to give parents much-needed breaks from the constant care of their children with disabilities; typically held twice a month. Siblings-Only events, for siblings of children with disabilities, are held monthly.  INFO: Mary Hasson, 703-770-8654 (Tysons)   INFO: Wendy Melcher, 703-770-8661 (Loudoun)