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 REACH Parent Network Information Exchange.

March 29, 2013   

This information exchange, sponsored by Reach, is by parents for parents.  It's content is  guided by Reach's mission to provide choices for families,  be family centered, facilitate inclusion, and  exist as a quality resource.  The information is meant to meet the needs of a multitude of families' interests.  We caution readers that Reach does not investigate all claims, and that claims  made  are not necessarily endorsed or recommended by Reach. Readers are encouraged to undertake further investigation on their own of items noted. 

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topQuick Links

Reach News 

Help a Parent?

 Autism

 ADD/ADHD

 Down Syndrome 

FASD

Medical

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Ministry Information

Workshops and Training

Seasonal

Other

Submissions and Questions?  

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ReachReach News 
  • On Saturday April 13th, 2013 the second annual Rockin' for Reach
    benefit concert and dance will once again take place at the Kinvillage Community Centre. Last year's Rockin' for Reach sold out to a crowd of 250, and raised $9,000. This year Reach is hoping to raise that again. Headlining the event once again is legendary Vancouver rock and blues band Incognito with special guestJerry Doucette, and opening act
    Tyson McIlroy and Carter Low. The event will also feature a cash bar, a 50/50 draw, Easter egg prizes, and a silent 'ROCKTION' with rock n' roll goodies to bid on. All proceeds go towards Reach's Building for Children Together capital building project.Rockin' for Reach happens on Saturday April 13th at the Kinvillage Community Centre at 5430 10th avenue in Tsawwassen. It is for ages 19 and over. Tickets are $20 in advance or $30 at the door and can be purchased in advance at both Ladner and Tsawwassen Videoland locations, or at the front desk of Reach Ladner. Visit and like our Rockin' for Reach Facebook page at our facebook page for updates on the event and a special Silent Rocktion music trivia contest for a chance to win free tickets!
    • We have something really special in store for you at the Rockin for Reach Silent Rocktion auction this year! We have partnered once again the Autograph Store to bring you autographed merch from your favourite artists. Our top item is this electric guitar autographed by Paul McCartney up for bids! Guitar comes with a certificate of authenticity. We know a lot of people who would like to get their hands on this.
    • We will also have 
      �         Framed Bob Dylan "Desire" album, autographed by Bob Dylan 
      �         Framed "Born In The USA" album autographed by Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band 
      �         Framed autographed Adele photo ( 16x20) 
      �         Framed "Mr. & Mrs. Smith" movie poster autographed by Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt  (11x14)
       
  • Reach Presentation Positive Parenting: the Basics and Beyond April 4th and April 11th is fully booked at this time.   We are working on setting up another two part session and will let you know asap!
  • Reach Presentation: Executive Functioning and Children.  Executive functions are the way in which the brain processes appropriate actions, plans, and filters through information. These are the thinking skills involved in self-monitoring, sustaining attention, memory, planning, and inhibition. Many children have difficulties in this area. In this workshop we will discuss what executive functions are, as well as practical ways parents can help children to develop these types of skills.

    Facilitated by: Kelly McGregor, POPARD Behaviour Consultant, BCBA

    Date:             Thursday May 9, 2013

    Time:            7 - 8:30pm

    Location:    Reach Child and Youth Development

    Society        #3 - 3800 72nd Street in Ladner

                                  (Near the Boundary Bay Airport)

    Register by email here or call 604-946-6622 ext 359 

    Participant Information:

    $20 workshop fee can be paid at the door. Cash or cheque only.

     

  • Social Smart Group - Learning Social Skills and Using them!

    Social skills are one of the most important skills that children need to learn. More importantly, children need to have the opportunity to use the social skills they have learned. Social Smart Group is a program that provides a natural setting where children will be learning and practicing the social skills through playing, chatting, snacking, outing, and more.  Social Smart Group is a 1.5-hour program that runs once a week for 9 or 10  weeks. There will be 6 - 8 children in the group, programmed by one behaviour consultant and one group facilitator. Throughout the weeks, our goal is to help strengthen their social skills by guiding, coaching, and supporting their social interaction with their peers

      •  Who:              Grade 5 - 7 boys and girls

        Time:              Tuesday, 6:15pm - 7:45pm

        Dates:            April 16 - June 11, 2013

        Location:       10921 82nd Ave, North Delta

        Cost:              $630 per child for 9 weeks

      • Who:              Grade 2 - 4 boys and girls

        Time:              Wednesday, 6:15pm - 7:45pm

        Dates:            April 10 - June 12, 2013

        Location:       10921 82nd Ave, North Delta

        Cost:              $700 per child for 10 weeks

      •  Registration - TEL: 604-946-6622, ext 300 or Email here 

  • New Support Group for Reach Parents at Two Locations

    Thanks to everyone who has come to the new parent support groups at Reach. This is a place where parents of children can come to talk and share ideas, stories and solutions. Whether you are new to diagnosis, treatment, advocacy and adjustment to your child's additional needs or you are an experienced parent who can give new parents a helping hand or you are struggling at any point in your journey, come and share with us. 
    Here are the dates and times (you can come to both):
    North Delta 
    Every second Tuesday of the month 
    6:30 - 8:00 
    11425 84th Avenue (Play & Learn Centre)
    South Delta 
    Every fourth Wednesday of the month 
    6:30 - 8:00 
    #3 - 3800 72nd Street (Reach main site near Boundary Bay Airport)
    Call if you want more information  (604) 946-6622 Ext 347  See you there!! 

           

  • Parent Circle: Parent Support Circle is a free, monthly, confidential parent gathering with a focus on parenting children with ADHD or behaviour challenges. Led by trained facilitators. The last Friday of every month from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m.
    at Reach, #3 3800 72nd street Ladner
    To register call Lisa at 604-946-6622 ext.342 or email here
    or call Bella at 604-569-3110 or email here 
  • We're building a child development centre in the heart of the community  Click here  to find out how you can help.

Click here to see our WEBSITE! 

 

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Help
Help a Parent?
  • Hello,  I have two son's with CAPD (Central Auditory Processing Disroder).  The audiologist at Surrey Memorial Hospital and the ENT feels they need supports put in place at school.  In order to do this I need to have them coded/ designation.  The school is refusing to even address it as they say that CAPD is not recognized by the Ministry as qualifying doe coding and also they have to have a discrepancy of 40 points in two areas of learning.  I have been in touch with two people at the Ministry of Education and they both say that they definitely qualify under learning disability due to the processing difficulty, language retention difficulty and working memory issues.  There is definitely no doubt in their minds that they should get a designation.  I brought this in writing to the school and the school still refused.  I think if I find proof of another school that has given a designation to a child with CAPD then it may help some.  I was wondering if you are aware of any schools or school districts in BC that have coded/ designated a child with CAPD/ APD?  If not, could you help me with any other ideas as to where I should go from here?Thank you very much for your assistance.  Please email here. 
  • Do you know if there is a store in Greater Vancouver that sells weighted blankets?  There are many available online but it would be difficult to figure out what weight would be suitable.   If you can pass this on to anyone that may know would be great. Please respond to Pam via email here 
  • I'm looking to find a experienced worker for before/after school care for 2 children with special needs. If you know of someone who would be interested or looking for experience. I'm in the North Delta area. Please contact me - Terri via email here 
  • Are you a working parent with child who has a disability who has aged out of licensed childcare.  I'm looking to connect with other parents in the same situation to try to establish a daycare or place that caters to this age as there is nothing in this area. It would be great for our kids to have a routine, social interactions and some fun (especially on Pro D's). I know that another community has started this and I'm looking to try to get something going in Delta area. Contact me, Terri - via email here 

  

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AutismAutism    

  •  AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH IS APRIL  

    • We are happy to share that HOME DEPOT is once again selling
      blue light bulbs to shine a light on autism! The Autism Speaks blue light bulbs are sold for only $1.99, and $1 of that is donated back to Autism Speaks. These are available NOW in select Home Depot locations across Canada. You can check to see if your local store has them in stock here: HERE. Just click on the "Check Store Inventory" button.  Let's Light It Up Blue everyone! 
    • Friend 2 Friend Offers Vancouver Schools Free Programs to Raise Awareness for Children with Autism.   Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society gives away their signature Autism Demystification programs during the month of April to celebrate International Autism Awareness month.  "We do 'awareness', or what we at Friend 2 Friend refer to as demystification, everyday through the delivery of our autism demystification programs, so it seemed fitting to celebrate International Autism Awareness month by offering these programs completely free to our community," says Heather McCracken, the founder and executive director. Friend 2 Friend is offering one free program to Vancouver based schools, preschools and daycares on a first come, first served bases throughout the month of April.   Friend 2 Friend Social Learning Society was founded in 2002 by Heather McCracken - a parent of three, including a son who has autism. The nonprofit charity provides innovative social, communication, peer play and friendship programs to children on the autism spectrum and with related needs throughout B.C., Canada, the United States and internationally. For more information visit here 
    • CAN Family Festival 2013  
      WHEN:
      April 28th, 2013, from 10:30am-2:30pm 
      WHERE: Jack Poole Plaza (Vancouver Convention Centre)
       WHAT: Autism walk, live entertainment, food and family-friendly activities!  

      COST: Free!  Join us on Sunday, April 28th, 2013 as we celebrate Autism Awareness Month with the 2nd Annual CAN Family Festival, presented by Macquarie and the West Coast Fishing Club Fishing for Kids Tournament. Interested in supporting individuals and families living with autism in BC? You can help in many ways.  Click here for more information 

    • April is World Autism Awareness Month! Grab a coffee and Drop In
      Follow Peggy BoonParent and Life Coach on FACEBOOK HERE to find out about complimentary 1 hour Group Drop- in sessions for the month of April...bring a friend! Everyone is welcome Dates and locations for Autism Awareness Drop ins will be announced the last week of March. Click here  for her website

    • Authors with Autism; April 2, 2013

      AwA is a University of Victoria based learning community for persons with autism. Writing fosters communication skills that allow social spaces to manifest. Members do not have to be gifted or published writers, Authors with Autism is about persons with autism authoring their own lives.  

      Your local autism community along with UVic's Centre for Autism Research, Technology, and Education (CARTE) invites you to a unique and intimate evening of autism cultural sharing! This is a rare opportunity to experience the miracles and wonders of autism intelligence and identity--neurodiversity in the first person!  Click here for more information
    • ICDL FREE WEBINARS! April: In Celebration of Autism Acceptance Month
      Thursday April 1st, 4pm EDT
      Parenting Towards Acceptance
      Presenters:Brenda Rothman, Mother and Blogger Mama Be Good
      Ariane Zucher, Mother and Blogger Emma's HopeBook
      Melody Latimer, Mother, Autistic Self-Advocate, and Director of community engagement, Autistic Self Advocacy         
      Wednesday April 10th, 4pm EDT
      Understanding Disability Policy:
      What the Autism Community Doesn't Think About
      Presenter: Ari Ne'eman, President and Cofounder of ASAN
      Thursday April 18th, 4pm EDT
      Does Inclusion Really Work?
      Presenter: Carol Quirk, Ed.D.,Co-Executive Director, Maryland Coalition for Inclusive Education, MCIE
      Thursday April 25th, 4pm EDT
      Two Parents Using Their Creative Talents
      to Disseminate Messages of Acceptance
      Presenter:Priscilla Gilman, Mother and Author, The Anti-Romantic Child. A Memoir of Unexpected Joy. more info here
      Todd Drezner, Father and Director of documentary film, Loving Lamppost. movie info here
      Tuesday April 30th, 4pm EDT                                                      
      Perceived Aggression During Early Adolescence:
      What is Behind the Behavior and How to Prevent or Safely Respect Meltdowns
      Presenters:Cecilia Breinbauer, MD, MPH, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist
      Savannah Nicole Logsdon-Breakstone, Autistic Self-Advocate, blogger, author of
      I Was One of the Scary Kids  
       Click here for more information
        
  • Acceptance vs. Awareness.  What's the difference, you ask? The gulf between awareness and understanding is as wide as any ocean.  Awareness is all about creating a sense of urgency and fear. Awareness efforts present us as a problem to be solved, and yesterday. Awareness operates in stereotypes and soundbites, not real people. Awareness has no substance; it is but a tool to earn more money to fix us and to promote yet more awareness.  Awareness is easy. Acceptance requires actual work.  Acceptance comes from a place of understanding Understanding isn't generated by soundbites and posterchildren. Understanding takes work. To accept us, people first need to acknowledge us as individuals-as three dimensional, growing, developed characters. We are not all the same, and we are not but a collection of deficits. Acceptance is seeing that-and seeing that one's distaste for an autistic person is more likely than not because of "autism". Awareness tells you that anything objectionable about us is "autism", but that explanation is clear, simple, and wrong. "Awareness says the tragedy is that I exist as I am. Acceptance says that the tragedy would be trying to make me any other way."  Click here to read more 

     

  • Warning April is coming!  It's that time of year again. April fast approaches and with it the scramble to not so much become aware of autism but to be seen to be aware. Like any condition where being aware of it is "cool" there will be the usual Facebook things. For autism for whatever reason the colour of choice is blue. Like cancer awareness, autism awareness is an industry in and of itself.  You can buy blue accessories to show the world how aware you are. Along with any other number of things that really don't do much for actual autistics at all. The foundation that shall not be named (I have chosen to treat this especially noxious group much like Voldemort is in the Harry Potter universe) will make a very hefty sum of money in April as will many other groups.  The raise money for autism trend is spreading so you can buy all sorts of things where a portion of the profits go towards something autism related. The rest of the profits of course are exactly that.  Click here to read more 
  • My Autistic Son aka Jayden's Song (Filmed and Edited by Alex Rivera & PNER Only Us).  (Recorded and Engineered by Reazon) I made this song to uplift people, especially those dealing with an autistic child. Maybe this will help change the world for the better. God Bless. 
    My Autistic Son aka Jayden's Song (Filmed and Edited by Alex Rivera & PNER Only Us) 
    My Autistic Son aka Jayden's Song (Filmed and Edited by Alex Rivera & PNER Only Us)
     
     
  • Video Game Developer Tries to Recreate the Autistic's World.  Autism education is going interactive thanks, in part, to Vancouver-based video game designer Taylan Kadayifcioglu.

    Kadayifcioglu, who goes by the name Taylan Kay, and  his two other team members created a video game demonstration called "Auti-Sim" that mimics living with hypersensitivity, a common symptom for those with autism.  The game was created in just 12 hours as part of last month's Vancouver's Hacking Health Hackathon, a computer programming event that encouraged technology experts to mix with health care professionals in order to find tech-based solutions to health issues. Rather than create a game purely for fun, Kay wanted to design one that would be educational and raise awareness about the daily challenges for people with autism.  Click here to read more and see a sample! 

     
  • Encouraging Eye Contact May Disturb Autistic Kids' Thinking.  Children with autism look away from faces when thinking, especially about a challenging problem - just as people without the condition do, according to a recent study. Avoiding eye contact is a common behavior of people with autism, and children with the condition are sometimes trained and encouraged to meet other's gazes.  Click here to read more 
     
  • The Really Big Lie About Autism Continues: One in 50.  By Anne Dachel.  In 2006 and in 2007, I wrote stories on "The Really Big Lie About Autism."  This is of course the insane claim that the autism epidemic is simply the result of an expanded definition and greater awareness. It's just been announced that we now have an autism rate of one in every 50 children, one in every 31 boys.  The official disclaimer is unchanged as we can see in these reports:  Click here to read more 
     
  • ATTENTION ALL DADS! "SHOP TALK" GROUP FOR FATHERS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM 
    Miriam Elfert is a graduate student at UBC and is conducting a study to learn about what it's like for fathers of children with autism to participate in a weekly discussion group with other fathers. You are invited to participate in this study. 
    Shop Talk is a group developed specifically for fathers of children with autism to meet and talk about their experiences of parenting. Each group will consist of 6-8 fathers who will talk about different topics every week, including the challenges of parenting a child with autism, stress management, and how having a child with autism has affected their relationships with friends and family members.  
    You are eligible to participate if you: 1) are the father of a child with autism who is younger than 11 years old and who was diagnosed between 6-18 months ago, 2) are currently married or in a common-law relationship, 3) are committed to attending all of the weekly group sessions, and 4) are not currently receiving psychotherapy or taking medication for mental health issues. 
    Participants will be assigned to 1 of 2 groups, which will run consecutively. Each group will consist of nine, 2-hour weekly group sessions, for a total of 18 hours. Sessions will take place at a regular, convenient time for group members each week at the Play and Learn Centre at 11425 - 84th Avenue in North Delta.  In total, the time commitment for the study will be 18 hours for the group sessions and approximately 3 hours for completion of the questionnaires, for a total of 21 hours. 
    Shop Talk is offered free of charge to participants. To cover the cost of transportation, participants will receive $10 for every Shop Talk session they attend, plus an honorarium of $20 for participating in the study, for a maximum of $110. 
    Please call Miriam Elfert at (604) 677-7911 or email her here. In the event that you don't meet all of the eligibility criteria but you are still interested in participating, please contact Miriam Elfert, as some of the eligibility criteria might be waived. 
  • Autism Speaks: Autism and Employment NEW! We are pleased to announce the launch of the Autism Speaks Employment Tool Kit!  This kit was designed to help you research, find and keep employment in the current, competitive labor market. Stories, tips and resources were developed from a collaboration of people, including adults with autism, dedicated to increasing the employment participation of adults on the spectrum!  Click here to read more
     
     
  • Autism, homework & beyond by Michelle Garcia Winner.  Our daily lives are made up of an endless stream of thoughts, decisions, actions and reactions to the people and environment in which we live. The internal and external actions fit together, sometimes seamlessly sometimes not, largely dependent upon a set of invisible yet highly important skills we call Executive Functioning (EF). These skills, which involve planning, organizing, sequencing, prioritizing, shifting attention, and time management can be well-developed in some people (think traffic controllers, wedding planners, business CEOs, etc.) and less developed in others. They are vital in all parts of life, from making coffee to running a profitable business. The skills develop naturally, without specific, formal training, and we all have them to some degree - or at least, we all assume we all have them.  Click here to read more 
  • I have Asperger's; I am just like you by  Michael Ryan.  

    I am not an expert on Asperger's syndrome. But I am an expert on me, and I have Asperger's.  And attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. And a bit of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Having all three disorders together is not unusual, my doctor says.

    Like you, I get angry sometimes. And, like you, I would never think of channeling that emotion into violence.Click here to read more 

     

  • FILM:  The Story of Luke.
      Luke, 25, is autistic and has lived a sheltered life with his grandparents. But his world is turned upside down when his grandmother dies and he is forced to live with his dysfunctional relatives who have no patience for him or his senile grandfather, who they quickly force into a nursing home. Luke is left with his grandfather's final semi-coherent words: "Get a job. Find a girl. Live your own life. Be a man!" For the first time in his life, Luke has a mission. He is about to embark on a quest. 
    WHEN:  Friday, April 5th, 7 pm
    The Story of Luke - Trailer 
    The Story of Luke - Trailer

    WHERE:  The Rio Theatre ,1660 East Broadway, Vancouver 
    TICKETS:  $10 fromEventbrite 
             
  • Fraser Valley Autism Society (FVAS) Click here for website!  
    •  The Fraser Valley Autism Society has resumed its free monthly meetings
      for the season. Meetings will alternate between Chilliwack and Abbotsford on a monthly basis.  For more information please visit Our website here or email HERE
      Karen Davis,President, Fraser Valley Autism Society


       

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ADD

ADD/ADHD

  • How Do You Explain ADHD to Your Child? 
    The more kids understand about their diagnosis, the better they can manage their symptoms. These explanations can help.  I tell him that neurotypical people go from point A to E in order, but ADHD brains (we both have ADHD) go from A to C, then to D or back to B. Eventually, we get to E. -Barbara, Texas  Click here to read more 
    • Sample Dialogue for Talking About ADHD

      If your child has questions, keep your answers simple, brief, and upbeat. Here's how. Click here to read more 

    • Stand Up for Your Child with ADHD.How parents can explain ADHD to doubters both in and outside the family.  Click here to read more 

         
  • Your Medication Questions, Answered.  When it comes to treating attention deficit, good information may be the best medicine. An expert answers your questions to help you find an effective regimen.  Everyone gets a little nervous when the doctor reaches for his prescription pad and rips off a sheet to prescribe ADHD medication. So many questions, and so little time. Is the medication safe? How long will you have to take it? How will you know that it is working? What about side effects? Will you feel like a zombie, or will it put a spring in your step and give you the ability to manage symptoms? Asking those questions about your child raises your worries to a serious level. Here are straightforward answers about ADHD medication. Settle back and be informed. Click here to read more
  • Nicer...through Nurture.  When it comes to discipline and better behavior, relationships matter. These family training programs focus on the parent/child dynamic to deliver lasting, positive change.  Before Eric's fourth birthday, he had been treated by half a dozen therapists, none of whom made life easier for him or his mother. "I was always on edge at work, waiting for the phone call from his pre-school to come pick him up," recalls Michelle, a single mom in New York City. (Her name, like Eric's, has been changed to protect the family's privacy.) The trouble began when Eric was diagnosed with ADHD, which fueled his impulsive behavior--hitting, kicking, and biting. The worse Eric behaved, the more those around him scolded or avoided him, which caused him to misbehave even more. Luckily, Michelle tried one more strategy. After reading an ad in a local newspaper, she signed up Eric for an eight-week clinical trial for Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and continued on for several weeks after the trial ended. Today, two years later, she's less stressed. "I'm no longer walking on eggshells," she says. "I'm starting to enjoy my son." Click here to read more 
    • Getting Your ADD/ADHD Child to Behave.  These parenting techniques will help defuse potentially explosive situations.  Click here to read more 
    • A Family Affair--Strengthening Bonds with Your ADHD Children

      Six expert strategies for parenting ADHD children while managing a household that doesn't alienate, ignore or persecute anyone.  Click here to read more 

  • Your Anxious Teen Girl.  Constantly worried and pulling away from friends? Your ADHD daughter may have an anxiety disorder. Here's how to get the right diagnosis, and help your teen learn to cope.  By the time your ADHD daughter reaches her teen years, you will be a skilled observer of her symptoms--and you will have learned a few tricks to help her cope. But how much do you know about anxiety disordersClick here to read more 
    • Reduce Anxiety Naturally.  Six tips for treating anxiety without medication.  Click here to read more 
    • Worry Wart Remover: 8 Ways to Let It Go.  Whether your worrying is the result of an anxiety disorder, ADD/ADHD, a phobia, PTSD, OCD, or paranoia, follow Dr. Ned Hallowell's coping strategies for excessive, obsessive, or constant worrying.  Click here to read more 
  • "When Can I Go Back to Camp, Mom?" Three sets of parents signed their kids up for ADHD summer camp and found that they came home smarter, more confident, and happier.Summer camp isn't all about outdoor activities and having fun. The most important part of camp for kids with ADHD can be building self-esteem and finding a social network that feels right. ADDitude talked with several parents who hoped - and found - that summer camp would do wonders for their kids. If you're considering camp for your child this summer, you will find these three stories encouraging and inspiring.  Click here to read more 
  • KIDSMATTER:  We Offer Cutting Edge Technology for people with ADHD. Find out how we are changing lives.  iLs' programs are based on the premise that upon a mature and properly integrated nervous system. When the nervous system is immature or faulty, the flow of information of sensory information from the visual, auditory and motor systems can be disrupted.   Click here to learn more 

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 DOWNS  Down Syndrome  

 

  • Teen Makes Disability History At Mount Everest. A 15-year-old with Down syndrome is said to be the first American with the chromosomal disorder to make it to the base camp of the world's tallest mountain.  Click here to read more 
     
  • Children's Doll Line Embraces Down Syndrome.  When she couldn't find any dolls that looked like her daughter with Down syndrome, a Pennsylvania mom decided to create them herself.  Connie Feda is working on a lineup of girl and boy dolls modeled to more accurately reflect the physique of those with disabilities. Inspired by her 13-year-old daughter, Feda describes the look of her creations as "cute," "intelligent" and "spunky."  Click here to read more 
     
  • 1st Down Syndrome Cruise Conference Review! Following is Miriam Kauk's 1st review of the Mission Possible DS Cruise Conference that took place on Feb. 25, 2013:
    My first blog post about the DS cruise is  here 
     
  • BMO Vancouver Marathon.  On May 5, 2013, over 15,000 people are expected to push themselves to the limit as they compete in the BMO Vancouver Marathon. As they do, many of them will be making a huge impact in the lives of young people with Down syndrome. 
    As an official charity of the BMO Vancouver Marathon, runners are invited to participate on behalf of the Down Syndrome Research Foundation, raising funds to empower individuals with Down syndrome to reach their full potential as contributing members of the community.
    This initiative is part of the Marathon's RUN4HOPE. DSRF's runners will enjoy an exciting RUN4HOPE running package, including:
    • FREE race registration
    • FREE training clinic with the Running Room
    • RUN4HOPE tech training shirt
    • RUN4HOPE express line package pick-up
    • RUN4HOPE express line gear check
    • RUN4HOPE express line gear pick up at the finish line
    • RUN4HOPE start line warm up tent
    Click here for more information 

     

  • Artists and Entertainers Coming Together in Support of Individuals with Down Syndrome.   Lemonaid is an upscale, entertaining event to raise funds to empower children with Down syndrome to reach their full potential.When: May 23, 2013 - 7:00 pm (doors open 6:30) Where: River Rock Show Theatre, Richmond, BC
    Tickets: $85 (ages 19+) - available soon from Ticketmaster
    Event Highlights:  

    • special appearance by Lauren Potter, of the television show Glee
    • musical performances by vocalist Stephen Scaccia, pianist Austin Nash Park and others
    • live and silent auctions of signed original artwork by well-known celebrities and artists
    • cocktails and hors d'oeuvres  Click here for more information 
     

     

  • The RUN UP FOR DOWN SYNDROME is on Sunday,June 3, 2013 at SFU.  I have just done what I agreed to do....and set up our team , called TEAM GRANVILLE ISLAND...named after a group of us who have breakfast at 8 am every Sunday morning at Granville Island.  BUT, we are NOT EXCLUSIVE...we welcome anyone to join the team and walk with us ( or join us for breakie )...or if you can't walk and want to donate to our team...we would so appreciate that also.  So, if you would like to join TEAM GRANVILLE island, or donate to our team, go to the DSRF website HERE, go to Run up for Down Syndrome and register under TEAM GRANVILLE ISLAND......( ps you get a t shirt with that name on it and it saves you $10) Or you can start your own team, think you only need 10 to sign up for a team. Any questions...please ask away.....We have fast walkers, medium fast and then me...the slowest one in the race!!! I would love to have company walking....
  • Down Syndrome Research Foundation: The next block of one to one reading is now open for registration and we have spots available in Surrey and Burnaby. This block starts the week of March 25th and is a 13 week block that ends the week of June 21st. The fee is $840 and it can be paid by the month at $280 per month. There is also a $50 assessment fee for new students. Available days are Thursdays in Surrey and Wednesday/Friday in Burnaby; a few times are still available on each of these days.
    Early Foundation 3-6

    Success Builders 7-12
    Launch Pad 13-18
    Read On! adults of any age
    We build confidence and support continuous development in a supportive, individualized learning environment through:
    *      Assessment
    *      Program design
    *      Material preparation for both in-class and take home
    *      One to one teaching
    *      Modeling for team members
    *      Charting the course for continuous progression
    *      Expressive language: combining words together in sentences of increasing complexity through reading and discussion
    *      Reading: use of strategies that range from high meaning sight words, high frequency words, consonant and vowel sounds, word families, blended sounds and segmenting
    *      Comprehension: develop increased capacity to comprehend through strategies that include prediction, modeling, question�ing, and connecting to personal experiences
    *      Schedule: use of a visual schedule to support learning where needed
    *      Self-regulation: learning to make choices and self-express  Please contact Hina Mahmood or Pat Hanbury to register at 604-444-3773.
  • You are Invited to a Delta Down Syndrome Support Group meeting: OUR GOALS ARE
    � To provide guest speakers (Reach therapists, community
    professionals and other programs) to discuss common issues
    � To provide support and information to families in Delta who
    have a child with Down Syndrome
    � To help connect parents of children with Down Syndrome
    � To provide monthly meetings for parents and their children
    � To provide on-site child minding while you attend the
    discussion
    When: First Thursday of each month
    Where: Reach Developmental Preschool North Delta
    10921 - 82nd Avenue, Delta, BC
    Time: 6:00pm - 7:30pm
    Cost: No charge
    Light refreshments provided
    Please RSVP to Sarah Garnham at 604-946-6622 extension 321.
    or email here 

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FASD

FASD

  • Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: How Widespread are they in Canada.  Feb. 21, 2013 - Prenatal alcohol exposure is one of the leading known preventable causes of developmental disability and birth defects among Canadians. A new study led by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) will estimate the number of Canadians living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) to help prevent and address this disorder.   Click here to read more 
  • Strategies to Reduce Alcohol Related Harms and Costs in Canada: A Provincial Comparison. 
    EXECUTIVE SUMMARY. This report provides a systematic and compara tive review of policies and programs across all Canadian provinces which have the potential to reduce the considerable health and social harms from alcohol. The overall objective is to encourage greater uptake of these practices and thereby improve public health and safety in Canada.  Click here to read more  
  • Female drinking on the rise as alcohol companies target women.Experts suggest women may be catching up to their male peers when it comes to alcohol consumption.

    A group of researchers gathered in Toronto on Friday to discuss what they describe as a rise in female drinking.  Click here to read more 

       
  • The Richmond FASD Roundtable's 5th Annual Conference.  How Did We Get Here?
    An Interactive panel discussion - A look into Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and the Criminal Justice System   April 25, 2013 10:00am - 12:00pm  doors open at 9:30am  St Albans Church 7260 St Albans Rd Richmond
    Cost: FREE, but registration required  For more information and to register
    email: hereThe FASD Richmond  Roundtable was formed in  2008. It is a community
    initiative that builds FASD awareness through education and prevention.  
  • POPFASD; Classroom environment can have a positive and negative impact on learning for children with FASD. This video discusses strategies for managing classroom environment to support learners with FASD.  
    Class Environment 
    Class Environment
      
  • Langley - FASD adoptive and foster parents. Monthly support group meetings for those with children who have Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Info: Jamie, 604-530-5917.

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MedicalMedical 

   

  • The Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre and the FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health are pleased to announce an amazing lineup of educational events for the first half of the year 2013.   Starting in January, we will be providing youth, families, educators and health professionals with opportunities to learn about topics from bullying, internet addiction, autism, cannabis use, and self-harm to developing self advocacy skills and involving dads in mental health care. These events are free of charge and open to everyone in British Columbia. To find out more about the dates, topics, and how you can join in, view our poster or visit our website HERE .  
    APRIL 11 Gender Identity
    MAY 23 Role of Recreation in Recovery
    JUNE 20 Parental Mental Illness
    Time Thursdays, 12-1pm (PST)
    Registration PHONE 604-875-2084 or 1-800-665-1822
    EMAIL HERE
    WEB HERE  
  • Mind Matters e-newsletter provides new resources and programs offered by Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) BC Division and is committed to the mental health of British Columbians. Click here for the current edition    

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Education

Education

  

  • Inclusion / Integration.  Is There a Difference?  As our children with labels enter the education system, we often hear the words "integrated" or "included" to describe the classroom setting they will experience. In some cases the terms are used interchangeably, referring to children being "integrated into a regular classroom" and "included into a regular classroom." There are, however, significant differences between the two. Knowing these differences can help us advocate for an inclusive environment that will help all children learn.
     
  • Remember that Special Education is NOT a Place by Paula Kluth. My first boss, a director of special education, had a sign over his door declaring "Special Education is Not a Place". His philosophy was clear to anyone who visited him.This motto is clever but it also communicates a "big idea" that is commonly lost in conversations about inclusive education. Some stakeholders, for instance, believe that students must go elsewhere if they need special supports, instruction, curriculum, or assessments. It isn't uncommon to hear statements such as, "Well, we can include him for art class but he isn't at grade level for reading, so we will pull out for that." This statement illustrates a misunderstanding of inclusion.Inclusion is not about "keeping up", participating in the same tasks as others, or meeting the same goals as one's classmates. It is about using the inclusive classroom and all that it offers (e.g., rich curriculum, high expectations, communication models, peer support) as a context for learning grade-level content and meeting IEP and other personal objectives. Any number of supports and services might be utilized to help students participate and learn effectively in an inclusive classroom. These supports and services ARE special education and just because a student may need more of them or more thought put into designing them, he or she should not be sent elsewhere because "that's the way we have always done things around here", because other spaces exist to meet these needs, or because it is easier. Special education is not a place. How does your school understand this statement?
  •   
  • Bullying for Gay, Lesbian, & Bisexual Youth: Does it get better?  Does it get better? This is one of the main questions that researchers from Brunel University and the University of Illinois looked to answer in a recent study using data from the Longitudinal Study of Young People in England (LSYPE). In the survey, 8,700 adolescents and young people in England were followed over a seven-year period to examine how rates of bullying change as youth grow older, and what effect bullying has had on their emotional distress levels. Overall, 187 young people who identified themselves as lesbian, gay, or bisexual (LGB) tended to experience higher rates of bullying. However, on average, bullying of LGB youth declined significantly as they left high school.  Click here to read more

  • Out in Schools engages youth through film in the promotion of safer and more diverse learning environments, free from homophobia and bullying.  Homophobia and bullying are serious issues facing today's youth, particularly LGBT youth. By bringing queer films to local high schools to facilitate discussion with youth on bullying, homophobia, and stereotypes, we give youth a safer space to explore these issues. We aim to increase understanding through education to combat the issues threatening the safety of our classrooms for all students. Since its inception in 2004, Out in Schools has delivered more than 400 presentations to over 38,000 students across BC. For more information, contact Jen Sung here.
  • The BC Confederation of Parent Advisory Councils (BCCPAC) is extremely pleased to announce two upcoming events, Special Education Parent Network Days, an initiative of the BCCPAC Special Education Committee (SEC). These are pilot projects and will be held in New Westminster and Nanaimo. The vision is that if successful, BCCPAC will help make it possible for at least one Special Education Parent Network day to happen in every school district in BC over the next two years; connecting with and supporting parents and families of students with special needs, promoting parent engagement, education and advocacy.  Parents and families of students with special needs will benefit from focused parent education and support. This will be a day where they can meet and learn from others, and through this networking opportunity, continue to build relationships and share what is happening within their district and around the province.  Special Education Parent Network Day #1 (partnered with the New Westminster DPAC)
    When: April 6 th
    Where: F.W. Howay Elementary School, 91 Courtney Crescent, New Westminster
    Time: 8:45am - 4:00pm
    Cost: $20 (including lunch)
    Space is limited, and parents from other districts are encouraged and welcome to attend. The registration form along with additional information is available here or people can register online here  
  • National Inclusive Education Awards  

    Nominations for the 2013 Inclusive Education Awards are now open! Download your nomination form here. The deadline for nominations is May 22, 2013.

    About the awards: To highlight National Inclusive Education Month and to bring attention to the many positive examples of inclusive classrooms and schools across the country, the Canadian Association for Community Living (CACL) has created a national certificate of recognition to be bestowed upon recipients who have made positive contributions to inclusive education in their province or territory.

    The BC award recipients will be recognized at our 2013 Conference in Vancouver at the end of May. Click here to see previous winners! 

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

       

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Technology

Technology

 

 

 

 

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Ministry

Ministry Information  

 

  • Ministry of Children and Family Development:Responsible for providing a range of services and supports for children and youth with special needs and their families.
    • New funding option supports transitions to adulthood.  VICTORIA - To support greater flexibility and choice, families with children aged 12 to 18 will be able to choose to receive their autism funding through either invoice payment or direct payment.  The direct payment option will be available as of Sept. 1, 2013, to families with children in the 12- to 18-year-old range who are eligible for, or are receiving, autism funding. This option can give families greater ability to purchase eligible services - such as those focusing on community-based inclusion and recreational skills - to meet the needs of older children and youth and promote successful transitions to adulthood.  Click here to read more   
  • Ministry of Housing & Social Development:
    Responsible for education and support payments, work programs, bus passes and health and dental benefits for persons with disabilitie. 
    • Youth transition to disability assistance simplified  VICTORIA - The Ministry of Social Development is simplifying the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) designation process for youth with developmental disabilities who are eligible for disability assistance and Community Living BC (CLBC) supports.  Effective early July, youth with developmental disabilities who are eligible for disability assistance, along with their family, will be able to use an existing psychologist assessment by a registered psychologist or certified school psychologist, instead of filling out the PWD form to apply for designation.  Click here to read more 

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WorkshopsWorkshops and Training 

  • Pinwheel Education Series
    January-June 2013 Topics Lineup   
    APRIL 11 Gender Identity 
    MAY 23 Role of Recreation in Recovery 
    JUNE 20 Parental Mental Illness 
    Time: Thursdays, from 12-1pm 
    Cost: Free, open to everyone! 
    To join the teleconference: 
    Telephone: DIAL 1.877.291.3022, enter CODE 4611577#, press *6 to mute after 
    you are connected 
    Questions? Contact us: 
    PHONE 604.875.2084 TOLL-FREE 1.800.665.1822 or email here 
  • REACH presents Positive Parenting: The Basics and Beyond
    - REGISTRATION IS FULL AT THIS TIME - THANK YOU 
    For Parents of children of all ages.  A two-part interactive approach to creating a positive,
    supportive atmosphere for all of your family interactions.  You will learn: Positive strategies for dealing with difficult behaviour, how to defuse power struggles, offer appropriate choices, be consistent, provide consequences, model appropriate behaviour and much more!
    Facilitated by: Camille Netherton & Pam Collins
    Date:Thursday, April 4 & 11, 2013
    (You need to attend both days)
    Time:  6-9:30pm
    #3 - 3800 72nd Street in Ladner
    (Near the Boundary Bay Airport)
    Location: Reach Child and Youth Development
    Register by email: here Or phone: 604-946-6622, ext. 359 Or fax: 604-946-6223
    $20 workshop fee can be paid at the door. Cash or cheque only. 

      

  •  SFU Panel Discussion - Families and ASD: Looking to the Future - April 5
    Simon Fraser University is organizing a free panel discussion to discuss quality of life among families of individuals with autism. This event is being held in downtown Vancouver at the Morris J Wosk Centre for Dialogue on Friday April 5th, 2013.  Click here for more information 
  •  1-Day Workshop 1 Day Workshop Taught by Anat Baniel April 6, 2013, * Vancouver, Transforming the Lives of Children with Special Needs: A Workshop for Professionals and Parents.  Supported by the latest brain research, the Anat Baniel Method uses simple, gentle movements and focus to help any child who has been diagnosed with Autism, Asperger's Syndrome, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Down's Syndrome, or other developmental disorders.  By shifting the focus to connecting rather than "fixing", this powerful yet simple method helps both children and parents de-stress, focus, and grow.  Most of all, it helps all children maximize their potential, no matter what their diagnosis.  The Method is also helpful for people of all ages facing a wide array of issues, such as stroke recovery, MS, Parkinson's, and Rheumatoid Arthritis, as well as for healthy adults looking to prevent degenerative disease and retain their vitality in life.
    • Title: The Anat Baniel Method For Children With Special Needs 
      Date: April 6, 2013   Time:  9:00 am- 6:00 pm 
        Location: The Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive, Vancouver, BC 
        Cost: Early Bird:  Before March 11, 2013:  $189, after March 11, 2013, $249 
        For additional family member: 
       Early Bird: Before March 11, $169,  after March 11, 2013 $199 
       Contact: Hilary Mason by phone 604-812-5280 or email here 
       or Susinn Shaler by phone: 250-372-8763 or email here
       
  • Transition Planning and CLBC: Tuesday April 9, 2013 6:30pm - 8:00pm at the DCLS Resource Centre. Facilitated by CLBC For more information please contact Si Stainton here or call 604-952-6490    
  • 14th Annual Learning and The Brain Conference FREE! 

    The 14th Annual Learning and The Brain Conference is being held at MacNeill Secondary School on April 13, 2013.  This is an excellent educational conference that engages parents, caregivers, and educators in learning concepts and skills that support our children's success!  We hope that you will attend.  This year's conference focuses on "Caring, Communicating, and Connecting with 21st Century Kids".  The keynote speaker, Dr. Kimberly Schonert-Reichl, will be speaking on the importance of social and emotional learning.  Following the keynote speaker, conference participants will have the opportunity to attend two interactive workshops, as well as visit with educational exhibitors and vendors.  Workshops will be presented in both English and Chinese.  Registration is open from February 18 - April 4, 2013.  For full information and registration, please  visit the school district website here .

     
  • Transition Planning and CLBC:  Tuesday April 16, 2013 6:30pm - 8:00pm at the DCLS Scott Road Connections.  Facilitated by CLBC For more information please contact Si Stainton here or call 604-952-6490
  • Funded by a grant from Autism Speaks Canada, Autism Community Training BC (ACT) presents it's 9th Annual Focus on Research - Building Community Capacity Across the Rockies.  Friday, April 19th & Saturday, April 20th, 2013 Vancouver, BC.  Presentations by: Over 20 professional and highly respected presenters -  Click here for more information 
      
  • The Richmond FASD Roundtable's 5th Annual Conference.
    How Did We Get Here?  An Interactive panel discussion - A look into Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and the Criminal Justice System  April 25, 2013 
    10:00am - 12:00pm  doors open at 9:30am  St Albans Church 7260 St Albans Rd Richmond Cost:FREE, but registration required  For more information and to register email: here
    The FASD Richmond  Roundtable was formed in  2008. It is a community initiative that builds FASD awareness through education and prevention.  
     
  • Home Options. Explore different options for living in your own home in adulthood: Buying a place for your child, Co-ownership withother families, Renovating a suite into an existing family home, Joint tenancy with a room-mate. Sponsored by Delta Community Living Society and Richmond Society for Community Living!  DCLS and RSCL! 
    • Saturday April 27, 2013
      9:00am - 3:30pm  Cost $10 per person
      RSCL Transitions Day Program
      110 - 8120 Granville Street, Richmond BC
       To Register, please email Kerstin Grossman here: detailing names, number of people attending, allergies, diet info: vegetarian, vegan, GF/CF or other  
  • EduTalks Presents:  The April Forum on Children with Special Needs  Sunday, April 28,  2013Nutrition and the Special Needs Child (9:00 am)
    Kate Hutchinson (RHN, CGP), director of Whole Family Nutrition, will discuss the dramatic impact individualized nutrition can have on those with behavioural diagnoses. The gut and the brain are intimately connected - this talk will reveal how situations that are originating in the digestive tract can contribute to neurological conditions. She will share her clinical
    experience in providing nutrition guidance for behavioural concerns including children and adults with diagnoses of Autism Spectrum Disorders, OCD, ADHD, ADD, ODD, Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, and Depression.
    Bringing Out the Best in Children and Teens with Special Needs (11:00 am)
    Suzanne Ferera, registered Occupational Therapist and Family Counsellor, will discuss how parenting children and teens with special needs can be rewarding, challenging, and often overwhelming. She will present the strategy known as The Calmer, Easier, Happier approach which offers specific strategies that parents and teachers will be able to use right away to improve behavior, confidence, self-reliance and learning.
    Panel Discussion - Advocating for Your Special Needs Child (12:00 pm)
    Featuring: Anya Smith, parent of Max, an elementary student with autism
    Sheila MacTavish, parent of Sam, a high school student with autism
    Cecilia Klassen, parent of Mari, a post-secondary hearing impaired student.  Workshops will be held at the University Women's Club at Hycroft, 1489 McRae Ave
    (at 16th and Granville) Vancouver, BC.  Parking available on The Crescent and side streets
    Cost: $55  8:45 am - Registration, coffee and muffins
    More information, online payment and registration available here
    Seating is limited, register early to reserve your seat! 
     
  • Fifth Annual Neufeld Parent Conference.  We are delighted to once again have the opportunity to bring Dr. Neufeld's approach to the people who are our children's best bet - their parents. Our Neufeld Institute Faculty will be coming to Vancouver from all over the world to provide an interesting smorgasbord of seminars.  
    Dr. Neufeld will be giving the opening and closing address on the important topic of children's feelings. Long dismissed as a nuisance variable, emotion is now considered the pivotal factor in healthy development including that of the brain. So what are the implications for parenting? Dr. Neufeld will outline five stages in emotional development that parents can and should help support. He will also be talking about how to teach children the language of the heart.In addition to Dr. Neufeld's keynote address, conference participants will be able to select two other seminars to attend. For further information and to register, please click here where you can also download the conference program.  
    Saturday, May 4, 2013
    8:30 am - 4:00 pm
    Sir Winston Churchill Secondary, Vancouver, BC 

     

  • Reach Presentation: Executive Functioning and Children.  Executive functions are the way in which the brain processes appropriate actions, plans, and filters through information. These are the thinking skills involved in self-monitoring, sustaining attention, memory, planning, and inhibition. Many children have difficulties in this area. In this workshop we will discuss what executive functions are, as well as practical ways parents can help children to develop these types of skills.

    Facilitated by: Kelly McGregor, POPARD Behaviour Consultant, BCBA

    Date:             Thursday May 9, 2013

    Time:            7 - 8:30pm

    Location:    Reach Child and Youth Development

    Society        #3 - 3800 72nd Street in Ladner

                                  (Near the Boundary Bay Airport)

    Register by email here or call 604-946-6622 ext 359 

    Participant Information:

    $20 workshop fee can be paid at the door. Cash or cheque only.

     
  • Heart-Mind 2013: Helping Children Thrive at the Dalai Lama Centre with Goldie Hawn!
    Thursday, May 9, 2013 - Saturday, , 2013.  University of British Columbia, Vancouver,   
    Heart-Mind 2013 brings together some of the leading minds in child development and contemplative practice - from scientific researchers to practitioners - to address the Dalai Lama's question, "How can we educate the hearts of children?"
    Register Now  Early bird pricing through March 15th.
    The theme of this year's conference is Mindfulness and its role in helping children thrive physically, socially and emotionally.  It is for all those who care for and about children - parents, educators, mental health workers, healthcare professionals, out-of-school-care providers, yoga instructors, recreation leaders, academics, thought leaders and many others. 
    The conference provides a wonderful opportunity to network with like-minded people who are committed to integrating mindfulness into the lives of children.
    Please join us as we explore the growing body of knowledge from evidence-based practice and scientific research that indicates how mindfulness helps children thrive.
    Scientific studies show that practicing mindfulness enhances students' concentration and attention, as well as their ability to make decisions and control impulses.  Mindfulness helps children get ready to learn, and it can lead to physical and mental well-being.  
    We can cultivate mindfulness in children - and the adults in their lives - so we can all be mindful wherever we are.
    • Featured presenters include:
      SHAWN ACHOR, author of international best-seller, The Happiness Advantage
      ADELE DIAMOND, PhD, UBC Professor of Developmental Cognitive Neuroscience
      GOLDIE HAWN, Founder and Chair of The Hawn Foundation, the organization that developed MindUp™
      LINDA LANTIERI, Director of the Inner Resilience Program, founding board of CASEL, expert in SEL
      ROB ROESER, PhD, Professor of Human Development and Psychology at Mind and Life Institute, Portland State University
      CLIFFORD SARON, PhD, Associate Research Scientist at UC Davis Center for Mind and Brain
      KIMBERLY SCHONERT-REICHL, PhD, Applied Developmental Psychologist and UBC Professor
      PAUL TOUGH, Author of best-selling How Children Succeed and writer for The New York Times Magazine
      ROY HENRY VICKERS, celebrated Canadian artist and First Nations leader 
  •  AnxietyBC is excited to present its first ever Clinician workshops.Two one-day workshops presented by two world renowned psychologists. The focus of these workshops is: Advances in CBT Treatments for Pediatric Anxiety Disorders.
    Dr. RON RAPEE will present: Transdiagnostic Treatment of Child and Adolescent Anxiety Disorders: A focus on Adolescent Social Anxiety Disorder on May 10.
    Dr. ANNE MARIE ALBANO will present: The Intersection of Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety and Separation Disorder in Young Children: Comorbidities in the Context of the Family on May 11.
    For more information and tickets click Here
     
  • NOTE: CHANGE OF DATE to May 11, 2013 POPARD CPI Parent Workshop
    9:30 - noon.  Sharing strategies from the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention program for parents and caregivers. After the workshop, participants will take away an Action Plan filled with strategies they can use immediately.  
    • the workbook

      The Sharing Strategies from the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention Training Program includes a workbook for participants to fill in information about the person in their care as they go through various program concepts.  

      the presentation

      The purpose of this workshop is to provide participants with the following:

        • An understanding of the philosophy of Care, Welfare, Safety, and Security , which is the cornerstone of the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention training program.
        • An overview of some of the concepts and strategies taught in the Nonviolent Crisis Intervention program that could aid in the continuity of a person's support and care.

      Administration fee of $40 includes the Sharing Strategies Workbook and light refreshments.  

      Classes will take place at the  POPARD Training Facility  4746 57th St. in Delta, BC.

       

      For those considering Public Transit,  the Ladner Exchange is nearby.

       

      for online registration and detailed course descriptions, Click here 
  • Teaching Social Thinking Through Stories & Play for Preschool and Early Elementary School.  What looks like pure fun to us has important social consequences for the developing mind. The ability to participate in collaborative pretend play depends upon having a flexible brain, competent language ability, self-regulation, and solid social-emotional development as well the executive function skills to multi-task the use of all of the above! The new common core standards highlight the importance of "listening and collaboration" in the classroom, which are hallmarks of developmental learning in preschool and during the early elementary years. Presented by:Kari Palmer, MA, CCC-SLP & Ryan Hendrix, MS, CC-SLP  Saturday, May 11, 2013 - Vancouver  Click here to register

     
  • INCLUSION BC (BCACL) 2013 Conference in Vancouver  
    Registration for the 2013 Inclusion BC Conference will go live on Tuesday, April 2.  
    Thursday, May 23, 2013 (All day) - Saturday, May 25, 2013 (All day)
    Vancouver, B.C.

    The next BCACL AGM and Conference will be held in downtown Vancouver at the Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre from May 23-25, with a special pre-conference day on May 22.

    We are proud to be co-hosting this conference with Spectrum Society for Community Living, posAbilities and the BC Centre for Ability.  Click here for more information 

     
  • The 2nd Annual Canadian ASD Vocational Conference: What Will It Take? Advancing Vocational Opportunities for Persons with Autism Spectrum Disorders will be held at Canada Olympic Park Conference Centre Calgary, Alberta on June 6 and 7th, 2013.  Click here for more information

     
     
  • Register LIVE NOW  The 2013 BC Summer Institute July 15 - 19, 2013 is led by the Family Support Institute in beautiful Vancouver. This event is designed to provide a robust learning environment that will facilitate strategic approaches to inclusion and belonging for all students in BC's elementary and secondary schools.
    Participants will include administrators, classroom teachers, resource teachers, other members of the School Based Team, paraprofessionals, therapists and parents. This institute is designed to give participants the foundation they have been looking for to complement good practice and give access to the resources necessary to properly facilitate belonging and inclusion for all students. Schools are encouraged to register as a team, ensuring that a variety of positions within it are represented. 
    Individuals from across B.C. will be coming together to work with people who have been doing this work for decades and who have experienced success in all aspects of Inclusive Learning. (Attendees will have the option of enrolling in the Institute as a UBC undergraduate course for three credits.)
    Participants will leave with a common language around values, a shared understanding about how to facilitate strategies learned and an improved skill set to better put those strategies and values into action within their schools.  Click here for more information 
  • Save the date! July 24-28, 2013 - Brain Development & Learning Conference in Vancouver with world renowned speakers. Westin Bayshore Hotel, Vancouver, BC.  A conference dedicated to making a difference. Be prepared to be inspired, empowered, perhaps even transformed. An interdisciplinary conference devoted to improving children's lives by highlighting innovative programs and by making the newest research and insights from neuroscience, child development, psychology, & medicine understandable & applicable to those who work directly with children.  Click here for our website  or here for our brochure   
  • Autism Canada Annual "Changing the Course of Autism" Conference
    It's official!  Autism Canada's annual conference will be held this year on October 24th and 25th in Victoria, British Colmbia at the Mary Winspear Centre (Sidney, BC). We will be partnering with the Victoria Society for Children with Autism.   
    Stay tuned for more details!

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SeasonalSeasonal 

 

  • Superhero Easter Egg Hunt with Costume
    March 30, 2013 - 10:00am - 4:00pm.  The POWA Academy Presents the 1st Annual Superhero Easter Egg Hunt with Costume Contests, Face painting, Games, Colouring activities, and lots of good family fun! Come dressed as your favorite superhero. Prizes for best family of superheroes & most original costume. All ages Welcome!  Click here for more information 
    • How to Color Eggs With Natural Dyes.  Many cultures and traditions include the egg as a symbol in their celebrations, usually signifying rebirth and new beginnings. Kids and adults everywhere love to dye and decorate eggs each spring, so today we'll look at some natural techniques for dyeing your eggs. Using plant-based materials ensures safe and healthy egg-dyeing fun.  CLick here to learn more! 
            
  • JOIN US AT OUR UPCOMING LEISURE FAIR! 
    Trout Lake Community Centre (Gym). Explore recreation activities for children and youth with disabilities.  Enjoy demonstrations by Sirota's Alchymy at 6:30pm and Shiamak at 7:00pm 
    3360 Victoria Drive  Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4 
    Wednesday, April 3rd, 2013  6:00pm to 8:30pm 
    For more information, contact Tina Pardiwala here or 604.301.2831

 

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Other

Other                

  • QUOTE of the day: "Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring." Marilyn Monroe
  • One of my very favorite websites belongs to a very special person - Kathie Snow - Disability is Natural.  Please check out her website here and sign up for her newsletter - current edition is about: YOU AND I
    Why should the lives of people with disabilities be so different than the lives of people without disabilities? There are several "You and I" articles out there; here are two, one focused on adults, and one on children, that can hopefully generate positive change. Brilliant articles! 
  • Babies left to cry 'feel stressed', research finds Babies who are left to cry by themselves could feel 'stressed' even after they appear to settle, new research has suggested.  A study has found youngsters who are deliberately left to cry themselves to sleep eventually appeared to settle themselves without being comforted.

    But, it found, their hormone levels showed they could remain just as 'stressed' by the experience as if they had remained crying.  Click here to read more 

     
  • Sibling Spotlight: Not another therapy appointment!  If you have a child with autism, there is little chance of avoiding a tight weekly schedule of various therapy appointments. This is hectic for parents, of course, and it is also challenging for siblings, who often have to tag along. Some siblings won't mind, but most will view it as boring or unfair, and some might experience even more difficult feelings and emotions.  Click here to read more 
  • Putting disability issues on the election agenda  May 14, 2013 is election day in B.C. and we want to give you the tools you need to put issues important to people with developmental disabilities on the election agenda. We have created resources to help you get the word out. Click here to learn more 
  • An honest look at the life of a foster parent By Amanda Preston
    In Canada, there's a growing gap between the number of children in government care and the number of families available to foster them. The children being apprehended far outnumber the foster homes, leaving vulnerable children in their current adverse living conditions. Christians are increasingly asking what they can do to help close this gap. After you've read the following honest portrayal of what fostering is really like, I hope you'll consider whether fostering might be the right fit for you.  Click here to read more  
  • Family Facts: BC Council Blog $10 A Day Child Care to End Poverty.   Is it time for politicians to commit to a universal, accessible, and publicly funded $10/day child-care system?  Click here to read more 
  • Your Phone vs. Your Heart.  CAN you remember the last time you were in a public space in America and didn't notice that half the people around you were bent over a digital screen, thumbing a connection to somewhere else?  Most of us are well aware of the convenience that instant electronic access provides. Less has been said about the costs. Research that my colleagues and I have just completed, to be published in a forthcoming issue of Psychological Science, suggests that one measurable toll may be on our biological capacity to connect with other people.  CLick here to read more 
  • Family Facts: BC Council Blog Over parenting: When caring too much becomes harmful.  We all want the best for our children, but for parents it is important to understand that sometimes our best intentions might cause harm to our kids. 'Over parenting' or excessive parenting has always existed but according to a new study from the Queensland University of Technology, it's more common these days and can become a problem.  Click here to read more 
  • DIVERSITY HEALTH FAIR: Saturday May 11 | 11am-4pm
    Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre  15458 107 Ave, Surrey (Located by the Gateway Sky-train Station) FREE Health Screening & Testing, Family Play Zone, Multicultural Entertainment, Over 40 Health Resource Booths, Sample Exercise Classes, Giveaways & MORE!
    Click here for more information  
  • With thanks to the Burnaby Association for Community Living: Brothers and Sisters: The Family Support Institute (FSI), in partnership with Community Living B.C. (CLBC), is compiling stories for a book project. Brothers and sisters often share a unique bond, especially in families where a loved one has a developmental disability. Do you have a story to share? See THE FLYER or contact FSI at 604-540-8374, toll free at 1-800-441-5403 or email Maria Glaze here.
  • Langley Parent Support! The FiT Network Society A Social Educational Network created to get Families in Touch. Monthly FiT meets, seasonal family fun events and casual coffee nights provide opportunities for families who have children with special needs to "Get FiT*" - *Families in Touch. Click here for their website and current events
  •  DCLS and DFAN present: In Transition: Delta Parents of Youth with Developmental Disabilities
    • Do you have a child with a developmental disability in Grade 10 or above?
    • Do you wonder what will happen when High School is over?    

    Come and meet other parents, share ideas and experiences and

    Begin to plan for your son's or daughter's future. 

    We meet Saturday morning, 9.30 - 12.30, most months either in Ladner or North Delta:

    North Delta location: Delta Community Living Society, Scott Road Connections, #105-7953 Scott Rd.(behind the Greek Village Restaurant), North Delta, BC, V4C 6P6

    Ladner location: Delta Community Living Society, #1 -3800-72nd Street, Delta, BC, V4K 3N2

    • To find out more information about these events, please contact Si Stainton, Delta Community Living Society, Family Services LiaisonEmail here  , 604-952-6490 or visit our website Here

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SubmissionSubmissions or Questions?

To submit for our newsletter or have a question for Pam to research please contact her at

Parent Network 

or 604-946-6622 ext 359.  

You can sign up at the Reach Child and Youth Development Society website to receive this newsletter directly.

 

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Reach | danl@reachdevelopment.org | delta, BC |