REACH Parent Network Information Exchange.

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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Reach News 

Help a Parent/Parent Support?  

 Autism

 ADD/ADHD

 Down Syndrome  

Education  

FASD

Medical and Mental Health 

Sensory   

Technology

Transitions

Ministry Information

Workshops and Training

Seasonal

Other

Submissions and Questions?  

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Reach News

• You're invited to join Reach Society and Reach Foundation as we celebrate the

55th Anniversary of Reach Child and Youth Development Society

FROM SEEDS TO LEAVES

An interactive discussion will update attendees on exciting new developments
with Reach, including: * New and enhanced Reach programming for children
and youth and their families * Our capital campaign to build a new
child development centre in Ladner * FINDS thrift store in Ladner

October 1, 2014

5:30 (registration)- 8pm

Delta View Centre 9321 Burns Drive Road, Delta, BC

Buffet Indian Dinner

Child minding available

Please RSVP by calling 604-946-6622 or email here 

 

• PRESCHOOL FALL 2014 REGISTRATION NOW OPEN! Spaces available for 2, 3 or 5 half days a week. For more information call 604-946-6622 ext.308 or email here. t Reach Developmental Preschool our goal is to offer children a stimulating, inclusive environment with opportunities for social, emotional, cognitive and creative development, emphasizing the individual child's awareness of his or her self, peers, family and natural environment. We maintain a family-centered approach whereby parents and teachers work together to best address the needs of each individual child. The preschool may serve up to 80 families at any one time. Reach Preschool is an inclusive program, meeting the needs of children who require extra support and children who are developing typically. The children requiring extra support may include diagnosed syndromes including down syndrome and autism, behavioural challenges, hearing and sight impairments, physical disabilities or children who are medically fragile. Children play and learn together offering peer mentoring and friendship that builds empathy, leadership and social emotional skills that last a lifetime

• SOCIAL SMART GROUP - LEARNING SOCIAL SKILLS AND USING THEM! FALL SESSIONS STARTING IN SEPTEMBER.  Reach Social Smart Group is a 1.5-hour program that runs once a week in North Delta. There are small groups facilitated by one Behaviour Consultant and one group facilitator. Throughout the  weeks, our goal is to help strengthen your child's social skills by guiding, coaching, and supporting their social interaction with their peers.   Fall 2014 dates:   Tuesdays Sept. 30- Dec 2, 2104  6:00-7:30 pm( no session on Tuesday Nov. 11) Cost = 630.00 Grades 5-7 Wednesdays October 1 to Dec. 3, 2014  6:00-7:30 pm Cost = 700.00 Grades 2-4  Location for both groups are at  Reach Developmental preschool north located 10921 82nd Ave, North Delta For information on eligibility for registration please contact 604-946-6622, ext 315 or   email here 

• REACH PARENT SUPPORT GROUP  
  This group is for you if you are a parent or guardian of a child with additional needs who would like to talk with other parents about your struggles, concerns, successes and strategies. We meet to talk about certain topics and local resources, but mostly we are meeting to support each other in our journey with our children.
  Led by clinical counsellor, Yvonne McKenna, this monthly drop-in group might just be what you need.
  Where: Reach Play and Learn Centre, 11425 84th Ave, Delta
  When: The 2nd Tuesday of the month - 6:30 to 8:00 pm 

• REACH 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 Robyn at 604-946-6622 ext.328 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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ADD/ADHD

• The Power of Praise: ADHD Parenting Done Right.Your ADHD child can build confidence and succeed if, as a parent, you emphasize his strong points rather than his weaknesses. If you're raising a child who has attention deficit disorder (ADD ADHD), you probably spend a lot of time pointing out his weak points - and looking for ways to shore them up. There's nothing wrong with trying to correct your child's impulsivity, disorganization, or lack of focus. Indeed, it's important for parents to do so. But focusing too intently on your child's shortcomings may be doing a number on his self-esteem. Click here to read more
  

   

• The ADHD Homework System That Works. Is homework stress exhausting your family? Follow this homework system to put in place a routine that will to bring peace to the household and help your child establish life long learning habits. ADHD + Executive Function Deficits = Stress. Homework requires ADHD children to copy assignments correctly, bring home the right books, keep track of due dates and hand in finished work -- all difficult for anyone with poor memory, focus, or attention to detail. While it may take a few months to become a habit, creating consistent homework routines at home and school will result in better work skills, a sense of accomplishment - and lots of after-school smiles.Click here to read more
  

   

• The Write Stuff: Helping Your ADHD/LD Child with Written Expression . Kids with attention and learning problems may overflow with creative ideas -- but struggle to get them down on paper. These tips will streamline the writing process while making it fun.Studies suggest that more than half of children with ADHD struggle with writing. Despite an overflow of creative ideas, they struggle when it comes to getting these ideas down on paper.  ADHD children have a hard time getting started, picking essay topics, locating appropriate resources, holding information in their memory,  organizing and sequencing the material, and getting it down on paper- all before they forget what they wanted to say. Click here to read more 

• 18 Tips for Sharpening Your Child's Math Skills Teachers and parents can use these strategies to give their child the knowledge and tools to excel. Click here to read more 

• 8 Most ADHD-Friendly Jobs. Experts in adult ADHD suggest good jobs for your unique skill set -- creativity, enthusiasm, energy, problem-solving skills and more.While there isn't a one-size-fits-all career that works for every ADHD adult (wouldn't that be nice?), there are certain professions that utilize ADHD strengths. These ADHD-friendly jobs will help you reach your full potential by putting your natural skills to work.Click here to read more
   

  
   

       

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   Down Syndrome  

• Mission Possible Cruise - Down Syndrome Cruises & Conferences.  Here are all of the videos that Mission Possible Cruise has uploaded to Vimeo. CLick here to see all the presentations!!!
   
• 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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Education 

• Rita Pierson: Every kid needs a champion. 

  Rita Pierson, a teacher for 40 years, once heard a colleague say, "They don't pay me to like the kids." Her response: "Kids don't learn from people they don't like.'" A rousing call to educators to believe in their students and actually connect with them on a real, human, personal level.

  Rita Pierson: Every kid needs a champion

   
• Autism Society.org has several articles dealing with transitions in school from pre-school to Kindergarten, to middle school and across other grade levels.  Please click here and scroll down to see these resources. 

   

• Back to School Countdown! 1....Huan.  For many, tomorrow is the first day of school. Huan is here to count down this last day and share some fantastic news! Huan has been very clear about his feelings about his education....WOW! This moment was one of the best of my entire career! Huan was completely relaxed and radiating confidence the entire meeting (I have to confess that my hands were shaking for at least the first 2 minutes). Huan, his family and I walked out of the meeting with as much decorum as possible, walked down the hall and broke out into the craziest happy dance you can imagine! One GIANT step for Huan, one small step forward for nonspeaking kids everywhere!!!! ~ElizabethClick here to read this incredible story!
   
   
• Video - Helping Your Kindergartener with Separation Anxiety. The first days of school are often tough for both young children and parents. AnxietyBC and the UBC Anxiety Projects Lab teamed up to produce this entertaining 3 minute short animation showing you how to support your child in making an easier transition to kindergarten. 

  Helping Your Kindergartener with Separation Anxiety

   
• No school for B.C. kids
•  BC teachers overwhelmingly support arbitration Click here to see the video announcing 99.4 % teachers vote for Binding Arbitration 
• Government says no to arbitration. Click here to read more
•  Thanks to Carol Stinson from BACI: Supported Child Development funding:  The Ministry of Children and Family Development has authorized supplemental SCD/ASCD services to be offered to families of school age children with special needs currently receiving these services. Please read the information letter here.  If you need to hire a support worker, note that workers must be SCD approved.  A place to start looking is the Family Support Institute's Support Worker Central where many workers are already approved.
• Register for basic subsidy:  The basic parent support subsidy is $40/day for children aged 12 and under.  You can find the registration here
   


• STOP HURTING KIDS: Parent guide for keeping all children safe from restraint and seclusion.As the attention around restraint and seclusion in schools grows in BC, the Family Support Institute and Inclusion BC are seeking to inform and empower families of their rights around the issue. This guide will help families prevent, recognize, and act on cases of restraint and seclusion that affect their children both directly and indirectly. Restraint and seclusion affect all children in school, but with the greatest impact on those most vulnerable, including children with disabilities.It can be found online here 
   

•  The Autism File Magazine - Education Issue! Click here 

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FASD

• Living with FASDs: Sasha's Story.Alexander "Sasha" Cook was adopted in 1997 at the age of five. Now at 23, Sasha and his mother, Melissa, share his story in recognition of FASD Awareness Day.As a child and young teen, Sasha faced numerous difficulties. These included learning problems, struggles with social relationships such as interacting with classmates, difficulty with team sports since rules were too abstract, and trouble handling everyday things in life. He still remembers that being with his fellow students was "no fun."

  Sasha had many evaluations and was diagnosed with multiple disabilities. Knowing he was exposed to alcohol before birth is what helped his family and doctors best understand his challenges. Typical milestones that other children reached and took for granted seemed out of reach for Sasha.  Click here to read more

• REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 7TH ANNUAL FALL FASD CONFERENCE: UNTANGLING ANXIETY!  The conference will be held on Saturday, November 22nd, 2014 at Douglas College in New Westminster!Conference participants will:
  * Learn about emerging knowledge of anxiety as it relates to individuals with FASD and their caregivers
  * Learn about current practices and supports available for individuals living with FASD who also  experience anxiety
  * Learn self care strategies for caregivers and support professionals who experience anxiety while  supporting individuals with FASD
  * Network and liaise with families and professionals Click here for more information 

• 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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Medical and Mental Health

• Demi Lovato Sends Powerful Message About Mental Illness In New Video. 

  "I'm a recording artist, author, song-writer and actress. I'm also living with bipolar disorder," Demi Lovato admits in a new PSA.The singer has always been refreshingly candid 

  in sharing her personal struggles with mental illness. In an April interview with Cosmopolitan For Latinas, she talked about her childhood depression and why she felt it was important to share her story with young girls. Click here to read more and see the video

• Experience 12 Minutes In Alzheimer's Dementia.  Just what is a loved one with dementia going through? A 12-minute virtual Alzheimer's tour reveals more than you ever imagined.Click here to see this incredible video
   
• 2 Famous Sisters Struggled With Mental Illness. 1 Survived. Here's How. Oscar-nominated actress Mariel Hemingway shares her family's tragic history of mental illness, including the suicides of her grandfather, author Ernest Hemingway, and her sister, actress Margot. Mariel explains how she has overcome her own depression and thoughts of suicide to create a healthy life for herself and her children.Click here to read more
   
• STRIDES - Anxiety BC's September newsletter - click here 
• Check out the video helping your kindergartner enter kindergarten plus MORE

• Complex Child September Newsletter - COMMUNICATION 

• The Kelty Mental Health Resource Centre and the FORCE Society for Kids' Mental Health are pleased to announce an amazing lineup of educational events  To find out more about the dates, topics, and how you can join in, view our poster or visit our website here
  Time Thursdays, 12-1pm (PST)
  Registration PHONE 604-875-2084 or 1-800-665-1822
  EMAIL HERE
  WEB HERE 
• SEP 18 2014: Eating Disorders in Boys and Men
  OCT 16 2014: Suicide and Safety Planning
  NOV 13 2014: Mental Health and Online Safety    

• 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 their current newsletter   

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Technology

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Transitions  

• Labels are for Cans: Managing autism in the workplace.   Jordan Edwards has autism. High-functioning but underemployed, he now weighs the pros and cons of whether to disclose his so-called "invisible disability" to a future employer. People with high-functioning autism are said to have an "invisible disability." But it's not always completely invisible. There can be problems communicating, troublesome ticks, or socially inappropriate behaviour. Sometimes, it's enough to result in dismissal. Click here to read more

• Individualized Funding & Introduction to Microboards | Sep 17, 2014

  Time : 6:30pm - 8:30pm

  Location : 1-3800 72 Street,Resource Centre, Large Boardroom, Ladner [ Map ]

  Space : 15

  Open to: Families with a relative with a developmental disability and professionals.
  Individualized Funding
  Individualized Funding (IF) is a payment option for individuals served by Community Living BC (CLBC). IF lets you use the money given to you by CLBC to create new, different kinds of services that will support your relative with a developmental disability in your community. Many families are being offered ADFR (Adult Direct Funded Respite). If you want to find out more about IF or are considering ADFR this workshop is a MUST for you.

  An introduction to Microboards™
  Families may choose to set up a Microboard™if they have individual funding. A Microboard™ is a small (micro) group of committed family and friends (a minimum of 5 people) who join together with the individual to create a non-profit society (board). Click here for more information 

   
• Planning for the Future: Housing Options 2 - Vancity. Join us to learn about Vancity's Springboard Mortgage progam, an innovative home ownership program developed to help individuals with low incomes qualify to own their own home. Also on hand will be Krista McGrath of the Simon Fraser Society for Community Living to discuss homeshare options for individuals with disabilities who are also home owners.  Join us for an evening of learning, discussion, and networking. Tuesday, September 30, 2014 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  1551 Salisbury Avenue, Port Coquitlam.  Click here for more information 

• Want to learn more about Supported Employment?Join us for a Conversation with:
  Sean Wiltshire of Avalon Employment Inc.Avalon Employment Inc. is a not for profit organization based out of St. John's Newfoundland. They have been successfully providing supported employment services and making long term connections since 1992.Wednesday September 24th, 2014  6:30pm - 8:30pm  @ The Semiahmoo House Society 15306 24th AveSurrey, BC V4A 2J1 RSVP by September 17th, 2014  Help us work together to create employment for everyone. Let's discover all the opportunities in our own community!
  For more information please contact the Lower Mainland Down Syndrome Society at email here or by calling 604-591-2722.

• The Vancouver Parents Transition Group (VPT)bis an education and support group for parents of youth with disabilities who are transitioning to adulthood. The group meets once per month and features guest speakers who provide information and support to families. Click here to learn more! 

• Ministry of Social Development and Social Innovation Improving Services to People with Developmental Disabilities Click here to learn more and see a video showing how to apply for services!  

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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.

• Community Living British Columbia:
  Responsible for delivering services and supports for adults with developmental disabilities    

• Ministry of Housing & Social Development:
  Responsible for education and support payments, work programs, bus passes and health and dental benefits for persons with disabilitie. 

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Workshops and Training 

•  CLick here for the FALL CCRR Training Calendar of workshops! 

• Click here for information on RDSP presentations 

• Click here to see all of ACT's Upcoming Presentations 

• Click here for all upcoming workshops by Delta Assist   

• Click here for upcoming events sponsored by the BC Council for Families   

• Individualized Funding & Introduction to Microboards | Sep 17, 2014

  Time : 6:30pm - 8:30pm

  Location : 1-3800 72 Street,Resource Centre, Large Boardroom, Ladner [ Map ]

  Space : 15

  Open to: Families with a relative with a developmental disability and professionals.
  Individualized Funding
  Individualized Funding (IF) is a payment option for individuals served by Community Living BC (CLBC). IF lets you use the money given to you by CLBC to create new, different kinds of services that will support your relative with a developmental disability in your community. Many families are being offered ADFR (Adult Direct Funded Respite). If you want to find out more about IF or are considering ADFR this workshop is a MUST for you.

  An introduction to Microboards™
  Families may choose to set up a Microboard™if they have individual funding. A Microboard™ is a small (micro) group of committed family and friends (a minimum of 5 people) who join together with the individual to create a non-profit society (board).Click here for more information 

   
• Pinwheel Education Series: The pinwheel series are a group of free, all inclusive monthly education events open to anyone in BC. The aim is to provide learning opportunities for the public on key mental health and healthy living topics, and host a forum where people can engage in dialogue with experts and persons with lived experience.How to join:
  In person: BC Children's Hospital, Mental Health Building, 4555 Heather Street (Heather St. and 29th Ave.) Vancouver, Entrance #85, Third floor room P3-306. You can drop in or register here
  Telephone: Dial 1-877-291-3022 and enter the access code 4611577#
  Telehealth: Contact your local Telehealth coordinator to book a videoconference room and get them to forward your location name, room number and the ISDN/IP Address/Alias of your site to Kelty here. For questions, please contact Aazadeh Madani, Project Coordinator at email here
   
• September 18, 2014  12- 1pm Eating Disorders in Boys & Men. 
   Cost: Free
  Audience: Open to everyone in BC
  Description: Eating disorders are typically almost exclusively associated with females. However, one in every four childhood cases of anorexia is a boy, and similar numbers of males and females have binge-eating disorder. Like girls and women, boys and men may have a distorted body image. They also have many of the same signs and symptoms as girls. But eating disorders are usually seen as a "female" problem, and so men and boys are less likely to get diagnosed. 
  In this Pinwheel, we will focus on eating disorders in boys and men, and will discuss diagnosis, treatment, and the stigma attached to male eating disorders.
  Speakers:
  Paul Gallant, President, Gallant HealthWorks
  Suzie DaSilva, parent with lived experience
  Aidan Scott, youth with lived experience 
• Oct 16 2014 - 12:00pm

  Pinwheel Education Series: Suicide and Safety Planning 

   

  Nov 13 2014 - 12:00pm

  Pinwheel Education Series: Mental Health and Online Safety 

   
• Functional Behavioural Assessment (FBA) Workshop ~ Maple Ridge WJS Canada Training Division Thursday, 18 September 2014 from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (PDT)

  Maple Ridge, BC. The WJS Training Division is pleased to offer this 1- day introductory workshop on the topic of Functional Behavioural Assessment (FBA) taught by Dr. Gail Krivel-Zacks. A Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) is an attempt to look beyond the obvious interpretation of behavior as "bad" and determine what function it may be serving for an individual or child. Truly understanding why an individual or a child behaves the way he or she does is the first, best step to developing strategies to stop the behavior.

  The purpose of a Functional Behavioural Assessment is to determine the reason, or communicated message, behind the behaviour. The goal is to teach more effective, appropriate ways to communicate the same message.  Click here for more information 

   
• 1st Annual Canadian Social Thinking ® Providers Conference:Applying Social Thinking and Teaching Executive Function Skills:  Where, When, How and with Whom?
• Wednesday & Thursday
  September 17 & 18, 2014
  Executive Airport Plaza Hotel and Conference Centre, Richmond, B.C
  Key Note Speakers:Joanne Gerenser, ABA and Social Thinking
  Sarah Ward, Executive Functioning
  Michelle Garcia Winner, Founder of Social Thinking
  
  Pamela Crooke, Authentic Data. Click here for more information 

• Friend 2 Friend Autism Demystification® Program Guide Workshop
  Saturday September 20th, 2014 Vancouver BC. This year's Program Guide Workshop focuses on preparing participants to implement our Can I Play Too? Friend 2 Friend Autism Demystification® Puppet Packaged Program with children ages 3-11 in inclusive classrooms and community settings.  Click here for more information 

• "3 Simple Ways to Guarantee Your Child's Success in School" Dr. Patricia Porter
  Learning Skill Assessment Specialist will be presenting at Hycroft Manor (1489 McRae Ave) on Monday, September 22nd  from 7 to 8:30pm. You can pre-register for a complimentary ticket at here  or it costs $20 at the door. There is limited seating so please register early. If you have friends who may benefit, feel free to pass this information along. Thanks!
  Dr. Porter's website here

   

• Want to learn more about Supported Employment? Join us for a Conversation with:
  Sean Wiltshire of Avalon Employment Inc.Avalon Employment Inc. is a not for profit organization based out of St. John's Newfoundland. They have been successfully providing supported employment services and making long term connections since 1992.Wednesday September 24th, 2014  6:30pm - 8:30pm  @ The Semiahmoo House Society 15306 24th AveSurrey, BC V4A 2J1 RSVP by September 17th, 2014  Help us work together to create employment for everyone. Let's discover all the opportunities in our own community!
  For more information please contact the Lower Mainland Down Syndrome Society at email here or by calling 604-591-2722. 

• Force Society " In the know" Series presents "Start With Strengths: change the lens, change the story". presented by Chris Wejr; principal of James Hill Elementary, Langley BC. Too many of our students leave our schools with less confidence than when they arrive.  Struggling students and their families are often made aware of the deficits while silenced of the strengths.  Chris will share real stories of the positive impact of a focus on the strengths of our children.  When we start with the strengths and positives of our students, we look through a different lens and work to create the conditions for real success, increased self-confidence, and a changed story of life at school.
• Available for home viewing; Monday September 8, 2014 at 7pm or any time after this
• Community Conversation with special speaker Wednesday September 24th 6:15-8pm for sharing, discussing and networking about this topic.

• Planning for the Future: Housing Options 2 - VancityJoin us to learn about Vancity's Springboard Mortgage progam, an innovative home ownership program developed to help individuals with low incomes qualify to own their own home. Also on hand will be Krista McGrath of the Simon Fraser Society for Community Living to discuss homeshare options for individuals with disabilities who are also home owners.  Join us for an evening of learning, discussion, and networking. Tuesday, September 30, 2014 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
  1551 Salisbury Avenue, Port Coquitlam.  Click here for more information!
  
   
• Boy Smarts - Action Talk!  Barry MacDonald! RATHER than surppressing a boy's high-spirited physicality and aggression, or his sensitive and shy reluctance, learn constructive ways to respond to his varied needs so he can express himself in safe

  and respectful ways. LEARN how to listen beyond your son's frustration and anger to connect with him, and to understand his deeper needs. LEARN how to advocate for your son at school to ensure that he receives optimal support and guidance. BARRY MACDONALD

  is a skilled educator, author, and Registered Clinical Counsellor, who will expertly lead you through the corridors of boyhood. His highly practical and positive approach will inspire you to mentor your son to be successful at school, and become a man of courage and compassion. take advantage of earlybird specials: register 4 people for the price of 3

  bring a guest for free until june 30th

  Vancouver October 4, 2014  Register here 
   
• BULLYING INTERVENTION STRATEGIES
  - Responding for Prevention
  Vancouver:  October 9, 2014 (early rate deadline September 18)
  Effective responses to bullying need to address both its impacts and root causes, while also holding perpetrators of bullying meaningfully accountable for their actions. This workshop will push beyond attitudes and responses that rely solely on isolation and punishment and move towards more restorative responses.  Click here for more information 

• EDUTALKS FALL SERIES!
• Thursday, October 23  2014, 7:00 - 9:00 PM Fish Don't Climb Trees: Supporting Students with Learning Challenges with Sue Hall
• Friday, October 24, 2014, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Teaching Social Skills to Individuals with ASD with Leah Mumford
• Friday, October 24, 2014, 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM Understanding the Experience of Students with ASD with Leah Kelley
• Click here for more information

• The 4th Health & Wellbeing in Children, Youth, and Adults with Developmental Disabilities Conference. 
  Date: October 22nd to 24th, 2014

  Location: Coast Plaza Hotel, 1763 Comox Street, Vancouver
  Hosted by: UBC Interprofessional Continuing Education 

  About the Conference: The term Developmental Disabilities (DD) refers to individuals with Intellectual Disability, Autism and other Neurodevelopmental Syndromes such as Down Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder and Fragile X. Children, youth and adults with DD are vulnerable to high rates of general health and mental health concerns. These concerns impact significantly on the affected individual's quality of life as well as their families, caregivers and the community.  Click here for more information 

• Promoting Speech and Language in Individuals Across the Autism Spectrum: Collaboration for Success Presented by Joanne Gerenser, Ph.D., CCC-SLP. October 24 & 25 - Vancouver.  Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) and Behavior Analysts specializing in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) frequently participate together on intervention teams for children with autism. Collaboration between these professionals can enhance the team's work, the outcomes for children and reduce the stress of parents.  Click here for more information 

• AUTISM - Strategies for Self-Regulation, Learning and Challenging Behaviours
  Vancouver:  November 4-5, 2014 (early rate deadline October 14)
  The primary focus of this workshop is to provide practical strategies related to working with individuals around self-regulation, learning practices and challenging behaviours. Participants will review a behavioral framework to provide effective strategies for each of these areas, which they will be able to adapt to their own specific environment and context.Click here for more information


• Working with Anxious Children and Youth:  Building your Tool box :Presented by
  Cameray Child and Family Services     Friday, November 14, 2014

This fast-paced one-day workshop features four leaders in the field of anxiety!

It is designed to provide specific tools for professionals who work with anxiety and children. It is appropriate for psychologists, school counsellors, mental health clinicians, social workers, members of school-based teams, youth and family workers and community service providers. Click here for more information

 

• Best Practices in Early Intervention: An Update on the Research and Helping Families Build their "Team" Friday, November 21st, 2014

  Karen Bopp, Ph.D., RSLP,Senior Behavior Consultant, MCFD & Research Affiliate, CIRCA - UBC SFU Harbour Centre  Vancouver, BC Click here for more information 

   
• REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR THE 7TH ANNUAL FALL FASD CONFERENCE: UNTANGLING ANXIETY! The 7th Annual Fall FASD Conference: Untangling Anxiety will be held on Saturday, November 22nd, 2014 at Douglas College in New Westminster! Conference participants will:
  * Learn about emerging knowledge of anxiety as it relates to individuals with FASD and their caregivers
  * Learn about current practices and supports available for individuals living with FASD who also  experience anxiety
  * Learn self care strategies for caregivers and support professionals who experience anxiety while  supporting individuals with FASD
  * Network and liaise with families and professionals
  Click here for more information

   

   

   
• The Science of Making Friends Helping Socially Challenged Teens and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders

  Friday & Saturday, December 5 & 6, 2014

  Elizabeth Laugeson, PsyD Founder and Director, PEERS Clinic, University of California Los Angeles SFU Harbour Centre  Vancouver, BC Click here for more information 

   
• 6th International Conference on FASD Research: Results and Relevance 2015
  Integrating Research, Policy, and Promising Practice Around the World
  March 4-7, 2015 | The Westin Bayshore | Vancouver, BC, Canada
• Abstract Submission by May 31, 2014
• Click here for more conference information 

• 2015 General & Special Education Conference March 4, 5, & 6, 2015
  Seattle, WA Location: Grand Hyatt Conference & Hotel-

  Proven Interventions to Increase Student Achievement Pre-K through 12th Grade

  A Professional Continuing Education Event. Click here for more information

   
  
   
  
   

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Seasonal 

•  Walk Now for Autism Speaks Canada: Vancouver 2014. The 2014 Walk is at a temporary venue near Science World at 1st St and Ontario (in the overflow parking lot).  We are currently seeking options for a new permanent home for the  Walk and will be forwarding a short survey to all past participants to help us to make a selection. When: Sunday, September 28, 2014  Where: Science World/Olympic Village.  Click here for more information

• FSI is having its' 7th annual Trivia Night on November 7, 2014 (7:00pm-10:00pm - doors open at 6:30pm) at Marlborough Elementary School (6060 Marlborough Avenue in Burnaby).
  If you are in town, come join us for a night of fun, laughter, food and prizes. The funds raised will help FSI to strengthen and support families faced with the extraordinary circumstances that come with having a family member who has a disability. A limited number of tickets will be sold so get a team together (table of 8) or buy a ticket individually.  It is an excellent team building event. Come and challenge other teams! Ric Tesan, RP volunteer Coquitlam, will be organizing this event again. We raised over $2,500 at last year's Trivia Night. With your support, we hope to make the 7th one bigger and better!    Any item would be a welcome gift to help us in our efforts to support families in communities throughout BC. If you would rather make a financial donation instead, we would be happy to issue a tax receipt for tax purposes
  

  FSI - Trivia Night 2013 Video

   
  If you would like more information please contact the FSI office at 604-540-8374 (extension 523) / toll free at 1-800-441-5403 or via email here
  
   

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Other                

• Quote of the Day:  "When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts." Dalai Lama
   

• Click here for the current edition of Parenting Special Needs Magazine! 

• PosAbilities presents: Our traditional Art Show, the INCLUSION Celebration of Art, will take place on Thursday, October the 23rd from 1-8 pm. By opening our doors for the whole day, artists from outside of Metro Vancouver, families and guests will be able to participate. The show will feature all types of art, including paintings, glasswork, photography, crafts, pottery, small collections and much more. We hope that this year, even more artists, family members, friends and arts aficionados will join us. This event is open to the public and admission is by donation.  Click here for more information 

• Finding Sleep: Barry McDonald's BOYSMARTS September newsletter.
  When kids return to school and adjust their sleep rou tines, parents often lament the peculiar sleeping patterns of teenage boys. They wonder how their sons find the energy to play computer games until late at night,but can't find the energy to get out of bed in time for school. In my consulting office, parents describe night-owl boys who will sleep fully dressed for the next day,hit the snooze button repeatedly, and finally stumble out the door without breakfast, planning to grab a RedBull on the way to class. Well aware that sleep deficiency reduces the ability to pay attention, and may also heighten the chances of reckless or risky behaviour, parents have grounds for concern. Click here to read more 

• When the Caregivers Need Healing."This has happened before," she tells herself. "It's nowhere near as bad as before, and it will pass."Robbie Pinter's 21-year-old son, Nicholas, is upset again. He yells. He obsesses about something that can't be changed. Even good news may throw him off.So Dr. Pinter breathes deeply, as she was taught, focusing on each intake and release. She talks herself through the crisis, reminding herself that this is how Nicholas copes with his autism and bipolar disorder.With these simple techniques, Dr. Pinter, who teaches English at Belmont University in Nashville, blunts the stress of parenting a child with severe developmental disabilities. Dr. Pinter, who said she descends from "a long line of the most nervous women," credits her mindfulness practice with giving her the tools to cope with whatever might come her way. "It is very powerful," she said.Click here to read more 

• Mom's Guide for Caring for little Teeth: Dental hygiene is not just for grown-ups. If children don't develop healthy dental habits when they are young, they probably won't be inclined to care for their teeth as adults. Even unhealthy baby teeth can cause problems for future permanent teeth. Oral care does not come naturally, but encouraging and modeling it in a child's early years can lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums. Click here for more information! 

• Friend 2 Friend Autism Demystification Puppet and Simulation Game Programs are one of kind, evidence based and have been kid tested and used by professionals world-wide for over 12 years. They are the only research based programs in the world that not only teach acceptance, understanding and empathy, but also teach prosocial communication strategies to reduce bullying and support friendships and play between children with autism (and related needs) and their peers.  A must have for any classroom/school supporting students with neurodiversity!  International Autism Awareness Month April 2015 - Free Autism Demystification Puppet Programs for School in Richmond BC! Click here for more information 
• FREE registration for expert players in the Fall programs at F2F Burnaby and Richmond! As you may already know, our Fall/Spring programs begin the last week of September. In an effort to create inclusive programs we need your help to recruit expert players to join all of our programs. Expert players are typically developing children ages 4 -11, with good social, communication, and play skills, they are also able to remain well regulated (ready and available for engagement and learning). Research suggests expert players gain valuable life long skills while participating in our Integrated Play Groups programs including improvements in: communication, social and play skills, reading and comprehension skills, self help and leadership skills as well as gain a better understand and appreciation of diversity. Click here for more information 

• Social Skills Through Drama! Does your teen want to learn about acting? The study of drama has many crossover benefits in developing social skills. Taught by theatre professionals, this inclusive class will be both fun and challenging as students develop self-expression through voice, movement, improvisation, acting games, and script work. All abilities welcome. Im-proved social skills, while not the focus, is expected to be a happy crossover effect.Who is This Class for? *
  Teenagers who have social difficulties with or without an accompanying diagnosis. Some examples:
  Teenagers with:
  High functioning Autism (e.g. aspergers or PDD-NOS)
  ADHD
  Learning Disabilities
  Social Anxieties like extreme shyness or fear of talking in front of others.
  * This is who the class is targeted for, but it is not meant to exclude others. Teens who simply have an interest in taking a drama class will benefit fully from the class,and are welcome and encouraged to register.Location: Surrey Arts Centre, 13750 88th Ave., Surrey
  Session Start Dates:
  Session #1: Sept 17-Oct 22, 2014
  Session #2: Oct 29-Dec 3, 2014
  Time: 6:30-8:30 PM
  Cost: $150 for each 6-class session
  To register: Call the Surrey Arts Centre at 604.501.5566
  Registration Codes:
  Session #1: 4373541
  Session #2: 4373545
  If your youth requires 1 to 1 support, then a caregiver must attend and caregiver participation in the class will be encouraged.

   

• The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a long-term savings plan to help Canadians with disabilities and their families save for the future. If you have an RDSP, you may also be eligible for grants and bonds to help with your long-term savings.

  You should consider opening an RDSP if you have a long-term disability and are:

  • eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (disability amount);
  • under the age of 60 (if you are 59, you must apply before the end of the calendar year in which you turned 59);
  • a Canadian resident with a Social Insurance Number (SIN); and
  • looking for a long-term savings plan.

  You may contribute any amount to your RDSP each year, up to the lifetime contribution limit of $200,000. With written permission from the RDSP holder, anyone may contribute to the RDSP. Please click here for more information 

• PLAN (Planned lifetime advocacy network)  offers a variety of workshops regarding RDSP's, wills and estates and setting up personal networks. Please click here for dates! 

• Reclaiming Ourselves ~ A journey inwards for Caregivers ~ 

  Being the primary support for a vulnerable or disabled relative can be an all consuming and sometimes overwhelming experience. Some of us feel isolated, exhausted and disconnected from ourselves outside of our caregiving role. "When I'm not caring for others, who am I?" PLAN invites you to join with other caregiving individuals and couples who are looking for a renewed sense of self and deeper intimacy with their partners, friends and community.Click here for more information 

• Your One Stop Shop for children and families in Delta - Deltakids.ca - click here!  

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Submissions 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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